How to Design Above Your Level

Creativity isn't limited to a level

The first thing you should realize is that it's all about the mindset.

In the world of design, labels like beginner or intermediate are just that; they're labels. They don't define your capacity for creativity.

That spark of originality within you is not bound by any label, so take a moment and let go of the shackles of these limiting terms. You are a designer capable of producing work that leaves people awestruck.

The key is to believe in your potential and give yourself the liberty to take on challenges.

Push yourself

Challenge yourself to create something that you believe is currently beyond your skill level.

Yes, it's going to be a bit tough at first. You might not get it right the first time or even the second or third, but that's alright.

Remember, every mistake that you make is going to be a lesson that you learn. Every stumble is a step forward on the path of growth.

As you're failing, try to guess what value you would use in your design; eyeball it. Then go a step or two higher or a step or two lower.

If you're leaning more towards one direction, try it again with a different middle value.

For example, you might think that a font size of 44 is going to be a great one for a title. Try it with 60, then try 28. Are these two okay? Just one?

Continue with your picks and add a different value to compare it to. It can really help you quickly test what works and what doesn't, and help you actually articulate why.

You can do the same thing with anything, be it stroke size, roundness of elements, the color shades you're choosing.

First pick a range that works and then nail down the particular value that seems to work best within that range. Don't commit to your first eyeballing guess that was good. There might be something better if you just tweak it a bit.

Focus on continuous growth

Next on the agenda is, of course, continuous learning.

The landscape of design is ever evolving. What's considered avant-garde today might become passé tomorrow. This constant flux in trends and styles is what keeps the field of UI design so exciting and dynamic.

As designers, we must keep ourselves updated with the latest trends, techniques, and technologies in UI design. How do you do that? The answer is simple. You continuously learn.

Attend webinars, sign up for online courses, explore design blogs, listen to design-centric podcasts.

In a world packed with knowledge, the opportunities for learning are limitless. But don't let the trends and fads define you. There are rules that are always in style and those are the ones I would focus on the most.

Avoid comfort zones

Moving on, let's talk about the comfort zones next. These zones are cozy, safe, and familiar. But as the saying goes, magic happens outside of your comfort zone.

Don't be afraid to experiment with your designs. Try out different design styles, play around with diverse elements, explore unusual color schemes, experiment with unique fonts.

The more you step out of your comfort zone, the more you'll discover. Even if you create something you like, don't just stop there. You might go from good enough to fantastic in just a few more iterations.

Duplicate your design, keep the old one as is, and make some adjustments in the new frame. Repeat, repeat, repeat.

Most of my files, especially during early design exploration phases, have dozens if not hundreds of duplicated frames. They might not necessarily move on from the worst idea to the best one, but if you ideate enough, you will pick a couple of standout favorites.

If you don't do this enough, you will never design above your level.

Practice!

There's no substitute for hands-on experience when it comes to design. One of the best ways to improve your skills is to pick up a project that you deeply admire and try to recreate it.

This task, while challenging, will provide you with invaluable insights into the nuances that go into creating a brilliant UI design.

It will expose you to the intricate thought processes and design decisions that underpin an exceptional piece of UI design.

Sleep on your designs

Another tip I have is to sleep on your designs.

Sometimes something that you loved last night you might like or hate in the morning. Give yourself time to digest your design concepts and look at them with a fresh perspective and a fresh set of eyes.

It does wonders.

Seek feedback

Last, but certainly not least, remember to seek feedback.

Feedback is the mirror that reflects our work from different perspectives, helping us spot the strengths and areas that need improvement.

Share your work with peers, mentors, or online design communities. Be open to their criticism and use it as fuel to refine your work and evolve as a designer.

Assignment for you

Here's an assignment for you to help you get started.

Find a UI design that truly inspires you, something you consider above your current skill level, and give yourself the challenge of recreating it.

Don't aim for perfection here; instead, focus on pushing your limits and learning from the process.

Once you've completed your version, compare it with the original. Reflect on your experience, identifying the areas where you faced difficulties and the aspects that you think you did well.

Remember, this exercise is about growth. I hope this article inspires you to push your boundaries and reach new heights in your design journey.