Design and the art of walking up hills

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I quite enjoy the challenge of taking on long distances; mostly walking, sometimes bicycle. There is something enormously satisfying about getting to the end. In order to be fit enough to undertake these efforts I exercise quite regularly. I cycle wherever and whenever I can and I go for short runs when I don’t have time for long walks. It is inevitable (especially living, as I do, in Brighton) that from time-to-time one encounters a hill. Hills are difficult. Depending on tiredness levels and mode of transport they can be almost impossible. My trick, especially on very long walks (and very steep hills), is to keep my head down and take small steps. The path is right there under my feet, looking up just reminds me how long the hill is and how far I have to go.

Hills: small steps, eyes down.

Walking a long distance requires a plan, every turn is planned and every hill expected. The path is the goal.
Design is a wilful act of creation; intent. It is a process from idea to implementation, a journey which starts with a vision. The vision is the goal.

Both activities consist of steps. Small steps are easier.

When taking small steps up a hill keeping your head down and your eyes glued to the path you will get to the top and it will feel good. But you might miss the view.
When taking small steps through a design, keeping your head down and your eyes glued to the path can feel good but there is a very good chance you will get lost.

Design: smalls steps, eyes everywhere.

This Saturday 17th July I am walking 100km for Oxfam. Please sponsor me.

Oxfam’s goal is simple. To end global poverty. Let’s help them get there!

About the author

Ivanka

Ivanka Majic works in technology. She was Head of Design for Ubuntu, service managed Digital Marketplace through to beta, was acting director of digital for the Labour Party. She lives and works in Brighton where she works with the council’s digital first team, does a bit of teaching at Sussex University, and works with her husband on projects like restaurantsbrighton.co.uk and the BRAVOs. She has also started a podcast with her friend Michael which you can listen to at grandpodcast.com.

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By Ivanka

About Author

Ivanka

Ivanka Majic works in technology. She was Head of Design for Ubuntu, service managed Digital Marketplace through to beta, was acting director of digital for the Labour Party. She lives and works in Brighton where she works with the council’s digital first team, does a bit of teaching at Sussex University, and works with her husband on projects like restaurantsbrighton.co.uk and the BRAVOs. She has also started a podcast with her friend Michael which you can listen to at grandpodcast.com.

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