1. Have a positive mindset.

The notion to have a positive mindset amid a global pandemic can seem absurd but this very notion will help to produce the best out of every designer. Being positive coincides with having a belief that we can still do our best despite being taken out of our habituated routines.

As creatives, we pride ourselves on expression, the ability to see, do, and feel, which beckons the question, what should creatives do when a global crisis has knocked us out of our routined processes? The designer who wants to thrive in quarantine must be able to have a positive attitude.

The courage to believe the best of the client(s), teams, companies, and organisations they are doing work alongside and for. A positive mindset will help the designer to persist through creative challenges, problems, and various obstacles. As the distinguished speaker Zig Ziglar states; “Positive thinking will help you do everything better than negative thinking will”.

2. Organise your digital and physical spaces.

The designer who wants to thrive in quarantine must create a space that inspires and motivates them to do the best work. In the book Making Ideas Happen, Scott Belsky founder of the Behance network a creative showcase website proposed that being organised gives the creative a competitive edge in the marketplace. The designer who wants to thrive should organise not only his physical space his digital space of work too. An organised environment will contribute greatly to fuelling the best of the creative who wants to thrive in 2020.

3. Focus on task completion.

Task completion is important to every designer who desires success. Confucius said, “a journey of 1000 leagues, begins with a single step” and for the designer who wants to be productive in quarantine, understanding how to get things done is essential. Freelancers have long been practising the craft, many creatives otherwise have now been compelled to learn in 2020. The creative must prepare thoroughly to get things done by listing the steps in a project and breaking down tasks before beginning. List all the steps and actions that need to be taken, then take the first step. And by taking the first step in a project, you will be inspired to continue with the tasks you have until project completion.

4. Create communication loops.

Creating communication loops mean, having regular communication sessions where the designer can share the project process and also clarify any ideas they may have missed. Frequenting communication will help to prevent mishaps in communication and will also help to cover any micro-communication that would usually be picked up when physically present.

5. Exercise regularly.

Exercise has been proven to improve brain performance, sharpen your memory, and promote a healthy lifestyle. Studies have also shown that exercising three times a week even helps to reduce signs of aging. Furthermore because of the release of endorphins exercise has been said to increase productivity. The designer who exercises in isolation will be happier and more productive.

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5 easy steps to thrive as a Designer in 2020