Finding my true path: my journey leaving UX Design
In 2020, amidst the uncertainty of the pandemic, I made a bold decision to transition from a career in Marketing to the promising realm of User Experience (UX) design. Drawn by the allure of higher pay and the promise of a more innovative role, I eagerly embraced this new challenge. However, as time passed, I began to feel an increasing sense of distress and dissatisfaction, which culminated in a profound realisation — UX design was not the career path that fulfilled me.
In this blog post, I want to share my experiences and reasons behind my decision to leave UX and embark on a journey to rediscover my passion in the world of travel.
The Lack of structure
Coming from a marketing background, I was accustomed to a structured environment where the impact of my work on business goals was tangible and immediate. However, in the UX field, I found a greater emphasis on following the latest trends rather than developing solid processes and structures of how the work should be delivered. This lack of structure often resulted in messy project outcomes, leaving me feeling frustrated and unfulfilled.
Misalignment of skills
While I possess a love for organising and planning, I noticed that the UX field did not fully capitalise on these strengths. I struggled with a lack of clarity in my daily tasks, and my occasional lapses in attention to detail eroded my confidence, which was particularly apparent within my design skills. These skill misalignments added to my growing sense of dissatisfaction.
Expectations vs. reality
During my training and personal projects, I experienced a well-rounded combination of research and design, which I believed would be reflected in real-world scenarios. However, upon entering the industry, I found that the focus was disproportionately on design, leaving little room for the meticulous research I enjoyed. This misalignment of expectations and reality further deepened my sense of disillusionment.
Lack of understanding and integration
I encountered challenges in conveying the value of UX design to businesses and often found that my efforts were not fully understood or appreciated. This disconnect left me feeling unfulfilled in my role as a UX professional.
The isolating nature of the role
As someone who thrives on social interactions, I deeply missed the collaborative spirit I had experienced in marketing. Despite being told that user research and stakeholder interactions were integral parts of UX, my real-world experiences proved to be isolating and devoid of meaningful connections.
The impact of remote work
The pandemic necessitated remote work, which amplified the isolation I felt in the UX field. Instead of the social role I envisioned, I found myself confined to a virtual world that left me yearning for real-world interactions. This shift contributed to a decline in my mental health, prompting me to reflect on my career choices.
Struggling with the job market
As I contemplated new opportunities in the UX field, I encountered the daunting task of updating my portfolio and investing countless hours in job applications. Despite my efforts, I faced disappointment and rejection, leading me to question whether my skills were genuinely valued in the current job market.
Realising you’re not alone
During my journey of self-discovery, I stumbled upon numerous articles and forums online where individuals shared their stories of transitioning out of UX design. Reading about their experiences, I felt a sense of relief knowing that I was not alone in my feelings of discontentment. Many of these individuals also grappled with the challenges I faced, and their journeys served as a source of inspiration and comfort.
Here are some tips and encouragement for those who might be questioning their UX career:
Self-reflection
Take the time to reflect on your experiences in the UX field and identify what aspects you enjoyed and what left you feeling unfulfilled. Understanding your preferences and strengths can guide you towards a more suitable career path.
Embrace your learning
Recognise that the skills you acquired during your time in UX design are not wasted. Many of these skills, such as empathy, problem-solving, communication, and design thinking, are highly transferable and can be applied to various other fields.
Explore your passions
Follow your heart and explore the things that ignite your passion. Whether it’s a long-standing interest or a newfound curiosity, taking the time to explore your passions can lead you to a career that brings you joy and fulfilment.
Seek guidance
Reach out to mentors, career counsellors, or professionals in fields you’re interested in. Seeking guidance from others can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about your career path.
Take a break
If you feel overwhelmed or unsure, consider taking a career break like I’m planning on doing. Stepping back from the current situation can offer clarity and a fresh perspective on what you truly want and learn new skills that you truly enjoy.
Embrace change
Remember that life is a series of evolutions and that it’s okay to pivot and change directions. Embracing change can lead you to exciting opportunities you may not have considered before.
Celebrate your courage
Acknowledge the bravery it took to step into the unknown and try something new. It’s a testament to your courage and willingness to take risks.
Remember, finding the right career path is a journey and sometimes it takes trying out different roles to discover where your true passions lie. I’ve realised leaving the field of UX design doesn’t mean I’ve failed; instead, it signifies my commitment to personal growth and self-discovery. Embrace the skills you’ve learned and use them as building blocks to create a path that aligns with your passions and values. Trust in your journey and be open to new opportunities, life is a journey and the future is filled with possibilities waiting for you to explore!
