innovation - Live Life Well

10, September 2023

The Cure for the Know-It-All Syndrome

Don't be a know-it-all
Have you ever felt like you’ve reached the peak of your career and there is nothing more to learn? Do you feel bored, stuck, or burned out by doing the same things over and over again? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you might be suffering from a common problem. It’s familiar to experienced and mature management executives, business owners, and professionals. It’s the know-it-all syndrome.

The know-it-all syndrome is when you think you have all the answers. You’ve seen it all before. You stop being curious, open-minded, and willing to learn new things. This limits your personal growth, professional development, and creativity. It can also make you miss out on valuable opportunities, insights, and innovations.

Worst of all, you risk alienating your friends, colleagues, and family. No-one likes a crusty know-it-all. When you see your dog cringe that’s a sure sign things are bad. But it doesn’t have to be like that.

So how can you overcome the know-it-all syndrome and bring and positive change in your life and work? Continue reading “The Cure for the Know-It-All Syndrome”

9, September 2023

What is your secret superpower?

What is your secret superpower?
Art is not only something you see in a museum or a gallery. Art is something you do every day, in your own way. Artistry is how you express yourself, how you solve problems, how you make the world a better place.

Some people paint, write, or draw. Some people design buildings or shoes. These are familiar examples of creativity. But there are many other ways people create, some while not even recognising how great their work is. Some people are terrific at sales. Countless others find creativity in accounting solutions, raising money for charities, or even serving in supermarket checkouts. These are valuable and important creative expressions, even works of art. Continue reading “What is your secret superpower?”

6, September 202324, September 2023

How to Find Your Creative Voice

How to find your creative voice

Creativity resides within each of us, but at times, it seems elusive. It’s often buried beneath layers of doubt and inhibition. We find ourselves tangled in the expectations of others or shackled by the fear of falling short. Yet, like any other skill, creativity thrives with exercise. It is a muscle that strengthens through practice. Your unique creative voice is waiting for you to discover it.

Here are invaluable insights to help you uncover and nurture your creative voice: Continue reading “How to Find Your Creative Voice”

4, September 2023

How to Build a Strong Elevator Pitch

What's your elevator pitch?
What’s an elevator pitch? You get in a lift and you notice the other passenger is Peter Jackson. Do you nod (in the polite way your mother taught you) and stare at the lights? Or do you smile, and say, “Hello Peter, I’m the best animator you’ll meet today.” And then launch into your brief, compelling sales message.

And that’s it in a nutshell. An elevator pitch is a short, persuasive speech. You put your best foot forward, introduce yourself, and present your business or ideas. It should be brief enough so you can deliver it in the time it takes to ride an elevator, or about 30 seconds.

Here are some tips for building a strong elevator pitch: Continue reading “How to Build a Strong Elevator Pitch”

3, September 20233, September 2023

Prospecting for Creative Success

Pitching for Creative Success
Whatever your field – writing, illustration, design – there’s one universal truth. Creativity is your superpower. But all creatives need to harness their bravery when it comes to prospecting for new business. From there, they need courage to turn clients into satisfied partners.

The Journey of Courage

Prospecting is the gentle art of seeking new business opportunities. It’s an essential first step to creative success. Some people love the process. They see it as an adventure that requires both creativity and courage. The journey sometimes begins with careful identification of potential clients or collaborators. Other times circumstances means you have to dive headfirst into the unknown. You swallow your fears and you present your ideas with no prior planning – the famous elevator pitch. Continue reading “Prospecting for Creative Success”

3, September 20233, September 2023

Throw your heart over the wall

Building a strange new world is a great way to get your creativity juices flowing. It’s so liberating to exist in a space where your imagination knows no bounds. You don’t like it? Fine! Change it. And change yourself in the process.

Dystopias are where you can venture into the unknown and stare at the future or the past. Imagine exploring all the possibilities – because you can.

This is where speculative fiction and art intersect. Dystopian landscapes challenge our perceptions of reality and ignite our creative spirits. In many respects, every work of fiction depends on creating a dystopia. Even the most mild romance novel relies on a created world. And opera – people burst into song at random moments. Continue reading “Throw your heart over the wall”

31, August 2023

Sex Magic Unlocks Creativity

Sex Magic is a major creative force.

There’s a secret force hidden within the greatest creative works. It’s an energy that transforms and transcends the ordinary. It propels and lifts artistic work the humdrum to extraordinary heights.

Enter sex magic — an enigmatic term that evokes curiosity and raises eyebrows. It’s a phenomenon woven into the fabric of nature itself. Its potent life force in all living beings, from tiny insects to accomplished artists.

We’re enchanted with flamboyant peacock displays and the intricate dance of the fireflies. The pursuit of a mate sparks a transformation – no-one is exempt from the call. It’s a primal connection to the universe’s abundant possibilities. Continue reading “Sex Magic Unlocks Creativity”

24, August 202324, August 2023

Why you need a creativity coach

You need a creativity coach – let’s not fool around. Here are eight key reasons why creative professionals must get creativity coaching: Continue reading “Why you need a creativity coach”

21, August 2023

Making changes: From Freelancer to Employee

Embarking on a creative freelancing journey can be an exhilarating experience, filled with dreams of independence and artistic fulfilment. Yet, not all paths unfold as expected. If you find yourself transitioning from freelancing to seeking traditional employment, know that you’re not alone, and this shift doesn’t diminish your creativity or worth. It’s a chance for growth, learning, and a renewed perspective on your creative journey.

Initially, freelancing might have seemed like the perfect platform to showcase your talents and carve your niche. However, challenges in client acquisition, inconsistent income, and the business side of things can sometimes overshadow the creative joy. As you reflect on this transition, remember that setbacks are part of any creative venture. They don’t define your artistic abilities or creative potential.

It’s okay to feel a tinge of embarrassment or uncertainty as you consider traditional employment. But rather than letting this emotion overshadow your next steps, use it as a driving force for self-discovery and reinvention. Remember, your creative skills and experiences gained during freelancing are invaluable assets that can enrich your new professional endeavours.

Here are a few strategies to embrace this transition: Continue reading “Making changes: From Freelancer to Employee”

19, August 2023

A Dynamic Duo for Business Success

Creativity in business isn’t just a desirable trait; it’s a driving force behind innovation. Entrepreneurs who embrace creativity stand to unlock new opportunities, solve complex problems, and set their ventures on a path of continuous growth. Here’s how creativity fuels innovation in business and what entrepreneurs can do to harness its power.

The Marriage of Creativity and Innovation: A Dynamic Duo for Business Success

Innovation isn’t just about coming up with the next big idea; it’s about implementing novel solutions that bring value to customers and streamline operations. This is where creativity shines. Creative thinking allows entrepreneurs to approach challenges from unconventional angles, paving the way for innovative breakthroughs. A creatively charged environment fosters a culture of open-mindedness, exploration, and risk-taking – essential components for staying ahead in competitive markets. Continue reading “A Dynamic Duo for Business Success”