Author: aryask@gmail.com

In the lively city of our minds, there's a persistent, naysaying resident we all know too well - the inner critic. This unwelcome inhabitant is a master of seeding doubt, magnifying flaws, and curbing our zest for life. Its voice echoes our deepest insecurities and perpetuates a cycle of self-doubt and inhibition. But where does this critic come from, and how do we transform its persistent whispers into a force for growth? The origin of the inner critic is rooted in our biology and early life experiences. The amygdala, a small almond-shaped part of our brain, acts as the sentinel, ready to respond to perceived threats with the familiar fight, flight, or freeze response. Over time, and often due to adverse childhood events, the amygdala can become hyperactive, sending out…

In the bustling streets of Manhattan, Samuel, a hardworking lawyer, found himself held back not by competitors, nor by the rigors of law but by a relentless critic within. It nitpicked his every move, cast doubts over his abilities, and amplified his mistakes to deafening decibels. This critic was not a person, but an intrinsic part of Samuel – his Inner Critic. The Inner Critic is an internal voice that constantly questions our abilities, criticizes our actions, and belittles our achievements. It is an automatic response embedded in our psyche, a survival mechanism that has its roots in our evolutionary past, aimed at keeping us safe from threats and social ostracization. Yet, in the modern era, the Inner Critic often oversteps its purpose, snowballing into an oppressive force that contributes…

In an era where human-centered design and inclusivity are at the heart of product development, there is an increasing need for innovative research methods that capture diverse user experiences and perspectives. The traditional ways of gathering and analyzing user data — surveys, focus groups, or usability testing — have their merit, but they can sometimes fail to capture the rich, intricate, and deeply personal narratives of users. This is where Art-Based Research (ABR) can provide a fresh perspective. ABR uses creative methods to understand, interpret, and express user experiences, enabling us to go beyond the data points and delve into the human story. Art-Based Research vs. Traditional Research While traditional research methods rely heavily on quantitative analysis and structured qualitative interviews, ABR introduces innovative ways of gathering, analyzing, and presenting…

In the bustling global market, every business is striving to find its unique selling point, that distinctive advantage that sets it apart from competitors. Yet, many overlook a simple but crucial aspect: accessibility and inclusive design. These two elements not only broaden market reach but also bolster business growth, company reputation, and customer satisfaction. Here’s why. Embracing the Untapped Market Over a billion people, or about 15% of the world's population, live with some form of disability. This significant market segment, as per the World Health Organization, is often disregarded by companies that fail to ensure their products and services are accessible to all. By embracing inclusive design, businesses can cater to this substantial group, fostering customer loyalty and driving profits. Access for Success Yet, the advantages of accessibility are…