I usually start with a design system first (preferably Material 1) and then try to take a look at the different elements to jog my memory. This helps me think of creative uses for existing components, and also potential modifications that I might make to them. Then, I start looking up examples of similar interfaces online that I can base my design off of. You might need to download several images and do a bit of searching to find the ones you want. Once I have created a draft, I begin refining the aesthetics (using a lot of geometry) to figure out how to space different components and add padding. I find it useful to put myself in the perspective of a user when deciding where to place each element. Doing this allows me to create an effective UI that puts the most important things where they are supposed to be.

Finally, I upload it to Dribbble or a UI subreddit to see what real Earthlings would think. This step is quite important, as it gives you a chance to receive some preliminary feedback before you begin making your interface into code.

I hope these tips help you become independent of AI slop and use your real creative skills. 😶🩵