1. Keep Learning (Even When You Don't Feel Like It)
UX is a field that never slows down. New tools, trends, and methodologies pop up all the time. At first, I used to feel overwhelmed, like, do I really need to learn yet another design tool? But I realized that the more I invest in learning, the more confident I feel when opportunities come my way.
What I do to stay ahead:
- I check out UX case studies to see how others solve design problems
- I mess around with new tools (sometimes just for fun)
- I read design articles while drinking coffee in the morning
- If I’m too tired to read, I listen to UX podcasts while working
Real talk: You don’t need to learn everything. Just pick what excites you and run with it. The rest will come naturally.
2. Adaptability: Things Will Change, So Just Go With It
One thing I’ve realized? Nothing in UX ever stays the same. Clients change their minds. Products pivot. One day, your project is web-first, the next, it’s all about mobile. At first, this stressed me out. Now? I just go with the flow and figure things out as I go.
- Had a client ask for UX writing when I had zero experience? I gave it a shot.
- Needed to design for a new market with different user behaviors? I did my research.
- Suddenly had to work with developers on handoff? I learned how to explain my designs better.
Lesson learned: You don’t have to know everything—you just have to be open to learning as you go.
3. Always Keep the User in Mind (No Matter What)
It’s easy to get caught up in making things look good, but I’ve learned that good UX isn’t about aesthetics—it’s about solving real problems. Whenever I’m stuck, I remind myself:
“What would make this experience easier for the user?”
- I always test my designs (even if it’s just with a few people)
- I check if my designs are accessible (because good UX includes everyone)
- I keep things simple—no need to overcomplicate stuff
- I ask for feedback early, so I don’t waste time going in the wrong direction
My golden rule: If a user has to think too much to complete a task, the design isn’t working.
4. Networking: UX Opportunities Come From People
I used to think networking was just for people in suits at corporate events. Nope. Some of the best opportunities I’ve had came from casual LinkedIn conversations, UX Slack groups, or just sharing my thoughts online.
How I connect with people (without feeling awkward):
- I comment on UX posts and share my take on things
- I join Slack groups & UX communities (great for learning & job leads)
- I say yes to collaboration (even if it’s unpaid at first—good projects lead to better ones)
- I’ve learned that sharing my work attracts clients & recruiters without me even trying
Reality check: If no one knows what you do, opportunities won’t find you. So put yourself out there, even if it’s just a little.
Stay Ready, So You Don’t Have to Get Ready
UX is a constant wave of opportunities, but you have to be ready to ride them when they come.
- Keep learning
- Stay adaptable
- Focus on real user problems
- Build connections
Because when the next big wave comes, you don’t want to be stuck on the shore, wondering if you should’ve prepared more.