Creative on Purpose Blog

Marcus Aurelius is often called the last of the “good emperors” of the Roman Empire. A man who stood above questioning who questioned himself daily. Marcus’ reminders to himself about the importance of virtue and justice inspire me and many others to this day.

“To live...

I love to learn. Don’t you?

The world is full of mystery and wonder, and I am surrounded by people dedicated to developing themselves and doing good in the world. It’s all so fascinating and inspiring.

And of course, there’s plenty of suffering and cause for concern out there...

"Is it time to say 'Goodbye?'"

I ask this question often since the arrival of spring. It's really powerful for "pruning" unnecessary clutter from my life and helping me be more "present" for the work and people in my life that matter.

"We are what we repeatedly do; excellence, then,
is not an...

Although the words emotions and feelings are often used interchangeably, they are very different beasts. Feelings and emotions should not be confused. Emotions precede feelings, both in evolutionary development and in your daily life. However, while emotional responses are instinctual,...

Do You Know That You’re Lying?

“Let’s start with a quick poll. Raise your hand if you’re a Creative. Great! If your hand is raised, put it back down. Now, raise your hand if you’re not a Creative. That's interesting. Keep your hand raised. Alright, if your hand is...

I had the great privilege of speaking with Seth Godin for a second time on the Creative On Purpose Broadcast recently. He packed our short time together with a ton of knowledge and insight. But one of the most profound moments was what Seth said about the perils of attachment for...

Is the work you do deliberate, inspired, provocative, or significant?

Shouldn’t it be?

What “The Work You’re Meant to Do Now” Is NOT

The work you’re meant to do now is not “what you were born to do.” It’s not the one thing you’re put on the...

Skills Are Acquired, Talents Are Accessed

“What Do You Do?”

“What you do” is not necessarily what you do for a living or what you’re employed to do. Too often your “job” employs only hard skills. These are skills you’ve been taught in school or...

Acknowledging and Supporting Military Spouses

You know the type. Earnest civilian crosses the aisle or the parking lot, hand extended to someone in military uniform or wearing a retiree’s ball cap.

“Thank you for your service.”

Yeah, that’s me.

The gratitude is heartfelt...

Are you feeling dissatisfied or frustrated with the work you do now? Feel like you’re not developing or engaging your full potential in whatever endeavor you’re employed? Not executing your full promise?

Maybe you’re wondering, “What’s next?” “What is the...

Lessons from Kind of Blue

The Power of Acknowledgement

It’s so simple, isn’t it? Someone holds the door open and you say “Thank you.” Someone posts a milestone event or achievement on social media and you “Like” it. You call your folks on a special day. You do...

Creating is simply the act of making something new. However, simple doesn’t mean easy. The creative process can be lonely, intimidating, and fraught with self-doubt. Then comes the hard part...sharing what you made with others. 

Do I Have to Share?

That depends. We’re all...