The Art of Creativity: Thriving When You Have Nothing

Cable spool in a desert - The Art of Creativity: Thriving When You Have Nothing

Challenges are inevitable – that’s a given. But what about those moments when it feels like you’re running on empty? Creativity? You’re kidding – it’s all gone. As a leader, there will be times when inspiration seems scarce. It’s precisely during these moments that you can unearth some of your most innovative ideas. This article explores the art of being creative when you feel like you’ve got nothing.

1. Embrace Limitations:
Instead of viewing constraints as roadblocks, treat them as creative challenges. When resources are scarce, your ingenuity shines. Think of iconic brands like Apple that created revolutionary products with limited resources.

2. Step Away for Clarity:
Sometimes, the best way to boost creativity is to take a step back. Go for a walk, meditate, or engage in a brief relaxation practice. Have a shower, have a nap. Stepping away from the problem at hand can help you return with fresh ideas. Continue reading “The Art of Creativity: Thriving When You Have Nothing”

Fuelling Leadership Success: The Creative Thinking Advantage

Three people leading with creative thinking

Business leadership is more than making decisions and managing resources. It’s about inspiring innovation, fostering adaptability, and propelling teams toward success. And at the core of this leadership evolution lies a key skill—creative thinking.

Unlocking the Creative Leadership Mindset

Creative thinking in leadership refers to an ability to approach challenges with a fresh perspective. generate inventive solutions, and encourage others to do the same. It involves breaking free from conventional problem-solving methods. And embracing a more imaginative, agile, and open-minded approach. So, how can aspiring leaders nurture and apply this valuable skill? Continue reading “Fuelling Leadership Success: The Creative Thinking Advantage”

How Creative People Can Stay Ahead and Thrive with AI

Person with umbrella reflected in a puddle

Many creatives are feeling threatened by artificial intelligence (AI). There are stories of jobs vanishing, and of AI automating anything and everything. Some of that is true, AI is automating various aspects of work. There’s no need to become a postmodern Luddite. There’s still a significant role for human creativity.

Here’s how creatives can not only respond but thrive in this changing landscape

Continue reading “How Creative People Can Stay Ahead and Thrive with AI”

Boost your Customer Experience with Creativity

Man enthusiastically selling fruit

The need to provide an exceptional customer experience is more urgent than ever. Everywhere, former successful service businesses are closing. Whether it’s pubs closing in Britain or business owners retiring, change is in the air.

But what sets apart the truly remarkable brands? It’s their ability to infuse creativity into every customer touchpoint.

Creativity isn’t just for artists and designers. It’s a powerful tool for enhancing customer experiences. Think of new ways to surprise and delight your customers. It’s good for your marketing, it’s good for your sales. And it’s good for your profits. Continue reading “Boost your Customer Experience with Creativity”

On Growing Up: Wisdom for Emerging Leaders



Somehow there’s a time when we remember one autumn day – when we looked around and realised that we’re were no longer a kid. We’re still vibrant and young, but our real potential lies in front of us, and we begin to step into our roles. In doing so, we transition from young dreamers into emerging leaders. It’s a phase that brings both excitement and challenges. It can bring a little sadness and fear, because we know change is happening.

The process of growing up is the same as nurturing a plant. With the right care and attention, it blossoms into something extraordinary. Here are insights to guide you on this transformative journey.

Journey Insights

Lifelong Learning
Growing up doesn’t mean you have all the answers; it means you’re open to learning them. As emerging leaders, adopt a growth mindset. Seek new knowledge, whether it’s through formal education, mentors, or self-study. Wisdom is a lifelong pursuit. Each day presents an opportunity to expand your horizons.

Failures as Stepping Stones
Failure is not a roadblock; it’s a stepping stone on the path to success. Embrace your failures, for they teach invaluable lessons. Remember, many great innovators and entrepreneurs faced countless setbacks before achieving their dreams. Resilience in the face of adversity is a hallmark of true leadership.

Vulnerability
Growing up isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about asking the right questions. Be willing to seek advice and feedback from peers and mentors. Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness. It’s a catalyst to boost personal growth and connection.

Adaptability
The world is in a constant state of change. As emerging leaders, adaptability is your superpower. Embrace change, for it fosters creativity and innovation. Stay agile and open to new ideas, technologies, and ways of thinking. Your ability to pivot will set you apart.

Authenticity
Growing up means discovering your authentic self. Authentic leaders are genuine, transparent, and true to their values. Authenticity fosters trust and genuine connections with peers, employees, and clients. Remember, you don’t have to conform to someone else’s mold to succeed.

Balance
The journey of growing up can be all-consuming, but balance is key. Nurture your mental and physical well-being. Focus on self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This means putting aside time for hobbies and passions. Creativity often thrives in moments of relaxation.

Empathy
Finally, as you grow into your leadership role, never forget the power of empathy. Effective leadership demands an understanding of the perspectives and feelings of others. Empathy fosters collaboration, innovation, and harmonious relationships.

Conclusions
Growing up is not a destination; it’s a lifelong voyage.

You’ll always have those poignant memories, that special movie, those songs that define and remind you of where you were at that exact moment. Friends, even enemies, parents, family – the people that share to make you who you are. It’s the bitter-sweet part of growing into the next phase of being you.

Embrace the process, it’s shaping you into a remarkable leader. Keep learning, stay resilient, be adaptable. Above all, be creative and remain true to your authentic self. In doing so, you will not only prosper in your career but also leave a lasting impact on the world.


Photo by Torsten Dederichs on Unsplash

Taking Over a Family Business – Navigating the Transition

Taking over a family business - photo by Álvaro Serrano on Unsplash
Sometimes it’s the unwelcome phone call. It might be the dreaded, creeping inevitable. Sometimes it’s the “at long last, thank goodness” moment. It doesn’t matter how it arrives, taking over a family business can be a daunting experience. How ever you come by the business, you’ll inherit a legacy of “how we do things around here”. For you to chart a course forward, there are crucial steps to ensure a seamless transition.

You’ll want to foster innovation and growth, but you might also have to confront anger, grief, and guilt. And that might not all be from you. You’re new to the team and you could be met with suspicion, contempt, and bemused hostility. It’s never going to be easy, even in the most congenial and welcoming environments. Continue reading “Taking Over a Family Business – Navigating the Transition”

Embrace Lifelong Learning: Cultivating Personal Growth

Co

Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) is drawing to a close. Take a moment to reflect on the valuable lessons and insights you’ve gained. MHAW provides a dedicated space for mental health. But the lessons can extend far beyond a single week. They can enrich both your personal and professional life. Continuous learning is crucial in so many ways and it can be a driving force for holistic well-being.

The Power of Learning
Learning is a powerful tool for personal growth and mental well-being. Acquiring new knowledge or skills fosters a sense of accomplishment and competence. It ignites engagement with the world around us. The thirst for knowledge can be a source of inspiration, pushing us to explore new horizons. Continue reading “Embrace Lifelong Learning: Cultivating Personal Growth”

Fostering Meaningful Connections for Your Mental Wellness

Meaningful Connections by Trevor Romain

Thursday is the perfect day to focus on something that’s often missing from our busy lives – making meaningful connections. Make time for genuine interactions with friends, family, colleagues, or new acquaintances. It can boost your spirit and make a positive impact your mental well-being. And, of course, it can boost their mental well-being as well.

The Power of Connection
Incorporating “Connect” into your day may be the boost you need. This concept centres around nurturing social connections, a fundamental human need. Feeling connected, loved, and belonging tie in to improved well-being. It offers a sense of meaning, safety, support, and purpose in our lives. Continue reading “Fostering Meaningful Connections for Your Mental Wellness”

Be Active: How to Boost Your Mental Health and Productivity

Wednesday 'Be Active' by Trevor Romain
Finding time for physical activity often has to take a backseat. We get tied up in navigating careers, business ventures, family, and the pursuit of our passions. It’s crucial to recognise the impact that staying active has on our mental well-being. It affects our work performance and quality of life.

The Midweek Refresh
Some call it “Hump Day”, but let’s seize the opportunity that Wednesday presents. Rebrand it “Be Active Day”, a perfect reminder to invigorate both body and mind. Of course engaging in physical activity promotes a healthier body. It also serves as a powerful tool to nurture our mental and emotional health. Continue reading “Be Active: How to Boost Your Mental Health and Productivity”

Give: The Power of Kindness: A Path to Fulfilment

Tuesday: 'Give' by Trevor Romain

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Today’s theme is about giving. We like to receive gifts – how do we make that part of our every day approach to mental health awareness?

Our day-to day lives are hustle, bustle, and competition. We are so busy coming first that we sometimes forget the profound impact of a simple act of kindness. Sharing kindness does more than brighten the lives of others. It enhances our own well-being and mental health. Kindness adds a welcome polish to the success in our careers and personal lives.

Acts of kindness can be as simple as sharing a warm smile with a stranger. Or as heartfelt as dedicating our time to help a friend, family member, or colleague. The beauty of kindness lies in its ability to create a positive ripple effect. The effect extends far beyond the immediate moment of giving. Continue reading “Give: The Power of Kindness: A Path to Fulfilment”