Balance – Why it’s important for your life and your design
Balance
Balance can apply to many aspects of life. Work-life balance is often referred to. Some people see work-life balance as an impossible dream. Others see it as essential for wellbeing. Balance is also important in design. As I see creativity as being an important element of work-life balance here is my take on balance – why it’s important for your life and your design. For a snapshot of inspiration see @createworklifebalance.
Balance in design has various elements. Here’s a selection with my comparison to show that they can equally be applied to your work-life balance. Do you see balance as important for your life and for your design?
Colour
Design – Colour creates impact. Selection & blending of colours are critical design elements.
Work-life -What do you do to put colour in your life? Your mood and attitude can be impacted by colours. My love of green means I feel rejuvenated in rainforests.
Variety
Design – Variety delivers the unexpected. Elements of surprise can capture attention.
Work-life -Do you take on new challenges? Although there is so much around about how we resist change – we can actually thrive on variety. My love of travel means I thrive on seeing new places.
Value
Design – Value indicates importance. How designers chose to place elements gives visual cues of what the designer wants to capture your attention.
Work-life -What is important for you? Understanding and aligning with your values gives you a sense of calm. My family values mean I love the time I spend with my relatives.
Weight
Design – Weight & size emphasise significance. Emphasis is placed on what counts in the design.
Work-life -What are the ‘must have’ elements in your life? Are you giving them the right amount of weight? My love of creativity means I fit creative projects into my life.
Position
Design – Position indicates prominence. Designers place key elements to draw the eye to what matters.
Work-life -What focus do you put on key elements in your life? Prioritising what matters to you gives you a sense of balance. My love of music means I ensure I fit playing music into my life.
Experience for you
To give readers’ experiences here’s something for you to apply balance in your life.
- Think about your favourite colour? How does it show up in your life?
- When was the last time you bought an unusual ingredient at the supermarket?
- Consider whether you value material objects or experiences more?
- Think about how you give weight to what matters in your life?
- Does focusing on what matters to you give you a sense of balance?
Let me know what these questions show you about your life.
Applying Balance
A public servant who
- Ensures creativity, through design, music and more, is part of her life
- Walks in nature to soak up the beauty
- Fits in time with family and friends
A stained glass artist who
- Selects brilliant colours and places them carefully to create impact
- Chooses shapes that contrast to add another dimension
- Positions all components of balance intentionally resulting in a magnificent stained glass
How will you apply balance to your life and design?
Here’s a link if you’d like to know more about Creativity Benefits – Fuel for your mind and your work life balance