Depending on the type of design, revising the context, using different materials, for example colored paper, paint, texture, etc. you can use these materials to add life to the design. If you were to design a logo for a company to make it come alive you would add more favorable colors and things that make the company stand out and easy to remember. If you were designing a more scenic design you could add texture to things like trees, water, flowers, grass, road, etc. It all depends on the type of design you are creating. Adding vibrant colors that correspond with the design, texture, and a big thing with making any design come to life is making sure that its yours, for example adding things that make it different from other designs, make it unique.
Put your work in your folder or storage space for a bit and move on to something else. When you come back to it with fresh eyes, you will know if it's ready to critique. Have at least 2 people look at your work and give you feedback. Using the glow and grow sheet. One should be someone who isn't on your team and hasn't worked closely with you. Another should be a person who is experienced in your materials. The critique should happen in a quiet place with no distractions and nothing should be in your hands but the critique cheat sheet and the artwork.
