Self Care
Self-care has three parts – Physical, Mental and Spiritual
Physical – Most of the time, we usually think of it in terms of physical. If we have a mani-pedi, if we get our hairs cut or buy new clothes.
There is so much more.
Mentally – I’ve just decided to evaluate how I spend time with friends. I’m doing an audit. Who is giving me energy, a poke to think differently and encouragement to follow up on a few ideas.
Spiritually – another audit. Am I taking the time to be quiet? Yesterday I was at the mechanics it’s a very small shop. I was also there early the first one in the door. As I was waiting for a friend to pick me up, the owner said Oh I need to light the candle. I was surprised. In a little glass jar stood a red candle almost to the end. I asked “do you meditate”. “No” was the answer, but I do take care of myself with a bit of a nod to the candle.
Take the time for you. You’re all you have.
Creating Connection: The overlooked power of eye contact
Eye contact is the designer’s secret to presence. It’s what transforms a presentation from mechanical to magnetic. Slides may show your ideas, but your eyes show your confidence and that’s what clients and audiences remember most.
Why Every Designer Should Practice Their Speech
In design, presentation is persuasion. When you practice speaking as much as sketching, you build trust, authority, and excitement around your ideas. A polished pitch can make the difference between a “maybe” and a “let’s do it.” Remember your voice is part of your professional toolkit. Use it well, and let it sell your vision as powerfully as your designs do.
NETWORKING …. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER
Networking is more about follow-up than first impressions.
The Designer’s Advantage – Speaking with Pictures and Plans
Behind every great design is a story: a spark of inspiration, a client’s dream, a challenge overcome.
Conflict Resolution Starts with Conversation
In design and in business conflict is inevitable. Whether it’s a client who changes direction mid-project or a team member who misses a deadline, tensions can rise fast. But most conflicts don’t come from bad intentions; they come from miscommunication. The good news? Strong communication skills can turn potential clashes into opportunities for collaboration and clarity.
Motivating Your Team Through Powerful Words
Design leadership isn’t just about making creative choices—it’s about motivating the people who bring those choices to life. The right words can turn a project into a movement.
Organizing a Speech Like You Organize a Space: Function Meets Flow
“Design is intelligence made visible.” – Alina Wheeler Designers know that great spaces aren’t accidents; they’re carefully planned for flow, balance, and purpose. The same rule applies to speeches: when your structure works, your message shines. ...
Know your Audience: Tailoring Presentations
Whether you’re pitching to a client, a builder, or a board, one size never fits all. The secret to a powerful presentation lies in knowing exactly who’s in the room—and speaking their language.
Fear is a Signal
Fear is a signal - not a stop sign Even the most polished designer has felt that familiar flutter before stepping on stage or into a client presentation. Your palms sweat, your voice trembles, and your perfectly crafted ideas suddenly feel tangled. But...