How to NOT Die Doing UX
Originally posted on Linkedin:
We purposefully didn't record the Ladies that UX Atlanta "How to Not Die Doing UX" practice that I had the honor to lead a couple weeks ago. Why?
I wanted — needed — people to feel safe and be as vulnerable as they could while talking about their lives as UX practitioners in the corporate salt mines. We talked about the things that don't make it to resumes, interviews, 1-on-1s, or exit interviews (if those actually happen — ha). Maybe some of what was shared makes it into personal journals, or if they're able, into tearful, angry, sad, mad therapy sessions. We all need a welcome shoulder to lean on — one that won't judge you or mansplain you. Much was shared, and some of it made it into this summary slide.
I'm starting to think UX people are like nursing people — closest to the lives they're helping, yet working within systems built on extraction and exploitation. We strive for great work and deep care for the people we serve, all while dealing with the gravity of late-stage capitalism and fear-and-greed-fueled executive egos.
Kudos to those who showed up, shared their stories, took away small next steps, and found others to partner with. We will survive the elephants in the room — as long as we acknowledge them and collaborate on how not to get trampled.
Thank you again, Rania Bailey and Lauren S.
