The great use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it. — William James Continue reading
Meditation Journey: day 14
I’m two weeks into an experiment of making meditation a habit. It’s something I’ve dabbled with in the past but could never turn into a regular routine. I’ve tried multiple apps throughout the years, the current one of choice is Headspace. Each session is 10 minutes, great for beginners. Today is day 14 (or roundabout) … Continue reading Meditation Journey: day 14
Finding inspiration in the mundane
A few years ago I hit a creative block. Now, I know this is nothing new. Whether it’s a short block specific to a project or a longer period of burnout, everyone has those times where they’re feeling uninspired. I’ve certainly had my share of times where I felt it since then, but this particular … Continue reading Finding inspiration in the mundane
Play
It’s the end of September and unseasonably warm. Not just warm, but hot. After a brief glimpse of Autumn, the heat and humidity of Summer burst back in the door like a bully. Intent on not being forgotten. Sweat rolls down my back as I organize the garden shed. I finished building it a few … Continue reading Play
Forgiveness
The message in church yesterday was about forgiveness. True forgiveness comes from within. It’s not something you extend outward to others. To truly forgive is to let it all go, don’t hold a grudge, and be at peace. So you can greet someone with a genuine smile the next time you see them. When someone … Continue reading Forgiveness
Keeping product assumptions in check
Assumptions can be difficult to overcome. Many times we don’t even realize we’re making them. As an experienced product designer, I find it easier to make these assumptions. They more easily creep into my work subconsciously because I have more knowledge and experience of “best practices” and “what worked before”. So how can we keep … Continue reading Keeping product assumptions in check
Log cabin
“Wait, come back! You forgot to say bye.” I call Cece back to me as she starts walking through the door. She’s heading in to the school building a few blocks from our house. It’s time for her kindergarten early start program. “Oh!” She rushes back, gives a quick hug and kiss, and quickly turns … Continue reading Log cabin
Sending the right message with form validation
Error messages. Those little things everyone hates to see. As designers, we like to design the best possible experience for getting users through the task at hand. But it’s our job to put as much consideration into error states as we do the success flow. Any error messages we show to users should provide helpful … Continue reading Sending the right message with form validation
Goggleworks Stairs
As I walk through the doors to the lobby of the Goggleworks building I'm presented with the latest art exhibition. Beautifully crafted cradles and other furniture are scattered around the large room. Every time I see the exposed brick and thick, heavy steel doors I can't help but think about what it must have looked … Continue reading Goggleworks Stairs
Don’t forget the emails
This post was originally published on the new Automattic design blog. Have you ever signed up for a new site or product, forgotten about it, only to remember later when you check your inbox and see the welcome email? What if that email looked nothing like the service you signed up for? It would lead … Continue reading Don’t forget the emails
Dan Hauk 