S3 Ep8: Sara Wachter-Boettcher – Breaking the Gaslighting Cycle of People Pleasing & Overwork
Nov 22, 2023
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Author, strategist, and facilitator Sara Wachter-Boettcher discusses gaslighting in organizations and the cycle of designers seeking validation. They explore the impact of gaslighting on employees and the complicity of the design profession. The podcast also compares the design and engineering disciplines in tech companies and emphasizes the importance of rethinking work and finding purpose beyond one's identity.
Self-reflection leads to better work-life harmony.
Designers should align design with organizational objectives.
Prioritize energy management and set boundaries to prevent burnout.
Deep dives
The importance of acknowledging the impact of work on our well-being
It is crucial to take a moment to observe and be present in our work reality, acknowledging the effects it has on our well-being. This small act of self-reflection can lead to making different choices, setting boundaries, and finding a better harmony between work and other aspects of life.
The need for designers to connect their work to larger purposes
Design leaders should focus on connecting design to the meaningful goals and purposes of their stakeholders rather than solely emphasizing the process or proving their value. By aligning design with larger organizational objectives, designers can foster a stronger connection between their work and the outcomes that stakeholders care about.
Recognizing the limitations of changing business leadership
While changes in business leadership and organizational structures may be necessary, designers should avoid putting excessive pressure on themselves to effect these changes directly. Instead, they should focus on influencing in their immediate sphere of influence, communicating the value of design, and making choices that align with their own values and sense of purpose.
The importance of energy management and setting boundaries in the workplace
Designers should prioritize their own energy management and set boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This means being mindful of energy-draining activities, saying no when necessary, and focusing on the work that truly aligns with their values and purpose.
Embracing the power of self-reflection and presence to create meaningful change
A small but impactful action designers can take is to embrace self-reflection and presence in their work. By observing their experiences, energy levels, and values, designers can make intentional choices, foster stronger alignment with their purpose, and create positive change in their work and well-being.
If you're a designer who has been told to “Prove your value.” “Justify your presence.” “Demonstrate impact.” only to find yourself throwing yourself against the wall of immutable organisational structure and culture, what do you do?" asks Sara Wachter-Boettcher
Power of Ten is a show about design operating at all levels of zoom, from thoughtful detail to changes in organisation, society and the world, hosted by design leadership coach, Andy Polaine.
My guest is author, strategist, facilitator, speaker and coach Sara Wacther-Boettcher recently wrote on Medium an insightful essay called "Hey designers, they’re gaslighting you". She explains why these phrases have convinced designers that they’re the problem — that if they just worked harder, they’d be taken seriously. But if just doing more we're going to fix the problem… it’d be fixed by now.