Why Everyone Thinks They Can Be a Designer
In an era where Instagram aesthetics reign supreme and tools like Canva democratize design, many people fancy themselves as designers. A field once reserved for the professionally trained has now seen an influx of amateurs wielding cursors and color palettes. But why is this the case? Let's delve into the reasons everyone thinks they can be a designer.
The Rise of DIY Design Tools: Websites and applications like Canva, Adobe Spark, and Figma have made design accessible to the masses. These platforms offer easy-to-use interfaces and templates that allow users to create designs that look professional with little to no experience.
The Influence of Social Media: Social media platforms emphasize visual content, pushing individuals and businesses alike to produce eye-catching graphics. As everyone tries to curate a visually appealing feed, design has naturally become a skill many feel they need to master.
The Diverse Definition of "Design": Design is an umbrella term that covers various disciplines, from graphic design to interior design to fashion. Because of its broad nature, many feel they have expertise in at least one area.
The Erosion of Formal Barriers: Previously, to be recognized as a designer, one typically needed formal education or apprenticeship. However, with the plethora of online tutorials, courses, and workshops available, the barriers to entry have lowered significantly.
Validation Through Likes and Shares: Posting a design online and receiving likes, shares, or comments can be incredibly validating. This social validation might make individuals feel their design skills are on par with professionals.
Economic Incentives: The gig economy and websites like Fiverr or Upwork allow anyone to sell their design services, regardless of formal training or credentials. For some, this offers an attractive way of making money.
Human Nature and Creativity: At our core, humans are inherently creative. Design, being a form of self-expression, is an outlet for this creativity. Many feel that their personal or unique sense of style qualifies them as a designer.
However, believing one is a designer based on these factors alone can be a double-edged sword. While democratizing design has its advantages, like fostering creativity and breaking down economic barriers, it also comes with its set of challenges.
True design proficiency takes years of study, experience, and a deep understanding of principles like balance, hierarchy, contrast, and alignment. Professional designers understand the nuances of their craft, including how to communicate effectively through visuals, how to solve problems creatively, and how to consider the needs and perspectives of their audience.
In conclusion, while it's wonderful that more people than ever feel empowered to tap into their creative potential, it's also essential to recognize the difference between casual dabbling and professional expertise. As with any field, there's a depth and complexity to design that takes time, dedication, and often formal training to fully grasp. But for those with a passion for it, the journey to becoming a true designer is well worth the effort.