How to Fix the Ad Industry – and Your Life

Everyone I speak to in the ad industry admits we have a problem. Or several problems. But here’s the kicker: many of our problems are intertwined, and I have a suggestion that could be the golden ticket ???.

Let’s start by looking at some of the problems. Nod if you recognize any of these:

1. A lack of time to do anything properly. This is one of the most common complaints I hear. ???
2. A lack of belief in the impact of our work. Are people blocking my ads with filters? Do they even care? ??
3. Increased risk aversion. Everything feels a bit ‘same-y’. ??
4. Talk of respecting individuality. But do we really make space for every voice in our industry? ??
5. Chasing external awards over internal happiness. When did shiny trophies become more important than genuine creativity? ??

If you nodded to at least five of these points, then we can agree: the industry has a problem. So, let’s fix it before the rot sets in. ???

Problem #1: Time ?

Everyone feels rushed. Deadlines are shorter, budgets are cut, and fewer people are working on projects. We’re all multitasking with no slack in the system. People joke about working on holiday, but it’s no laughing matter. ????

The truth: Time away from work is crucial. It benefits both the individual and the work. There’s a stack of evidence supporting the move to a 4-day week. ???

A compelling fact: Companies that have implemented a 4-day workweek have reported increased productivity, higher employee satisfaction, and reduced burnout. In fact, a study by Microsoft Japan found that productivity jumped by 40% after implementing a 4-day workweek. ??

The Smart Solution ??

We don’t need to move to a 4-day week to fix the industry. We need to move to a 4.5-day week, with half a day dedicated to compulsory, free learning. ??

Everyone should be given a life coach to help them work out their purpose. At our school, we use the Ikigai framework, which helps unlock what each student is good at, enjoys doing, has commercial value, and does good for society. ??

This framework informs how we connect them with the right people and opportunities, helping them unlock their purpose. ??

Solving the 'Same-y' Problem ??

By dedicating time to free learning and personal growth, we ignite creativity and innovation. When people are given the space to explore new ideas and develop their unique talents, the work becomes more diverse and original. Imagine a team where each member is encouraged to bring their true self to the table, resulting in fresh and varied perspectives that break the monotony. Think of it as a creative buffet, where everyone brings their own unique dish. ??

Moving Beyond Trophies ??

Chasing external awards can often stifle true creativity, as it prioritizes what is deemed award-worthy over what is genuinely innovative. By focusing on individual purpose and internal satisfaction, we shift the value from external validation to internal fulfillment. This change in mindset encourages work that is more meaningful and impactful, both for the creator and the audience. So, let's stop chasing shiny trinkets and start valuing the true gems within us. ??

Let's Change the Script ??

So, let’s start a movement. Let’s fix the ad industry – and our lives. Let’s make time for creativity, individuality, and true purpose. Join the cause, find your Ikigai, and let’s create a brighter future together. ??

Because let's be honest, we all know the real award isn't that shiny lion from Cannes, but that satisfied feeling of a job well done and a life well-lived. And who knows? Maybe the next big idea won't come from burning the midnight oil, but from a well-deserved afternoon nap. ????

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Please like, share, and comment if this resonates with you. Let’s get the conversation started and bring about real change! ????