Why becoming a Designer?

For my first entry in this BLOG, I would like to answer the golden question. Why do I become a graphic designer? Why not engineer, why not be something else entirely? Well to answer that question, I need to take you (the readers) on a journey to my past self before I ever enter the World of Designing.

It was in April 2011, when I just a middle schooler in form 4. My homeroom teacher asks the class, " Are there anyone who is interested in becoming a designer for school magazine?". Quickly I raise my hand with excitement, " I want to become a designer". At that time my knowledge on designing is close to zero. After that, I taught myself how to use a photoshop. It takes months before I can debut my skill in the Magazine. The Chief Editorial politely reject most, no, ALL of my design. But I'm not giving up, I am a fighter, and a fighter will fight. FIGHT ON!!! 

That is how its begin. On that year I became a graphic designer, and the year after that I became Second Editor In Chief for that Magazine. From that moment, my dream has been solidified; I want to be a Designer, who design their own future with a vibrant colour and inspire other people.

NOW LET'S GET TO ANOTHER QUESTION:   IS GRAPHIC DESIGN A GOOD CAREER?

For me, Yes, because becoming a Graphic Designer, it let you have fun, it is a flexible job and positively overflowing with creativity. It varies from one designer to another, but generally, there is 10 reason why Graphic Design is a good career:

1. Good Designer are In Demand by Companies

If you are considering a change of career then choose a graphic design. There is and always will be a demand for good designers so if you have talent, the necessary skills and the determination to work hard, then you can be confident that you will always be able to find work. The payment is good too.

2. You Can Wear Casual Shirt to Work

Most of creative company or department are casual and relax. They tend to be modern workplaces where there is no need to force staff into wearing a shirt and tie. So ditch the suit, and don your favorite kicks instead.

3. You'll never stop learning

Are you the sort of person who likes to push yourself, improve your skills and produce the best work you can? Design as a discipline never stands still and as a designer you will be constantly developing. There are always new trends, new tools, new technologies, new theories, new sources of inspiration. A creative mind never stops learning. Graphic design also encompasses a variety of specialisms too, so whether you want to tighten up your digital skills, master the art of print production, become perfect at packaging or tackle typography head on, there is always a new direction to pursue.

4. You'll gain a new perspective on the world

For many graphic designers, it is more than just a job – it's a way of life. An understanding of the principles of good design means that you will look at everything differently, from posters and magazine covers, through to pieces of furniture, buildings and the gadgets you use every day. Designers are naturally curious animals and you'll find yourself thinking differently about the world around you and admiring the smaller details that go into beautifully designed products.

5. You can design from anywhere in the world

One of the most exciting things about being a designer in today's world is the freedom it gives you to work from pretty much anywhere you like. There is a demand for good designers around the world, while many carve out successful freelance careers, which often gives you the opportunity to work from wherever you fancy.

6. You get to make a difference in the world

Everybody wants to feel like they are making a difference in their job – and as a designer, you'll be able to see the fruits of your labor and get a real sense of achievement in your work. Seeing something through to the finish is very satisfying and when your design is live and out there in the world, it can be a real thrill to know other people are seeing it, using it and interacting with it. You'll join an industry with a rich heritage of making people's lives better.

7. Every day is different

Every day is different, with each new brief throwing up a new creative challenge. You can't cut and paste good design; you'll be preparing unique things on a daily basis.

8. You get to flex your brain muscles

Good design is about so much more than just making things look nice – it's a very thoughtful, challenging profession. Designers are creative problem solvers, so each brief represents a fresh challenge. You get to use your brain for much more than just filling in spreadsheets or firing off emails all day. Problem-solving is actually one of the most important skills for a designer, as you'll spend your days working out the best ways to communicate important messages in visual form.

9. Creativity is fulfilling

Graphic design is something that you can have a real passion for and can give you a real sense of satisfaction. It involves actually creating something, going through a process to produce something tangible, rather than just getting buried in reports and paperwork. Design offers you a chance to produce work that you can be really proud of – and would be happy to show off.

10. Become part of a global community

This is a very friendly industry to be in, with designers regularly sharing their work, inspiration, and ideas, and helping each other out with tips, advice, and feedback. You just need to look online at platforms such as Dribbble, Behance, and Cargo Collective to see how engaged and helpful the design community can be. In Malaysia, we have GRAFIK MALAYA community on Facebook, go check them out. This translates offline as well and you'll find that most major cities will have regular events and meet-ups so it can be a really sociable job too.