How to navigate the design jungle and uncover the skills that ignite your passion.

Permit me to say,
Hey Design-Freaky 😊, we go again into the design world.
Imagine the design world as the cloud that showcases different beauty templates in different seasons and depending on the climatic conditions of a location. 

You might ask, (if you are curious) - where are all these beautiful reactions and paintings coming from? Who is the artist or designer that is drawing on the cloud?
But, the question is not just about who or where it’s coming from; it’s the fact that even nature shows us that there are unlimited design representations. 😎😎

Curiosity mode activated right?😉 That was actually what I wanted. 
As a designer or a wannabe designer, you must train your curiosity by always imagining new and creative ways to represent ideas (text, images, icons, etc.)

Let’s dive into today's topic.

The above scenario is a backgrounder into how to identify which design skills to learn as a beginner. The scenario is capable of whetting your appetite for wanting to start and get better in design.
Getting to know and deciding which design skills to learn is both a beginner’s thing and also a continuous engagement you find with established designers. However, the focus at their level is not on choosing which skill to learn. It might be about the design projects they intend to understudy; branding and design principles of an organization or specific sectors etc. 

The following points are key factors to consider when choosing a design skill to learn.

Design Crossroads: Choosing Your Path Through the Creative Jungle
Imagine standing at the edge of an extensive jungle, sunlight spotting the vibrant vegetation. Towering trees arch overhead, each representing a different design discipline – graphic design, UI/UX, web design, the options seem endless. You're a budding designer, eager to explore, but where do you even begin? Choosing the right skills feels like hacking through vines or Iroko trees, unsure which path will lead to your creative Eden.
Fear not, fellow explorer! This guide will equip you with a machete to navigate the design jungle and uncover the skills that ignite your passion.

1. Self-Discovery: Charting Your Creative Compass
First, delve into the hidden chambers of your imagination. Ask yourself:
What ignites your creative spark? Do you dream in vibrant colours and captivating logos (graphic design) or envision user journeys through digital landscapes (UI/UX)?
What problems do you want to solve? Does the thought of crafting engaging websites (web design) excite you, or do you yearn to tell stories through illustrations (illustration)?
Remember, there's no right or wrong answer. Each path offers unique rewards, so hone in on what makes your heart sing.

2. Market Intel: Decoding the Job Jungle Beats
Now, let's step outside your creative haven and listen to the whispers of the design market. What skills are in high demand? Research job postings, and industry reports, and even chat with experienced designers. Imagine this intel as animal calls, guiding you towards areas with abundant opportunities.

3. Learning Pathways: Picking the Right Path
With your destination in mind, it's time to choose your learning trail. Do you favour the structured guidance of online courses or the immersive experience of boot camps? Perhaps you're a self-directed explorer, devouring tutorials and honing your skills through personal projects. Each path has its advantages, so pick the one that best suits your learning style.

4. Community & Resources: Your Tribe in the Jungle
Remember, you're not alone on this adventure! Connect with online design communities, forums, and workshops. Picture them as fellow explorers, sharing their experiences, offering support, and pointing you towards hidden treasures (like free learning resources!).

5. Embrace the Wild: Cultivating Continuous Growth
The design jungle is constantly evolving, with new technologies and trends emerging like exotic flora. Don't be afraid to experiment, embrace challenges, and keep learning. Remember, the journey itself is part of the adventure, leading you towards ever-expanding creative horizons.
Bonus Tip: Keep a design journal to document your explorations, sketch ideas, and track your progress. Imagine it as your personal treasure map, guiding you back to moments of inspiration and marking your unique design journey.

So, dear explorer, grab your metaphorical machete and venture into the design jungle with confidence! By understanding your passions, navigating the job market, choosing the right learning path, and joining the design community, you'll discover the skills that unlock your true creative potential.
Remember, the most exciting discoveries often lie beyond the obvious path. So, go forth, explore, and create! You can check out the article on Top 5 Design Skills in the Technology industry that you can learn.