Embracing an Opening Mindset: Reflecting with Karen Ballenden (The Creativity Suite. Episode 148)

Karen Ballenden , Client Service Director at LePub Amsterdam, believes that much of her progress stems from cultivating what she calls an ‘Opening Mindset’. She feels fortunate to have worked on iconic global brands, contributing in small ways to the communication that shapes their stories. In our conversation, she shared how this mindset has impacted not only her career but also her approach to life.

?

At its core, an Opening Mindset is more than just being open to new ideas; it’s a proactive way of engaging with the world. Karen explains that it's about actively choosing to approach new experiences, ideas, or people with enthusiasm and curiosity. “Whenever I step into a situation, I tell myself to ‘love it for the first minute,’” she shared. Whether evaluating a new campaign, meeting a person for the first time, or trying something unfamiliar, Karen’s method helps her remain present, opening up endless possibilities.

?

This philosophy has real-world applications. For example, during a recent project, her team?pitched several ideas, but the client chose the one Karen was least excited about. Instead of feeling disheartened, she embraced the choice, saying, “This is the best idea because the client picked it. Now, how can we make it great?” This shift in perspective allowed her and her team to produce the campaign with renewed creativity and energy.

?

What Sets an "Opening Mindset" Apart?

?

While an open mindset is about being receptive, Karen's Opening Mindset takes it further. It encourages continuous growth and a deeper exploration of opportunities. Karen stresses the importance of setting aside judgments, suspending biases, and embracing even those ideas that seem unappealing at first glance. “When you embrace something, you open yourself up to discovering its potential,” she noted.

?

This mindset is particularly helpful in moments when our tendency is to focus on flaws or drawbacks. An Opening Mindset shifts focus toward the possibilities, encouraging us to look beyond initial impressions and find value even in the unexpected.

?

Practical Strategies for Cultivating an Opening Mindset

?

Karen suggests a few key strategies to adopt an Opening Mindset:

?

Ensure Mental Presence: Start meetings or conversations only when everyone is fully present and engaged. Karen advises against rushing into discussions before participants are mentally prepared. "If they’re not with you, don't go," she suggests.

?

Prepare and Stay Grounded: While being present is essential, preparation is equally important. Being well-prepared gives you control over the situation, ensuring you can handle whatever unfolds with confidence.

?

Transition Thoughtfully: Karen recommends initially loving an idea with your emotional brain before analyzing it with your rational mind. “After you’ve given it a chance and found its potential, then evaluate it against your criteria,” she explains.

?

Inspiration from Unexpected Places

?

Karen’s approach to an Opening Mindset mirrors advice from Swedish Princess Victoria, who once shared that her mother, Queen Silvia, told her, “Every person has an interesting story, and your job is to find it.” This wisdom parallels the essence of Karen’s mindset-before dismissing anything or anyone, give it time to reveal its value.

?

By embracing an Opening Mindset, you can transform your perspective on everyday situations. It’s not just about being open but actively engaging with and exploring new opportunities. As Karen’s story shows, falling in love with an idea, even just for the first minute, can lead to breakthroughs both in your career and in life. Try it, and see what new possibilities it can unlock for you.