You Are Here For A Reason
Jim Hough has been a creative professional for over 30 years with stints in publishing (and by publishing he means as a paste up artist for a horse breeder’s journal), retail advertising, corporate marketing, and the ad agency business. He has filled the roles of illustrator, designer, writer, art director, creative director, and an agency vice president. He knew firsthand what it means to “create on-demand” everyday for a living. In three decades, he has done his job well and has also failed miserably. It’s all part of the gig.
photo credit: Burnoutsucks.com
SHOW UP AND SHINE Questions:
If you boiled life down to one philosophy that brings meaning and adds value to your life no matter what circumstances you face, what is that philosophy for you?
“To glorify God and enjoy Him forever” is what I call my life's purpose. Those seven words ground me in every circumstance and serve as a reminder that things happen for a reason and I have a role to play in the outcomes.
What are one or two keys to success for you?
Be grateful. A life lived with a grateful heart is one of peace, clarity, and contribution. Every circumstance has a purpose. Every opportunity, a blessing. Gratitude is the fuel that propels a life of unique, creative contribution.
What is one of the biggest mistakes you've made and what did you learn from it?
One of my biggest mistakes in life was not believing that I had a unique, creative contribution to make in the world. I took the ability to create for granted and allowed myself to neglect and abuse it. That led to my total burnout at the age of 46. The lesson learned was that burnout sucks! And a fulfilling life of healthy, creative contribution does not happen by accident. One must make a conscious decision to nurture and care for that special gift. Moment by moment. Day by day.
What is your best advice for people who want to SHOW UP AND SHINE? In other words, what would you say to help people live into their bigger story?
The best advice I can give to those who want to show up and shine is this…believe that you are here for a reason. That you have a unique, creative contribution to make in the world. Then, dedicate your life to discerning what form that contribution (those contributions!) will take. One big hint…it starts with serving others.
Questions: What an powerful interview! What connected with you most? Why did it connect?