So, you've taken the plunge into the world of UX design, and let's be real, it can be a wild ride. But here's what I've learned as a newbie navigating this exciting journey.

1. It's All About the Users

First things first, UX design is all about making stuff that regular people can actually use without feeling frustrated. To do that, you've got to get into the heads of your users, understand what makes them tick, and what drives them nuts.

2. Think Like a Designer

Ever heard of design thinking? It's not rocket science. You just empathize with users, define their problems, brainstorm solutions, make stuff, and test it. Rinse and repeat. It's not a straight path, more like a creative zigzag.

3. Sketching and Prototyping

Picture this: you've got an idea, but you need to see if it works. That's where sketching and prototyping come in. You start with rough drafts (like doodles) and then create a fancy version. It helps you see if your idea flies or flops.

4. Don't Skip User Testing

Don't be shy about handing your creations to real people and watching them use it. This user testing thing can uncover hidden problems and tell you if your design is smooth or, well, confusing.

5. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

This isn't a solo mission. You'll be working with others – developers, product peeps, and maybe even a marketing guru. Clear communication and team effort are key to making sure everyone's on the same page.

6. Keep Tweaking

UX design isn't a one-and-done deal. You'll be making changes, big or small, based on feedback and data. It's like a never-ending game of improvement.

7. Stay in the Know

Last but not least, the UX world is a fast-moving train. To keep up, attend workshops, go to conferences, or just scour the web for the latest trends and tools.

So, if you're new to UX design, remember it's a journey of discovery. From focusing on users, embracing design thinking, sketching and prototyping, testing with real people, collaborating, and constantly improving, there's always something new to learn. UX design is about making the digital world better for everyone, one user-friendly step at a time.

Now, go out there, have fun, and create some awesome user experiences!

What I've Picked Up from the UX Design Process as a Beginner