Think about it this way: you can read as much as you want about "how to ride a bike", but the fastest way to learn might very well be actually just trying. This goes for my philosophy towards design and life in general: I'm a better doer than thinker, and I often make the most progress by trying, failing, and trying again. Also probably why I have too many side projects...

No one has unlimited time! As much as I would love to invest in ~the whole UX process~ every time I start a new feature, it's often impractical to design a pixel perfect user persona card complete with 3 fun facts and a made-up quote. I prefer finding pragmatic, content-driven ways of organizing research and strategizing design iterations to make sure we get the most done RIGHT in the shortest amount of time.

One day I was struggling with a problem at work, and I had gotten to the point where I was not making any progress. To stop myself from spiraling into frustration, I decided to go climbing... and wouldn't you know it - halfway up a 5.12, I suddenly came up with the idea we ended up implementing. Exercise and sweeeet outdoors vitamin D makes me a happier person and a better designer. It's crazy how many ah-ha moments I have on the sharp end of the rope.

Obviously this comes after designing something enjoyably usable, but sprinkling in moments of delight - a fun animation, a clever easter egg - can turn a good experience into a memorable one, especially since no one is expecting it.