Experience Is Valuable
Yet, if that experience has you self-identify as an “expert,” “ninja,” or “rockstar,” it’s important that the label does not carry on to the approach.
Experts often come to projects with answers. But true experience teaches you to approach each project with questions. Don’t assume because it worked before, it will work now. Best practices are really just routines that kill curiosity and form a rigid or cookie cutter approach, because you are seeing with old eyes. A better way is to come at a project with an open mind.
The Beginner’s Mindset
For anyone who practices meditation, you are familiar with the beginner’s mindset. It’s one of the most important tools in mindfulness, but also can be fruitfully applied to business and strategic approaches.
It’s simple. Address projects with newness, clarity, excitement, and without preconceived notions.
Those who can train the mind to combine experience with the beginners mindset are the ones that set the world ablaze with fresh ideas and perspectives. And that’s what we try to do at Cast Iron LA.
Unlocking Creativity
We firmly believe that humility is the key to unlocking creativity and innovation. By embracing simple, purposeful titles such as “writer,” “designer,” or “strategist,” we remind ourselves of our roots and maintain a beginner’s mindset. This approach keeps our ego in check and empowers us to approach each project with a willingness to learn.
We’ve all experienced the frustration of sitting in meetings where pretentious titles and overconfidence overshadow genuine collaboration and open-mindedness. In contrast, our straightforward titles serve as a constant reminder that everyone has a voice. We’re all here to contribute our unique skills and perspectives, working together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Ask And Challenge
Our team members feel encouraged to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore new ideas. This open-minded approach fosters creativity and innovation, enabling us to deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Our purposeful titles remind us that we are always learning and evolving in this fast-paced industry. No matter how experienced we become, there will always be new trends, techniques, and technologies to master. By maintaining a beginner’s mindset, we stay adaptable, eager to learn, and ready to embrace change.
So no matter what label you apply to your professional ability, remember to always bring a fresh, curious approach.
And leave the cookie cutters to baking.
