Envisioning Possibilities
Creativity
Austin Kleon author of
“Show Your Work”“Austin Kleon is one of the brightest new minds on the creative landscape. And Show Your Work! demonstrates why. With simple yet profound insights, and an array of his amazing images, he casts aside old stereotypes of the creative life and tells what it’s really like. You’ll want to share this remarkable book far and wide.”
—Daniel H. Pink, author of To Sell Is Human and Drive
Show Your work One of the more difficult things to do for me. I’m skittish about people not liking it. I’ve been in art shows where a snarky Mom said, “My 3-year-old could do that”. I smiled and said nothing. A stranger created pain in my heart, gut, and head.
Austin spoke at a conference for Educator a few years ago. I keep hesitating, but his words occasionally rattle around and I show my work.
NETWORKING …. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER
Networking is more about follow-up than first impressions.
Sound as Good as You Look
Trade shows can showcase your talent and brand but shouldn’t cost you your voice.
Motivating Your Team Through Powerful Words
Design leadership isn’t just about making creative choices—it’s about motivating the people who bring those choices to life. The right words can turn a project into a movement.
Organizing a Speech Like You Organize a Space: Function Meets Flow
“Design is intelligence made visible.” – Alina Wheeler Designers know that great spaces aren’t accidents; they’re carefully planned for flow, balance, and purpose. The same rule applies to speeches: when your structure works, your message shines. ...
Know your Audience: Tailoring Presentations
Whether you’re pitching to a client, a builder, or a board, one size never fits all. The secret to a powerful presentation lies in knowing exactly who’s in the room—and speaking their language.
Fear is a Signal
Fear is a signal - not a stop sign Even the most polished designer has felt that familiar flutter before stepping on stage or into a client presentation. Your palms sweat, your voice trembles, and your perfectly crafted ideas suddenly feel tangled. But...
Grammar Matters
In a world where your words represent your brand, grammar isn’t just about correctness it’s about credibility. You can have the best ideas in the room, but if your sentences stumble, people stop listening. When you speak (or write) with precision, you project professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail qualities every successful designer and business owner needs.
Think Fast, Speak Smart
When someone tosses a tough question your way, your brain might go blank before your mouth opens. That’s normal—but it’s not permanent. The trick is to pause with purpose, not panic. The repeat-pause-answer method lets you buy time...
Absolutely – it can be very difficult to share with others what we do – for fear of rejection and criticism. This fear can be debilitating. But to get past the worry of what others will think, is so very liberating!
I loved this book. Short but powerful
And encouraging!!