Stay Curious, Explore & Play More ( A Gentle Reminder)
I LOVE being a Designer, strategising, brainstorming, and problem-solving. I'm really passionate about it!
But I also think passionate designers and creatives need to step outside the professional bubble and let their minds wander into uncharted territories every now and then. Otherwise, we risk becoming that person who sees a perfectly good sunset and thinks, hmm, that’s not quite on-brand.
Exploring creativity outside of work isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. It’s like giving your brain a spa day, but instead of cucumbers and essential oils, you get cameras, sketchbooks, and maybe the occasional chaotic attempt at a life drawing class…
Snapping Away: Photography as a Creative Reset
There’s something magical about capturing moments through a lens (and I don't mean for the sake of posting on Instagram) Whether wandering around a city snapping street art or lying on the ground in a park to get that perfect shot of a weirdly shaped tree branch, photography forces us to see the world differently. It’s like UX design but without the wireframes just pure observation, timing, and the joy of unexpected beauty and imperfection.
Drawing Digitally: My Tablet, My Playground
There’s nothing quite like doodling on a tablet, or pen and paper with no pressure of deliverables. Sometimes I create illustrations, other times, it’s just a bunch of abstract squiggles that look like my brain trying to function before coffee. Either way, the act of drawing allows me to experiment, make mistakes, and enjoy creativity without constraints. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about undoing a bad stroke with a simple tap, if only life worked that way.
Attending Events: Inspiration with a Side of Socialising
From conferences to creative workshops, museums and creative classes, I love immersing myself in environments that spark new ideas. Even if the event isn’t directly related to my field, I always leave with a fresh perspective. By the way, It's not always easy socialising at events, it can be nerve-wracking but I say throw yourself in the deep end, what have you got to lose? Engaging with different industries, meeting new people, and absorbing ideas like a creative sponge keeps me inspired and open to new possibilities.
Why It All Matters
Engaging in creativity outside of your professional life isn’t just about fun (though that’s a big plus). It’s about keeping your brain flexible, preventing burnout, and feeding that inner curiosity that makes great designers and thinkers. When I step back into my professional projects, I feel it brings fresh energy, unexpected ideas, and a renewed sense of purpose.
So, again, just a reminder to take that photo of an oddly shaped tree, doodle nonsense, or sign up for a random class. Your creative muscles will thank you, and who knows? Stay curious, explore and play more…. You might just stumble upon your next big idea in the most unexpected place.
Teresa Di Manno
