Why a working designer challenged themselves to pass the Color Certification Level 1.
◽️Reasons for taking the exam
・There is no clear qualification for the profession of designer
・I wanted to obtain a qualification that would be useful for my work, even if only a little
・I wanted something to be confident about and something to be proud of
・I had obtained Level 3 when I was a student, so it was easy to get started. I had the option of taking Level 2, but I wasn't sure if my motivation would last, so I decided I wanted to aim for Level 1 right away if I was going to do it
・With the increase in remote work, I wanted to use my spare time meaningfully for something
・I had a baseless confidence that I could pass if I studied
・I didn't want my iPad to go to waste
・I admired the Level 1 (highest level) qualification
◽️What I gained by passing
・A sense of accomplishment, self-affirmation that I can do it if I try, and confidence
・The title of Level 1 Color Coordinator (Color Certification Level 1)
・Increased persuasiveness in design (I feel that by obtaining it, I can make proposals with confidence, and the title on my business card can sometimes create a good impression on others and lead to trust)
◽️Changes in my work
By learning color theory, I realized that there were reasons for the colors I had chosen and the color schemes I had felt were pleasant just because I liked them. Also, it helped me realize that those choices weren't wrong, gave me hints on how to make them even better, and provided guidance when I couldn't decide on a color scheme. Furthermore, I have started to be asked for my opinions on what colors to choose by various people in various situations.
Also, by knowing the color theories that our predecessors have researched, my perspective on art exhibitions and trade shows has changed, making them more interesting, and it has become easier for me to absorb the good parts of other people's designs.
◽️To those interested in passing Level 1
If you resonate with the points above,
I recommend aiming for this qualification.
However, since it is not an absolutely necessary qualification for doing your job,
you may need to come up with your own ways
to maintain the motivation to definitely pass.
For example, checking the once-a-year exam date and making a schedule,
gathering textbooks and studying so as not to waste that money,
telling people around you that you are taking the exam,
giving yourself a reward if you pass,
and so on...
Finally.
If you work hard and pass after just one year in your long life,
you will have the title of "Color Certification Level 1" forever.
For someone like me who is not particularly anyone special, this has become a greater source of confidence than I imagined,
and it supports me.
Good luck!!!
Also useful for studying for Level 2 and Level 3,
【Study methods and preparation techniques that helped me pass Level 1】