Silence and Encouraging Creative Innovation

As I ponder the unprecedented events occurring around our globe, I embarked on a moment of silence in all the chatter that deluges my mental state. You see, for many (especially me) it's easy to try to fill the "pregnant pause" in any conversation — new business meeting, client presentation, production meeting, coffee with a friend. But in the rush to fill the void and harness temporary attention, what passes from the mouth of babes can lead us down a path that could have allowed those sitting with us to share something compelling, life-changing and insightful. But that quiet can be so awkward. Fear not. Let it remain quiet. Allow the others around the table the opportunity to share, no matter how outrageous or touching. That's how we connect as creative souls — all of us, even if you enroll in the school of thought that only designers, artists, writers, musicians, etc. are so-called "creatives," I believe we all posses unending creative talent — we just close ourselves to the channel frequency. So next time, pipe down and listen carefully. Tune in to the frequency of fresh, creative talent flowing into our world. Let go and soak it up!

With that very ball of energy and consciousness in mind, I find I must encourage those around me. I reminded myself and the entire Hotbed staff with a quick note to encourage each of them in the great, diligent work being doing. Knowing that I may not say it enough, I must recognize it more often. I know the stress of these tough economic times can be trying. The true leaders that will rise to the top at the end of all this are those who become not distracted by it but see it simply as that — a quick distraction that, if interpreted as a positive way of re-inventing our wares, will result in amazing, fresh ways to make us even more relevant. So, we should, perhaps, remain more focused. Continue to work hard no matter what. Create like it's your last moment. Most importantly, truly appreciate it while asking for MORE — more new business, more innovation, more creativity, more ideas on relevancy, more insight in how we each can do what we've been put here to do: create a difference in this world and touch every soul with encouragement through the work we do. These times are simply an opportunity to do much more. We are poised each day to reveal higher greatness. Let's make certain we are open to hear it and ACT ON IT! Now, go touch someone's life before the moment is finished. You'll be surprised what amazing change it can create.

Stephen Schaf, Owner
Hotbed Creative