Uncertainty in the UX world and other issues

Luis Villasmil
3 min readMay 13, 2022

Have you ever felt that you want to improve or grow in one area and you see others who are much more advanced or focused?

If this happens or has happened to you, you are not the only one. It is a common feeling among colleagues, due to the strong digital innovation happening in the world and the competition in the labor field. But everything has a solution.

I wanted to write about this because I think at some point we have all felt a little pressure, anxiety (or whatever we want to call it). Between gaining experience to have a good portfolio and not having a portfolio to have the first experience, among other things.

Since a few years ago, let’s say 5 years ago. The roles of UX, Product Design and its different facets have grown and gained relevance over time.

Due to the high importance and need, especially in companies with established products that are focused on constant improvement based on user feedback.

Something that is becoming very common is the interest to stand out, educate, learn or share content and knowledge. Many colleagues or professionals dedicated to this or similar areas have generated an atmosphere of anxiety.

What do I mean by anxiety?

It is common to see social networks for work or leisure invaded with content related to these areas. At some point, all of us who dedicate ourselves to this area come to think:

1. Am I doing enough?

2. Do I have to give strength to my networks to stand out?

3. How many things do I have to learn and, above all, promote in order to make myself known?

And of course: Do I have the capacity to do a good job?

Then, in this process of doubt or internal criticism. We move away a little bit from the focus of this profession, which is basically to be empathetic with the user. To work thinking about these things, from our specialization and perspective.

Whatever emotions you have, many times they are thoughts. We must not forget that the digital world changes very fast (and will continue to do so).

It is for that reason that perhaps we should come to the conclusion that we will not be the most perfect, committed, specialist or charismatic in certain areas or environments.

But if we are truly focused on the things we are really interested in, at the end of the day, the work well done, the desire to learn and innovate by applying that knowledge is what opens doors.

So it is important to remember that many things are happening, but we all have our own path and that is where we can provide value.

From our characteristics, experiences, capabilities and desire to improve as professionals and people.

Remember the next time you feel this kind of thing or are overthinking, that with discipline and concentration you can achieve many of the things you set out to do. And most importantly, remember to focus on the next step and not the next 20.

The picture will become clearer and I do not say this as toxic positivism, I firmly believe it is so.

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Luis Villasmil

Hi, I’m a Venezuelan UX designer. I currently live in Santiago de Chile, I am passionate about design, photography, movies and music.