Putting Up Walls

Everyone encounters tasks that challenge them, forcing personal and professional growth. At the start, these tasks can feel like a wall, making us question whether we are truly qualified or equipped

Not too long ago, I was staring into the belly of the beast: wall sections. A set of wall sections to refine and detail were staring back at me, and the list of things that eluded me was numerous. Where do you start in that situation? What or who do you ask? I had some experience and all the base skills of drafting and problem-solving, but I needed something to get started.

Here’s another challenge: humans often hesitate to ask for help. Ego gets in the way, communication breaks down, and walls form—not just between coworkers but in all aspects of life. The work to remove those walls gets harder and harder as time goes on. This is why my first instinct is to ask someone a question like: “What can I reference to get this detail started?” “Do you have a resource that explains this system?” And maybe on a lunch break: “Why is this the way designers have been doing this for so long?” or “Why do we put air/vapor barriers on one side or the other when we live in the Midwest? Won’t we be wrong for half of the year?” Questions open up lines of communication and build trust. Using the resource that is our coworkers’ experience increases productivity and allows for a transfer of knowledge.

Now, as I’ve been exposed to more wall sections and details, I have a better baseline of knowledge. I’m confident in my abilities to detail the building envelope and I have a resource bank to help me when I’m stuck. None of this growth would have happened if I hadn't taken a simple but crucial step—turning around, looking over my cubicle wall, and asking for guidance.