Designing Success

‘Being the Rich Man’ is not just an exploration;

it’s a revelation— a satirical odyssey into the heart of opulence, stripped bare and dressed in the genuine.

Here, we skewer the gilded absurdities with a pen sharper than a Wall Street suit, urging you to redefine wealth beyond the wallet.

We champion a new currency of success:

authenticity, creativity, and the unapologetic embrace of one’s own ‘Purlll.’

This issue is a rebellion in print, a manifesto for the bold at heart, and a guide for those daring to laugh at the ludicrous while building empires of self-worth and genuine flair.

SATIRE & AUTHENTICITY

In the pursuit of genuine success we recognize our authenticity as an opportunity for rebellion against the superficial. This is an open invitation to all *even you, rich man!* to question the traditional equation of success with fancy titles and financial gain.

Our use of satire aims to relieve tension around society’s facades of wealth, prompting a celebration of the richness found in the relinquishing of the ego, within every cup of coffee, and within our own aesthetic of joy.

These interactive spreads were designed to dismantle your existing notions of success. We hope to guide you to a new framework of understanding your own success, one that values creativity and individualistic character above all else.

Welcome to the new era of success. Our magazine is a collective platform that encourages every reader, regardless of socioeconomic status, to explore the depths of their rich man persona. This movement is more than just a critique; it’s a collective embrace of our stories and a call to love with purpose beyond the material.

Shed the layers of societal expectation like last season’s fashion faux pas.

To become your own ‘rich man’, you must first

unbecome everything you were told you had to be,

celebrating the glorious messiness of personal growth.

Forget trying to mentally recap their words or formulate your responses mid-conversation. Ditch the “active listening” tricks like nodding or verbal parroting. These perfunctory habits actually prevent you from fully taking in what someone is communicating.

If your mind is fixated on your to-do list, a past grievance, or what you’ll have for lunch, you’re simply not there. And people can sense inauthenticity more than you think.

When you’re mentally checked out, they’ll perceive it as a lack of care or interest, even if that’s not your intent.

Listening requires bringing your entire focus to the present moment and the person before you. Empty your mind of its restless churnings. Allow their words, tone, and body language to occupy the entirety of your awareness. You’ll begin to pick up on nuances and underlying meanings that rote parroting could never capture.

When you truly listen without distraction, you naturally respond with empathy, wisdom and awareness. Your engagement becomes a beautiful dance of mutual energy and truth-sharing. This is how you honor others and forge the deepest connections.

Through the sacred act of presence, you become what every soul longs for - someone who hears them fully.

Language is a portal to new realities. This doesn’t just include spoken tongues, but the artistic languages of music, dance, and visual media. The technical languages of coding and mathematics. The nuanced language of body movement and energy.

The more linguistic codes and modes of expression you acquire, the more your perception of the world exponentially grows. Each language is a key that unlocks novels ways of interpreting reality and communicating your interior and exterior landscapes.

The goal in learning these languages should not be to become more economically valuable, but rather to endlessly expand your capacity for authentic self-expression and understanding. To develop artistic technique is to open up creative pathways. To study an ancient philosophy is to gain a relavatory lens into the depths of human experience.

When you dedicate yourself to mastering languages in their myriad forms, you edify your soul. You build bridges across cultures, disciplines, and planes of consciousness. You become more adept at articulating the full spectrum of your truth.

Ultimately, taking the time to embody diverse modes of communication and symbolism enhances your humanity. It deepens your nuanced relatedness too the world and all within it. In this embodied way, language is not just vocabulary, but a profound gateway to transformation.

Pioneering Researcher Robert McAndrews on Redefining Success through the Lens of Women’s Unconventional Journeys

In a world that has long glorified men’s quests and adventures while confining women to the domestic realm, researcher Robert McAndrews has spent decades examining the journeys of both genders across history, mythology, literature and film. His groundbreaking work challenges traditional notions of success and achievement, revealing how pioneering women have broken free of convention to make their mark.

“Until fairly recently, when I first did research on men’s and women’s journeys, I identified patterns that were very similar, but women typically had to stay within a domestic arena,” Mcandrews explains. “It was sort of set up biologically that one of the two would be domestic and the other one be extra domestic.” This dynamic played out not just in reality but in humanity’s stories, myths and movies.

However, as McAndrews dug deeper, he began uncovering more and more examples of women throughout history who managed to venture beyond the domestic sphere to achieve great things while also marrying and raising children. “What I have come to the conclusion of is that it’s only unconventional because of this structures or the construct of the culture that says, This is convention. Women do this, men do that,” he notes.

So what enabled these remarkable women to defy the odds and social expectations? Mcandrews points to their “ambition and drive” as well as finding creative strategies and crucial allies. “In composing, and performing music ... a lot of things that women accomplish, were still within domestic arena, but they had an impact that went way beyond the domestic arena, writers, composers,” he says. “Plenty of women who were both married, had kids and achieved things in the what I call the macro sphere, micro sphere, macro sphere, domestic, extra domestic. They did things that men did.”

Another key factor was often the support of a close male relative who could provide access to training and opportunities women were excluded from. Mcandrews cites the example of female pilots in the 1920s and 1930s who had “a passion for flying airplanes, and became pilots. And also were married. Most of them were married. Many of them had kids, but their passion was so strong. And because they had a father or a husband, who’s already a pilot who can train them, they could actually learn to fly. No schools, whatever train them.”

While these women’s accomplishments were extraordinary for their time, McAndrews emphasizes that “authentic” success is not simply about breaking new ground or gaining wealth and accolades. “I’m not sure that very many people actually know what is authentically their true passion ... most people, men and women pretty much do what they have to do. And when I say ‘have to do’, it’s not just social expectation, it’s actually economic or basic survival.”

He argues that the freedom to pursue one’s genuine dreams and callings “is only open to the most privileged people in the world” who have their fundamental needs met and the “privilege of education, the privilege of time.” McAndrews invokes Maslow’s hierarchy, explaining “The basic ones are, you know, food and water, and just whatever can keep you barely alive. And then you kind of move on, as you have those things ... you’re freer to move towards other achievements or goals. And then the highest one is some sort of peak experience, which would be like spiritual questing and reflecting on what’s the most meaningful parts of your life.”

So in a society still rife with barriers and inequities, how can we help clear the path for people of all genders to achieve success on their own terms? McAndrews believes we must support and inspire each other’s ambitions however we can. He notes the “spread effect” of trailblazers like tennis legend Billie Jean King. “Almost every woman now who’s a professional tennis player, will give tribute to Billie Jean King because she carved the path for them.”

Whether it’s exposing younger generations to diverse role models, fighting discriminatory policies, or offering encouragement to the strivers in our own lives, every action matters. “I think people who are creative just want to create,” McAndrews reflects. “And the end product is, is maybe not as important as the process of needing to create.”

At the same time, he cautions against expecting steady, linear progress, citing the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade as a sobering example. “Whatever achievements get made, whatever breakthroughs, if the patriarchy is still defending itself, there will be backlash ... Some things have been linear, but other things not so much. There’s progress, and then there’s something that stops it or something that pushes it backward. So you have to keep at it, at it, at it.”

Now in his later years, McAndrews remains committed to doing his part to advance equality and expand opportunity. “The more I can support what others are doing, that will be here after I’m gone. That’s the best I can do,” he says, while acknowledging the toll of watching hard-won gains slip away. “I still have conversations with colleagues of mine who have been in the forefront of bringing about these kinds of changes, which gets pretty depressing, getting older and thinking, you know, what’s it going to be like? 20 years from now after I’m dead? Will all the good work that I put in to try to make this positive change get overturned?”

It’s a concern that weighs heavily as McAndrews observes a world “more unsettled at this time, than any time in my entire life.” But he plans to keep spreading awareness and rallying younger generations to continue this vital work. “I might make the argument as strongly as I can ... that however many friends you have, have this discussion with them, ask them, do you think there’s much of a choice here between stability and experience? And policies, which are actually helping humanity?”

For anyone feeling helpless or despairing in the face of daunting challenges, McAndrews offers this reminder: “Humans almost have to have a God or a religion, some belief system, something about themselves that takes them out of what it is controlling them on a fundamental biological, physical level ... And that may be an element of being able to project into the future ... even in the most hopeless situations ... to imagine something else.”

By studying the unconventional journeys of women across time, McAndrews’ research reveals the power of the human spirit to overcome limitations and redefine what success means. His insights are both a celebration of how far we’ve come and a bracing call to action to keep marching forward, embracing our authenticity, uplifting each other, and daring to envision a world where we all can thrive.

Kalyana and her grandfather, Robert McAndrews <3

The Inflated Illusion of Importance

In the endless pursuit of success, wealth, and status, it’s easy to fall prey to the trappings of ego. That nagging voice that whispers, “You’re better than that,” or “You deserve more.” But here’s a newsflash, dear readers: your ego is not your amigo. In fact, it may just be the biggest obstacle standing between you and true fulfillment.

You see, the ego is a crafty little bugger. It thrives on external validation, constantly craving the next shiny bauble or impressive title to bolster its fragile sense of self. But true wealth - the kind that can’t be measured in dollars and cents - comes from within. It’s about cultivating a deep sense of self-worth that isn’t dependent on the opinions of others or the size of your bank account.

So, how do we tame this raging ego of ours? It starts with a healthy dose of self-awareness. Take a long, hard look in the mirror and ask yourself: “Is my desire for success rooted in a genuine passion, or is it simply a means to feed my ego’s insatiable hunger?” Once you can identify the source of your motivations, you’re well on your way to breaking free from the ego’s shackles.

Next, practice the art of humility. Recognize that you are not the center of the universe (no matter what your ego might tell you). Embrace your flaws, celebrate your imperfections, and remember that true greatness often lies in the most unexpected places. After all, it’s the humble among us who often make the biggest impact.

Finally, cultivate a deep sense of gratitude. Shift your focus from what you lack to all the blessings that already grace your life. When you learn to appreciate the simple joys and the people who truly matter, the ego’s siren song begins to fade into the background.

So, let’s raise a glass to the end of ego-driven success. It’s time to redefine wealth in terms of authenticity, creativity, and the unapologetic embrace of our own unique “Purlll.” Because, at the end of the day, the only validation that truly matters is the one that comes from within.

Find a quiet, comfortable place where you can sit without being disturbed.

You might choose to sit cross-legged on the floor with a cushion or on a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Take a moment to find a position that feels stable and comfortable for you.

Now, gently close your eyes and begin to notice your breath. There’s no need to change how you’re breathing; simply observe the natural flow of air moving in and out of your body. Feel the sensation of your chest rising and falling with each breath.

As you continue to breathe, imagine that with each inhale, you are filling your body with a sense of calm and relaxation. Picture a soft, glowing light entering your body each time you breathe in, starting at the top of your head and slowly moving down to your toes. This light might be a color that you associate with peace and tranquility, like a soothing blue or a warm, golden hue.

As this light gradually fills your entire body, feel it gently dissolving any tension or tightness you might be holding. Imagine it softening any areas of stress, like a warm, comforting embrace. With each exhale, picture any worries, doubts, or fears leaving your body, carried away by your breath.

Once you feel fully immersed in this peaceful, glowing light, begin to imagine it radiating outward from your body, creating a bubble of positive energy all around you. This bubble represents your true self – your unique qualities, strengths, and potential. It’s a space where you can feel secure, loved, and completely accepted for who you are.

Within this safe, glowing space, take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate yourself. Silently repeat these affirmations:

“I am worthy of love and respect, just as I am.”

“I have the strength and resilience to overcome any challenge.”

“I trust in my ability to grow, learn, and thrive.”

Feel these positive statements resonating within you, filling you with a sense of confidence and self-acceptance.

As you continue to bask in this warm, affirming energy, know that you can return to this space anytime you need to reconnect with your true self. This inner sanctuary is always available to you, offering a source of peace, clarity, and strength.

1. Think about a time when you felt truly happy and proud of yourself. What were you doing, and how did it make you feel? Write about how you can bring more of those feelings into your everyday life.

2. Reflect on a situation where you might have held yourself back due to fear or self-doubt. What did you learn from that experience, and what would you do differently next time?

3. Imagine a world where you could do anything you wanted without worrying about what others think. What would you do, and how would you treat yourself and others differently? Write about this ideal world and how it would feel to live in it.

4. Think about what being humble means to you. How can practicing humility (being modest and respectful) help you overcome challenges and appreciate others more?

5. Write a kind and encouraging letter to yourself, as if you were talking to a dear friend. Remind yourself of your strengths, your ability to grow, and your commitment to being true to yourself. Promise to support and believe in yourself, even when things get tough.

Spirituality & meditation aren’t just for the mountaintop monks;

they’re for the subway riders, coffee sippers, & the midnight dreamers.

Find your higher power in the hum of the city,

the rhythm of the waves, or the silence in between.

In our fast-paced world, we often gulp down our coffee mindlessly, treating it as mere fuel.

But what if we reclaimed this daily ritual as a sacred pause? a coffee vacation, if you will.

Take a

Imagine this: you’ve just brewed your perfect cup.

The aroma wafts through the air, beckoning you to slow down. Instead of grabbing it and rushing off, you find a cozy spot to savor the experience.

Let the cup warm your hands as you breathe in the rich fragrance. Notice the steam lazily unfurling into the air.

When you take that first vitalizing sip, let it linger on your tongue.

What flavors greet your senses?

Nutty, bright, caramel?

Mindfully experiencing each sip awakens you to coffee’s nuanced charms.

As you continue sipping, feel the warmth spreading through your body. The outside world can wait.

For these few serene moments, you are truly present, finding grounding in this simple pleasure.

Your coffee break becomes a meditation vacating you from life’s frenzied momentum.

With each intentional pause, you reconnect to what matters. Compassion, gratitude and being.

This is mindfulness mundanely mastered.

So go ahead, take that coffee vacation daily.

Let it be your gateway to the sacred amid the seemingly profane hustle.

In savoring each sip, you’ll be refilled by the

extroardinary found in the ordinary.

THE UNIFYING FORCE WITHIN US ALL

In our richly diverse world, the concept of a “higher power” takes many forms across cultures, faiths and philosophies. Yet at its essence, this idea points to the same unifying force, recognizing something greater than our individual selves.

For some, a higher power is the Divine, a supreme universal consciousness imbuing all of existence with sacred meaning. Others attune to the profound intelligence of Nature itself as a guiding regenerative force far exceeding human capabilities. Still others find a higher power in ethical and moral philosophies, an aspiration toward transcendent ideals of truth, beauty, justice and compassion that elevate humantity’s potential.

Regardless of the name it bears, God, Dharma, Tao, Spirit, Life Force - the higher power is that which we revere and embrace as inexplicably grand, wise and integral to the harmonic whole. It is the grateful acknowledgement that we are but a part of a larger, enduring essence.

In this recognition, we find perspective and humility. A readiness to surrender our tendencies toward egoistic separation and instead attune our thoughts and actions to that which lissomely orchestrates the greater dance of the cosmos.

When we honor the higher power, however we conceptualize it, we open to the currents of unity flowing through all peoples, creed, and wisdom traditions.

United in reverence, we are guided toward our loftiest shared values of kindness, stewardship and elemental truth. This is the blessing in seeking the higher - to be reminded there are patterns and purposes beyond the limits of our singular comprehension.

In this seeing, we refind the sacred in all moments and encounters, reigniting our sense of interrelated wonder.

July 9, 2023.

I sit on a cliff above the ocean.

Leaning into a pull from a place unknown.

Filled with the promise of more.

I open.

“I question, only through the lens of wonder, for through this lens I will find... I will be revealed slow. All good things happen slow. Slow like the ocean, traveling far and wide to meet its fate on a rocky beach, perhaps right where it first began. “

This came to be the beginning of a life I had complete faith in and absolutely no sight of. This faith in me had remained untrusted for most of my life but even so it was there. Deep down, something within kept me reaching for more. Through the trial and error of early adult life, learning to grasp the abrupt responsibility I now had over my own path, it wasn’t until I stopped to listen that I found understanding of my place in the collective.

February 18, 2024

By now I have followed the call, listened to the quiet subtleties that provided me

reassurance in a choice that seemingly had no direction. Sitting in the midst of

uncertainty. The re-learning of what I knew to be true about expansion and surrender.

I receive.

“I am surrounded by the air rushing past, filling my lungs. And the calls to my core I have spent months and months waiting for. This is how I’ve waited to live. How I’ve waited to move and walk along this path. The guidance is clear, but the unknown still remains unknown. I must not forget how a month or two from now I will have spent this time building. That is what I do now. I am building and creating the blueprints for future versions to look upon. I am creating blueprints of trust and hope within myself. This is how it’s supposed to be. Have faith, I do. I have faith”

I now sit in Washington state and am coming to understand the extent of perspective. The extent of what is missed when you give in to the wait for what is to come. True presence can not find you if you are waiting for it. I have learned to open to the vastness of depth waiting to be experienced around me. The drops of rain in the pond. The gentle swaying of the ferns. The wind, sweeping through my window at night.

The solitude of this earth wants to be known just as I do.

I have never known God as it was told to me. But as I soften in my surrender, this life continues to unfold for me. As I slow into a place of curiosity, I discover understanding and connection. And as I allow myself to trust, I have come to truly know my place within this experience. This is where my spirituality is found.

An Exploration of Modern Spirituality

Through the Journals of a 21 Year Old

Navigating the Modern World:

Genuine transformation is unmistakable. Changes like a new hairstyle, a sun-kissed glow, a trendy watch, or a sleek car are temporary pleasures. We aim to celebrate the essence of an authentic transformation, fostering an identity that endures.

Instead of opting for quick fixes that don’t resonate with our true selves, it’s worthwhile to invest time in unraveling and redefining ourselves, escaping the cycles that confine us. I often find myself nitpicking at my appearance—my face, my nails, adjusting my hair until everything is just so. This might offer temporary relief, but repeatedly tampering with something can ultimately lead to its detriment.

Experience your radiance through your essence and being, rather than through your reflection in the mirror.

Glow Up Cookbook

True radiance doesn’t come from filters or quick fixes.

Real “glow ups” happen slowly, by nourishing yourself from the inside out. This cookbook provides the recipe for an unmistakeable luminescence that shines from the soul.

Get ready to simmer self-compassion, marinate in vulnerability, and saute self-expression over the warmth of community.

These substansive ingredients are what create a lasting radiance that can’t be replicated by fake tans and tik tok shop products.

Prepare for a whole new level of shine.

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a soul crock-pot. Allow to slowly simmer over many moons, stirring with consistency. The process cannot be rushed; true glow ups take dedication. When the brilliant essence of your spirit finally emerges, radiating from beneath external trappings, you’ll know the work was worth it. This shine is unmistakable, emanating from every fiber of your being.

Luminous. Genuine. A forever kind of glow.

COMMUNITY OVER COMPETITION

Purlll. stands for reimagining what it means to succeed, be wealth, and feel fulfilled, together. Our focus is on building each other up in a supportive community, not competing against one another.

Manipulative behavior or trying to outsmart others only shows a lack of real intelligence and self confidence. Putting others down or trying to sabotage them only highlights your own insecurities. Authenticity and confidence naturally draw people’s respect and admiration. The only ones who might try to pull you down are those who are insecure in themselves. Stay away from such negative behaviors and attitudes.

There’s a difference between harmful sabotage and helpful feedback. Always be open to constructive criticism as it’s a chance to improve. Listening to honest opinions about your work can provide valuable insights. While it’s not necessary to agree with all feedback, giving it consideration is beneficial. Knowledge is an advantage. Being resistant to feedback can hinder adaptability and growth. Openness to learning is key for long-term success.

From Coding to Cognition:

The Winding Path of a Design Visionary

A Q&A with UX professor and tech leader, Matthew Swaffer.

Can you describe the moment or experience that ignited your passion for technology and design, and how it influenced your career path?

I've been excited about technology since I was a kid. Growing up in the 80's was an exciting time for personal computers and when I was 11 my brother and I saved up enough money to buy our first computer, a Commodore Vic 20. My passion for design came many years later when I started a career in technology. In my first job as a web developer I started reading about design with books like "About Face" and "The Inmates are Running the Asylum" by Alan Cooper. Even so, it wasn't until I read "The Psychology of Everyday Things" by Don Norman that I really began to see the world around me

differently and then... I was hooked on design! Ultimately, this led me to my interest in UX and eventually, after reading books by Danny Kahneman (who passed away last week) I ended up back in grad school studying human learning and cognitive psychology.

How do you define success, and in what ways has your definition evolved as you've navigated through different phases of your career and personal growth?

Today my definition of success is answering the question "am I living in a way that is consistent with my core values?" For me, this allows me to live a fulfilled and happy life because my behavior is in my control even if my circumstances are not. Earlier in my career I would have defined success by roles or salary goals or even level of influence. As I've had more "success" in these areas, I've realized that fulfillment really comes through becoming the best version of myself (or as Maslow put it, self-actualization) rather than reaching new titles or monetary goals.

What role has curiosity played in your life and career, and how do you cultivate it both in yourself and in your students?

Curiosity is one of my personal core values. The way it shows up for me is seeking new experiences and learning from others around me as well as being unafraid to explore new opportunities. Over the past few years I've leaned into the joy of travel as well as trying new activities and exploring new relationships. I don't shy away from trying new roles or setting goals because I'm insatiably curious about the world and want to explore all things.

I try to cultivate this curiosity both in myself and my students by intentionally seeking new experiences and being present and learning as I enjoy them.

Reflecting on your journey, can you share a pivotal decision or moment that significantly altered your path or perspective?

I'll talk about two. I've had a lifelong love affair with technology starting with teaching myself to program as an 11 year old. But it wasn't until my mid-20s when I pursued a career in this space. One pivotal moment was the day I walked into FedEx where I worked and my boss said "What are you doing here? Why are you working at FedEx? I've seen what you do with computers... go back to school and do that instead!" Without that nudge, I probably wouldn't have done it.

The second moment was not long after I graduated when I took one of my old professors, Dr. Turley, out to lunch to get advice on how to steer my career in the trajectory I wanted. Dr. Turley encouraged me to do what I enjoyed rather than try to plan out a long career in advance. That advice (combined with my curiosity) has led me to have an unbelievably fulfilling career in which I simply am having fun doing what I do rather than trying to reach artificial steps or goals along the way.

How do you integrate your interests in Buddhism and nature into your professional life, and what lessons have these interests taught you about success and fulfillment?

I come to Buddhism through the lens of mindfulness rather than through a spiritual experience lens. The ideas of being present, living in the moment, and noticing have been instrumental in helping me be a better people person and a leader. It's been through this journey that I have also come to understand and embrace my personal core values in such a way that I have

redefined success as living in alignment with these values.

A PROFESSOR’S GUIDANCE ON PERSONAL GROWTH

Embracing the Unknown Path:

An Interview with Professor Samuel Dong-Saul

For designers seeking an authentic creative voice, the journey is rarely linear. As Sam attests, some of the most profound discoveries emerge when we veer into the unknown territories that make us uncomfortable yet curiously alive.

“Experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want,” Sam states plainly. “Having difficulties, having issues, having something to solve rather than always getting it right allows you to think outside the box.”

This fearless confrontation with the unfamiliar is not just a creative catalyst, but a crucial mentality that Sam champions as vital for growth. “Leaning into discomfort, that’s something that needs to be a lot more embraced,” he insists. “Because it’s not necessarily discomfort itself, it’s when things are unknown. That’s what makes things look scary.”

Yet for many aspiring designers, particularly students, embracing the unknown can be tremendously daunting in the face of conventional metrics like grades and peer approval. Sam recognizes this insidious barrier for students and professionals alike navigating the intense demands of academia and commercial work, Sam’s authentic creativity: “The moment you start making things for your own sake versus everyone else’s the flow might be a little bit easier,” he advises. “We live in a place now where your value is dictated by followers and production amount, and that just leads to less creativity.”

Battling this stifling, extrinsic mindset remains an ongoing struggle, even for an impassioned educator like Sam. “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to get students to care about their own growth rather than just securing a grade,” he laments. “Every time I try to make it easy by loosening rubrics, they tend to underdeliver because they just want to get in and get out.”

At the heart of Sam’s teachings is a steadfast belief that expansive perspective is oxygen for the creative spirit. “The more I learn about creativity, the more I realize it’s beyond complex - there are so many factors affecting how you perform,” he reflects. For Sam, insatiable curiosity across diverse disciplines is essential fuel, making time to consume ideas spanning all genres each and every day.

This bold intellectual cross-pollination marks the luminaries of many fields. “Most Nobel Prize winners have a second career,” Sam observes. “If somebody wins the Nobel Prize in chemistry, they’re often musicians, dancers, creatives.” Clearly, the grandest innovations emerge from synthesizing disparate pursuits.

Wisdom strips away the noise to reveal powerful simplicity: “Be patient and be kind to yourself. Don’t feel like there’s pressure to always be making things. Your value isn’t dictated by followers or production.” He defines true success not by money or fame, but by “whether I can complete my projects and track whether I fulfill my goals. I think that’s the definition of success to me. As long as I can stay on track and do what I say I’m going to do for myself, I don’t need to do anything for anybody else.”

He advocated trusting one’s instincts wholeheartedly, pointing to Malcolm Gladwell’s book Blink — “It makes you trust your gut a little bit more. Our brain works a lot faster than we think; your first thought is usually the correct one.” This intuitive self-belief is a critical counterweight to the pervasive forces of self-doubt.

Above all, Sam’s teachings are a call to radical authenticity — to seek community dialogue as fuel, embrace mistakes as catalysts for growth, and continuously evolve one’s identity through both wise mentorship and personal expression. “The more you learn about creativity, you start to pick up on how you think, what affects you, what challenges you like to work on,” Sam affirms. “And your authentic self might be different tomorrow, so embrace change.”

In the ceaseless metamorphosis of design, Sam’s voice offers a profound compass for finding one’s most daring, thoughtful artistic expression. By braving the unknown path with kindness, curiosity, and intuitive self-belief as guides, students and peers alike can shape intentional creative journeys of raw understanding and impact.