Desire lines

Desire lines, those worn tracks created by those seeking their own path, are a reminder of the power of individuality in experience design. They stand as evidence that control is an illusion and that true resonance lies in embracing the complexity of human behavior.

Desire lines are a testament to the fluid, ever-changing nature of human experience. They are the tracks that people forge for themselves, without hesitation, in their pursuit of a more direct or meaningful path. As designers, it is our responsibility to pay attention to these and understand the motivations and desires that drive them.

When we design experiences, it is tempting to impose our own visions and control every aspect of the user's journey. But desire paths show us that people are inherently unpredictable and that our designs must allow for their own interpretation and evolution. By embracing the unexpected and embracing the complexity of human behavior, we can create experiences that resonate with people in meaningful ways.

The beauty of desire lines is that they provide us with a glimpse into the unspoken needs and desires of the people we aim to serve. They are a reminder that the user's experience is not about the designer's vision, but about the individual's pursuit. By incorporating the insights gained from considering desire lines into design, we can create experiences that are both memorable and impactful.

Desire lines, evidence of the persistent pursuit of individuality, disrupt the illusion of control in experience design.

Left: Desire lines, Half Sister x MidJourney