milton.

The graphic designer, Milton Glaser, composed a list of ten things he has learned over his career. For those who are unaware, Glaser is the designer behind the I Love New York logo and that Bob Dylan cover. Anyway…I love lists. But I especially love lists from the creative community. Maybe it’s because I don’t belong to those who are creative for a living, but they always seem to have a very different way of looking at things than everyone else. Or at least, they have a much more exciting way of talking about it. His whole piece is an interesting read though the lessons are most directed at the design community. I thought several were good to keep in mind.

3. Some people are toxic, avoid them – Agreed. Completely. Do not waste the effort or the time.

4. The Good is the enemy of the Great – “…if you are professional your instinct is not to fail, it is to repeat success.” This is something everyone should remind themselves of once in a while. I’m extremely risk averse. It’s so hard to risk failure when it’s possible to do a satisfactory job. But mistakes are how we learn, and I just have to get used to it.

8. Doubt is better than certainty – “It makes me nervous when someone believes too deeply or too much.” Yes, you need confidence. But be open to the possibility and opportunity of new experiences and thoughts. Be open-minded.