I knew something was wrong when I had to repeatedly google the difference between a vision statement and a mission statement. That is especially concerning since I am paid to write said statements for clients. I am comfortable with that confession because anyone in a leadership position has encountered this confusion.
I was feeling negative, insecure and overly concerned about what others think. I lost my confidence so I started writing that first paragraph of negativity. Every jotted line of self-serving melodrama made me feel better. I was able to release it from my brain and see how it limits me and locks me in. Negativity and insecurity paralyze creativity.
I didn’t know what to write about. I have a list of ideas scribbled down that say things like “Failure is so hot right now“ to “Oh sh*t my wife was right“ to “That jackass looks just like me.“ But I just couldn’t get myself moving on any of them. And then I realized today is the unofficial first day of 5+8 . So how about a list of my six most remarkable missteps? I don’t do enough lists. They’re so easy to write and read. I think because the numbers give us clear direction on where we’re going and when this thing will be over. Here goes everything:
We must do better. I assume most agency leadership worries about if they are serving their clients well. But, worry is wasteful and it only zaps our energy. Instead, it’s time we go on the offensive.
When asked when to hire an agency to help you, the unapologetic and unrelenting entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk responded, “I wouldn’t hire an agency.* Because all agencies do is work really hard to not get fired.” That gave me chills. I heard that two years ago and it has remained with me. It’s like a pebble stuck in the sole of my shoe that is ever so slightly distracting me from an otherwise pleasant walk.
Last year, I wrote a Christmas Letter giving an update on all things 5 + 8. I love any opportunity to talk about our company and our people. In lieu of lines of embarrassing extolling, I thought I’d let everyone get to know our team through their favorite things. Introducing our first (and maybe last) Annual Gift Guide. Hopefully the following will spur some good gift ideas, and maybe give you a little insight into our growing team. With out further adieu, the 5 + 8 Gift Guide written in the words of someone other than me…
In the creative world, costs are as ambiguous as the appropriateness of AirPods – no one really knows. So, where is the line between posting your price and requiring multiple meetings to unearth the cost? And if you’re a client, aren’t you always wondering if you’re being charged based on what the agency thinks you can afford? (You probably are.)
I have spoken to several agency owners who started with a partner and it eventually it fizzled. Or maybe it exploded? Frankly, I think I could have built up this company faster without Jeff. I think I could have made more money without a partner (turns out you have share the moola when you have a partner). I never needed a partner. I didn’t even want a partner. I just wanted to partner with him.
We don’t tell people how we feel. We don’t tell our kids we had a crap day, we hide from our spouses when we don’t get our bonus and we definitely don’t tell our bosses when we’re discontent. Not because we’re fibbers, but because we’re protecting ourselves or our loved ones from something potentially worse. So, when you ask your employee in passing or even in an intimate sit-down, don’t expect them to tell you the truth. However, if you’re vigilant, they will likely show you the truth.
There is a perfectly good reason I have decided to wear these in my ears. I’m just not certain I know the reason. Lets dig in and see why one would decide to walk around looking somewhat silly. However, these AirPods are actually pretty comfortable and most importantly do not fall out of my ears. Whether on a run, a lunch time stroll to Chipotle or just wearing them in the office and confusing coworkers whether I am on the phone, they are indeed comfortable.
Our art director, Sarah, told me a telling tale of preference, pain and truth. One night, her boyfriend, Tyler* and her were scrolling through their respective Instagram's just like any other night. As he came across a 5 + 8 post that featured Sarah's work, he paused, registered it, and kept scrolling. He did not double tap. He did not "like" it. Sarah, who was obviously snooping (she's super snoopy), rightfully called out this inexplicable indiscretion. I can only imagine that an uncomfortable convo commenced.
