Inspiration from People and Places

I work at an advertising agency. I have always been priveledged to work in "nice" spaces. But until yesterday I had never worked in "inspired" spaces. Our office moved. And we moved into a newly designed and built space that is all about the people. It is all about inspiring and providing people the opportunity to collaborate. Simply put I can't wait to drive into work and begin a new era of ideas, collaboration and creativity.

In a creative industry you can be inspired by people, the things they create and the places in which we do them. I am honestly surprised what a sudden boost of momentum and energy the people in the office seem to have. Never underestimate the power of creating inspiration wherever you do creative work. Attention to your space and where you work can do wonders for the soul.

Waking Up

On a plane to NYC I watched the day unfold. A serene scene, on a day when I have a lot of work issues on my mind. I find these moments the ones where I feel that I can cut through details and problems and identify the actionable items that will get "things rolling". Perhaps it is because I was 30,000 high and the literal visual distance put me in a macro frame of mind?

Perhaps a daily "wake up call" where goals and priorities can be sorted should be a mandate.

Lo-fi Ideation

Lo-fi ideas are simple. You sketch them quick and crude. You don't have everything figured out in a lo-fi sketch. But they are often edgy, interesting, and have the core spirit of an idea offered up in all its raw glory. Start lo-fi when you want to move the earth, make quick leaps, and get feedback without getting down into the weeds. And the best part about it...anyone can participate! No artistry required, just quick thinking and lots of divergent ideas.