Next up in our Meet the Author series, we’re getting to know Yesenia Perez-Cruz—author of our latest book, Expressive Design Systems. She tells us how she starts every day on the right foot, how she gets out of creative ruts, and what keeps her up at night.

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

Yesenia Perez-Cruz: I do my full glam! (Which is what the Youtube beauty community calls putting on a full face of makeup.) This is the most relaxing time for me. Planning my look, buffing foundation, blending eyeshadow—it’s very meditative. The only stressful part is gauging whether or not my eyeliner will be even, but it gives my mornings an element of chance!

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

YPC: The industry is so different now, compared to when I was getting started. But understanding what types of companies you want to work for is important. Do you want to work at an agency or work in-house? At a startup or a big organization? What types of values do you look for in a company culture? I recommend exploring different perspectives on this.

ABA: Is there anyone you’re following the work of right now, who you’d recommend others pay attention to?

YPC: I like the generative design systems work that @mrmrs_ has been creating at components.ai

ABA: In moments of self-doubt, how do you recharge and rally to keep going?

YPC: If my brain feels stuck, I like to do something physically challenging because it forces me to focus on what my body is doing. Deadlifts are a great way for me to recharge.

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

YPC: Going for a walk to take photos. It reminds me that I love creating things.

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

YPC: Luckily I sleep pretty well through the night, but I am constantly thinking about how I can anticipate how the industry will change.

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

YPC: I work remotely so I’d have to say Slack.

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

YPC: I only saw this last year but it’s had an impact on me. “...it is not your responsibility to decipher, anticipate or manage other people’s feelings, and you can turn—finally—toward your own.” (From social worker and tarot reader Jessica Dore on Instagram.

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

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