Are you a designer? By James Robert Watson, PhD Do you design? from copy inspired by the AIGA Do you like to solve problems? Do you see the world differently? Do you refuse to yield to those who say it can't be done? Do you get frustrated at incompetence? Do you usually procrastinate? But still get things done? Do you genuinely like people? Do you embrace challenges ? Are you a visionary? Are you frustrated by bureaucratic barriers? Are you a participant, not a bystander? Do you love to travel to new places? Do you like puzzles and mind games? Do you generally enjoy life? Do you see problems as opportunities? Do you live for the Eureka, I've got it moment? Do you strive for personal growth? Do you like to form your own opinions? Do you think progress is good? Do you pay close attention to detail? If so, then you just might have what it takes. Traits of great designers The items listed below are some of the qualities and skills necessary to be a successful Graphic Designer. Use this list as a benchmark to conduct your own academic and career choice evaluation. Talent       innate sense of design       high sense of aesthetics       fluent flexible ideas Intelligence       reason, logic, practicality       skeptical, curious, exploratory       adaptable, flexible, pliable to situations, problems, & surprises Communication       confident speaking skills       persuasive convincing logic       use of proper terminology Craftsmanship       proper use of materials       neat clean work       thorough attention to detail       accurate precise rendering Commitment       highly self-motivated       high level of initiative       willing to work long hours Personality       self-confident       open-minded attitude       accept criticism well       assertive       participatory       risk taker       enthusiastic       positive attitude       team player       responsible       intelligent       like to have fun       sense of humor       separate self from work       tolerant of others       adventuresome Home • Email Jim Watson • Filename to share: http://www.jamesrobertwatson.com/doyoudesign.html