Why legendary sneaker designer D’Wayne Edwards won’t give up his morning routine

D’Wayne Edwards, a renowned designer at Nike and president of Pensole Lewis College, attributes his unique approach to design to his lifelong admiration for Bruce Lee. Edwards, who learned design primarily through hands-on experience, has drawn inspiration from Lee's philosophy of adaptability and problem-solving. Edwards believes that design is not about the designer or their methods but about addressing the task at hand.

He emphasizes the importance of viewing creativity as an everyday action, much like navigating obstacles in daily life.

Edwards encourages professionals from various fields to incorporate creativity into their daily routines, suggesting that "creative" can be applied to any profession, from accountants to lawyers. He advocates against adhering to a single design style, urging designers to adapt and remain flexible. To stay disciplined, he recommends surrounding oneself with creative energy givers and maintaining a strict boundary with energy takers.

A crucial part of Edwards' routine is his early morning schedule, which he developed while working at Skechers. He starts his day at 5 a.m., reading various materials—industry news, sports, and inspirational quotes—before engaging with the day. Edwards' design philosophy is rooted in problem-solving, inspired by his work with athletes like Carmelo Anthony. He sought to create innovative solutions, such as incorporating pantyhose into athletic shoes to enhance agility and energy flow.

Edwards also highlights the need for a more cohesive and practical approach to design education. Drawing from his experience, he urges educational institutions to better connect theoretical learning with real-world applications, ensuring that students gain a clear understanding of what design entails in various industries.