Stefan Sagmeister’s List of “Things I Have Learned”
Posted Jun 23, 2007
I just watched a charming 15-minute talk by designer Stefan Sagmeister (probably best known for his album cover designs), who along the way shared a list from his diary of “things I have learned in my life so far.”
Me, I’ve only learned a few of these lessons so far. Still working on the rest. But for anyone working to craft a happy and creative existence (and who isn’t?), this seems like a good list to crib from:
- Complaining is silly. Either act or forget.
- Thinking life will be better in the future is stupid, I have to live now.
- Being not truthful works against me.
- Helping other people helps me.
- Organizing a charity group is surprisingly easy.
- Everything I do always comes back to me.
- Drugs feel great in the beginning and become a drag later on.
- Over time I get used to everything and start taking it for granted.
- Money does not make me happy.
- Traveling alone is helpful for a new perspective on life.
- Assuming is stifling.
- Keeping a diary supports my personal development.
- Trying to look good limits my life.
- Worrying solves nothing.
- Material luxuries are best enjoyed in small doeses.
- Having guts always works out for me.
The designer has incorporated some of his list into a series titled “Things I have learned in my life so far.” It’s a literal example of incorporating your worldview into your work, nice. Some examples:
My wife Ellen had the chance to work oh-so-briefly with Stefan as a client about 10 years ago back in New York. Bright guy, this one.
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hello, I am a graphic communication student interested in studying typography running with an escher theme. could you please let me know of anything at all you think would help me and more information (websites) on sagmiester's work. Thank you, louise
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