10 Things we Learnt at this Weekend’s Creative Workshops
We had a lovely weekend with all of our different workshops with different groups of creatives. It was great just to have so many different people back in our space. There is always so much to learn from the different conversations and interactions at these types of events. After a couple of days of reflection here are our key takeaways. Some new learnings and some important reminders.
1. You have to face the risk of failure and rejection if you want the world to see your creative work.
Professor Alistair Fee reminded us during his workshop that rejection and failure is almost definitely to be expected on the path to success as a creative and we were reminded of this again during conversations during Saturday’s writing workshop and creative club. If you want to be successful you have to have the courage to put your work out into the world.
2. For inspiration and motivation nothing beats being in the same room with other like-minded people.
This is not a new learning for us at Blick as it is one of the key reasons we set Blick up in the first place, but It has been so long since we have been able to welcome new people into our space for one off sessions, so it was a powerful reminder.
3. It’s ok, in fact it’s good to be different. In life and in business.
An important reminder from Professor Alistair Fee during Friday’s workshop and a topic of conversation during Saturday’s Creative Club. We should start celebrating what makes us and our ideas different and unique and not be afraid to go against the grain. It might seem scary at first, but as well as helping us live a life that is true to ourselves, commercially it will help us and our creative ideas stand out in a crowded market.
4. There is a market for everything no matter how niche it seems.
Professor Alistair Fee showed us his collection of fountain pen inks at all different price points from all around the world during Friday’s workshop. Reminding us that it’s a big world and there are enough like-minded people for every product type at every price point. So if you have an idea for a niche product or service, have courage and stick with your passion but look to a global audience.
5. Good design adds value that people will pay for.
Professional Alistair Fee reminded us during his workshop that price isn’t always the most important thing for consumers. There is a market of consumers who value design who will pay for well thought out products, services and experiences. If you add value to the consumer through how the product or service works, looks and feels or the experience it creates and how it makes them feel there will be a market willing to pay for it.
6. Dare to dream and dream big.
We are so often encouraged by society and our own preconceptions to stay small, but as Professor Alistair Fee reminded us there is a big world out there and lots of opportunities for those brave enough to dream big.
7. Make time to revisit your values.
Saturday’s creative workshop gave me the time to revisit my personal and business values and was a reminder how important it is to regularly revisit your values to make sure you are on the right track, making decisions that are right for you and your creative business and to keep you inspired and motivated.
8. It’s good for the soul to take time out to do something creative with your hands just for the fun of it.
The jewellery making workshop on Sunday reminded us of the value of doing something fun and creative.
9. You can get a lot done in an hour if you stop making excuses and actually just sit down and do it.
We spent most of this week’s Creative Club on Saturday chatting, which was lovely and valuable in a different way, but when we did start working it was amazing what we managed to get done in an hour of uninterrupted work.
10. Reflect on your journey. Chances are you have come further than you think.
I got asked by one of the participants in the creative workshop on Saturday to share my story. It was a powerful reminder of how far we have come. Time goes by so quickly it’s easy to get caught up in the day today challenges of running a business. Make some time to look back on your own journey and how far you have come. Chances are it is further than you think.
You can check out our upcoming events and workshops on our website here
