12 Steps
This collection of twelve steps is a work in progress look at process. It was presented at FITC and more recently Spread The Word’s April Design is A Superpower workshop.
1. Take note of your impact
Look at your daily actions and consider your impact is a good metal exercise. More often than not, what we do as a job has more of an impact than any of the plastic bags or bottles we recycle. Both the personal and the societal issues we face stem from our routines, so be aware of those.
2. Consider what to preserve and what to change.
All to often we see the future as better because of change. The truth is that humans have been doing fairly well for quite some time. We have institutions, principles, traditions, and ideas that are grounded on our predecessors. It’s important to identify what we want to change, in light of the truth that it’s not all bad.
3. Draw the line, what won’t you do?
Everyone has a point at which they’ll say no. Think about how far you could be pushed until you’d snap. It’s important to realize that we already have a threshold, and the unfortunate situation is when that threshold is slowly chipping away. Your grandparents probably would say that a polluted river is too far. Your parents would say no access to public pools is too far. What will you put up with?
4. Set priorities, what matters most?
Most conflicts don’t stem from a disagreement on values, but rather a conflict of implementation. What is the most important change that needs to happen? What is the most sacred value we must uphold? Do we want cleaner water or more education? Should we spend our time retrofitting houses, or parks?
5. Share the worst deed you did for an evil client.
For us it was having a client who wanted to look green. We were to put a green plastic leaf on their product. When we asked if the product was actually any more sustainable than competitors the answer was an obvious, though cleverly implied, no. Our big mistake was not completely reprimanding this action.
6. Tell somebody you’re about to make a change in you professional work.
In order for growth, someone else needs to know what you’re trying to do. When you tell others, not only do you encourage them and set an example, but you hold yourself accountable. Cognitive dissonance tells us, when you talk the talk, you end up walking the walk.
7. Implement a system to help you.
Our brains are faulty, and our memories are getting worse. Figure out a way to remind yourself on a constant basis why your are doing what you are doing. Have a weekly meet-up to discuss progress with your friends. Change your client brief to include sustainability. Collect the disposable cups you use for coffee.
8. Make an ideal client list. Don’t let it sit there, contact them.
What do you have to lose in attempting to work with who you respect? If anything they will be flattered, and know you exist. Make a list of 100 people you want to work with and then just call them. Imagine that your work could be exactly in line with your beliefs. Isn’t that worth a couple of days?
9. Join Something
Personal progress is best shared. Especially when that progress is also beneficial to a great group of people. Join something, and talk to people. There are so many people thinking the same thing as you, and it is a wonderful feeling to be around them, providing those thoughts are good.
10. Meet-ups and Serendipity
In Hong Kong they have five keys to success, luck is at the top. Put yourself in a position to be lucky, and as we all know, no one gets lucky on their own at home.
11. Do. Then Talk. them Do More.
As we share we grow, as we grow we share. The cycle of growth works through us, but only as long as we tell each other. Make sure you use the words you have to speak about what you truly care about. After all, ask and ye shall receive, and no one really wants gossip.
12. Try these, then try something else.
We really haven’t figured this out, and no one ever will. We only get closer to the truth in different ways. We’d love to hear from you about your pursuits, challenges, and insights. In the age of connection let’s have a global conversation.
