My Journey into Design: From Doodles to Deep Conversations

As a kid, drawing was my escape. Whenever I got bored in class (which was often), I’d start doodling—on my notebooks, my textbooks, my hands, and sometimes even my friends’ arms. I wasn’t just passing the time; I was lost in my own little world, where lines and shapes made more sense than the lessons on the blackboard. Looking back, I think that’s how design found me before I even knew what it was.

I was a complete introvert growing up, and drawing became my way of expressing myself when words felt too difficult. But as I got older, I started wondering—how could design go beyond just being a personal escape? Could it actually help people? That curiosity changed everything for me.

Still Figuring Things Out

Even now, I feel like I’m constantly shifting between being an introvert and an extrovert. Some days, I just want to observe, and other days, I want to talk to everyone. But one thing has stayed the same—I love asking “Why?”

Do you remember how, as kids, we would ask endless questions? Why is the sky blue? Why do we have to sleep? Why can’t we eat ice cream for breakfast? We were naturally curious. And I’ve realized that curiosity is what keeps us learning, keeps us growing. So, I still practice it—asking “Why?” until I truly understand something.

People Who Shaped Me

Even though design is a big part of my life, my biggest inspirations aren’t designers. They’re people who taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of human connection.

Asha Ma’am – The Teacher Who Made Learning Feel Safe

Math was my favorite subject, and that had everything to do with Asha Ma’am. She was patient, kind, and never made us feel like we were asking too many questions (and trust me, we definitely tested her patience!). No matter how many times someone didn’t understand a concept, she’d explain it again—without an ounce of frustration. That made all the difference. I didn’t just learn math from her; I learned what it means to create a space where people feel safe to ask, to learn, and to grow.

My Mother – The Person Who Can Talk to Anyone

If there’s one thing I’ve always struggled with, it’s talking to people. But my mother? She could meet a stranger and, within minutes, they’d be telling her their life story. She had this warmth, this ability to make people feel heard and understood. I used to envy that. But over time, I realized it wasn’t just about talking—it was about listening. She always says, “All we need is to be heard.” And I’ve carried that lesson with me, not just in my personal life but in my work too.

Design, Curiosity, and Connection

For me, design isn’t just about making things look good. It’s about understanding people—their needs, their frustrations, their emotions. It’s about being curious enough to ask “Why?” and empathetic enough to listen.

So, while I may still be figuring things out—whether it’s my personality, my career, or life in general—one thing I know for sure: I’ll keep doodling, keep asking questions, and keep making space for people to be heard.

Because isn’t that how we truly connect?