Do you perform better or learn easier when having a reason to do so? I sure do.
Typography has long taunted me as a beautiful and expression form of communication, and being that I'm a designer, artist, illustrator, and photographer, it seems only fitting that I should make an effort to learn it. So I created a project for myself to do exactly that.
My good friend, Lisa Shufro put together the world class speaker line up for this year's Life is Beautiful festival.
Read MoreLooking to my future dent - Photo by
I spent the last week in Sun Valley at the Steve Jobs legacy conference -
- an innovation retreat for people who make a difference, or it's like a summer camp for smart people (who don't pick you last in a softball game)
(great descriptions by
Here is what I took away on how to create a dent in the future, and
:
Visualize the most exciting future and see the impact of the dent you wish to create.
Give an effort to mapping backwards to where you're currently standing.
With as much or as little clarity that comes from mapping, leap forward towards it without hesitation.
Trust your gut as your guide and navigate to what sparks a feeling of joy and inspiration.
Identify that self-doubt and impostor syndrome is normal.
Surround yourself only with people and an environment that "fills your cup" and reinforces your strengths and worthiness -- but also who are real enough to respectfully challenge you and provide perspective.
Mercilessly (but tactfully) separate yourself from people or environments that are a vacuum of energy and "take from your cup".
Create accountability by building a network of support and report progress regularly.
Build the network up enough to allow you to put all of your energy and focus on clearing the bar, not on how the landing may feel.
Seek feedback regularly and help where needed.
Find complimentary and motivated people to work with. Delegate where you can.
Listen, create and communicate to build momentum.
Keep trying. Fail forward. Celebrate each little success.
Be human and connect with other humans. Go outside. Pay attention to your physical/emotional/spiritual health.
Enjoy the journey, for it's what is YOUR reward. The destination and impact you create is the WORLD'S reward.
