As a Project Leader and Experience Designer, my work is a blend of strategy, creativity, and human connection. One day I might be immersed in developing user experiences for an exhibition business, the next I’m facilitating an idea-generating session and developing a community center.
There are certain elements that, when they all align, transform a good work week into an ideal one – moments that are both deeply important and genuinely enjoyable. Here are my top 10:
1. Connecting Directly with Customers or Users
There’s nothing quite like rolling up my sleeves and working alongside the very people we’re designing services for. Whether it’s a needs analysis, a workshop to gather new product ideas, or testing a service prototype, direct engagement is invaluable. It’s where the real insights emerge, and it fuels the entire design process.
2. Constructive and Positive Meetings and Workshops
A truly great workshop or meeting is a symphony of voices, where every idea is heard and no contribution is lost. As a facilitator, guiding these sessions is both exciting and wonderfully exhausting. The real satisfaction comes afterwards, reviewing the results and discovering valuable input that makes all the effort worthwhile.
3. Warm and Positive Relationships with Collaborators
We’re all just humans trying to do our best, aren’t we? Fostering genuine kindness and a positive atmosphere with my colleagues and clients is paramount. A smile, a thoughtful word – these small gestures can make a huge difference in someone’s day and strengthen the bonds that make teamwork truly effective.
4. Work Towards Initiating New Projects!
This is my absolute favorite phase! It’s the wild, untamed beginning of innovation, where a challenge or opportunity exists but the path forward is still wonderfully unclear. Sketching out a roadmap from that initial need or challenge to a plan to solve it, and then getting the “Go” or “Green light” to kick off a development process? Incredibly rewarding!
5. Long, Focused Slots with Stakeholders/Clients
To truly dive deep and understand a client’s needs, I need dedicated time. Ideally, I keep my plate to 2-3 ongoing projects/clients at once. If my week starts to feel too fragmented, I’ll actively reschedule to create those focused blocks, ensuring I can give each project the attention it deserves.
6. A Lunch Date with Family or Friends
Work-life balance is crucial, and integrating personal connections into my week is something I cherish. A mid-week lunch with family or friends is a perfect way to recharge, socialize, and remember that life extends beyond the project brief.
7. Drawing, Sketching, and Visualizing Ideas
Most people appreciate clear and visual communication. Tools like Mural and Microsoft Whiteboard are my canvases, where I collect, share, and visualize ideas. Helping others see a project from a bird’s-eye view, transforming abstract concepts into tangible images and mood boards, is incredibly satisfying. It’s where the “Yes we can do this!” moment often clicks into place.
8. Landing a New Assignment or Client!
This is always a thrill! As I mentioned, I love those early problem-solving phases where everything is still a bit nebulous. Taking an undefined challenge and untangling it into a clear project or a coaching program is incredibly exciting and keeps the work fresh and engaging.
9. Time to Review and Refine My Methods
Every workshop, event, or user study is a learning opportunity. Setting aside time immediately afterwards for a quick, simple evaluation – what went well, what could be improved – is vital.
It’s a chance to acknowledge everyone’s contributions and continuously refine my approach for future endeavors.
10. Plenty of Coffee Breaks and Informal Chats
Sometimes, the real magic happens not in a perfectly planned meeting, but during a coffee break. These informal moments, where ideas can flow freely and trust is built organically, are invaluable. It’s amazing what new insights and connections can emerge from a simple chat.
When these ten elements converge, it truly makes for an ideal and deeply fulfilling work week.
I suggest not to wait with you projects and challenges if you have ideas, kick off with smart design thinking tools and experience design, find ideas on the blog!
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