UX Collective | Medium
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Rethinking writing in the world of design and AI
The author reflects on completing their 100th design article, a significant personal achievement. They emphasize the continuous personal evolution that occurs through consistent writing, echoing Oscar Wilde's sentiment that good writing stems from good thinking. The author expresses a persistent fear of not thinking effectively, especially in the face of advancing AI, which they metaphorically label the "Shoggoth." This AI, like the fictional Shoggoth, is a powerful, shapeshifting entity that can follow instructions, akin to large language models.The author admits to a complex relationship with AI, appreciating its ability to facilitate quick content generation but lamenting the loss of the valuable struggle inherent in manual writing. They question whether outsourcing all thinking to AI is desirable, referencing the importance of genuine human perspectives highlighted by UX Collective co-founder Fabric Teixeira. This aligns with Michael Bierut's concept that embracing the friction of repetition through discipline fosters creative growth.The author shares key lessons learned from their writing journey: motivation derived from personal goals and legacy, creating dedicated space for writing, developing an authentic voice through experimentation, and practicing authenticity even amidst criticism. They also discuss the importance of self-forgiveness during periods of mental block and the eventual discovery of joy in the creative process. Finally, writing has fostered a strong sense of community and connection with other designers, expanding their world and providing a supportive "tribe."