We often think that success follows a straight line, get a degree, land a job, get promoted, and keep going. But what if, like a product, your life could be designed, tested, and improved?
This is the main idea of Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, a book that’s made me rethink how I approach my own life and career.
There is More Than One Path
For a long time, I believed I had to find my “one true calling.” I thought there was only one perfect career path for me. But this book showed me that life is full of possibilities. There isn’t just one right way to live. Just like in design, there are many ways to solve a problem, and the best option might change over time.
In the book, they talk about creating multiple life plans, called “Odyssey Plans,” to explore different futures. This idea gave me peace of mind. Instead of feeling stuck, I now see my life as something I can shape and redesign as I go.
Prototyping Your Life
One of the most helpful ideas in Designing Your Life is prototyping. Trying out small steps before making big changes. In my design career, I’m used to testing ideas, making improvements, and learning from feedback. Now, the idea of applying the same process to my life is very interesting.
Prototyping your life means trying things out to see what works. For example, if you’re thinking about changing careers, you don’t have to quit your job right away. You could start with a side project, take a class, or shadow someone in the field you are interested in. It’s about taking small, safe steps to see what feels right before making big decisions.
Look at Problems Differently
Another big idea from the book is reframing problems. Instead of seeing obstacles as roadblocks, try to view them as opportunities. For example, if you’re feeling stuck at work, ask yourself, “What could I learn from this situation?” This shift in mindset can open up new possibilities.
As a designer, I’ve noticed that sometimes the biggest constraints lead to the most creative solutions. I’ve started to approach my life challenges in the same way.
Find Your People
In design, feedback is essential, you can’t work in isolation. The same goes for life. Designing Your Life talks about the importance of having a supportive community, whether it’s friends, family, mentors, or colleagues. These people can give you different perspectives, keep you accountable, and help you grow.
Sharing your ideas and plans with others can make the process of designing your life more enjoyable and insightful. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
Design with Purpose
The biggest takeaway for me is that purpose isn’t something you magically find one day. It’s something you create, build, and refine over time. Designing your life is an ongoing process, and you don’t need all the answers to start.
For me, this approach feels empowering. It combines my love for design with practical steps to shape a life that’s fulfilling. Whether you’re a designer or not, Designing Your Life offers valuable tools to help anyone create a life that feels meaningful and uniquely their own.
Comments