Designing begins with understanding the current situation. But in the process of understanding, we are often too quick to word it. Once we see a little resemblance, we have a word for it. Doing this alters our perception of reality, shaping how we see. Using a word makes things static, and creates division, and comparison.

A Classic Example: The Rope and the Snake

This well-known example illustrates how words shape perception. Imagine walking in dim light and seeing a coiled shape on the ground. If your mind immediately labels it as a 'snake,' fear takes over. But upon closer inspection, it turns out to be just a rope. The word 'snake' altered reality in that moment, creating unnecessary fear and assumptions. The same happens in design - when we define something too soon, we may react based on assumptions rather than deeper understanding.

Once something is named, it becomes part of a category. This can be useful for understanding, but it can also be limiting. Take the example of public transportation. If we see a crowded bus and immediately say, "The problem is there aren’t enough buses," we might jump to the solution of adding more buses. But if we step back and resist naming the problem too soon, we may discover other factors at play - perhaps the schedule isn’t well-planned, or certain routes are more popular than others. A better solution might involve adjusting schedules or improving route efficiency rather than just increasing the number of buses.

Words help us describe concepts, but they should not become the lens through which we see.