I have no desire to spend personal time outside of work getting better at UI UX design anymore

The design industry is at a crossroads.

Many designers, especially those in their 30s and 40s, are feeling a growing sense of disillusionment with their careers. The passion that once drove them to spend countless hours honing their skills is fading, replaced by a sense of burnout and uncertainty.

This isn’t just about the rise of AI or the ever-changing demands of the job market—it’s about something deeper. It’s about the realization that the career path they once believed in is no longer fulfilling, and the fear that they may be stuck in a job that doesn’t align with their true desires.

The problem starts with the constant pressure to learn new skills.

In most industries, employees can rely on the knowledge they gained in school or through initial training to carry them through their careers. But in graphic design, the landscape shifts so quickly that staying relevant often requires a significant investment of personal time.

Whether it’s learning the latest UX/UI trends, mastering new software, or adapting to emerging technologies, the burden of continuous learning can be stressing. And for many, the thought of spending their precious free time on yet another skill just feels like too much.

This pressure to constantly upskill is compounded by the fact that many designers feel their jobs are becoming increasingly commoditized.

With the rise automated design tools, there’s a growing fear that the skills they’ve spent years mastering could become obsolete.

But it’s not just about AI.

The real issue is the way the industry is structured.

Designers are often expected to be jack-of-all-trades, juggling multiple roles and responsibilities while also staying ahead of the curve. And for those who are no longer passionate about the work, the thought of continuing down this path can feel suffocating.

One of the most insightful observations from the Reddit discussion is the idea that our identity shouldn’t revolve around our jobs.

For many artists, their work has become such a central part of their lives that it’s hard to imagine who they are outside of the office. But this kind of single-minded focus can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction.

As one commenter pointed out, design is just a way to make money — it doesn’t have to define your entire existence. After separating their identity from their job, designers can begin to explore other interests and passions that bring them fulfillment.

Another key theme that emerged from the discussion is the importance of finding a career path that aligns with your values and lifestyle.

For some, this might mean shifting into a related field like UX/product design, where soft skills like creativity and problem-solving are still highly valued. For others, it might mean leaving the design world entirely and pursuing a career in a completely different industry.

The important thing is to take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you and to explore options that feel more sustainable and fulfilling.

Of course, making a major career change is never easy.

It takes courage and determination, especially when you’re in your 30s or 40s and have responsibilities that depend on your income. But the alternative, staying in a job that no longer excites you and watching your creativity and motivation slowly drain away: can be even more costly in the long run.

As one commenter so eloquently put it, the key is to focus on what actually brings you joy and fulfillment, even if it means taking a risk and stepping into the unknown.

So, what can designers do to break free from this cycle of burnout?

The first step is to acknowledge that it’s okay to feel this way.

It’s okay to admit that you no longer have the same passion for design that you once did. It’s okay to want more out of your career and your life. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions, thus you can begin to take the first steps toward creating a more fulfilling future.

The next step is to start exploring new interests and passions.

What hobbies or activities have you been putting off because you didn’t have the time or energy?

Now is the perfect opportunity to dust them off and see where they might lead. Whether it’s learning a new skill, pursuing a hobby, or even starting a side business, the goal is to find something that reignites your spark and gives you a sense of purpose outside of your job.

Finally, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this journey.

There are countless other designers out there who are feeling the same way — burned out, uncertain, and searching for a new path forward.

By connecting with others who understand what you’re going through, you can find support, inspiration, and new ideas for how to move forward. Whether it’s through online communities, local meetups, or one-on-one conversations with colleagues, reaching out to others can be a powerful way to gain perspective and find the courage to make a change.

In the end, the decision to continue down the same career path or to forge a new one is a deeply personal one.

There’s no right or wrong answer, only what feels right for you.

The most important thing is to take the time to reflect on your values, your passions, and your long-term goals, and to make choices that align with the life you truly want to lead.

Originally posted at Setproduct Design Blog → https://www.setproduct.com/blog/why-designers-are-loosing-motivation