For Debbie Millman, work is not drudgery, or even labor. It’s a privilege. Debbie is an author, host of Design Matters podcast, and editorial director of Print magazine. For 20 years, she was president of the design division at Sterling Brands – and today she feels like she’s just getting started. “I’ve worked for a really long time to get to a place where I’m being offered commissions to do projects that are amazing. I try to make that my priority,” she said.
Her advice to aspiring designers, artists, and writers? The first step may be to dream without fear. For years, Debbie Millman has shared an essay exercise with undergraduate and graduate students she calls Your Ten-Year Plan for a Remarkable Life. She herself experienced a profound effect on her life and career when she completed hers more than a decade ago.
“I think it was twelve things that I was hoping for and I think eleven of them have come true. They were big, audacious things. It’s spooky.”
The second step? “Just keep experimenting,” says Debbie. “If you want to do something, do it.” And finally, “Savor every day. Savor every day.” (via Extraordinary Routines)
How I love Debbie’s ten ideas for beating writer’s block:
