Up next in our Meet the Author series, we’re getting to know Donna Spencer—author of Presenting Design Work. She tells us about the highlights of her workspace, heading outdoors to process creative ruts, and the short-but-sweet advice that’s always stuck with her.

ABA: What is your favorite thing about your workspace?

Donna Spencer: I can see trees out my window and there’s usually at least one cat sleeping nearby or watching me work.

ABA: What’s the first thing you do every morning to start your day on the right foot?

DS: Nothing particular, I always start the day on the right foot.

ABA: In your opinion, what should someone consider before starting out in web design / development?

DS: Focus on learning fundamentals before you learn tools—they’ll benefit you more in the long term.

ABA: What is your go-to source of inspiration when you’re trying to get out of a creative rut?

DS: I head outdoors, or to my weaving loom where I can do something repetitive and leave the rest of my brain to sort out the problem.

ABA: Is there a fear or professional challenge that keeps you up at night? What is it?

DS: Keeping my skills and offerings relevant in an increasingly commoditized design market.

ABA: What characteristic do you most admire in other driven/creative people?

DS: The ability to explain their ideas and inspire and energize people.

ABA: What tool, object, or ritual could you not live without to get you through a week?

DS: Tea! In my favorite large tea cup with a lid. It looks like I’m drinking tea from a sippy cup but it’s better than a cat walking across my desk, knocking over a mug, and spilling tea all over my laptop.

ABA: Is there a piece of professional or life advice you’ve gotten that has always stuck with you? What is it?

DS: If it’s not a “hell yeah,” it’s a “no.” (From Derek Sivers.)

Learn more about all our authors—check out the rest of our Meet the Author series!

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