A pivotal moment during the author's A-level design course changed their design perspective forever.
The design teacher's invitation to imagine the form differently shattered constraints and allowed the author to think beyond the obvious suitcase form.
This moment led to the author thinking conceptually and building a fibreglass prototype shaped around actual components, not suitcase constraints.
The author's unbounded conceptual approach has become the foundation of their design practice, starting with exploring problem spaces without preconceptions.
While acknowledging the value of best practices, the author emphasizes the importance of questioning and challenging established patterns in design.
The lesson learned pertains to the limitations of language in design, highlighting how stepping outside linguistic constraints can expand the solution space.
Encouraging designers to think beyond established solutions can lead to more thoughtful and resilient outcomes, despite the comfort of familiarity.
The author's interest in Eastern philosophy, particularly Zen and Taoist thinking, has influenced their design approach and leadership style.
Eastern teachings emphasize letting go of fixed views and embracing openness, curiosity, and humility in design and leadership.
The pivotal moment sparked a journey that taught the author to see clearly, think freely, and lead compassionately, transcending design advice to life advice.