Cooking is like design

Because it’s a skill, or rather, a collection of skills that create a bigger picture. Both use guides for unique processes and consider customer preferences. When these processes are applied, the best of both worlds are created by teams, not individuals.

I was a terrible cook for years, but the atmosphere and lifestyle drew me in. The diverse personalities, millions of sounds, high energy dinner rushes, and the thought of serving others kept my attention.

My knife skills improved not from reading about knives, but because a chef corrected my hands as I cut 50 lbs. of carrots and celery every morning, 6 days a week. One morning he stopped correcting me and, instead, told me to cut faster. He stood by watching and correcting me again. Later he told me to slow down and look away while he monitored my hands. Gordon Ramsey is ions beyond my capabilities, but using a knife feels second nature to me.

It’s been years since I cooked in a professional kitchen. Muscle memory and knowledge were only gained from years of effort and learning from people who knew better. Product design must be seen in a similar light.

The only way to improve design skills are through action. Sketching skills improve from years of drawing and critical feedback on loop. Personal design projects can be imperative for growth in an early career. This week, take a page from your own book and grow by doing.