Looking Back To Getting Inspired.

Reflecting on this year has prompted me to look back over decades of work. Every year, people ask me, “How do you keep evolving in design?” or “Where do you find inspiration?”

The answers aren’t simple, but they’re consistent: step away from the desk, get outdoors, and challenge yourself with activities that push you out of your comfort zone. Also, a few folks inspired me along the way as well from reading James Victore's blogs to Jeff Kirk who I've worked with for over ten years now who has heavily encouraged me in this process.

Looking back, I’ve realized my best work has often come from moments of personal inspiration. Fishing, for example, has sparked some of my most creative ideas. Watching the sunset paint the water in vibrant hues, hearing nature replace the hum of the city, and experiencing the quiet—it sharpens your senses in a way daily routines cannot. It pulls you out of the cycle of waking up, drinking caffeine, sitting in front of a screen, and scrolling endlessly.

Challenging myself has also been key. A prime example was training for my pilot’s license. I wasn’t great at math or physics in school, but flying required both—and none of it involved design, except for aerodynamics. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I’ll never forget the moment my instructor, Sammie Perez, stepped out of the plane on the tarmac and said, “You’re ready to fly this bird by yourself.” That first solo flight was a full-on adrenaline rush, but I did it. Though I failed my first check ride due to exhaustion, I eventually earned my license. The process taught me a lot about perseverance and learning from failure. Don't give up!

Interestingly, during that time, I created some of my best work, including the Lonesome Dove Reunion and Lights Magazine for Corporate Magic. Engaging my left brain with calculations and emergency procedures sharpened my thinking in ways that enhanced my creative process.

More recently, I decided to shake things up again by moving to Buffalo Gap, Texas, a small town of 617 people. That change alone reignited my creativity. I’ve also started volunteering at Fort Griffin Historic Site, helping Herd Manager, Dr. Will Cradduck with the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd. Learning about these animals and their history has been and incredible opportunity, and it’s given me the chance to improve my photography skills. I’ve never considered myself a professional photographer, but capturing the essence of the herd has become a rewarding creative outlet.

I’m fortunate to work for Corporate Magic, where exploration and personal growth are encouraged. My colleagues pursue their passions too, from Formula One race training to Broadway musicals to playing in a band.

If you’re stuck in a creative rut, staring at a screen waiting for inspiration to strike, take this advice: get up, go outside, and try something new. That idea in the back of your mind—the one you’ve been putting off—might just lead you somewhere amazing. You’ll be surprised at what you’re capable of when you step away from routine and give yourself room to grow.

Get out there!