I have some interesting roots, particularly on my mother’s side of our family. On her side are savvy business owners each with a mutual interest in hard work and sweat equity. They are always seeking how to get better, get healthier, and achieve the next level of their development. Such a thought process has become my own over the years, as I am always asking that great question of “why”. Behind this refrain beckoning purpose and reason, is an unshakable desire to become better today than I was yesterday. This desire is certainly not mine nor my family’s alone. Surely, as Creative Agents, we all have an itching desire to become better each day and even find new ways for doing things if needed. We also know that our artistic development cannot happen purely flying solo. Here are 4 thoughts on trailblazing in community:

1. The desire to become better is naturally infused with the understanding that you are not quite there yet.

Anytime you achieve a goal in your artistic development, remember that there is more trailblazing still ahead. Never quit trekking! Keep hiking the trails of creativity. Learn more, experience more, and even dare to fail more. There is always a way you can become better. This concept is comforting in that it reminds us that there is never a point in our careers when we should know it all. We simply can’t! Yet, this truth should also motivate us to never sit stagnant.

2. Define your next level.

Here’s a interesting thought: You cannot get better if “better” is not defined. What is “better” for you? What is your next step to more successful design and creativity? Define your next steps before you take them to better track your progress.

3. A teachable attitude lends itself to growing artistic expression.

I sometimes get offended when people criticize my work. Most creatives do – such is natural. However, the best creatives have successfully received feedback more than once along their artistic journeys. Assuredly, my best work is a product of critical feedback and my own artistic expression. I do not know it all and I own up to that fact every time I approach a design. Yet, I am continually encouraged in that I do not have to know it all. Instead, I try to lend a listening ear to the diverse opinions of friends, family, scholars, and especially clients before I finalize a product.

4. Surround yourself with a diverse community.

A diverse community includes people who will teach you, offer criticism, and encourage you. Yes, these are certainly distinct categories! Those who encourage me make me feel good. Those who teach me reveal new methods for expression. Finally, those who offer constructive feedback cause me to think critically about even my most prized work. Trailblazing in community, then, allows you to grow in diverse expression and thinking.

I encourage you this week to go through the thoughts above and come to an honest understanding of where you are as an artist. Are you continually letting go of pride, defining your next steps, asking questions, and trailblazing in community? How can others help you in this process?

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