What can we learn from a child?

Inspiring the next generation of designers, again.

Teaching at my old school, International School Eindhoven.

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As designers we are taught to think like a child; curious and creative.

Children let their imaginations run wild, they have no boundaries when creating and aren't held back by rules and regulations. They see the world through innocent eyes, they see things in their simplest form and don't over complicate them. They're excited about life, experiencing and learning new things, which then translate into their creative designs. Their passion and joy is so obvious when showing others their work; because they truly believe in their ideas. Children ask why, why, why about everything, and we should too.

So summon your child like curiosity, let your imagination run wild and be passionate about what you do!

Today I spent the afternoon teaching at the ISE again. Just like the first time I thoroughly enjoyed it.

60 bright and curious pairs of eyes fixed on me, eager and excited to learn. Their energy filling the class room giving me confidence about the lesson I had planned for them. 45 minutes of facts and inspiration had the children brimming with questions and ideas. Excitement for their upcoming project evident in each one.

The wonder and awe I saw in some children's eyes as they looked up at me, literally and metaphorically, moved me. I had just had another chance to inspire them to be great, work hard and follow their dreams. To be creative and curious. And what excited me most was the fact some may become designers, because of things I said which inspired them, just like others inspired me when I was younger.

They inspired me just as much as I inspired them. They taught me just as much as I taught them. If not more.

So be curious like a child. Be creative like a child. Be open to learn new things everyday; ask why over and over again. Be playful in the way you design, push the boundaries and look with simple eyes; because sometimes the simple ideas are the most powerful. Be excited by the work you do and let that joy show; because some day you too will have the opportunity to inspire someone else.