As a product designer, collaboration is 90% of the job (give or take the time spent adjusting padding). And while working with developers, product, and fellow designers can be incredibly rewarding, it can also lead to moments where you seriously consider doing something else entirely.

So here’s a not-so-serious guide to surviving and thriving in design collabs:

1. They're Just Opinions

You know the one. The person who says, “Can we make it pop more?” and leaves it at that. Try not to roll your eyes. Instead, ask questions. “What do you want users to notice first?” goes a lot further than explaining why gradients are back in fashion.

2. Don't Get Too Attached To Your Designs

Be proud of your work, don’t get too attached. Your beautiful flow might get axed, your favourite button might get replaced, and that sleek microinteraction? See ya. Collaboration means compromise, and sometimes someone else’s idea is just better. Live with it.

3. Developers Are Your Friends

They’re not trying to ruin your design. They’re trying to make it work. Include them early, bring snacks, and you might just avoid that awkward “Yeah, we can’t actually build this” conversation at the 11th hour. Some of my closest colleagues are developers, and I admire the work they do.

4. Feedback Is A Gift

The trick is learning to separate useful critique from “I just don’t like yellow.” Ask for specific feedback. “What isn’t working for you?” is your go-to question.

5. Celebrate Little Wins

Did the team agree on a button label without a 30-minute debate? That’s a win. Did the dev implement your empty state exactly how you imagined it? That's a win. Foster closer relationships and celebrate the wins, no matter how small.

In Conclusion…

Working with others can be messy, unpredictable, and occasionally absurd. But it also leads to better work, fresh perspectives, and inside jokes you’ll remember way longer than any wireframe.

Take it easy, keep it clear, and when in doubt...(you fill in the rest).