September 12, 2023
DesignYo Reddit! What's a small thing that anyone can do at nearly anytime to improve their workflow
After years of working in design, I've discovered that the biggest improvements to workflow often come from the smallest changes. Here are some micro-habits that have transformed how I work, and they take almost no time to implement.
First, use keyboard shortcuts religiously. I know this sounds obvious, but most designers only use 20% of available shortcuts. Spend 10 minutes each week learning three new shortcuts in your primary tools. In Figma, learn to use Cmd+D to duplicate, Cmd+G to group, and Cmd+Shift+O to outline stroke. In a month, you'll save hours of mouse clicking.
Second, maintain a swipe file. Whenever you see great design—whether it's a color palette, layout, typography, or interaction—save it immediately. Use tools like Are.na, Pinterest, or even a simple folder system. Tag everything properly so you can find inspiration when you need it. Your future self will thank you during those creative blocks.
Third, version control everything. Not just code—design files too. Use Figma's version history, or if you're working locally, adopt a simple naming convention like ProjectName_v01_Description.fig. This takes 5 seconds but has saved me countless hours of redoing work.
Finally, take actual breaks. Set a timer for 50 minutes of focused work, then take a 10-minute break. Stand up, walk around, look at something far away. This prevents burnout and actually makes you more productive. The Pomodoro Technique isn't revolutionary, but it works because it respects how human attention actually functions.
Theresa Webb
