Messy Middle #25: The best journeys aren’t always the smoothest

Middle management in design is the messy middle—balancing high-level strategy with on-the-ground execution while navigating constant uncertainty. Thriving in this role isn’t about avoiding failure but about building resilience, setting boundaries, and coaching your team through challenges. By reframing uncertainty, letting go of unnecessary burdens, and empowering others, you create a culture of trust, growth, and impact.