innovation - Live Life Well

18, August 20231, September 2023

Report on the Future

Back in the 1991, Faith Popcorn published ‘The Popcorn Report‘ in which she predicted how the first world would live through the 90s and beyond. I was thrilled because the book resonated with me. I could see many of the predictions were already germinating back in the 1980s. New Zealand had become a more leisured society because of unprecedented numbers of unemployed people – the government manipulated the numbers to deal with inflation. Side note: here we are in 2023 and perversely, the government is using the same techniques attempt to deal with inflation.

That’s the topic for discussion today – how things go around and my predictions for the future. What will society look like 50 years on. Hey, if it’s good enough for Faith Popcorn to think about the future, it’s good enough for me. Continue reading “Report on the Future”

17, August 202317, August 2023

Cultivating Creative Confidence: Unlocking Your Full Potential

Confidence is the cornerstone of a successful creative journey. It’s the driving force that propels your ideas from mere concepts to tangible creations that captivate and inspire. Yet, for many creative professionals, self-doubt can cast shadows on their potential. Fear not, for enhancing your creative confidence is well within your grasp. Here’s how to bolster your self-assurance and step into your creative prowess: Continue reading “Cultivating Creative Confidence: Unlocking Your Full Potential”

7, August 2023

The Job Hunt Dilemma

If you’re a creative professional, you know the feeling. You want to get a job, but you can’t seem to get your foot in the door. You need experience, but you can’t get experience without a job. It’s a catch-22. And it’s frustrating.

So how do you break the cycle? Here are a few tips:

Start small. Don’t expect to land your dream job right away. Start by looking for small projects or volunteer opportunities. This will give you some experience and help you build your portfolio.

Network. Talk to people in your field and let them know you’re looking for work. Attend industry events and meetups. The more people you know, the more likely you are to hear about opportunities. It can feel a bit daunting, but be brave. You can do it because other people have done it before you.

Be creative. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Come up with creative ways to get your foot in the door. For example, you could start a blog or create a portfolio website to showcase your work. Really critique and polish your work. Take some free courses – learn new skills, meet new people.

Be sharp. Create an on-point portfolio of work/experience that fits with where you want to be. If you want to work in advertising or marketing, create brand mock ups, web sites, creative work to strut your stuff. If you want to work in gaming – design some games, learn Python or whatever the the current tools are – you need to find out what they are. The key secret is to work your work hard and continually improve it. Quality and work beats all.

Don’t give up. The job hunt can be tough, but don’t give up. Keep applying for jobs and networking. Be open to change. Eventually, you’ll find the right opportunity. Do. Not. Give. Up.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

7, August 2023

Follow Your Excitement!

Pursuing innovation, creativity, and excellence often goes hand in hand with navigating tight schedules and demanding responsibilities. Amidst the hustle and bustle, one key aspect of unlocking creative potential stands out: following your excitement. Delving into the realm of passion and genuine interest can serve as a driving force in unleashing untapped creativity and achieving remarkable outcomes. Continue reading “Follow Your Excitement!”

6, August 20236, August 2023

Lifelong Learning: Your Catalyst for Creativity and Business Success

People who’re fully dynamic in creative professions and entrepreneurial ventures usually exploit continuous learning – it’s a powerful driver (and indicator) of success. For busy creative professionals and business leaders, the pursuit of knowledge and the commitment to ongoing development have become indispensable factors in staying competitive and achieving sustainable growth.

It’s a been a bit fashionable to mock the idea of getting a university degree, that the entrepreneurial burn is enough. And it can be enough to get started, but often the burn becomes supplemented by books, audio files, and any other of the myriad ways we share our accumulated knowledge. No matter how smart an individual is, without learning new information means they’re going out of date. It’s important for all of us, at any stage of our lives.

In this era of constant innovation and ever-evolving markets, here’s why continuous learning is the key to unlocking new possibilities and maximising your potential. Continue reading “Lifelong Learning: Your Catalyst for Creativity and Business Success”

4, August 20234, August 2023

Unveil the Secrets of Master Chefs: Harnessing the Magic of Creative Inspiration

In the world of culinary arts, master chefs are renowned for their seemingly magical abilities to concoct exquisite dishes that tantalise the senses. As creative professionals and business leaders, there is much we can learn from their approach to creative inspiration. Just like their gastronomic masterpieces, creative ideas can come from any source. So, let’s take a peek behind the kitchen doors and explore the secrets that fuel the creative prowess of master chefs. Continue reading “Unveil the Secrets of Master Chefs: Harnessing the Magic of Creative Inspiration”

2, August 2023

Diversity and Representation in the Creative Industry

The creative industry has historically lacked diversity. This has led to a lack of representation of marginalised voices and perspectives in the work that is produced. This is an ongoing concern for many creative professionals, who are working to address these issues and promote diversity in the industry.

There are a number of reasons why diversity is important in the creative industry. First, it allows for a wider range of perspectives to be represented in the work that is produced. This can lead to more creative and innovative work, as different perspectives can offer new insights and solutions. Second, diversity can help to break down stereotypes and prejudices. When people see themselves represented in the work that is produced, it can help to challenge negative stereotypes and assumptions about race, age, and gender profiles in their group.

There are a number of things that can be done to promote diversity and representation in the creative industry. Continue reading “Diversity and Representation in the Creative Industry”

30, July 202330, July 2023

What is the real difference between your business and your competitor’s?

The main difference between your business and your competitors is, and always has been, creativity.

There you go – straight up, simple, no frills.

If your business is in front of your competitor(s), you and/or your team are more creative. If they’re in front of you, they are more creative. Any business leading the way is more creative than its competitors.

Here’s a quick acid test: Were the last employees who left your organisation disruptive and/or disenchanted? How about you – do you feel disruptive and/or disenchanted? If so, that’s a sure sign that talents are not being exploited. Creativity is walking out the door. In some cases, they are walking off to your competitors. And it’s not just all about the money.
Continue reading “What is the real difference between your business and your competitor’s?”

27, July 202327, July 2023

The Therapeutic Power of Art: Nurture Your Mental Health Through Creativity

It’s crucial to remember the importance of your mental well-being. In the middle of the pressures and demands of our daily lives, there’s a magical realm that can soothe the soul and heal the mind – art. Engaging in creative endeavours holds profound benefits for your mental health. Let’s explore how art can become your therapeutic sanctuary. Continue reading “The Therapeutic Power of Art: Nurture Your Mental Health Through Creativity”

26, July 202326, July 2023

Business Success: Unleashing Creativity in Small Enterprises

Are you ready to discover the secret ingredient that can elevate your small business to new heights? It’s time to unlock the power of creativity. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, harnessing creativity can make all the difference in your journey to success. Let’s explore how small businesses can use creativity to thrive in the competitive world of commerce. Continue reading “Business Success: Unleashing Creativity in Small Enterprises”