This week, we're bringing you a guest column from community builder and Focus Lab brand strategist, Haley Bridges.
Hi readers!
For the past week it's been difficult to know what to say, about creativity or anything else. As someone who's curious about and cares for people — and who strives to build brands that shape a better world — I'm reminded of a simple lesson: Community means accountability.
For me, silos are the death of strategy. Alone, my thoughts rattle around in an oversized tin can, and if I stay in there too long it becomes an echo chamber of my own design. Last year I realized that without outside perspective my work would lack perspective, too. I had my brilliant coworkers, mentors, LinkedIn connections, and huge Slack groups — but I was missing a tight-knit community to workshop big ideas, ask for help, celebrate each other, and embrace growth. It wasn't just about similar roles or achievements, but being around people who could let down their guard and pursue connection. So, I posted on LinkedIn one day asking if I was alone with these feelings. I wasn't.
What I needed didn't exist, but now it does. Since starting an online community with my peers that we call Strategy Island, I'm tethered to people who know my character and hold me responsible for creating — even when it feels daunting. And that's what I believe about creatives: We need this support from each other, now more than ever.
So, if you're feeling stuck, try reaching out. I have a feeling you aren't the only one.
All good things,
Haley Bridges, Brand Strategy Lead, Focus Lab
LINK ROUNDUP
1. When Perfectionism Makes You a Better Creative, and When It Doesn't
"In my early career I just wanted to make a masterpiece, but it stopped me actually creating," stop motion animator Siqi Song remembers.
2. I'm Wondering: What's the Best Bird?
Amy Lin's monthly column dedicated to wondering: "holding fast to discovering wonder in a world that is truthfully not wonderful is the great and terrible work of writers."
3. Back Market Pushes 'Upgrade Culture' with New Campaign
Back Market advocates for refurbished tech through brand copy with plenty of personality. "Downgrade now."
4. Creativity: It's Not (Always) that Deep
While social media savants may proclaim "everything is content," is it? Does it have to be? Or is part of creativity letting yourself enjoy things without mining it for another purpose?
CREATIVE SPOTLIGHT
Finding inspiration in unexpected places can be exactly the spark a project needs, and it helps break through the cyclical echo chamber of trends. Valery Marier has curated graphic design pieces available through the Internet Archive. How about a 1970's typewriter manual? Or a French type specimen from 1764? Perhaps a 1992 issue of Emigre?
