A POV of a Color Blind Person in a Graphic Design World
By: Lloyd Evans
“Lloyd can you make these designs for me?” This sentence brings some stress. When I get stressed, I get very nervous and I am not able to accomplish my work very well. It really can ruin my day and drive to get things done. Why is this so stressful? Because I am color blind.
As a colorblind person, I am not someone who sees in complete black and white. I can see color. My biggest problem is that I have a hard time distinguishing the different types of colors. For example, I have a hard time telling the difference between yellow and green or blue and purple. It can be difficult and annoying at times.
Just recently, I faced the problem of being able to distinguish colors. I was shown two different designs of the new gym building that Alpine Fitness and Physical Therapy will occupy. Both of the designs had the same colors, but in my mind I thought that it was two different colors. It was very stressful for me personally. I have to deal with this on a constant basis. It is not easy, but with the help of my coworkers and those that I love, I am able to have confidence that I have the right color and design.
However, I have had positive experiences. During the course of my internship I have done multiple social media posts and ads. I have been able to do this despite my disadvantage. It has also given me a unique perspective. I am able to see some things differently than other people, and it can actually help them as well.
I know that throughout my entire career, I may have to ask someone about color and that it may seem embarrassing at times. However, I have come to the conclusion that asking for help every once in a while is okay, and it takes teamwork to be able to accomplish projects. I have had some great colleagues so far in my career, and it has been a real blessing.
My biggest piece of advice if you have problems distinguishing color is to never give up and let it ruin your day; most importantly, ask for help. It never shows weakness to do so. It shows that you are open and willing to take advice from others. Always be open to receiving help and good luck with everything you do.