Don Norman’s essay “Emotion and Design: Attractive Things Work Better”, really made me think about how much our feelings affect the way we interact with everyday objects. Norman explains that when something looks or feels pleasant, it actually makes it easier to use. Positive emotions make us more creative and patient, so small design flaws don’t bother us as much. On the other hand, stress or frustration narrows our focus and makes problem-solving harder, which is why usability is especially important in critical or high-pressure situations. I love how he uses examples like teapots, some ugly but practical, some beautiful but tricky, to show that the context and mood of the user really change which design works best.
What really stuck with me is how this idea goes beyond just making things look nice. Design isn’t only about functionality or efficiency; it’s also about how the product makes us feel. When we enjoy using something, we naturally perform better and feel more satisfied. It reminded me that the best designs are the ones that balance function, usability, and beauty, things that work well and bring a little joy into our daily routines. For me, that’s what makes a product feel complete: it’s not just useful, it’s also a pleasure to own and use. A perfect example for me is my piano keyboard. I’ve used many different keyboards over the years, and the ones that are pleasant to touch, look sleek, and respond just right make me want to play more and practice longer. Even if a slightly cheaper or simpler keyboard could technically produce the same sound, it just doesn’t feel as inspiring. The way it looks and feels actually affects my creativity and focus, making the music I play feel better.