3–2–1 Design  ·  Issue 49
3-2-1 Design Issue 49 — The Habits You Already Know (But Still Need)
By David Macphee  :  July 5, 2025

The Habits You Already Know (But Still Need)

Some thoughts this week on habits and repetition.Not the dramatic kind.
Just the small, steady actions that shape how we work and live.

3 Thoughts From Me

I.
In uncertain times, habits offer a kind of anchor. One minute of stillness can bring clarity. One minute of movement can release tension. You won’t fix everything, but you’ll feel more steady.
II.
Design work often comes down to two skills: Understanding the numbers. Telling the story. One without the other is never quite enough.
III.
Most people don’t need new advice. They need a way to remember what they already know. Good books and honest conversations help us return to the ideas that matter.

2 Quotes From Others

I.
Pema Chödrön, Buddhist teacher:
“When we resist change, it’s called suffering… when we can embrace the groundlessness of our situation and relax into its dynamic quality, that’s called enlightenment.”
— Pema Chödrön
(Living Beautifully with Uncertainty and Change, 2012) When the world feels uncertain, small habits can help us stay present. This quote reminds us that accepting uncertainty is itself a kind of steadiness.
II.
Chris Brogan, author and consultant:
“Stories are how we learn best. We absorb numbers and facts and details, but we keep them all glued into our heads with stories.”
— Chris Brogan
(Interview, 2010) It’s not enough to know the numbers. To really connect with others, we need to frame the data in a way that people remember.

1 Question For You

Which of your current habits quietly supports your best work?
With thanks,
David
P.S. Most progress is quiet. Notice the small things that help you stay the course.
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Originally posted on LinkedIn