Creative Windows Throughout the Day

Dustin Wax points out that creative times during the day might catch you by surprise.  His suggestions are worth a quick read.

If you think that your creativity is all dried up, check out Seth Godin's take on the age-old mantra, "I'm just doing my job man!"

Bottom line- creative projects keep the fires burning when the organization around you is filling up with imperfections and quirks.  Find your creativity.  Keep your creativity.  Share your creativity.

You Don't Have to be the Boss to be a Big Deal

This past week, I heard one of the finest talks to be given at a student retreat.  Ever.

Tom, the speaker, mentioned that his life had followed a plan as had been laid out by his parents and the expected norms of society.  Then, out of the blue, something happened which provided the ultimate detour for his life.  For the first time ever, he asked himself, "what if I'm not a big deal?"

Tom went on to explain that life is not so much about carrying out the plan that lies before you as it is about managing the detours that come your way.  Handle the detour and you'll succeed.

It's not so much about being the boss or having the most impressive title.  It's about doing and being your best in the small details of life.  That's a big deal.

Photo by spicytuna

Who Do You Work With?

I spoke with a former colleague over the weekend.  He moved on to new challenges and it's probably a good move for him.  Interestingly, he mentioned the "new" folks that he works with and lamented the lack of fellowship and "team".

Who do you work with?

The jerk who has all the answers.

The nudge who likes to complain.

The pal who holds lifetime membership in a Greek organization.

The soldier who just puts in his time and awaits retirement.

The flash in the pan who will be gone in no time.

You see, it matters a great deal who you work with.  A calling can only be supported as much as the community around it can bear.

Maybe it's time to take an inventory to see if your tribe is big enough to support your ambitions, vision and goals.  Or small enough to accept you as you are and build you up.

Who do you work with?