
“If you know what you want to do and you do it, that’s the work of a craftsman. If you begin with a question and use it to guide an adventure of discovery, that’s the work of the artist. The surprises along the way can expand your work, and even the art form itself.”
– Rick Rubin, The Creative Act: A Way of Being
Rick Rubin’s quote from The Creative Act: A Way of Being highlights a crucial distinction in our approach to both marketing and storytelling. Embracing discovery can transform your efforts, leading to more innovative and effective outcomes.
No Bullsh!t Marketing: Science Fuels Creative Art
At the heart of effective marketing is the fusion of science and creativity. This approach might seem to contrast with Rubin’s focus on artistic discovery, but it complements it perfectly. Every marketing endeavor should begin with a mindset of inquiry. Start by asking meaningful questions to define the problem, understand your target audience, and set clear goals. This process of inquiry will ignite the creative solutions you need.
Storytelling: The Art of Discovery
Storytelling, much like marketing, benefits from this open-minded approach. If you enter a story-building project with a fixed idea, you’re simply a craftsman. And in a world where AI is rapidly advancing, the work of craftsmen is becoming increasingly replaceable because AI can execute predefined tasks efficiently. Memorable storytelling involves discovery. By asking questions, listening carefully, and probing deeper, you uncover compelling narratives that truly resonate which drives the creative art of story building.
The Journey of Discovery
Rubin’s words remind us that surprises along the way can expand our work. By maintaining an open mind and allowing discovery to guide you, you can create marketing strategies and stories that are not only effective but transformative.
Apply This Approach
To benefit from this approach, start your next marketing project or story building endeavor with questions rather than assumptions. Embrace the process of discovery, and remain open to the unexpected insights that emerge. Listen, probe, ponder, create. You’ll unlock innovative business development solutions and compelling stories that captivate your audience and drive your success.