#58 Pull back from the desk and use a No. 2 pencil and eraser now and then. Feel like a designer, artist, & kid again by sketching everything.

As a design student, the first thing I was taught was to sketch out my ideas. To draw the words and descriptions of the concept. To use my sketchpad constantly. And today, the first thing I say to our interns is, “Sketch.” If the designers are stumped, I tell them to go back and sketch. It’s an integral part of our process in the studio. Unfortunately though, when we are busy, it can also be one of the first things to go.

Like us, you know that visualizing your thought process is crucial, but do you still sketch? The bottom line is that we have to make time. I sometimes find myself sketching my to-do list or people I need to call. Or maybe while watching TV or on my lunch napkin. Make it a priority to set aside some pencil and paper time at the beginning of each project. No matter what your role is, remember to sketch.

Here is a video and a cool book to check out for inspiration. What do you think? Any cool sketches to share?