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Stefan Sagmeister on design and happiness

Merlin Mann | Jun 14 2007

TED | Talks | Stefan Sagmeister: Yes, design can make you happy (video)

I really enjoyed this 15-minute TED presentation by Stefan Sagmeister (watch out: flashy page with grabby browser javascript) on how specific instances of design have made him happy.

The replacement subway signs he mentions (recreation below via Chris Glass) really are pretty terrific. (Anyone have more info or links on the artist and the guerilla campaign?)

Like, Chris, I also really like what Sagmeister has to share about the patterns in his own life that have made him more happy than not. It's easy to see how striving to live these sixteen bullets could help a person enjoy a more creative, open world.

  • 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 if 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 doses.
  • Having guts always works out for me.

Like Chris said, "Good stuff."

Link and recreated graphic via: Chris Glass: "Making Happy"

15 Comments
POSTED IN:
TOPICS: Creativity, Mind and Spirit, Personal Productivity
robert thor's picture

Thanks for the post Merlin, I've...

Submitted by robert thor (not verified) on June 15, 2007 - 9:19am.

Thanks for the post Merlin, I've always enjoyed Sagmeisters work, extremely sharp work and these points are very good stuff. I must admit to having removed 43 folders from my "shortlist" after the last months of software related post frenzy, perhaps I'll start checking in again.

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