During my first 100-day design challenge, I learned much as I was pushed to remain committed to the task aside from external pressures and/or supervision. I'd like to share what the process has taught me and what I would augment within my design process.

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1. 100 Days is a long time, and flexibility is a prerequisite - At the onset of this challenge, I was filled with vigor from the instructions of a previous mentor, and I was determined to conquer the challenge as quickly as possible. Yet, new obstacles arose throughout the challenge, and flexibility became a default method of adjusting. The 100 days weren't just to recreate screens; it became an exercise of willpower, creativity, discipline, and refining skill. If there were something I would have done differently, it would have been to be more forgiving of myself when I faced a day that required work yet could also lead to a potential burnout.

 

2. The most intricate designs at their foundation are quite simple - There were many beautiful designs in this design challenge that, at first glance, seemed impossible for me to replicate as a junior designer. Yet, having the courage to start the task and break it into manageable chunks, I saw that each of these designs resulted from building blocks of much simpler design elements. I learned that beautiful digital designs at its foundation are just well-placed rectangles and circles, with precise implementation of color.

 

3. Despite the simplicity, each screen is a byproduct of hours of meticulous refinement - Throughout this design challenge, there were many screens that I assumed were "easy" to recreate, which resulted in multiple hours of work. In this, I learned that on any given screen, there are various elements within its design that, despite their perceived simplicity, have been carefully crafted for the said effect. In short, there's nothing "easy" about design, but there is a way to become well-versed in its application through a concerted effort and attention to detail.