Dear Friends,

Rejoining you after a refreshing break, I'm eager to share an inspiring story of how simple observations can spark extraordinary innovations in the most ordinary things, starting with a question that challenges a common perception.

All shoes are essentially the same, right?

You may be tempted to think so, but if you take a closer look at the design of New Balance shoes, you might be surprised.

When William J Riley founded his shoe company in 1906, he was far from satisfied with the design of existing trainers. Most shoes of the day had an insole with only two points of support – a design that often fell short when providing adequate arch support and cushioning.

Rather than settling for the status quo, Riley opted to design a shoe that addressed the shortcomings of existing designs. He turned to nature for inspiration and was struck by the structure of a chicken’s feet – three clawed toes perfectly designed for balance on rough terrain.

Riley found the answer was the three support points system, a design concept he built into the shoes that came hours exploring how chicken feet worked. As Riley watched chickens run around the yard, he realized that the design of their feet provided perfect balance and stability. He then went on to apply this same principle to his shoes. The three support points insole was Riley’s major innovation, allowing for better arch support, improved cushioning, and greater shock absorption from impact.

The Birth of New Balance

Riley named his company ‘New Balance Arch Support Company’ and included chicken feet on his desk to demonstrate the concept of three support points to prospective customers. The company's name paid homage to the brand's unique blend of old-fashioned craftsmanship and innovative design - and how it helped the wearer achieve a new balance on their feet.

In 1960, Riley’s daughter Mary Ellen and her husband Paul Kidd bought the company, adding a ripple sole to create The Trackster. Today, New Balance has gone from strength to strength, manufacturing shoes beyond function to high fashion. And yet, within the sole of those shoes, the company's original design principle (inspired by chickens) remains. It shows how innovative ideas can often spring from the most unlikely sources. When we are dissatisfied with the status quo, sometimes we just need to push the boundaries to create something new and remarkable.

1- Learning from Nature for Innovation:

Riley’s breakthrough in shoe design underscores the importance of observational innovation - a concept where solutions are derived from keenly observing the natural world. This approach is akin to the principles of biomimicry, detailed in Janine Benyus' book "Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature." Biomimicry suggests that nature, evolved over billions of years, has already solved many problems we are grappling with. Riley’s use of the chicken’s foot structure as a model for better balance and support in footwear is a prime example of this type of innovation. It teaches us that sometimes the answers we seek are in the patterns and systems of the natural world around us.

2- Embracing Unconventional Inspiration in Design:

Riley’s story highlights the importance of seeking inspiration from unconventional sources. In the realm of design and creativity, stepping outside the norm can lead to groundbreaking ideas. This concept aligns with the ideas presented by Tim Brown in his TED Talk on design thinking, where he emphasizes the value of exploring a wide range of sources for inspiration. Brown argues that a multidisciplinary approach and the willingness to explore ideas outside one’s comfort zone are crucial for innovative design. Riley’s application of a structure from nature to solve a human ergonomic problem is a testament to this philosophy.

3- Turning Challenges into Innovation Opportunities:

The way Riley addressed the shortcomings in shoe design of his era shows how challenges can become opportunities for innovation. Clayton M. Christensen, in his book "The Innovator’s Dilemma," delves into how businesses can use their challenges to create innovative solutions that don’t just solve immediate problems but also open new market opportunities. By tackling the issue of insufficient arch support in shoes, Riley didn't just enhance comfort but also established a new standard in shoe design.

These insights, drawn from the foundation of New Balance, offer valuable lessons in innovation, design thinking, and converting obstacles into chances for success. They encourage us to think broadly, seek unique inspirations, and view challenges as catalysts for breakthroughs.

Dream Big!

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Inspiring Quote

"Innovation is taking two things that exist and putting them together in a new way."

— Tom Freston

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Magical Painting in 4K

I'm excited to share a preview of my newest public art video installation, Magical Painting. This piece features millions of delicately floating particles, each shifting in hue to craft a serene and mesmerizing atmosphere. The dynamic color transitions offer an immersive experience, inviting onlookers to immerse themselves in a world of tranquility. I hope it brings you as much joy as it brought me in creating it!

In the vibrant aisles of IKEA, as customers navigate through flat-packed furniture and Swedish-named products, there's a psychological phenomenon at play. It's called the IKEA effect, a term that encapsulates the increased value we place on products we've had a hand in creating.

While the process of assembling a piece of IKEA furniture might sometimes be frustrating, the end result often brings a sense of accomplishment. This leads us to ponder: why do we cherish these self-assembled items more than those that come pre-made?

Digging into the origins of this phenomenon, the term was first introduced by Michael Norton, Daniel Mochon, and Dan Ariely. They drew parallels with a historical example: the introduction of instant cake mixes in the 1950s. Initially, these mixes didn't perform well because housewives felt they oversimplified the baking process by just adding water to the mix. However, a simple tweak in the formula, requiring the addition of an egg, changed the game. This reintroduced a degree of personal involvement, making the end product more valuable to those who made it.

The Broader Implications of the IKEA Effect

Recognizing the IKEA effect can empower creators, designers, and innovators. When developing new products or ideas, understanding that personal involvement can amplify perceived value is crucial. This isn't just a marketing gimmick; it's a deep-seated cognitive bias. Being aware of this can help designers and innovators craft experiences that resonate more deeply with users or audiences and make them more involved in the co-creation process.

This principle of "personal involvement" and the resulting attachment can be applied in various domains, from education to organizational behavior. Take the realm of tech, for example. There's a rising trend of mechanical keyboards sold without keys. Users receive the base and then have the opportunity to build and customize their keyboard, choosing key colors and placements as they like. This not only allows for a personalized touch but also instills a sense of pride and ownership in the end product. Every time they type, they're reminded of their unique contribution to that piece of tech. It's the IKEA effect, manifesting in the digital age.

Beyond tangible products, this phenomenon extends to the ideation and implementation processes within organizations, emphasizing the importance of collaborative creation. The IKEA effect can be harnessed for positive outcomes. For instance, a study by Radtke and colleagues found that involving children in the cooking process can make them more inclined to eat and enjoy their meals, including the often-dreaded vegetables.

While the IKEA effect highlights our attachment to our creations and ideas, it also serves as a reminder to value external perspectives. Just as we might overvalue our self-assembled furniture, we might also overvalue our own ideas simply because they're ours. Embracing diverse perspectives can lead to more balanced and informed decisions.

Three Key Takeaways from the IKEA Effect

1- Enhanced Product Value through Customer Involvement:

For designers and creators, the IKEA effect offers a valuable lesson. When developing new products or ideas, involving users in the creation or customization process can significantly amplify its perceived value. This psychological behavior, where the mind places more value on things we have a hand in creating, can be a powerful tool. By offering even simple customization options or interactive experiences, designers can invoke the IKEA effect, leading to higher satisfaction, brand loyalty, and a product that resonates deeply with its users.

2- Fostering Employee Ownership in Organizational Change:

In the realm of leadership and organizational change, the IKEA effect underscores the importance of employee involvement. Leadership expert John Kotter emphasizes that when people feel they are part of the change process, they are more inclined to embrace it. Drawing from my personal experience in the industry, when a diverse team collaborates on a project, such as designing a shoe, the collective effort and varied expertise result in a product that the entire team cherishes, takes pride in, and feels a strong sense of ownership over once it hits the market. This collaborative approach not only yields a superior end product but also cultivates a positive company culture where everyone feels valued and invested.

3- Avoiding the Trap of Overvaluing Our Own Ideas:

While the IKEA effect highlights our innate attachment to our creations, Patrick Lencioni, in "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team," points out the importance of team collaboration and trust. The danger lies in becoming overly attached to our own ideas, simply because they're ours. By recognizing this bias, we can cultivate a more collaborative mindset, valuing contributions from diverse sources, and ensuring that decisions are balanced and well-informed. Embracing a variety of viewpoints can lead to richer, more robust solutions and a harmonious team dynamic.

The IKEA effect is a fascinating glimpse into human psychology, revealing how personal investment can alter our perception of value. Whether it's a piece of furniture, a home-cooked meal, or an idea at a workplace, the effort we invest can significantly influence our attachment and valuation.

As you brainstorm your next product or idea, consider this: How can you involve your audience in its creation or evolution? Harness the power of the IKEA effect. Invite collaboration, seek input, and let your users or customers be a part of the journey. By doing so, you not only enhance the perceived value of your offering but also foster a deeper connection and loyalty. Remember, when people play a part in creation, they see more than just a product; they see a piece of themselves. Make your next venture not just about selling, but about co-creating.

Dream Big!

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Inspiring Quote

"What we learn with pleasure,
we never forget."

— Alfred Mercier

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The Innovator's Handbook Turns One

Celebrating one year since the release of "The Innovator's Handbook"! This journey as an author has been nothing short of exhilarating. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who extended their support and shared their personal experiences on embracing innovation.

Available in print, on Kindle, and now, for those who love to listen, as an audiobook on Audible.

Of the many startups to appear on the famed show Shark Tank, Sand Cloud stands out for its mission to save marine life. Founded on the sunny beaches of San Diego by three friends with a dream to reinvent an age-old product, this now-famous beach towel went through several iterations before finally finding success in the marketplace.

Sand Cloud started with an early twist on a classic item - adding a pillow to the towel. Founders Bruno Aschidamini, Steven Ford, and Brandon Leibel began their towel empire to create a product that would make it easier to sleep on the beach. The concept was simple enough, but development proved challenging. Their first iteration was a pillow sewn to a discount towel by a seamstress, which they sold for $20 each. The "Cloud Nine" pillow-towel gained popularity but wasn't profitable enough to break even.

Years later, the three friends reconnected and redesigned "Cloud Nine" into "Sand Cloud." The concept failed to gain interest once again until the three took the concept to Orlando's Surf Expo trade show in 2015. Rather than buy the pillow towel, expo-goers fell in love with a regular beach towel featuring a mandala (a design composed of interlocked circles and shapes) the team had in their tent. A representative from surfing brand Quicksilver purchased $20,000 in mandala towels from the team, and suddenly they found a new outlet for their idea.

Although it was difficult for them to deviate from their original concept, the three friends pivoted to a design-centric towel model. They envisioned a lightweight beach towel that wouldn't retain sand, allowing users to easily shake it off and pack it without any mess. This new direction led to an impressive $430,000 in sales in their inaugural year. In a gesture of gratitude and to foster brand loyalty, Sand Cloud committed to donating 10% of its profits to marine life conservation.

In 2016, Sand Cloud was invited to appear on Shark Tank, where their dedication and innovative spirit caught the eye of shark Robbert Herjavec. The investor purchased a 15% stake in the company for $200,000, and the appearance skyrocketed Sand Cloud's sales.

Sand Cloud's original idea was merely a springboard to a much bigger mission. A willingness to part with a beloved idea and pursue a more profitable venture allowed the three friends to reinvent the beach towel, turning it into an item that could help save marine life. Thus, Sand Cloud is not just a Turkish towel company - it's a movement to impact the world. The Sand Cloud team shows how flexibility is essential in the innovation journey. This flexbility means having the courage to experiment, learn, and take action based on what you have learned Instead of simply following a linear path from point A to point B, this mindset can open up many more possibilities and unexpected results.

As the founders of Sand Cloud navigated the unpredictable currents of the entrepreneurial journey, their tale offers invaluable insights for creatives and business enthusiasts. Their voyage from a simple beach towel idea to a global movement underscores the profound impact of adaptability in the world of startups. Drawing inspiration from their story, let's delve into three pivotal takeaways that highlight the essence of flexibility in the quest for success:

1- Embrace Change and Feedback:

Embracing change is a cornerstone of innovation. Eric Ries, in his book "The Lean Startup," emphasizes the importance of the "Build-Measure-Learn" feedback loop. Startups should quickly build a minimum viable product, measure its performance in the market, and learn from the results. If the product doesn't meet expectations, entrepreneurs should be ready to pivot based on feedback. This iterative process ensures that businesses remain agile and responsive to market needs.

2- Stay True to Your Core Mission:

Simon Sinek, in his renowned TED talk "Start with Why," emphasizes the importance of understanding and communicating the 'why' behind what we do. Companies that have a clear sense of purpose and can articulate their "why" tend to resonate more with their audience and inspire loyalty. In his book "Drive," Daniel H. Pink also discusses how purpose is one of the three intrinsic motivators for people, alongside autonomy and mastery. Businesses that have a clear mission and purpose not only attract loyal customers but also passionate employees who believe in the cause.

3- Flexibility Leads to Innovation:

Sir Ken Robinson, in his TED talk "Do Schools Kill Creativity?", discusses the importance of fostering an environment where mistakes aren't stigmatized but are seen as a natural part of the creative process. This perspective aligns with the idea that flexibility and a willingness to experiment can lead to groundbreaking innovations.

As we reflect on the journey of Sand Cloud and the lessons from thought leaders, we are reminded that the road to success is rarely linear. It's filled with twists, turns, and unexpected detours. So, to every aspiring entrepreneur, innovator, and dreamer reading this: Let the story of Sand Cloud inspire you to chart your own course, embrace the unexpected, and make a lasting impact. The world awaits your brilliance. Embrace the journey, for it's in the journey that true innovation and transformation lie. Dare to dream, dare to change, and most importantly, dare to make a difference.

Dream Big!

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Inspiring Quote

"You need a lot of bad ideas,
to get a few good ones!"

—Adam Grant

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Embracing the Power of Originality

In Adam Grant's TED talk, "The surprising habits of original thinkers," he unveils the unexpected traits that fuel trailblazers. These are the brave souls who, despite fearing failure, dare to challenge the norm.

Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman revolutionized athletic footwear with a 'waffle-sole' design inspired by a waffle iron, which improved traction and lightness. This innovative concept, launched in 1974, continues to impact Nike's design approach today.

Read more

Hello innovators!

In this week's newsletter, I'm diving into a topic that's been on everyone's lips for months—AI, particularly its growing influence in the realm of art and design. The AI-led technology revolution is omnipresent, making its way into countless disciplines. One domain where AI's impact is becoming increasingly prominent is the design industry. As with any innovation, it's greeted with a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism, a cocktail of sentiments that's stirring up a fascinating discourse.

If your social media feeds look anything like mine, they've probably been filling up with AI art and it's been hard to escape it. It's everywhere, posted and reposted over and over (and over again). We're witnessing a surge in AI's influence on design, stirring both anticipation and unease.

Here are some of my thoughts in a nutshell:
 

🎨🛠️ AI in Art: The Tool and The Craftsman

While there's a growing fascination with AI-produced art, it's critical to acknowledge the real essence of creativity. Crafting art via AI doesn't inherently transform you into an artist or designer, much like wielding a hammer doesn't make you a carpenter. The true pillars behind any creation are the vision, creativity, and design sensibility, all uniquely human attributes.

Let's not mistake the tool for the artist. In the art and design landscape, AI plays the role of a dutiful assistant, not the craftsman. The master artist is the one who harnesses this tool, steering its potential with their unique human wisdom, insight, and creativity. The magic truly unravels in the symphony between human ingenuity and machine capabilities, leading to the creation of the final masterpiece within any medium.

😱 Fear of AI: Debunking the Myth

There's a fear that AI may replace humans, spelling doom for the design industry. However, I contend that AI will instead swing open new doors, push the bar higher, and kindle healthy competition. It's true, there are exceptions—people claiming AI-created art as their own, profiteering off AI art without due credit. Yet, the designer's commitment to the craft, their visionary spark, their passion for the journey of designing—these will remain the lifeblood of the industry, and no AI can replicate them.

A saying I find insightful is, "AI will not replace humans, but humans who can utilize AI will replace those who can't." This might seem harsh, but it's merely pointing out that designers who adapt and incorporate new tools like AI into their work are more likely to stay ahead.

💡 AI: A Catalyst for Inspiration

AI can serve as another source of inspiration, an excellent starting point to stir up ideas, build a robust vision, and craft a compelling mood board. It provides an endless source of design options, spurring on our creativity and helping us to stretch our design horizons.

In the context of art and design, AI should be considered a powerful ally—an amplified tool, an advanced Pinterest, that elevates the design process rather than replacing it. It serves as an exceptional tool to art direct any project, offering an unlimited array of visual representations to create a detailed and dynamic mood board, surpassing the constraints of existing internet images or personal photography.
 

🤖 AI: The Teammate in the Shadows

Imagine AI as a team member you're collaborating with, one that doesn't need lunch breaks and tirelessly works behind the scenes. You feed it your sketches and design style, and it generates outputs, which you can then refine and build upon. This cooperative cycle between AI and human creativity can lead to some truly awe-inspiring design work.

The AI and designer relationship is not about an either-or situation; it's a potent fusion where each entity plays to its strengths—AI with its massive data processing ability, and humans with their instinctive creativity.
 

🚀 AI in Design: An Exciting Future

The influence of AI on the design industry signals an exciting future. I foresee AI becoming more intertwined in the design process—predicting trends, suggesting enhancements, identifying potential copyright infringements, and more.

However, the key to leveraging AI's potential lies in understanding its role: AI is an enabler, not a replacement. It is there to assist us, to enhance our creativity and help us craft designs that resonate on a deeper level. It’s a great time we welcome AI into our arsenal, harnessing its power to fuel our creative journey, pushing boundaries, and raising the bar ever higher.

Remember, the human touch—our imagination, our emotions, our unique experiences—will always be integral to the design process. So, let’s partner with AI to navigate this exciting landscape, setting new benchmarks in design. Because, in this journey of co-creation, the real magic unfolds.

Wrapping up, let's not forget that the current AI hype is just that—a phase. Like all technological waves, this too will eventually fade as we become more accustomed to it and it integrates seamlessly into our daily workflows. So, let's not panic or feel overwhelmed. AI's emergence is not a threat, but an evolution—tomorrow's big news becoming a standard tool of today. Embrace the change, keep learning, and stay curious, because in this ever-evolving world of innovation, there is always a new frontier to explore.

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Inspiring Quote

"The telephone did not come into existence from the persistent improvement of
the postcard."

—Amit Kalantri

Innovation has the power to transform lives, break barriers, and unleash human potential. The remarkable journey of the Braille system is a testament to this. From humble beginnings to becoming a universal language for the blind, Braille has transcended boundaries, opening doors of opportunity for millions. Join us as we explore the origins, challenges, and profound impact of this ingenious invention.
 

A Touch of Brilliance

In a small village in France, Louis Braille was born in 1809. At the age of three, a tragic accident left him blind. Undeterred, Braille's passion for knowledge burned brighter than ever. At the Royal Institute for Blind Youth in Paris, he sought a way to read and write independently.

Inspired by Charles Barbier's "night writing" code for soldiers, Braille refined and adapted the system. After years of experimentation, he introduced the groundbreaking six-dot tactile code in 1824.

Resistance initially met Braille's system. Educators viewed it as a threat to traditional methods, while others questioned its simplicity. However, Braille's unwavering belief in his invention propelled him forward, advocating tirelessly for its adoption.
 

Spreading the Light

The impact of Braille was transformative. Blind individuals could read, write, and communicate with unprecedented ease and independence. Access to knowledge and education expanded, opening doors previously closed.

Beyond national boundaries, Braille became a universal language. Organizations incorporated it into public spaces, signs, and documents, ensuring accessibility for the visually impaired.

As technology advanced, Braille made its way into the digital era. Refreshable Braille displays and keyboards revolutionized computer access. Electronic Braille devices and translators became invaluable tools, expanding opportunities in education, employment, and social interaction.

The Ripple Effect

Braille's influence extends far beyond the blind community. It embodies the power of innovation and the capacity of individuals to change the world. Its legacy has inspired countless inventors and visionaries to seek solutions that empower and create positive change.

In conclusion, the Braille system represents the epitome of innovation and the indomitable human spirit. It has transformed the lives of millions worldwide. Let us draw inspiration from Braille's journey as we strive for a world where everyone can reach their full potential. Together, let us embark on our own quests for innovation, igniting change and leaving a lasting impact on our shared world.

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Inspiring Quote

"Be less curious about people and more curious about ideas."

—Marie Curie

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VFX Explorations

In my latest VFX exploration, "Particle Flow," I used Houdini to manipulate and orchestrate dynamic particles. From graceful wisps of smoke to explosive bursts of energy, this short fun piece aimed to capture the ethereal beauty and artistic possibilities of particles. If you're interested in behind-the-scenes insights and source files from my current projects, please let me know. I'd be thrilled to share more with you.

Athleisure and sportswear have gone from the gym to the streets. If you have any sportswear in your closet, you probably know your clothes get heavier and more uncomfortable when exposed to the humidity. Most fabrics are not designed to be moisture-resistant, so the clothes are uncomfortable and hot. Waterproof or "breathable" fabrics are often not the best when confronted with high humidity.

The Pine Cone Effect: Inspiration from Nature

One company is taking the problem with humidity one step further with their innovative performance fabric that takes inspiration from an unlikely source - pine cones. MMT Textiles Ltd has created a biomimetic textile called “Inotek", following an insight from nature called The Pine Cone Effect, which reacts to changes in humidity by closing its fibers and making the yarn tighten up, thus preventing water from penetrating it.

When looking to design its performance fabric, the company took a page out of nature’s book. Pine cones are naturally designed to keep water out by closing their scales when exposed to moisture. The microscopic structure of the pine cone scales traps tiny air pockets along the surface, which makes them thinner and more resistant to water. This ingenious system inspired MMT Textiles Ltd to develop a new performance fabric, mimicking the process of the pine cone scales.

Taking Inspiration from Nature to Innovate on Existing Ideas

Rather than relying on a traditional waterproof membrane, Inotek takes a note from the pine cone's design and uses tiny air pockets to keep water out while remaining breathable. The company says that the fabric actually becomes 10% thinner when exposed to moisture - similar to how the scales of a pine cone interact with the environment.

Inotek is an excellent example of taking inspiration from nature to innovate on existing ideas. Rather than simply focus on the fabric materials themselves, MMT Textiles Ltd looked in unexpected places for wisdom. As innovators, we must always keep one eye on the natural world and see what can be applied to our own creations. We may be shocked to find just how much potential nature offers us in our creations! It's worth noting that some leading sports brands have adapted biomimetic textiles, such as the Pine Cone Effect, into some of their apparel and jerseys.

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Inspiring Quote

"There is no better designer than nature."

—Alexander McQueen

During the height of the second world war, a radio and microwave expert named Percy Spencer was working for the Raytheon Corporation, the early weapons manufacturer. As a leader on the "magnetron" project, Spencer played a crucial role in developing a radar tool that helped Allied ships avoid German U-boats.

But it wasn't his heroism in the lab that earned him a place in snack food history. One day, Spencer noticed a chocolate bar in his pocket melted while working on the radar system. The suddenly-melted chocolate sparked Spencer’s curiosity, and he hypothesized that the microwaves used to power the magnetron could also be used to cook food and set about conducting experiments.

He began testing his theory on foods around the lab. First, Spencer found that corn would pop when it interacted with microwaves. He then tried his new invention on other foods, such as eggs, but found that he needed a way to house microwaves after the eggs exploded into a messy explosion in the lab. But Spencer eventually found a way to contain microwaves within a device safely, giving the user the ability to control the power flow.

The result was the microwave oven. Spencer filed his patent for the concept on Oct. 8, 1945, noting that the device worked "…by employing wavelengths falling in the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum." In other words, click the button and watch as your buttery popcorn pops in minutes! It would be years before Spencer's concept would fit into consumers' kitchens and budgets. The original microwave oven was called the Radarange and required plumbing to keep the device from overheating. It wasn't a kitchen appliance for everyone at thousands of dollars per device.

But eventually, the technology became more accessible and was released to the public in 1967. Today, the microwave oven is a staple in most households. From popcorn to eggs to reheating leftovers - Percy Spencer's invention took the innovation of radar tools from WWII and transformed it into a revolutionary cooking device. All it took was an accidentally melted chocolate bar to revolutionize the way we cook.

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Inspiring Quote

"The educated scientist knows many things won't work. Percy doesn't know what can't be done. Like Edison, he will cut and fit and try and throw away and try again."

—an unnamed MIT scientist, speaking to
Reader's Digest about Spencer

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Rollie Nation's 10th Anniversary Celebration:
A Vision of the Next Decade in Footwear

I've recently teamed up with Rollie Nation, an Australian footwear brand, to mark their 10th-year anniversary and the opening of their new store. As part of a series of promotional pieces that envision the next 10 years, we created a stunning CGI piece that combines various visual and auditory elements with the brand's products. Our goal was to blur the lines between reality and imagination, and to offer an immersive experience that engages the senses and captures the essence of Rollie Nation's innovative spirit.

For innovators, inspiration is key. It fuels our creativity and helps us come up with fresh, innovative ideas. But where do we find it?

When I was an intern at Nike, I had the opportunity to meet with Tinker Hatfield, the legendary shoe designer. His advice to me was simple yet powerful: "be a curious sponge." This means being open and receptive to all the stimuli around us, and letting everything sink in and truly appreciating it.

This idea of being curious and asking questions has stuck with me and has served me well in my design career. Just like Leonardo da Vinci, who filled his notebooks with questions like "why is the sky blue?" and "what does a woodpecker's tongue look like?" we can draw inspiration from our own curiosity and sense of wonder.

Of course, our five senses can also provide inspiration – sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and textures can all spark ideas. For example, visiting a museum or art exhibit can provide visual inspiration, taking a hike in the mountains and experiencing the beauty of nature, and exploring different cultural cuisines can inspire new flavors and textures. But it's not just about these specific stimuli. Everyday experiences can also inspire us.

For example, take a walk down the street and pay attention to your surroundings. What do you see, hear, and smell? What catches your attention? Talk to random people and listen to their stories. What insights do they offer? Attend a sports match or other event and observe the energy and excitement. How does it make you feel, and what ideas does it bring to mind?

The key is to be open and receptive to everything around you. Don't just go through the motions – really engage with the world and see what ideas it brings to you.

So next time you're feeling stuck or uninspired, try being a curious sponge and see what ideas come to mind. You never know where your next great idea will come from!

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Inspiring Quote

"Ideas are the starting points
of all fortunes."

—Napolean Hill

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Leonardo Da Vinci: The Creative Genius

This is an hour-long talk by one of my favorite authors, Walter Isaacson, about Leonardo da Vinci and his creative genius. It's an excellent summary of the life of Leonardo and the biography Isaacson wrote about him.