Standout Creatives: Business, marketing, and creativity tips for solopreneurs launching their ideas

What if your next creative breakthrough doesn't come from doing more, but from doing what truly matters?In this episode, I’m talking directly to you—the creative soul who sometimes wondersAm I on the right path? Or worse, Am I behind? Spoiler alert: you’re exactly where you need to be.We’ll explore what it means to create intentionally, how to stop spinning your wheels, and how to start steering toward the life and work you actually want. I share my own turning point—the moment I realized moving to Costa Rica wasn’t just a random whim but a signal to step into who I really want to be.This isn’t about vague “woo-woo” stuff (although I'm into that too). It’s about practical, purposeful action. If you havet a creative dream quietly tugging at you, this episode is for you.Why Intentionality MattersNot all busy work is progress. I break down how to spot what’s worth your time and energy, and why you have to align your actions with your values. Becoming Who You Want to BeIt’s less about checking off tasks — although there's plenty of that —and more about evolving your identity. I also talk about how tiny shifts in what you do daily connect to your bigger vision.Reading the SignalsThat recurring idea or dream isn’t random. It’s your creative compass. I share how I recognized my own signal and used it to navigate my real-life move.Taking Action Without OverwhelmI’ll walk you through how to lean into your calling without burning out, plus some mindset shifts to help you move forward.You’re Not AloneCreative work can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. I touch on the power of community and support along the journey.Try this:Reflect: What’s the one creative idea or dream that keeps coming back to you? Could it be a signal to act?Shift: What’s one small action you can take this week that aligns with who you want to become?Reach out: Need a sounding board? I’m here. Book a free strategy session or send me a DM on Instagram.Your creative journey is uniquely yours. But with intention and a little support, it can be the most fulfilling thing you ever do.Resources MentionedInstagram: @standoutcreativebusinessSubstack: standoutcreativebusiness.substack.comCoaching & brainstorming sessions: standoutcreativebusiness.com

Today is my 40th birthday so I wanted to do something a little different.I started thinking about what I’m grateful for, so I wanted to bring back the idea of my gratitude journal to celebrate.Here are 40 things I’m deeply grateful for, broken down into themes that matter the most to me.Personal Relationships This is where everything starts.My wife, Anita — she’s my favorite person, a creative sounding board, and my biggest cheerleader.My dog, Pookie — he never lets me down, is a master of napping, and the cutest thing you’ll ever see.My family — laid the foundation for my growth and let me dream about weird, wonderful, things.My Friends — people who’ve cheered me on, created with me, and cared about me.Creative business friends who just get it — it’s a special kind of magic when people speak the same language.'Jeff Wirth, Matt Moeller, Lauren Morris — for introducing me to improv, and creating amazing spaces to explore creative storytelling.All my collaborators — whether we made a zine, recorded a podcast, or just worked on fun creative projects. And a special shoutout to Marc Cordon, my Creativity Parties partner in crime.The Central Florida Fruit Society — for turning me into someone who geeks out about pineapples and permaculture.Jacques Ho and Stephanie Graham — Amazing accountability partners, wildly creative humans, and even better friends.Creative Work & ExpressionThe stuff that lights me up from the inside.My podcast — and everyone who’s tuned in, shared it, or sat down to record. Your creativity inspires me.Captivate + Riverside — two platforms that make it possible to connect with people from across the world.My Substack — and the beautiful weirdos who read along, reply, and remind me why I write in the first place.That spark when an idea turns real — from random scribbles to something I can share with the world.Helping other creatives launch — it’s such a gift to help someone spread their joy and creativity with the world.Discovering new ideas on the fly — some of my best breakthroughs didn’t come from thinking harder, just from thinking out loud.Past-me, who quit but never gave up — even when things got hard, you still kept the spark alive.My notebooks — half-thoughts, doodles, dreams, and reminders that messy is magic.Vision & Life GoalsZooming out a bit and get a bird’s eye view.This slow-building path to Costa Rica — for teaching me how to follow a dream step by step.The idea of mountain life — simpler, slower, closer to the Earth and living among the plants.Creating a life driven by curiosity, not just productivity — this one’s a work in progress, but it feels good.Freedom to try things — even if they don’t "make sense" on paper.Designing a business that feels like me — something real. Not some copy and paste formula like everyone else.Non-hustle income streams — because I love creative work, but I don’t want to live in burnout mode anymore.Tools, Tech & Tiny MiraclesA love letter to the behind-the-scenes magic.The internet — for letting me meet people who change my life without leaving my desk.Notion and ChatGPT — my digital brains that keep track of everything.Zoom — for all the deep, soul-filling chats that happened in tiny boxes.Podcasts — as a medium, an art form, and the great equalizer in media.TidyCal — the unsung sidekick that makes creative connections happen on time.Spotify playlists — music that holds my focus, lifts my moods, and fills the blank spaces.Learning & GrowthBecause learning doesn’t end when you finish school. It’s a lifelong pursuit.30. Valuing the power of “I don’t know yet” — I follow curiosity wherever it leads me.Finding strength in my quiet voice — because louder doesn't always mean right.Embracing depth over expansion — go deeper instead of wider with your ideas and exploration.Seeing failure as a rough draft — failure is a step in the process, not the end.Not needing to prove myself — creation itself is often its own reward. Don’t let others tell you otherwise.Celebrating creativity’s quirks — every medium can be a canvas to explore. Let’s have fun with it.Geeking out on marketing — it’s really about the art of connection. Don’t sweat it so much.Recognizing rest as a strategy — rest is essential fuel for the creative mind.The Little Joys in LifeTiny things and big feelings.Every delicious thing I’ve eaten recently — I could write a second list just about food.That first sip of coffee in the morning — it’s still one of the greatest joys in life.And you — yes you, reading this right now. Thanks for being part of this journey.That’s all 40. I could keep going because gratitude has no end.But I’ll try to remember this list when things get tough. It’ll remind me why I do what I do.Thanks for sticking with me. I’m grateful you’re along this ride with me.What would be on YOUR gratitude list?I'd love to hear about the people, moments, or tiny miracles that light you up. Drop a comment or send me a message. Let's celebrate what matters!Thanks for reading Standout Creative Business for Authors! This post is public so feel free to share it.

What if the key to unlocking your creativity as a writer wasn't about perfection, but about embracing the messy process, taking risks, and finding support along the way?Cynthia Morris is a writer, artist, and certified coach who has spent over two decades helping creatives finally get their ideas out of their heads and onto the page. As the founder of Original Impulse, she's guided countless writers to focus, follow through, and finish their books without burning out.In this episode, Cynthia talks about how to stay committed to your writing, why accountability is key, how to handle rejection without losing your spark, and what it really takes to finish your book.The Vulnerability of WritingCynthia talks openly about the vulnerability involved in writing. She believes that writing requires a deep level of self-expression, and sometimes, the best stories come from embracing our imperfections. "Writing is an act of generosity," she says. It’s about sharing your story with others, even when it feels scary.Try this: Write without worrying about how it will turn out. Just let the words flow.Bonus idea: Reflect on a moment where you felt vulnerable in your own work. What did you learn from it?The Role of Accountability in WritingWhen it comes to staying on track with your writing projects, accountability is a game-changer. Cynthia shares how having the right support system, whether through coaching or writing groups, has helped her stay focused and motivated. "You can’t do anything alone," she says, underscoring the importance of collaboration in the creative process.Try this: Find someone to check in with on your writing goals. Whether it’s a coach or a fellow writer, accountability helps you stay committed.Bonus idea: Join a writing group or community where you can share your progress and get feedback.Embracing Rejection and Building ConfidenceRejection is a part of every creative’s journey, and Cynthia opens up about how it has shaped her growth. You have to try and lot of things and be unafraid of rejection. "You never know what’s going to happen," she says, because big risks can lead to big rewards.Try this: Reframe rejection as part of the learning process. What can you take from each "no"?Bonus idea: Make a list of past rejections that later led to something better. You might be surprised by what you uncover.The Art of Writing a NovelCynthia’s journey to writing her first novel, Chasing Sylvia Beach, took 12 years and 17 drafts. But for her, it was more than just the end product. It was about the growth that happened along the way. "Writing a book is quite the thing," Cynthia says. It’s a slow, humbling process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to fail.Try this: Break your writing into smaller tasks. What’s one scene or chapter you can focus on today?Bonus idea: Set a timer for 15 minutes and write freely, without editing. Let go of perfection.Marketing Your Book: A Continuous JourneyWriting a book is one thing. Getting it out into the world? That’s a whole other challenge. Cynthia talks about the importance of ongoing marketing efforts, and how it’s not just about pushing your book at launch time. "Marketing is an ongoing effort," she says. It’s about building relationships and staying consistent over time.Try this: Think about how you can build relationships with your readers. What’s one new way you could engage with your audience?Bonus idea: Write a blog post, share an insight, or connect with readers on social media. Start building your community today.Success Stories and the Generosity of WritingThrough her coaching work, Cynthia has seen firsthand how embracing vulnerability and authenticity in writing leads to profound transformations. "Writing is an act of generosity," she says. It’s about sharing your truth with others, and in the process, you can help someone else find theirs.Try this: Think about a story you’ve always wanted to share. What’s stopping you from writing it?Bonus idea: Reach out to someone who has inspired you through their writing. Let them know how their work has impacted you.Quick Recap:Writing is about embracing vulnerability and imperfection.Accountability helps you stay committed to your creative projects.Rejection is part of the journey, and it can lead to unexpected opportunities.Writing is a slow, humbling process, but it’s worth every step.Marketing your book is a long-term commitment, not just a one-time push.Writing is an act of generosity that can transform both the writer and the reader.Ready to Unleash Your Creativity?Cynthia’s story is a reminder that every creative journey is different, but it’s also filled with opportunities for growth and self-expression. If you’re ready to take your writing, and your creative business, to the next level, I’d love to help.Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com. Let’s dive into your creative journey and make it even more fulfilling. Spots are limited, so grab yours while they’re open.

What if success as a creative wasn’t about being the best—but just showing up, experimenting, and giving yourself permission to start messy?Bob Baker didn’t start out with a perfect plan or a polished resume. He was a former musician and “non-traditional” marketer who slowly found his groove by helping creatives find confidence, consistency, and clarity—without needing to go viral or wait for permission.This episode originally aired on Cracking Creativity back in 2017, but the wisdom still hits today. Especially if you're feeling behind, overwhelmed, or unsure how your creativity fits into your life (or business) right now.From Self-Doubt to Self-PublishedBob didn’t wait to feel ready—he just got started. One book turned into several. One small action led to a creative career helping artists, writers, and performers believe in their work and get it out into the world.“You don’t have to wait for someone to choose you. You can choose yourself.”This convo is a reminder that you don’t need a giant audience or fancy credentials. You just need to care enough to keep showing up—and to share what you’re learning along the way.Try this: Think of one tiny project you’ve been putting off. Could you take one step toward it today?Bonus idea: What’s one way you could “choose yourself” this week—without waiting for anyone else’s permission?The Real Talk Behind Building a Creative CareerThere’s no one path. Bob talks about how he followed curiosity, stayed consistent, and built a sustainable creative business that’s helped thousands of artists over the years.“I didn’t feel qualified at all. But I kept doing it anyway.”We talk about fear, procrastination, and why so many creatives get stuck in their heads instead of sharing their work. Bob doesn’t sugarcoat it—but he does make it feel doable.Try this: Instead of waiting to feel ready, try doing something before you feel ready.Bonus idea: Write a list of 3 things you have done creatively. Let that momentum fuel your next step.How to Stay Consistent Without Burning OutSpoiler: it’s not about grinding harder. It’s about making your creative practice feel like a natural, enjoyable part of your life—not a chore.“It’s okay to start small and imperfect. The key is to keep going.”Bob shares how he approaches writing, marketing, and showing up online in a way that feels aligned—not exhausting. Perfect if you’ve been spinning your wheels or stuck in perfectionism mode.Try this: Set a 10-minute timer and do something creative—without pressure, expectations, or goals.Bonus idea: Let yourself be a beginner again. Pick something you’ve never tried and just play.Quick RecapYou don’t need to be an expert to get started.Sharing your creativity can open unexpected doors.Small steps lead to big changes—especially when you stay consistent.Permission doesn’t come from outside. It comes from you.Ready to Start Messy and Make Progress Anyway?Bob’s story is proof that you don’t have to have it all figured out. Just take the next small step.If you're ready to stop overthinking and start sharing your creative work with more ease, let’s talk.Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.comSpots are limited—grab yours while they’re open.Let’s get you moving again.

What if the key to reigniting your creativity wasn't just talent, but embracing fear, experimentation, and community?Steven Light, known as SLART, walked away from art for two decades. A single blog post reignited his passion, sparking a journey of artistic self-discovery, personal branding, and creative business growth.Now, he's sharing the lessons he's learned about self-publishing, collaboration, and balancing art with commerce while navigating social anxiety and the ever-evolving role of technology in creativity.From Creative Hiatus to Artistic RevivalAfter 20 years away from art, SLART found his way back through an unexpected spark of inspiration. His journey proves that creativity never truly disappears it just waits for the right moment to resurface."I just bought some pen and ink from Amazon." A simple act that reopened the door to artistic expression and self-discovery.That return to creativity wasn't just about making art again. It was about finding new ways to navigate the challenges of an art career mentorship, community, and financial sustainability.Actionable Insight: Creativity is always there. If you've stepped away, find a small action today to reignite it.Bonus: Set aside 15 minutes to explore an old passion without judgment.The Art of Balancing Creativity and CommerceMaking art is one thing. Making a living from it? That's a whole different challenge. SLART has wrestled with the tension between creative expression and financial stability, finding ways to sustain his work without compromising his vision."It's a real internal struggle." Every artist faces the push-and-pull of passion vs. profitability.The solution? Diversifying income streams, building an engaged audience, and treating art like a business without losing the love for it.Actionable Insight: Think beyond galleries explore self-publishing, commissions, or digital products as income streams.Bonus: Identify one new way to monetize your art without sacrificing creativity.The Power of Mentorship and CommunitySuccess in the creative world doesn't happen in isolation. SLART credits much of his growth to mentorship and surrounding himself with like-minded artists."We're not alone as artists."By seeking guidance and supporting others, artists can build momentum, stay motivated, and expand their opportunities. Whether through formal mentorship or organic connections, having a creative community makes the journey more fulfilling.Actionable Insight: Reach out to one fellow artist today whether for advice, collaboration, or just to connect.Bonus: Join an online or local artist community to surround yourself with creative energy.Experimentation, Technology & The Role of AI in ArtAI is shaking up the creative world. Some fear it, some embrace it but SLART believes it's just another tool in an artist's arsenal."There's no rules in art."The key? Use technology to enhance your creative process rather than replace it. Experiment, adapt, and stay ahead of the curve."We need to embrace AI."Whether it's automation, digital tools, or new ways of reaching audiences, technology can empower artists rather than hinder them.Actionable Insight: Try a new creative tool or technique this week whether AI-powered or not.Bonus: Research an artist who's successfully integrated technology into their work.Key TakeawaysCreativity never dies it just waits for the right spark.Balancing art and commerce is possible with the right mindset.Community and mentorship make the artist's journey easier.Technology is a tool use it to your advantage.Putting your work out there opens unexpected doors.Ready to Take Your Art to the Next Level?SLART's journey proves that artistic growth isn't about waiting for the perfect moment it's about taking action, experimenting, and embracing the process.If you're looking for ways to grow your creative business and build a sustainable art career, start today.Want help navigating your own creative path? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com.Spots are limited, so grab yours before they fill up!

What if the secret to success in book design isn’t just talent, but community, intention, and breaking through industry barriers?Dominique Jones is a senior designer at Dutton Penguin Random House and president of Blk + Brwn Book Designers. She turned her passion for graphic design into a powerful movement of representation in the publishing industry.In this episode, Dominique shares her creative journey, showing how she turned a passion into a mission. She takes us behind the scenes of book design, unpacking the challenges of representation, the power of community, and the art of visual storytelling.From Passion to PurposeSince Dominique was a child, she had a passion for books and book cover design. But once she was in the industry, she wasn’t satisfied with her own success. She wanted to help other designers of color get into the industry too.Through Blk + Brwn Book Designers she was able to create a space for designers of color in an industry that’s often closed off to them. She built something bigger than herself and something that’s reshaping the landscape of book design.Actionable Insight: Your creative passion can be a pathway to meaningful change. Start by looking for opportunities to make space for others in your field.Bonus: Spend 10 minutes today researching communities that support diverse creative professionals. The right community can change everything.Building a Creative CommunityDominique didn’t just succeed on her own. She created Blk + Brwn Book Designers, a group that goes far beyond basic networking. It’s about building genuine relationships that open doors for designers who might not have access to traditional resources."We all love graphic design and books," she says. This group isn’t just a space for advice. It’s a home for creatives seeking mentorship and support. It’s about connection, not just business.Actionable Insight: Community is your greatest asset. Look for groups that align with your values and creative goals. Real connections are everything.Bonus: Reach out to one person in your creative field this week for a meaningful conversation. You never know where a single connection can lead.The Realities of Creative CareersDominique’s journey shows that creative success isn’t just about raw talent. It’s about resilience. Feedback, rest, and continual growth are crucial elements that helped her along the way."Taking breaks is important," she shares. "It helps my brain get a rest."From internships to the professional world, Dominique’s story is a reminder that creative careers are about learning, adapting, and, most importantly, staying energized.Actionable Insight: Embrace feedback as a tool for growth. Use criticism to fuel improvement, not discourage you.Bonus: Create a simple system for collecting and processing constructive feedback in your creative work. It can be a game-changer for growth.Designing with PurposeDominique’s design philosophy goes beyond making things “look good.” It’s about understanding the deeper meaning behind every project. Storytelling, representation, and crafting experiences that resonate with people are all important elements of good design.Her approach shows that great design doesn’t just communicate. It connects. It’s about creating something that leaves a lasting impact.Actionable Insight: Your creative work is more than just a product. It’s a form of communication. Bring more intention to your next project.Bonus: Challenge yourself to add a layer of intentionality to your next creative project. How can you make it more meaningful?Key TakeawaysCommunity can transform individual potential.Taking breaks = creative renewal.Diversity in design matters. Representation is everything.Being intentional drives creative success.Turning Your Creative Vision into RealityDominique didn’t wait for permission. She built her path, one design at a time. Her success isn’t about luck. It’s about persistence, community, and staying true to her vision.If you’ve been feeling stuck or wondering how to make your mark in the creative world, this is your sign to start.Want help growing your creative career? Let’s talk.Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com. Spots are limited, so grab yours before they fill up!

What if your biggest creative block isn't talent, opportunity, or resources, but the fear of being fully seen?Brian Perry's journey is a testament to transformation, moving from struggling with depression and feeling like an outsider to becoming a communication coach, singer, and songwriter. Through his music and coaching, he's found a way to bridge creativity and personal growth, while helping others do the same.His path wasn't linear. Critical moments, personal setbacks, and the constant tension between art and business shaped a powerful philosophy:"The value of creating is its own unreasonable reward."Brian now shares the hard-earned lessons that helped him find his true voice and how you can embrace yours.Creativity as a Sacred SpaceFor Brian, music was more than a hobby; it was a lifeline. It provided a way to process emotions, connect with others, and build the foundation of his coaching practice."I just picked up a guitar and started writing songs.""It was like going home."This act of creation became more than self-expression; it transformed into a tool for service, helping others find clarity and meaning in their own stories.Actionable Insight: Treat creativity as a sacred space, not just a means to an end. Protect your creative time without the pressure of monetization.Bonus: Spend 10 minutes journaling about why you create. What draws you to your art?Creativity, Courage, and Finding Your True VoiceBrian believes the most impactful creativity emerges from a place of truth. The more personal the work, the more universal it becomes."Authenticity is being you unabashedly, unapologetically."By embracing his unique path, including neurodiversity, he discovered that discomfort is part of the process. Creativity is about navigating uncertainty and reframing setbacks as integral parts of the journey.Actionable Insight: Instead of trying to fit into an existing mold, lean into what makes you different. That's your greatest asset.Bonus: Identify one aspect of your creative process that feels uniquely you and amplify it.Balancing Art and Business Without Losing Your SoulThe intersection of creativity and business is complex. Many artists fear selling their work might compromise their integrity.Brian's perspective? Stop trying to sell. Focus on serving.When creating with the intent to serve, marketing becomes about connection rather than pushing a product.Actionable Insight: Shift your mindset from selling to serving. Who benefits from your work? How can you show up for them?Bonus: Write down three ways your creative work has positively impacted someone else.Creating Space for Quiet ReflectionIn a noisy world, Brian emphasizes the importance of stillness. Your deepest yearnings are directing you toward your greatest joys, but only if you take the time to listen."Create room for quiet. Our deepest yearnings are guiding us."In moments of uncertainty, instead of forcing answers, allow yourself the space to hear them.Actionable Insight: Make space for creative silence. Whether it's meditation, long walks, or simply stepping away from distractions, quiet moments allow your best ideas to emerge.Bonus: Try a "silent session"—30 minutes of intentional quiet before diving into your creative work.Key TakeawaysCreativity should be nurtured, not pressured to generate income.Courage and self-expression lead to deeper connections.Your unique path is your greatest asset—embrace it.Serve through your art instead of focusing on selling.Create space for quiet reflection to strengthen your creative voice.Step Into Your Creative TruthBrian Perry's journey proves that courage, self-expression, and service can transform not just your art but your entire life. If you've been wrestling with self-doubt or feeling lost in your creative journey, this is your reminder:Your story matters. Your voice matters. And the world needs what you have to offer.Ready to take the next step? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com and unlock your creative potential.The world is waiting for what only you can create.

What if the secret to building a successful multimedia company wasn’t just talent, but persistence and collaborative storytelling?Armani Salado and Eric Martinez started Forbidden Origins as a childhood passion project. Through sci-fi storytelling, collaboration, and strategic brand-building, they transformed it into a growing multimedia company spanning books, comics, and potential animated adaptations of The Old Universe.But success didn’t happen overnight. Years of indie publishing, creative entrepreneurship, and relentless dedication—while juggling full-time jobs—taught them invaluable lessons about creative control, audience growth, and turning passion into a business.Now, they’re sharing the wins, struggles, and key insights that helped them build Forbidden Origins from the ground up.From Passion Project to Growing BusinessWhat started as two friends creating stories has turned into a full-fledged multimedia venture. Their first book series, The Old Universe, explores themes of father-son relationships while setting the foundation for an expanding storytelling universe.At one point, they realized they had so much content. Then they went viral for the first time and thought, "Let’s just see what happens!"That moment wasn’t luck—it was the result of years of creative work, strategic marketing, and a willingness to take risks.Actionable Insight: Start with a clear vision but stay adaptable. Consistency over time builds momentum in creative businesses.Bonus: Spend 10 minutes today identifying a small, consistent habit that can push your creative project forward.The Power of Creative Control in Indie PublishingBy choosing self-publishing, they maintained complete creative control over their stories and business decisions. They built their own platform, ensuring that contributing writers receive 100% of their royalties while fostering a collaborative creative environment."Those writers get paid 100% for their work." They’ve made it a priority to create an “official look” while keeping full ownership of the creative process.Actionable Insight: Creative control means more responsibility. Identify one area where you can take full ownership of your creative work.Bonus: Research an indie creator who successfully built their audience through strategic engagement.Building a Brand & Expanding an AudienceSuccess isn’t just about creating—it’s about getting seen. Through targeted social media strategies, understanding algorithms, and consistent engagement, Forbidden Origins steadily grew its fanbase."Brand recognition is key!" It takes strategy and investment—"You got to spend money to make money!"That investment—whether in marketing, design, or community-building—helped them gain visibility and traction.Actionable Insight: Your audience won’t find you unless you put yourself out there. Post consistently and track what resonates.Bonus: Set a goal to engage with 10 potential audience members this week across different platforms.Balancing Day Jobs and Passion ProjectsTurning a creative dream into a sustainable business requires sacrifice. The team behind Forbidden Origins juggles full-time jobs while dedicating every spare moment to growing their vision, proving that creative entrepreneurship is a long-term game."It’s a long-ass marathon, not a sprint." Building something meaningful takes time and certain sacrifices.From late nights to reinvesting earnings back into the business, success is built on delayed gratification and long-term vision.Actionable Insight: Don’t let a busy schedule kill your creative momentum. Block out dedicated time each week to focus on your project.Bonus: Try the "Sunday Night Strategy Session"—spend 30 minutes planning your creative priorities for the week ahead.Key Takeaways"Everything has to be intentional!""You have to think like a business!"Passion fuels creativity, but persistence builds success.Indie publishing provides freedom and creative control.Brand recognition requires consistent, intentional effort.Social media and community engagement are crucial for growth.Creative projects demand sacrifice and business-minded thinking.Turn Your Creative Vision into RealityArmani and Eric didn’t wait for permission—they built their own path, one story at a time. Their success wasn’t about luck; it was about taking action, learning as they went, and staying committed to their vision. If you’ve been sitting on an idea, wondering how to turn it into something bigger, this is your sign to start.Want help growing your own creative business? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com. 📌 Spots are limited, so grab yours before they fill up!

What if the secret to unlocking your best creative work wasn’t more discipline but more play? Melissa Dinwiddie started her creative journey as a calligrapher and ketubah artist. But she didn’t stop there. By following her curiosity and embracing play, she unlocked new creative paths that she never saw coming. Now, as a corporate creativity consultant, she helps others break free from perfectionism and create with confidence.With years of experience in creativity training, Melissa helps individuals and teams rediscover the power of play to overcome perfectionism, spark innovation, and build a sustainable creative practice.Rediscovering Play in CreativityAfter a 15-year creative hiatus, Melissa reignited her artistic spark while planning her wedding. She realized that creativity thrives in a playful, low-pressure environment.Actionable Insight: If perfectionism is holding you back, set aside time for low-stakes creative play. Focus on the process, not the outcome.Bonus: Work on a five-minute improvisational exercise today. Try something like doodling, free-writing, or playing with a new artistic medium.Creative Confidence in Corporate SpacesMelissa didn’t just reclaim her creativity. She built a business around helping others do the same. She now works with corporate teams to integrate play, improvisation, and communication techniques to build an environment for innovation.Actionable Insight: Creativity isn’t just for artists. Identify one way you can introduce more curiosity or experimentation into your daily work.Bonus: Research one company known for its creativity and innovation. What strategies do they use that you could apply in your own practice?Overcoming Perfectionism & Creative BlocksWhen confronting a blank slate, making a mark, any mark, can be the hardest step. Melissa’s philosophy, The Creative Sandbox Way, encourages exploration over perfection. This method helps creatives and professionals alike break free from creative paralysis.Actionable Insight: Set up a dedicated “sacred creative time” each week where the goal is to create without judgment or expectation.Bonus: Make a list of your top three creative roadblocks and brainstorm one playful way to challenge each one.The Intersection of Art, Business & Self-ExpressionMelissa’s work bridges the gap between art and business. She's proven that creative expression can be personally fulfilling AND professionally valuable. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or corporate leader, embracing your unique strengths is the key to standing out.Actionable Insight: What creative strengths do you overlook because they come easily to you? Leverage them instead of dismissing them.Bonus: Write down one way you can turn a perceived weakness into a creative advantage.Key Takeaways:✅ Play is essential for sustained creativity.✅ Perfectionism kills innovation. Embrace exploration instead.✅ Creativity is a business asset, not just a personal practice.✅ Willpower isn’t the answer. Structured play is.✅ Your unique strengths are what make your work stand out.Transform Your Creative Barriers into BreakthroughsAs Melissa reminds us, the journey to uncovering your creative power is through play, curiosity, and the courage to defy perfectionism. Want to transform your creative blocks into stepping stones. Visit TheStandoutCreatives.com to book your free strategy session.📌 I keep these sessions limited so I can give each person my full attention—so don’t wait too long!

What does it take to stand out as a creative in a rapidly evolving digital world? For filmmaker and creative entrepreneur Kenny Tjay, success has come from constant experimentation, embracing technology, and treating creativity like a business. From his early days in wedding photography to building a digital media brand, Kenny has navigated industry shifts with adaptability and strategic thinking.In this episode, we dive into the intersection of creativity, AI, and the mindset shift needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.Finding the Right Creative PathHow do you know when it’s time to make a change in your creative career? For Kenny, shifting from photography to video production in 2013 was a game-changer. By leveraging Yelp for advertising, he built a thriving business and discovered the power of strategic marketing.Actionable Insight: If you’re feeling stuck, experiment with a new creative format or platform and see how it feels.Bonus: Identify one area of your creative work that you want to change and outline three small steps to test it.Use AI to Increase EfficiencyAI is reshaping the creative industry by enhancing efficiency and idea generation. But it also raises questions about originality, sustainability, and the future of creative work. Kenny shares how AI has transformed his workflow and why creatives must learn to work with technology, not against it.Actionable Insight: Identify one AI tool that could streamline your creative process and test it for a week.Bonus: Research the energy impact of AI tools in your industry and explore ways to balance efficiency with sustainability.Standing Out in a Crowded MarketWhat separates thriving creatives from those struggling to get noticed? Quality, presentation, and strategy. Kenny emphasizes the importance of professionalism in your work. Whether it's your website, portfolio, or client interactions, small details can make a huge difference in perception.Actionable Insight: Look at all elements of your online presence (website, social media, portfolio). Does it communicate professionalism and clarity?Bonus: Find three standout creatives in your field and analyze what makes their branding and presentation exceptional.Creativity as a Strategic Business ApproachKenny’s biggest lesson? Creativity alone isn’t enough. Success comes from understanding marketing, pricing, and building relationships. You also need to stop treating your work as a hobby and approach it like a real business.Actionable Insight: Shift your mindset from "I make art" to "I run a creative business." What’s one habit you can change to reflect that shift?Bonus: Write a one-sentence statement defining what your creative business offers and who it helps.Key Takeaways:✅ Experimentation creates new opportunities✅ Learn how to use AI wisely✅ Professional presentation sets you apart✅ Success requires a business mindset✅ Adaptability is key to long-term growthBuild a Thriving Creative BusinessWant to stand out, adapt to the evolving creative landscape, and turn your creativity into a sustainable business? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com to take the next step.📌 I keep these sessions limited so I can give each person my full attention—so don’t wait too long!