Creatives and "Lefties"

Such Negativity!

2006-10-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

I hate this time of year. Especially when it's a big election season and the airwaves are filled one mudsling after another. It seems to me that the candidates who are looking to be elected into this position or that say more negative things about each other than what they will really do for the public IF elected. Why is mudslinging so popular and widespread?

I really don't care about who supposed did what on this issue or who side-stepped or backtracked on that issue - just tell me what you will do for me and my community. It seems to me that there must not be any real teeth in any candidates ideas or platform so all they can do is resort to negativity. There's too much of that in the world already.

Will I go to the polls on Election Day? You bet I will, just like I do for every election, whether it's a big one or not. I just hope that someday I can vote for someone I actually like rather than vote for someone just to keep someone else out.

What do you think? How do you feel about the advertisements and soundbites during election season? Do you vote? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we would love to hear from you. Mike

Is That All There Is?

2006-08-15T04:24:00.000-07:00

I can't help but feeling the sentiment lately in the Peggy Lee song, "Is that all there is?". Sometimes I get kind of depressed and fed-up with what's going on in my life and the world and simply want to shut down.

I am not happy at all with how things are looking for the world these days. I also have to remember that I cannot change things according to my sense of what's right and wrong. I am also not responsible for what "wrong" things are happening or for what others do. It all just gets very depressing.

I constantly try to remember to do my part in my own little scheme of things and "keep my side of the street clean". It's just hard when my "side" of the street gets smaller and encroached by others who don't care.

So, that's my thought for this early morning. The world is going to hell-in-a-hand-basket and all I can do is sit and watch. It's frustrating.
What do you think? Do you feel powerless and out-of-control at times? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you.
Mike

Where Have I Been?

2006-06-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

Hey, all. I have just noticed that I have been neglecting my blog entries as of late. Not to worry, I am still around. I have just been providing more content on my other, professional blog on the Graphic Design Forum.
But, I am here on this blog to do what I like to do - and that is to rant and vent.

All I can say at this date is "Bring 'em home, NOW!" This fiasco overseas has gone on long enough. It's time to cut our losses, admit we are defeated, and bring home the men and women who have been forced to work under the worst conditions anyone has ever faced. We tried and it just didn't work. Say you were wrong, apologize, and move on. Oh yeah, the straight-white-WASP-men in charge don't do that sort of thing, I forgot.

There has been some talk of starting to talk about the possibility of a timetable when the troops may start coming home. I don't have too much faith or confidence in that.

Anyway, all I can do from my own little world is to hope and pray that not too many more of our brave, naive, innocent youth lose their lives fighting a war based on fear. It's really sad how far fear can go and what it can lead people to.

What do you think? Are you over this so-called war? Do you think it's time to bring 'em home or not? What do you think about a war based on fear? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Public Relief

2006-05-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

I have been noticing something going on where I live that is increasingly making me sick. I see grown men (and boys at times) simply whipping it out and taking a pee whenever and virtually where ever they please. I mean, in the plain view of the general public in various locations on the City streets. What's up with that?

I know that we, as guys, have been blessed with a liquid plumbing system that is a little more adaptable to relieving ourselves with ease, but, come on, on city sidewalks and doorways?

You would normally think that homeless men would naturally be doing this since they don't have many opportunities of going into an establishment and using the restroom. But, I have been increasingly noticing otherwise civilized men doing it in the street.

Here are three rather recent incidents: (1) a man in the parking garage of my apartment building - in which he resides - was found taking a whiz in a small corner beside my car, plain as day! (2) a man, who was carrying his young son on his shoulders at a local street fair, placed the boy beside a typcial sidewalk beautification project tree, and told him to whip it out and relieve himself right there - with tons of other street fair patrons walking by! and, (3) a man who was a little drunk, I think, told his friend to hold on a second so he could take a piss in a supposedly hidden spot, but this "hidden spot" was right beside a full plate glass window of a local Peet's coffee - with people sitting right there to see him!
In all three of these instances the men (and boy) had ample opportunity to use a bathroom, like normal, civilized people.

The City is not the back woods and we're not walking around in a forest in the middle of nowhere. What is up with this feeling of entitlement where we can pee whenever and where ever we want? It is disgusting and filthy!

I don't get it and I had to vent on this part of the demise of human civilization. What do you think? Do you ever see otherwise sane men, or women, relieving themselves in public? Do you do it? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear about them. Mike

How Weird

2006-05-08T05:34:00.000-07:00

I went to the How Weird Street Faire yesterday. It was definitely a 'locals' fair and it made me appreciate, once again, how great of a city I live in.

This "faire" is all about the arts, music, and just being anything or anyone you want to be. Costumes are encouraged and there were all types. It reminded me of a cross between Halloween and a tamer Folsom Street Fair.

There were many booths of local artists and organizations who were selling their stuff. Mainly, the items were organically made, like hemp and recycled stuff, and the entire atmosphere was all about being green and kind to the earth. There was even an urban oasis of a grass sitting area, complete with a fountain, in the middle of it all.

The best part was the music. There were 5 or 6 stages of different types of dance music. Most of sounds were various forms of dance and house, and all very good. It is great to see a lot of people dancing in the streets - young and old. It was a good day and I enjoyed myself.

I think that this sort of local mingling and socialization is good for us. It is a time to let go of the stresses of daily life and just relax for a few hours. It definitely made a difference in my afternoon.

What do you think? Do you participate in local fairs and events? Do you like to see 'local color'? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

What is the Definition of 'Illegal'?

2006-05-02T04:45:00.000-07:00

I have been troubled by something lately that really disturbs me. I have a feeling that I a may not be as liberal and on the left-side of things as I once thought. It all has to do with illegal immigration to the U.S.

OK, before I get myself into trouble, I feel that everyone has the right to be themselves and to express themselves in any way that doesn't hurt other people. I also think it is great that America was founded on the principals of freedom and allowing anyone to reach for their own version of the "American Dream". But, what happens if a person was not born in the U.S. and desires to migrate here? More specifically, what if a person wants to simply cross the border, move here, and do so without following the rules and laws for doing so?

The meaning of illegal is "not according to or authorized by law - unlawful, illicit". According to that definition, an illegal immigrant is a person who migrates to another location not according to or authorized by law. Illegal means "against the law". So, do those folks who migrate to another location in an illegal manner have the right to ask for, and receive, rights and protections which are afforded to those who legally migrate? Aren't these rules or laws put in place for a valid reason? Shouldn't those who desire to locate to another location or country go through the legal process and follow those rules? It really troubles me.

I am trying so hard to understand and not be too judgmental or racist. I don't think race has anything to do with this. Anyone who migrates to another country, plants themself in that country, then demands laws and protections afforded to those who are nationals or came to that country through legal channels has nothing to do with race.

Why can't we all just go where we please and move where we desire without record or registration? It is obvious that there are resources and other matters which need to be accounted for and allocated. Without some sort of order, law, restriction, or process, these resources and other matters would soon be depleted and unavailable for anyone.

So, this is the question on my mind for the times. Just what does illegal immigrant mean and what does it really stand for? In my mind, illegal is illegal and that's that.

What do you think? How do you view the illegal immigrant goings-on? Are you 'open' or 'closed'? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

I've Hit the Big Time

2006-04-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

I finally did it. I've hit the big time in the blogging world. I am now part of the team of contributing writers to the Graphic Design Forum (http://blogs.graphicdesignforum.com/)and couldn't be happier.

I plan on using this outlet for my attempts at more professional content, without as much of the personal interjections that are so common on this blog. Oh, I plan on keeping and maintaining "Creatives and Lefties", of course. It is just nice to have a chance to get my posts read by many, many more folks in the professional and not-so-professional design world.

So, please, keep coming back here and also go to the GDF site to read more from me and the rest of the team.
Yeehaw!

Mike

How Much Am I Worth, Anyway?

2006-04-23T21:03:00.000-07:00

I recently completed some design work for an annual arts event and the organization didn't have much in the way of a budget to pay for services like mine. I agreed to take the projects on for an extremely low rate because I am an advocate for the arts and it coincided with my schedule at the time. As with any freelance job, there are things that come up that take more time than anticipated and the project becomes more of a money-loser than originally planned. Just how much are my time and design services worth? It makes me ponder.

Granted, there were no extravagant demands made and I wasn't forced into a corner, but I do have to think, "How would an attorney or any other time-compensated professional handle things like this?" I know darn well that attorneys charge for everything they do for a client, unless they're on retainer or something. But, they do charge. Of course, there are pro bono projects that are an important aspect of the give-and-take and giving back nature of the business. I have no problem with that. I just think about how to not get the shaft in my business.

I guess sometimes I have to just eat the loss, which I've done many times in this profession. I like to think that I get smarter from the experience and learn what to do and what NOT to do the next time. I think I do. I also have to look at the big picture and see that by taking on jobs that are more philanthropic than
revenue-making, I am contributing to the value and importance of good design as a whole. At least I hope it's good.

So, sometimes, the worth of intangible work is more than monetary. If I feel good about the project and good about what I'm doing, then I feel that is very profitable. I try to make it a point to allow time for low-budget and pro bono projects because they are important. It is my way of giving back and practicing good karma. I'm not looking to be a billionair designer, anyway.

What do you think? Do you like to give back in your industry? What do you do when you feel you're doing more than what you're being paid for? What are you worth? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

100 Years...and waiting...

2006-04-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

It is the eve of the Great San Francisco earthquake and fire of 1906. It is quite a great achievement for a city to be ruined 100 years ago and to be rebuilt, better than ever. I am glad to say that I live in this great city and can be part of the Centennial.

I have read a lot about the Quake of '06. There has also been a lot of stuff going on in the City over the past month. I guess the Quake back then, especially the aftermath, was just too much for some folks to handle. Subsequently, there was a lot of horrible treatment of many citizens and many were left homeless for quite some time. I can't help but think what we would do today if the same type of disaster happened now?

We are much better equipped and prepared for a big quake these days. But there's not much anybody can do when the ground beneath you starts moving. I have my earthquake kit and know mentally what I will do when it happens.

I have heard that if we have a really big one, 7.5 or more, there will be a lot of death and destruction and things won't be the same for a long time afterwards. It will be a hard time, but I hope that people band together and help each other out. Folks aren't too nice to each other right now. I remember when the '89 quake hit. People were so nice and helpful to each other after that. I guess we all forget what it's like to be in the same boat.

What do you think? Do you take time to reflect and honor the Great Quake? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike.

Take a Picture, Already!

2006-04-11T07:51:00.000-07:00

I encounter a multitude of resources for stock photos in the world of graphic design. I get emailed, mailed, called, and otherwise, harassed from the stock photo companies looking to get me to buy images from them. I don't know how they survive.

There are so many of them out there that claim to be different than the other guys - it just seems like overkill. Many of the stock photo companies have merged or one large name represents many, many of the smaller image companies to sell their wares. Of course, they all mostly charge between $200-$500 for a high resolution royalty-free image, so I guess there is a high profit margin. But, I just wonder how many images these individual stock photo companies really sell. It seems the market is over saturated.

Recently there have been the "bastards" who have entered the market and charge between $1 and $5 (that's right!) for images, depending on the resolution. Of course, they aren't always the best shot or the most dramatic image, and they can potentially be used by many people - but you cannot beat the price. I've used them and they're actually fine. As a small guy, I cannot afford to buy a $300 image or purchase a $700 image CD. Of course, if the client wants to pay that much, that's a different story.

So, the stock image business is a weird one. I know there are a lot of professional photographers who hate them or work with them - to make a few extra, measly bucks on the side. It's a tough business and I am just glad I'm not in it.

What do you think? Do you purchase stock photos? Do you use the cheap guys? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Apple v Apple

2006-04-03T05:57:00.000-07:00

I just came across an interesting case in the world of branding. It seems that Apple Computer and Apple Corps (cute name) have an ongoing battle over their brands and have a trademark dispute. Hmm, who has the upper-hand in this one?

Anyway, Apple Corps is a music publisher and Apple Computer, well, you know, makes computers. It seems that there was an old agreement which states that Apple Computer would not enter the music business. Have they?

I guess that iTunes and iPods are music portals and music players, respectively, and are not really publishers of music. It just seems a little fishy that their two names are so similar. It could've started out as a coincidence, but you know how greedy folks can get when the cash registers start to ring.

Do these two organizations do the same thing? I don't really think so. If Apple Corps was smart, they may just take advantage of the similarity and use it to their benefit in their marketing. Borrow from some of the messaging of the other Apple and go with the similarities, not the differences. Put an Apple in your Apple or iTunes has an Apple in its Corps. That sort of thing.

I don't know, but it seems that there are enough issues out there in the world of branding and identity and also enough business and money to go around for this type of haggling to occur. It is a great case study for marketing classes.

What do you think? Do you think that Apple and Apple are too similar? Does Apple Corps have a case? Do you care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

SAD

2006-03-30T12:20:00.000-08:00

I've heard talk this year about SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder. I hear that it's especially prevalent this year in SF since we've had such a big rainy season. I guess that's why a lot of people get more depressed than normal. For me, I just know that it doesn't have to take a lot of rain to make me SAD.

I actually like the rain. I enjoy a good dose of gloom and doom. I guess I am sort of dark that way, but I like it when it's cloudy and blustery. I have many more problems than what SAD would do to me.

So, when the sun comes out again, maybe folks will be happier and nicer. That would be a good thing. The side effects of SAD seem to be grumpy and mean so some sun may help those folks out. Not much can be done for me.

What do you think? Do you have SAD? Do you get depressed when it's cloudy for too long? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Spring is Here

2006-03-22T09:35:00.000-08:00

There's an old song that goes like this:

Spring is here, why doesn't my heart go dancing? Spring is here, why isn't my heart romancing? No desire, no ambition finds me. Maybe it's because nobody loves me...It's a really happy song.

Anyway, spring is here and that means that the dark and cold days of winter are over, or soon to be over. Winter is holding on around here, however. Rain and cold are pretty much daily events right now. It's OK, though, I like the dark, dank, cold, rainy periods. Back to that song...

I've been working on some interesting projects lately and that usually keeps me relatively happy and excited. I have also submitted some work and entries to design competitions and socially-conscious campaigns. It's fun to do that as well - just to see what is out there and also to sort of give back. I don't really know if any of my work will be chosen to be included in a Design Annual, but at least I try. It is good for me to submit to the pro-bono social causes as well.

So, spring is here. Why doesn't my heart go dancing? Well, maybe it doesn't go dancing, but at least it's beating and I am doing my part, if only a small part, in this vast universe. How about you? What do you think? Do you like spring? Does your heart go dancing? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

St. Patty's Day

2006-03-17T20:42:00.000-08:00

Even if you're not Irish you can feel like it and participate in the annual wearin' o' the green. I am far from Irish and I enjoy the Day like most others, I guess.

I used to like it a lot more when I drank green beer and thought that's what it's all about. I don't do that anymore, so I have to celebrate in a different way.
I think now about all of the different cultures in the world and how each one of them, I think, has their own Day. It is nice to celebrate and honor the various traditions and holidays, even if they all don't make sense to me or if I don't understand them. It is just nice to be aware.

So, go out and have some green beer, if you do that sort of thing. Or, just take a moment and think of someone else or another culture that's not part of your own. It couldn't hurt.

What do you think? Do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day? Do you even care? Please share your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Just a Check In

2006-03-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

Thought I would check-in to my little blog world. I have not had a lot of things to enter here lately, but I am still around and working on saving the world. HA
The latest news is that I may be part of a design professional collective that may be formed to attract business from sources that may not be available or possible from one freelancer alone. A very interesting possibility is brewing...
Stay tuned, you may be the first to hear about it.
Mike

Everything is Better in PINC

2006-03-04T07:21:00.000-08:00

I attended the PINC (Printing Industries of Northern California) Conference yesterday. It is the annual trade show and party for the paper and printing industry. It's always a good time, but this year was a big success, I feel.

There usually is a day of workshops, then a trade show and party in the evening. The theme this year was Hawaiian and, of course, you can picture in your mind what type of motif that theme entailed.

I attended a few of the workshops offered - a tutorial on Acrobat 7, a rather boring and esoteric talk on how to communicate with printers, and a great discussion on the ins and outs of annual report design. I really am interested in getting into that area of the profession. It's something new and something I think I could be good at.

Anyway, the day is always fun-filled and a lot of food and drink are had by all. Since I am not a drinker anymore, I don't partake in the free alcohol, but I don't have to.

Michael Schwab designed and illustrated the poster for the event this year which was fantastic. He always comes up with fantastic imagery and his style is beautiful.

What do you think? Do you attend industry events? Do you think they're worthwhile or not? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Rainy Days and Mondays...

2006-02-27T06:35:00.000-08:00

...usually make me Happy. I don't care for Mondays that much, but I really do like the rain. Something about the rain washing the dirt and filth off the streets and sidewalks makes me feel better. I hate dirt, trash, and urine piling up on the sidewalks and gutters. I know, I'm weird.

So, it's a rainy Monday. Glad to hear it. Let's make it a great one, stay dry, or not, and be nice to someone.

What do you think? Do you like rainy days and Mondays? Do you like anything? Please post your thoughts and ideas here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

The Project Pipeline

2006-02-19T09:57:00.000-08:00

For me there sometimes comes a time when I get caught up on projects that I'm working on and forget about getting new projects. The pipeline is going smoothly when all of the sudden, there is a dry spell.

That is suddenly occuring again. I've had to turn down a few things recently due to time constraints or budget and now I'm looking around for some new work. I've got to pull out the strategies to get the pipeline flowing again.

I work as an outsourced freelancer these days - meaning that I get called on or contracted for design projects that are needed by a third party. I don't have the time or energy required to develop new clients these days, so I go after firms or organizations that have their own clients and need help getting projects out in time. It works out quite well, I just have to keep my name and availablility out there.

So, what's a guy to do? Keep on doing what I'm doing, contact some of my contacts out there, touch base with good clients I have now, and realize that things will come in my HP's time, not my time.
What do you think? How do you keep the business rolling in? Do you have dry spells? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Bringing the World Together

2006-02-11T12:10:00.000-08:00

I watched the opening ceremonies of the XX Winter Olympic Games last night. It was quite a spectacular event, as the opening ceremonies usually are. It was great to see eighty countries come together and stand together under one roof.

The events are in Torino, Italy this year and I guess it's a lovely place, if you like winter. The ceremonies were extremely culture-filled, with modern dance, classic and contempory artistic references, and even opera. Culture certainly isn't lost in Europe, that's for sure.

I was touched to see the athletes from the many countries come together and march during the Parade of Nations. North and South Korea marched together as did Iran, Israel, and other countries where there are political conflicts right now. However, in the Olympic spirit, all of those conflicts are gone and the only thing left is human interaction and friendly competition in sports. It's funny how the actual citizens of a country are totally different and have different attitudes than the governments to which they're related.

The Olympics certainly mean more than just a chance for money-making and
medal- winning. It is a chance for the world to come together, at least for a moment, to show how really alike we all are.

What do you think? Do you think the Olympics bring the world closer together? Do you like to see the Games? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear them. Mike

An Anniversary

2006-02-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

You know what? I've been ranting and raving in this blog for a year now! What a great thing. I thought I should take a moment and wish my blog a Happy Birthday!

Mike

It's Amazing How We Can Get Anything Done!

2006-02-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

The following is an entry from SpeakUp, an online graphic design and typographical site. It's a sampling of what we, as designers, can hear from our clients in the creative meeting or when reading RFPs. It's really kind of funny, yet sad.

Compiled by David Barringer

Ask yourself whether your style is appropriate.
Our style is very specific.
We need it to be innovative and done quickly.
All attempts seen so far are way off base.
Concept is very important.
Conceptual work wanted!
Bold, edgy, hip.
Does not want to see overly slick, cute commercial art.
Must have corporate understanding and strong conceptual ideas.
We generally use people with strong conceptual abilities.
We generally use artists with a fairly realistic style.
We use all styles, but more often “traditional images.”
Don’t be conventional, be idea-oriented.
Be conceptual, consistent and flexible.
Concepts should be imaginative, not literal.
Preferred styles are mostly cartoon and some realism.
I get a lot of stuff that is way off track—aliens, guys with heads cut off, etc.
We prefer concept over narrative styles.
Send samples that tell a story (even if there is no story).
Looks for graphic quality, conceptual skill, good “people” style; lively, young but sophisticated work.
Don’t show disorganized thinking.
I like to see a variety in styles and a flair for expressing the teen experience.
I like sophisticated, edgy, imaginative work.
All styles welcome except “grunge.”
I look for indications that an artist can turn the ordinary into something extraordinary, whether it be through concept or style.
Send samples related to whitetail deer or turkeys.
Create images that can communicate ideas.
Intelligence, originality and beauty in execution are what we seek.
This is a serious business publication and graphically conservative.
Often use clichés with a twist.
We are always open to new talent.
We’re always interested in widening our horizons.
We are always open to new interpretations.
We look for people who understand “concept” covers.
We purchase fine art for the covers, not graphic art.
We see a lot of sloppy work.
I’m fortunate to be in an area that’s overflowing with good people.
A glut of graphic designers.
Pick the art director’s brain for ideas and be timely.
We are always looking for good hidden pictures.
Looking for good, clean art.
Send only art that is both water-oriented and suitable for children.
We’re looking for originality, clarity, warmth.
Those who require high fees are wasting their time.
Only optimists need apply.
The economy has drastically affected our budgets.
We’re looking for a humorous take on business.
Be efficient in the execution of design work.
Pays for design by the hour, $15-25.
Be innovative, push the creativity, understand the business rationale and accept technology.
Pays for design by the hour, $10-20.
Be patient.
Be enthusiastic.
Be persistent.
Be willing to change mid course.
Be ready to negotiate.
Be willing to accept low fees.
Be self-critical.
Be willing to have finished work rejected.
Our readership enjoys our warm, friendly approach.
These are tough times.
We see steady growth ahead.
Pays for design by the hour, $25-35.
Promptness and the ability to meet deadlines are most important.
All must be able to work fast.
Quick turnaround will put you on the “A” list.
We need fast workers with quick turnaround.
Pays for design by the hour, $15-40.
Have a good sense of humor and enjoy life.
We are not interested in working with artists who can’t take direction.
I like to be surprised by the artist.
Can you do both plants and people?
Particular interest in those who are able to capture the urban lifestyle.
And please don’t call asking if we have any work for you.
Don’t give up!
You are only as good as your weakest piece.
Freelancers must understand design is a business.
We don’t pay contributors.
Always do the best work you can—exceed everyone’s expectations.
Have awesome work—but be modest.
Pays for design by the hour, $15.
Let me know a little about yourself.
Say you’ll keep in touch and do it!
Prefers musical theme.
Prefers financial and fashion themes.
Prefers “intelligent rebellion.”
Pays for design by the hour, $10 minimum.
Prefers military, historical or political themes.
Realistic work only, with science fiction/fantasy themes.
Prefers wholesome children themes.
Prefers old-fashioned, nostalgia.
Prefers realistic, abstract, cartoony styles.
Prefers traditional media with an interpretive approach.
Prefers business law and business lawyers themes.
Ability to show creative flair with not-so-creative a subject.
We prefer witty or wry comments on the impact of humankind on the environment.
Should be simple, upbeat and reflect love for and enjoyment of cats.
Do not send off-color material.
Colors brighter.
We need light, bright, colorful art.
No color.
Needs realistic styles and animals.
Never uses art that depicts animals dressed or acting like people.
We like our people and designs to have a positive and upbeat outlook.
Prefers positive, upbeat, futuristic themes.
We concentrate on crafts and needlework.
Stay away from slapstick humor.
We rarely buy broken glass jokes.
While often associated with hot & spicy, sexually suggestive images are not considered.
Give us a try! We’re small but nice.
No fantasy or science fiction situations or children in situations not normally associated with Christian attitudes or actions.
Have a political and alternative “point of view.”
Be familiar with sled dogs.
There’s no time for training.
We are always looking for new artists with an unusual view of the world.
We prefer contemporary, nontraditional (not churchy), well-developed styles that are appropriate for our innovative, youth-oriented publications.
We want strictly drummer-oriented gags.
Looking for fresh, family friendly styles and creative sense of interpretation of editorial.
Sees trend toward “more freedom of design integrating visual and verbal.”
Sees trend toward “more sophistication, better quality, less garish, glitzy—subdued, use of subtle humor.”
Be ready to fit the format.
We need artists who can work within our budgets.
I would like to have more artists available who are willing to accept our small payment.
We need responsible artists who complete projects on time and have a great imagination.
Pays for design by the hour, $20-50.
Do it until it’s right without charging for your own corrections.
Persistence pays off.
Prefers artists with experience in all types of design and computer experience.
Pays for design by the hour, $15-35.
Must be able to deal with adult subject matter and have no reservations concerning explicit sexual images.
Read our magazine and send something we might like.
Women and girl artists only.
People of color and international artists are especially encouraged.
Please, no aliens or unicorns.
No cute small animal or cute angel pictures.
No humor perpetrating sexist or racist stereotypes.
Be familiar with our publication.
Be familiar with our magazine.
Familiarize yourself with our magazine.
Be very familiar with the magazine and our mission.
Gear your work accordingly.
Study an issue.
Please see our magazine.
Please read our magazine.
Review our magazine.
Have a look at the magazine.
We suggest you review recent back issues.
Look at the magazine to determine if your style and thinking are suitable.
Call me and tell me you’ve seen recent issues and how close your work is to some of the pieces in the magazine.
Study what we’ve done in the past, suggest how we might update or improve it.
Relax and enjoy the adventure of being creative.
Do your homework before submitting to any magazine.
Read us first!
Read our magazine.
Check out our website.
Visit our website!
Take a look at the magazine (on our website).
Take the time to look at an issue of the magazine to get an idea of what work we use.
Please review our publications to see if your style is a match for our needs.
It’s pointless to send your best work if it doesn’t look like what we use.
It is incredible the amount of work that is sent that doesn’t begin to relate to the magazine.
It’s clear that 50% of the new artists submitting material have not looked at the magazine.
Look at previous issues to see that your style is appropriate.
It takes time to plant your ideas.
Let the work speak for itself.
No prima donnas.
Assignments awarded on lowest bid.
Funky, stylized nonadult, alternative styles.
Send great work that fits our direction.
Marketable styles are always appreciated.
Pays for design by the hour, $15-20.
Don’t send out poor quality stuff.
Don’t waste your cards and postage if your style does not match the magazine.
We are actively seeking new ideas and fresh humor.
Don’t try to figure out what’s funny to planners.
We are absolutely open to seeing new stuff, but look at the magazine before you send anything, we may not be right for you.
Do not say, “I can do anything.”
Be yourself. No phonies.
We are starving for satire on the human condition.
We like to look at everything.

By Speak Up on Jan.12.2006
So, what do you want? What's your style? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Powerless but not Hopeless

2006-01-31T08:04:00.000-08:00

I realize more and more just how powerless I am over virtually everything in my life. I cannot control other people, conditions that go on around me, and pretty much all places or things. I can get myself pretty crazy over how other people drive or why it takes so long to check out at the grocery store.

I do have control and I am not powerless over how I react to things, however. I don't have to get angry or bitchy when things don't go according to my plans or schedule. I can do my best to let things be as they are and realize that although I am powerless over a certain situation, I am not hopeless. Powerlessness and hopelessness are not the same thing.

It would take a lot of work if I were actually in charge of the universe. It would add a lot of undue stress in my life. If I made just one tiny mistake, just think of what destruction could result.

I think I'll stay in my own little world and remain the small speck of dust in the universe. All hope is not lost just because I have to wait in line or don't get that parking spot I wanted. What do you think? How do you deal with being powerless over certain things? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike.

Agitation

2006-01-26T12:57:00.000-08:00

OK, I've been a little on the agitated side lately. I let supposed little things bother me and haven't been able to let them go as easily as normal folks. When I see someone throw trash from the trunk of their car on the ground or when I see graffiti all over a recently-closed business, it makes me wild. I do have civic pride and actually do care about my environment and the city in which I live. What's wrong with the rest of them?

I feel that some people just don't care what the hell they're doing in their daily, boring lives. They think it's perfectly OK to throw their trash on the sidewalk. After all, someone else will pick it up, right? They don't need this stuff anymore anyway, so why not just throw it on the ground?

Oh, look, there's some huge windows on a nice building that's just been closed. I think I'll tag it with my self-serving gang motif and make sure all of the boyz in the 'hood know I was there. It makes me more masculine. I saw it first, so it's mine, right? I don't care what others think, it's all about me.

All I can say is, GET A CLUE! Who are you to deface public property or throw away your refuse where ever you see fit? What gives you the right to be so careless and thoughtless? Where were you born and raised? Were you raised by animals or did you have to raise yourself because of your broken home? If you don't live here in my city, then don't come here if you can't have some respect for the place. Trash your own city, or better yet, your own home.

I am turning into an old curmudgeon and I don't like it. I have to get a balance between my grandstanding on one side and my utter hopelessness on the other. It's hard for a crazy, nuerotic guy like me. I think my medication needs adjusting.
What do you think? Do you care about clean streets and store fronts? Do you get disturbed when you see litter and tagged buildings? Do you even care? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

The Worst Day of the Year

2006-01-24T00:15:00.000-08:00

I heard that January 24 is supposed to be the most depressing, downer day of the year. According to scientists, therapists, etc., this day is in the dead of winter, after the holidays, tax time coming, people are broke, and it's just a killer of a day.
So, have a great day and let's all get through it.

Mike

When Depression Hits

2006-01-21T20:35:00.000-08:00

I have struggled with depression my entire life. For many years I just thought I was unhappy from time-to-time. But after much self-study and countless visits to the therapist's couch, I was told that I suffer from depression and I needed to have certain chemicals in my brain helped along to come into balance with the rest of them. So, I am monitored and have a drug regimen of anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs.

Usually things go along as normal. But there are times when the feelings of pressure and overwhelming weight on me come and I go into a place of darkness and isolation. It is frightening for me to be in public or participate in social situations. I feel very out-of-place and uncomfortable in my own skin. These episodes don't last as long as they once did, maybe 2 to 3 weeks, but I still don't like the experience.

I now can see them coming on. I recently have had another episode coming along and have choices. I can choose to succumb to the darkness, close the blinds and windows, and wait it out or I can make honest and sincere efforts to do something different. I can force myself to get up and get out of the house - to show up. I can realize and accept that I have this condition and give myself permission to feel sadness or depression and not wallow in it. I can be gentle to myself and take the steps necessary to address my depression and get through it. It is not easy, but I don't want my life consumed by depression and sadness.

I don't know if I will ever completely get rid of my depressive stages, but I will not allow them to get the best of me. What do you think? Do you get depressed? Do you know what depression is about? How do you cope with depression within yourself or within someone you love? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Checking In

2006-01-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

First of all, the person who disappeared has returned, contacted me, and all of the mystery has been solved.
Also, the projects I've been working on that involve communicating with Hong Kong and Shanghai continue and has been quite a challenge. It's very interesting when areas of the same country do not recognize one another as the same country.
I am working on some new projects and also developing consistent communications with existing clients and preferred vendors.
Other than that, it is still a new year and it's all going to be OK. Hope the same for you.
Mike

When Someone Disappears

2006-01-12T18:09:00.000-08:00

What do you do when someone you were working and developing good rapport with suddenly doesn't communicate anymore? What is a person to think, when one day, what appears to be a good and productive working relationship, suddenly is not? It leaves me dumbfounded.

I was introduced to a dynamic and fast-paced guy who runs a seemingly successful business. It took me about a year of follow-up calls and touching base to get into his loop of outsourced business opportunities. We finally began working together and he was extremely impressed with my attitude, forward-thinking, promptness, and availability. He felt comfortable with our working relationship and made note of that many times. After a few projects with him, he suddenly stopped being communicative with me and I got the feeling that he was simply avoiding me.

What happened? It is really none of my business when it comes right down to it. Maybe he is having business or personal problems or simply has gotten over his head and can't work with me right now. Maybe he suddenly realized he doesn't like my talents as much as he thought and doesn't have the balls to tell me. I don't know. I just know that I did all of my part of things in terms of follow-up and follow-through and simply appreciate that same respect in return. I try very hard in situations like this to remain professional and not get a resentment about it. I always learn more about me in instances like these anyway. Maybe that's the main thing.

What will happen next? I don't know. I am going to remain as open-minded as possible about this and do my part if he starts communicating again. I must realize that it's not always about me.
What do you think? Have you ever had a person 'disappear' on you? Have you stopped calling or communicating with someone? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Give Something Back

2006-01-09T21:04:00.000-08:00

I just came from an orientation and training for the Taproot Foundation. This organization hooks up professionals and non-profit organizations that work together to produce a branding strategy, brochure, web site, or data base that will assist the organization to move to the next level of their existence. The professionals come from design, management, consulting, IT, and marketing areas and volunteer their time to work on at least one project that may include 100 hours and up to 6 months of a time commitment.

The Taproot model is extremely organized and thought out. Both the professionals and non-profits go through an extensive qualification period to make sure that a project will be a good match for all involved. I left the orientation tonight feeling motivated and excited to work on a new project with my team.

It's all volunteer. We want to do this for various reasons, but, for me, it's a structured way of giving back to the community in a meaningful way. It's also a good thing for me to add this to the resume and portfolio.

There are so many ways for all of us to donate some time and give back to a community that really needs us. We're all busy people, but I feel that a little time can be made for the benefit of others and society as a whole. After all, the present government won't do it, so we have to help each other.

I'll keep you posted on what project I get and how it goes. In the meantime, think about what you can do to give back. It will make you feel good, at least for a moment. What do you think? Do you volunteer? How do you give back? Do you give back? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

A Random Act of Kindness

2006-01-05T14:03:00.000-08:00

One of the things I am going to continue to try and adapt is the way I treat and respond to other people. Yes, at times I have not been the nicest person to those I don't know.

I'm not saying that I am mean or outright rude, I just don't acknowledge the existance of others at times. Do I look at and smile at those I pass by while walking down the street? Do I say hello to my neighbors coming and going in my apartment building? Do I have to do this all the time? I know that there came a time in life not too long ago when I made a conscious decision not to go out of my way anymore to be nice to others because I felt that it went unappreciated or didn't matter. The more I think about that decision, the more selfish and self-centered I feel. Are random acts of kindness supposed to be repaid? Are we to expect something in return for what kind act we do? I don't think that's the point. I believe that it's better to give than receive and also to help rather than to be helped. Saint Francis would be proud.

So, I am going about this adaptation of my treatment of strangers and how I act in the general world. I think the big picture is to help spread the good energy around and allow Karma to work. It'll take some work on my part and, no, I don't have to expect myself to do this all the time. I am human, after all.
What do you think? Are you a nice person to everyone? Do you practice random acts of kindness? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

How Spoiled Are We?

2006-01-01T15:59:00.000-08:00

I went to a theatre today to see a popular movie that's been out for awhile. Thus, the movie theatre was showing this film in what they call a 'screening room' while the newer movies played in the larger. Granted, the 'screening room' was a little small, but what I heard from some of the other movie-goers made me pause.

I guess some of those in the audience were a little suprised by the size of the room. Most of the comments consisted of quips like "I have this same-sized screen at home" and "I can't believe this! My TV at home is larger." and, still, "Why don't we just put out some card chairs?". The screen was a little larger than the largest widescreen that some people can get for home-use and there were about 15 rows of theatre seats.

My beef is this - are we, as Americans, that spoiled and so full of ourselves that we can't be satisfied with what we have or experience and need to constantly have more and more or bigger and bigger? The outrageous consumerism and way some folks have to possess things they don't really need is simply astonishing in my view.

Am I just envious or a little bitter because I don't have all of the biggest and newest things? I don't think so, I really am not a material guy. Am I just an old grump? Maybe so.

I just find myself hearing or experiencing things that remind me how grateful I am to have what I do and have the freedom to go where I want to. I am thankful that I can afford to go to a movie at times whether it's in a small 'screening room' or not.
I guess I really just want to remember how fortunate I am and remain humble enough to learn about myself from what others do. I am not perfect, by any means, but I do remember where I've been and what I want to be.
What do you think? Do you think this country is full of spoiled consumers or, am I just a bitter person? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear them. Mike

The Right to have a Gun

2006-01-01T05:38:00.000-08:00

I have just been thrown into a startling controversy. There is a group of individuals, mainly gay, HIV positive men, who advocate the right to have a concealed handgun and use it to protect themselves from being bashed. I have been told that "an armed gay person doesn't get bashed". There is even a web site called pinkpistols that advocates for the ownership of handguns and offers NRA-sponsored gun handling and shooting classes. Their tagline is "pick on someone your own caliber".

I am greatly disturbed by this. Since when did a portion of the LGBT community desire to be pistol-packing citizens? Are we being swayed by the very folks that want to put an end to our unions and take away our civil liberties? Is the NRA courting the gay vote on the fear of being attacked? Is owning a gun to shoot another human being a civil liberty? I still believe that the second amendment allows arms to be owned and carried by military and law-enforcement, not the average citizen. It makes me concerned when I hear something to the effect that "this crime wouldn't have happened because the folks that were involved would be dead". Are we ALL becoming a militant and anarchist nation? Do guns actually solve this sort of problem? Are we not becoming the very thing that we once despised?

I obviously am not a proponent of handgun ownership, or really any gun ownership for the general public. I just fear a world where a gun will be used out of fear instead of taking a moment to access a situation and attempt to dissuade something without just blindly shooting.

The problem goes way deeper than this. What is needed is money spent on education, rehabilitation, and social programs that get to the cause of this particular problem. Hate and discrimination are not acceptable. So we need to have education and information given to young children and those in high-risk areas of the community. We need to use non-lethal forms of communication to reach those who may commit a hate crime way before it even becomes an option. We can't just throw them away in jail or kill them by the death penalty or by shooting them ourselves. The problem will never be solved this way, in my view.

What do you think? Should the right to carry a concealed weapon be the right of everyone? Should we be free to use it when we feel threatened? Please post your thoughts and views here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Another Year for the Record Books

2005-12-31T12:24:00.000-08:00

It's the end of another year. Many publications and broadcasts do their fair share of recapping and otherwise telling the best-of-the-best or worst, so I felt I could join in the fray.

2005 has been a year of change for me. I am glad to say that, because I can only learn from change. I've seen my business go up, and down, I've seen the same situation with my health, and I've come a long way in accepting who and what I am and gaining the courage to change old ways. Although this year has been challenging in the health department, I am very grateful that I am still here and able to continue on this journey.

What will the New Year bring? Who really knows. I have learned that showing up and doing my humble part in daily activities will add up to a year of only doing the best that I can. I cannot expect to change or control others and cannot do much about things in the world with which I don't agree. I can make a difference in my own world and try to help others along the way. Sound sort of sappy? Well, it may be, but is full of sincerety.

Do I have any resolutions for next year? I can only resolve to do the best that I can one day at a time and try to get out of myself at least once a day. I am grateful to be alive and that's the biggest resolution I need.
What do you think? How has your year ended up? Are you looking forward to starting fresh? Do you make New Year's resolutions? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear about them. Mike

Designer or Production Artist?

2005-12-27T15:23:00.000-08:00

There are times in my daily dealings in the graphic design world when I feel there is some confusion as to what exactly I do. There are many clients and possible clients out there who feel that a graphic designer is someone who makes things look pretty or is there to follow their every word and directive and place their exact vision down on paper or computer screen.

The value and importance of good and effective graphic design is somehow lost. I know that as part of the design world that I am partially responsible for this. We have bastardized and dumbed-down the design process so much that many folks who can run a computer think they can design the next great ad or other communication piece.

There are times when a production artist only may be needed. If there is an existing branding strategy or identity already established, then there may be the need for someone to basically recreate that in another piece. There is no room for new design here and that is part of the restriction for this design objective. There are other times, thankfully, when there is a need for a designer for a project that needs a creative eye. A graphic designer is contracted to bring that eye to the problem and should be able to come up with a solution that addresses the client's objectives. This scenario does not call for a production artist. The designer may end up being the production artist, but the design has to come first.

We face an upward battle in the continued education of the client and community at large in addressing the importance and value of design. We need to be consistent and can not back down on our morals or ethics just for a quick buck. We are professionals and are trained to capture feelings and emotions that need to be expressed and to present them in web or print in a way that reaches the desired, correct audience and makes an impression. We need to have an eye and intellect for good design and we need to have the freedom to get this across to the client. We are not desktop publishers, we are designers. What do you think? Do you thing you're a designer or a production artist? Do you hire designers when you really need a production artist or vice versa? How can we continue to educate our own and the clients out there? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Those Last Minute Details

2005-12-23T14:09:00.000-08:00

Isn't it funny how just before a holiday or other long weekend, things come up that have to be done "right now"? It's like all of the sudden these little tasks or projects just popped up and have to be addressed before anyone can take off or anything else can get done. The world will suddenly end if this last-minute detail isn't taken care of.

What are people doing all of the other days prior to these last-minute directives? Are they just sitting around, pushing paper and computer keys and not being proactive? It seems to me that there are many folks out there who have a bad habit of procrastination and seem to thrive under pressure. I, for one, don't.

I am no saint, believe me. But, I do tend to err on the side of early and consistent. I enjoy and thrive on getting things done early or before a deadline. That way, there should be some time or cushion to address things before the eleventh-hour when nerves are frazzled. I'm cursed with anal-retentiveness.

So, if you're one of those people who throw last-minute things at others to get done "right now", try a little patience and kindness on those you throw to. We all can only do the best we can. What do you think? Are you a procrastinator? Do you thrive on pressure? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Civil Liberties?

2005-12-19T13:29:00.000-08:00

Recently, word came out of the White House that the president admitted to authorizing wiretaps and other surveillance on private citizens of the US and abroad. He also said that he will continue to do so to continue to protect Americans from "terror". Something is definitely wrong here.

Isn't this sort of thing unconstitutional and illegal? What gives the president the right to make his own laws and to violate people's privacy? I read on a chat room somewhere that the president is looking toward establishing a police state. Just look at what happened in New Orleans. All in the name of "fighting the war on terror".

The world is a scarier place these days and America is not liked by many other countries right now. This administration has not only caused America to go broke, it also has made the US and the world less safe by the egocentric and entitlement attitudes it presents.

I just hope that the Powers that Be are watching me, listening, and reading this post. There are many unhappy and disgruntled folks out there and the country better wake up and take control over the dicatorship that is happening.

What do you think? Does the president have a right to spy on the general public? Please post your thoughts and ideas here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Giving Back

2005-12-15T20:02:00.000-08:00

Yes, we're in the Holiday season and it means many different things to a lot of different people. I do get into the anti-consumerism and commercializationism of it all and feel that the whole thing has turned into a big spending-spree. But, there is also part of me that remembers the original meaning of this season - the act of giving.

I attended a luncheon meeting the other day and heard a speaker that made me think. He has a business that is in a very competitive industry, the office supply arena. His business does what the "other guys" do and try to remain competitive to gain customers, sell products, and make revenues. However, his business model is one that gives back the profits to the community it serves. This business actually gives ballots to the customers so they can choose where the money goes. All profits are given back. There are no stockholders or other politicos who steer money or profits to a special cause or pocket them themselves.

The owners and principals do take salaries, but it is set at a limit that does not exceed a certain percentage of what their peers make. There is no over-paid fat cat who never seems to have enough of the green. This is a socially-responsible organization.

Is this a form of socialism? Maybe so, and I like it. There needs to be more organizations like this one, in my view. There is such a high disparity between the rich and the poor, the haves and have nots, and the gap is widening all the time. Why not give back to the community in which it is vested in? Why does all of the money have to go to so few of the people? Why can't the large corporate machine do this and adopt this sort of model? Because the American dream is one that tells us to make as much money as we can and do what we have to to be on top. It tells us that we can step on people and take whatever we can get without regard to others. There is no inherent philanthropy in the American Dream.

I like the giving-back model. I wish there were more organizations like the one I heard about the other day. What do you think? Do you strive to make as much money as you can? Do you give back to the community? Do you think it's your right to make as much money as you can and does that make you successful? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Love Story

2005-12-11T11:03:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I saw a great, yet tragic, love story. I am not usually one for seeking out a film based on this sort of theme, but this one really called to me.

The story was about two people whose backgrounds were similar and raised in area of the country where there is much poverty and much effort is made just to survive. The same things and conditions exist in this part of the country, day after day, and year after year. There is never much of a chance for a different view or way of looking at things. What always was, always is.

What these two people found when they met was a mutual recognition and understanding that life could be better, that maybe there was someone else out there who really cared. Someone else who felt the same way about things, had the same fears and anxieties and weren't afraid to express them in the only way they knew how. Someone who wasn't afraid to pursue a new way of life and actually looked at reality instead of burying it deep in the soul. These two people had something grow between them that they had not experienced before and didn't really look for it. All they knew was that when they were together, things weren't so bad, life was lighter, and there was actually a sense of hope. The sense of contentment and true peace was something they never felt before on their own. These two people were two men.

The film I saw was Brokeback Mountain, an adaptation of a short story by Annie Proulx. At first take, one may think it's a gay love story. In many ways it is. It is much more than that, in my mind. It is about the fact that love can be so deep, so true, so real, that lives can be changed whether they're intended to be or not. In this case, it is about a love that could not be, in the place and time where this story is based. It is also a story of how existing and clandestine societal values can be so powerful and instilled, that the only way to keep them is to destroy those things, or people, that may bring about a different way of looking at them. Fear is an extremely powerful emotion and can lead to unbelievable things and acts that a "normal" and sane person wouldn't even dream of. This can also be extended to the power of certain religious beliefs.

These two men met and fell in love with each other. It was a true sense of love that many people never have and never will have. It was a love between two people who were meant to be connected and to learn from the experience. It is only unfortunate when other things outside of the business of the two men directly involved, get in the way. I think everyone should see this film. It has stayed with me for many days. If you'd like to read the short story, go here:
http://www.newyorker.com/printables/archive/051212fr_archive01
Mike

Saving Face

2005-12-10T01:11:00.000-08:00

I had what first appeared as a minor design and printing job turn into a big mess. I was contracted, through a referral, to design and print some donor cards and envelopes. This particular non-profit agency has a great reputation and I felt lucky to have an opportunity to work with them.

I did my job and had the designs done and approved in a very timely manner. I had contracted, through the client, an online digital printer to do the printing. I had originally thought the envelope printing would be done by another vendor. But, when the salesperson told me that they could do it and also save some money, I went with it. OOPS!

First of all, there were some minor issues with billing and shipping, which were handled and understood. Then came the email and calls that there was trouble with the payment, then with the envelopes themselves. What had started out as a job being completed ahead of schedule was suddenly going South. I wasn't getting phone calls returned, I had form-email messages stating the same issue (payment) as holding up the job, and I knew my client was getting more concerned with the timing. It didn't get better.

After numerous calls and email messages, the cards and envelopes were sent to the client on the day before she needed them. The cards were fine - the envelopes looked nothing like the approved design and the ink was smudged on many of the order of 500. My client was upset and so was I. I had to do what I could. I immediately called the vendor again, of course had to leave a voice mail message, and demanded that there be a refund on the envelope printing and that an additional 500 blank envelopes be overnighted to the client. The printer agreed and my client was a little better. I felt horrible and had egg on my face for a few hours. I don't even like eggs!

I don't know if I will get a chance to work with the client again. I hope I do. I did what I could to make ammends and correct what happened. I was responsive and fast-acting throughout the ordeal. I learned a valuable lesson, though...don't try to cut corners with the client's buck even if it looks like a good deal. It probably won't be in the long run.
What do you think? How do you deal with client or job problems? How do you save face? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Annual Party - True Success!

2005-12-04T14:33:00.000-08:00

The AIGA SF had it's annual fundraiser and party last week on Thursday night. Since I am on the board of the chapter, it is extra-special to me and is an important event for us - both for member/sponsor relations as well as a revenue-generator. I feel the evening was a smashing success!

It rained and poured the entire day leading up to the event (it did last year, too). The space that was secured was an excellent second-floor, open, art space that could accommodate all of our sponsors and guests. The sponsors and guests did come, in spite of the rain. People always come when they know there'll be a good party.

Great people, great food, and great drinks were aplenty at the event. The timing of the event fell into a good period - just after the Thanksgiving holiday and right before the craziness of December. It was crowded and I think that our members, sponsors, and guests had a good time.

I lasted there for a good 2 hours or so. I tend to go to these things early and leave early. I don't do too well in the drinking-crowd scene these days. So, I make my rounds, thank the sponsors, say hello to folks both old and new, pay my respects to my fellow board members, then say goodnight. Of course, I get my bag of free schwag from the sponsors before leaving.

In a few weeks we'll hear how we came out, financially. It will good if we made some money, but, for me, it is more important that our memberbship felt a benefit and our sponsors made some new contacts. The sense of community that we try to instill in our organization is more important than big bucks. What do you think? Do you go to your professional associations' fundraisers? Do you participate? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

The Greatest Obstacle

2005-11-30T22:18:00.000-08:00

I was reading through a list of questions that a colleague has thrown around and one in particular caught my eye: "What is your greatest obstacle to creating good work?" Good one.

I think there are a few obstacles for me that hinder me from creating good work. One is my own lack of confidence and self-assurance that I can actually do something well. I really care about what I do and I feel that I do have what it takes to be a good graphic designer and produce some stellar visual communications. I don't have the same level of low self-esteem as I used to, but it still is an obstacle.

The other one is my knack for taking ownership of my own ideas and designs. I tend to take my work too personally and won't allow constructive feedback or criticism in order to make things better. I really desire to let go of this obstacle and actually allow other thoughts and interpretations to enter my thick skull.

I guess it is good to see these things in my work and to be willing to change. It is not the easiest thing to do. I commit to continue to see these flaws in my professionalism and work to correct them. I only know that good - and great - work can result.
What do you think? What is your greatest obstacle to creating good work? Do you have it all handled? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Happy Holidaze

2005-11-29T06:33:00.000-08:00

I woke up yesterday morning and suddenly realized that another year of the "Holiday Season" came around as I slept. Suddenly, I am pulled into that time of year of hustle, bustle and wishing "Season's Greeting" to everyone - whether we know, or like them, or not.

It seems like everything is going fine and normal up until Thanksgiving. The day after, however, the mood of the nation changes and we're thrust into the "Holidaze". People's moods change. Folks start wearing red and green and those cheesey Santa hats. Boys and girls suddenly become good and nice to their parents and siblings. Suddenly, people seem a little nicer.

For all of the hype and over-doing of the Holidays, maybe the nicer part of people coming out isn't such a bad thing. We could all use some niceness and courtesy any time of the year. Of course, there'll be Scrooges (sometimes like me) who aren't nice at any time of year, but, we overlook those folks. Maybe we can smile at them and still wish them "Happy Holidays". It may just melt a little ice off their hearts. What do you think? How do you feel about this time of year? Are you extra "good"? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

I Want it All and I Wanted it Yesterday

2005-11-27T16:30:00.000-08:00

'Tis the season now when all of our greed and over-indulgence comes out full force. I can't help but feel every year at around this time how spoiled and selfish we really are. I want more, more, more, and none of it's good enough!

It seems to me that many of us have to buy a lot of things and spend a lot of money we don't have during the Holidays. Are we trying to outdo each other? Do we have to prove that we love each other by what we buy for each other? Do "things" make us happy?

I see so many commercials and news programs that talk about buying and if it will be a good year or not for retailers. I feel a lot of the frenzy is caused by the news programs and not so much by the retailers. It is almost like a game that has to be beat each year. So we, as mindless consumers, get caught up in this game and rush to the stores the day after Thanksgiving to fight the other folks that get up at 5 AM who hope to be on one of those news programs. I heard a man was wrestled to the ground and mauled because he ditched in a line to buy a cheap laptop. More, more, more, of everything, even if we don't need it or will never use it!

The families in the suburbs have it the worst, though. They have to outdo each other all the time. Heaven forbid that a neighbor kid gets one more iPod than another one. Let's buy them more Xboxes and let them play games that teach them how to kill cops. Oh, but we will absolutely not allow them to look at sex or learn about their bodies on the Internet! But I digress...

If we would simply live in our means or buy what we need, maybe a bigger lesson would be learned. OK, we can buy something a little special for the ones we love since it is the giving Holiday. What is the real meaning of this Holiday anyway? That opens up a whole other can of worms.

So, have a good time if you're one of those folks that buy-in to the frenzy and buy. I hope that you'll take a minute to remember those less fortunate than you and those who are homeless this time of year. Maybe you can buy them a loaf of bread or something. What do you think? How do you spend money this time of year? Do you get caught-up in this lavishness? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

A lot of Thanks

2005-11-24T13:37:00.000-08:00

I know that I have a lot to be thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day. Many things have happened over this past year, some good, some not-so-good. But through it all I try to be grateful everyday. To me, practicing gratitude does not occur on one Day a year.

I sent "thank-yous" to my clients and others in my life (www.mldesigns.biz/grateful.html)that have shown me support and offered assistance this year. I try to thank people on-the-spot when there is an honest and sincere need for it. I don't like to think about things later and say to myself, "Boy, I should've thanked him/her for that." By trying to stay in the moment and being present, I can be more open and avaialable to make such exchanges.

I thank my Doctors and the other professionals that have helped me this year and continue to help me as time goes on. I am extremely lucky to be here and move forward in life and health.

I thank my family and friends that are my family for being there and loving me. I lose sight sometimes that I am cared for and loved by these people, like I don't deserve it, but I am a loveable person and do need the love and support of others.

I thank the Power in my life that is much greater than I, who leads me on my daily path, and who is always with me, even when I forget it.

This Day is a great day to roll all the gratitudes into on big package and give it to another person. I will try to be courteous and kind to all others who I come in contact with and try to be of help to others when possible. That is a good way to give the package back.

What do you think? How are you thankful? Do you have gratitude on this day? Please share your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Personal Milestones

2005-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

I feel it is important in life to make note of and honor personal milestones. Other than one's time of birth, there are other dates when we pay tribute to certain big events in our lives and hold personal space for it. I am doing that today.

5 years ago today, I accepted a huge situation in my life and started on a whole new way of living. It hasn't been easy all the time, but it sure has been better for me, both physically and spiritually. I take notice of this date every year and give thanks in my own personal way. I look forward to continuing on my path.

If you have milestones or important dates in your life, please make sure to honor them and take a moment to pay tribute to them and to you.

If you have any thoughts or feelings you'd live to post, please do so here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

The Value of Design Competitions

2005-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

I see Calls for Entries in many design publications and get them in the mail. There seems to be so-called design competitions in just about every magazine for just about every type of design there is. Are they really important? Do they serve our industry well? Or, is it just an easy way for publications to make a quick buck?

I guess in one way it is nice to have an archive or chronicle of design through time. Many of these competitions, or showcases, do just that. In them we see "the best" design in many categories that are judged by a group of folks that are specifically qualified to do so. I guess, in a way, the "winners" and qualities on which they're judged are subjective and could be considered arbitrary. What one chosen designer-judge considers best-of-show in one instance, may be considered not as good in another instance, if considered at all. Of course, the judges know what they're doing and what constitutes great design, but, I believe that there can be variations of what is "the best".

If one doesn't enter a competition or submit work then there's no chance of getting any recognition, right? So, what about those many entries that may be just as good, or better, than what was chosen, but just weren't entered, got lost in the mail, etc.? I guess there's no way of knowing that.

It is a great way for publications to make money. The fees for submission are usually pretty affordable, and who doesn't like to see their work showcased in a national publication? There are many entries submitted, so there is a lot of extra cash to be made.

I guess this Call for Entries model is a necessary evil. We need to have archives and artifacts of great design and the publications do provide that. We all have ample opportunitites, as designers, to enter these competitions, so we should have our equal chances of being recognized. It does help in advancing our careers and gaining a reputation needed to move forward. There is no way to have every designer submit every quality piece of work to every design competition, so we'll just have to settle for the representative sample that does get entered.

For me, it takes a lot of guts just to have the confidence to submit my work. I am getting better at that, though. This week is a week that I've set aside to enter a few of these competitions. The week of a Holiday usually allows for more time to concentrate on these types of things. When and if I get something chosen, then I may just change the way I look at such things. What do you think? How do you think excellent design should be judged and showcased? Do you submit your work? Are these design competitions really what they're cracked up to be? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Mystery Date

2005-11-19T16:49:00.000-08:00

I attended one of those matching-dating brunch things today. I have done this once or twice before (OK - 2 times) and had pleasant times. I had a chance to attend this one at the last minute, so I went for it. I guess I am now on an email list and got "invited" at the last minute to fill a seat - at a discount. Did I make a wise decision?

When I walked into the restaurant, I felt a sense of horror when I saw the others that were also part of this match-game. They were all at least 10 years older than me! Don't get me wrong, I am not an ageist, but I kind of like to have my generation represented. I checked in with thoughts racing through my head of how I could get out of there without anyone noticing. It was too late.

I sat down with the group of about 10 and enjoyed a nice brunch buffet. I try very hard to have an open mind, and it is getting more difficult as time goes by, but, the remarks, opinions, and attitudes of these people were so crass and negative, I thought, "No wonder you're single!". I was there too, so what does that tell you?

There was one other person around my age that I've seen at other events like this before. The brunch was over, the topics of conversation grew tired and forced, and I wanted to get the hell outta there. Someone made a remark of being at a one-hour meter and had to go, so at least I felt I wouldn't be the "rude" one.

I made an effort to talk to everyone there and to say my good-byes and shake hands when I had enough. I thanked the facilitator and got outta there.

I took a risk and went. My therapist will be proud. I was pleasant and respectful. I went home screaming in the car, but that's OK. I'm sure I'll try this type of thing again sometime, or at least until I'm not single anymore. What do you think? Do you do the speed-dating thing? How do you meet people? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Havin' A Party

2005-11-18T13:16:00.000-08:00

I'm on the board of the AIGA, the American Association of Graphic Arts, and it's a really good gig. Among many things we do, we're holding our annual member party and fundraiser in a few weeks (www.aigasf.org/events/event_post.html)and the rest of the board is panicing, as usual, over the low RSVP rate. Our President worries and the rest of us tends to scramble around to make sure we don't make fools of ourselves. I say, RELAX.

I have been on this board for about three years now and I have experienced this sort of thing at about every event we've done. Things get delayed, sponsors don't come through, the mailhouse delays the invitations, etc., but somehow, it always works out and our events are usually great successes. It's OK to have some nervous energy and do what it takes to make things happen - but, panic and undue stress do no one any good.

I tend to take a role of telling folks that all will be fine and the event will work out. Since I am the Communications co-chair on the board, I guess I need to communicate to my fellow members as well. Being in this capacity, I do feel a great sense of responsibility for getting the word out on events and make sure that we get the appropriate amount of PR, etc., so, I do have a dual-role in my board position. When it gets right down to it, we all do the best that we can and try to maintain the prestige and focus of the AIGA. The bigger picture of being in a volunteer position like this is the sense of community I feel, the contacts I make, and the feeling that I am doing something to assist my industry. So, anyone want to come to a party?
What do you think? Are you involved with your industries' associations? Do you go to their events? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

She's Still Got It!

2005-11-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

I downloaded the latest Madonna album last night and I have to say, this is the best one since the Immaculate Collection! This album has been the buzz lately and I got caught up in the hype. Mo still has it and she's better than ever!

This album, Confessions on a Dance Floor, is filled with one great dance tune after another. There ain't no ballads on this one. I downloaded the album option of one large mix of the album with one song after the other. Boy, it's a great listen!

There are some instant hits on this album and I know that DJs will be playing these in the clubs for a long time to come. (Visit her official web site as well for some great visuals as well as non-stop Madonna streaming over the web.)

I also got a download version of the video for Hung Up, Madonna's first single off the album. It's a great throw-back to the 70s disco era. The Material Girl is a disco diva and looks great at 47.

There is also a PDF file of the CD booklet which has fantastic graphic design of various images of Madonna in a disco setting - complete with disco ball and the kitchy lighting of the 70s discos. I would love to be a designer on Madonna's team.

So, I know what I'll be listening to while working for a long while. It should bring my creativity level up a few notches as well as give me the energy to work at a feverish pace - as long as I don't fall off my chair from dancing. What do you think? Do you still love Madonna? Did you ever? Will you buy this album? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

The Correct Type

2005-11-12T21:13:00.000-08:00

What is it with type? Why are so many of us in this profession so passionate about typography? What can be so interesting about fonts and type setting? Type and all things letterform has a loyal following and I am proud to be in the ranks.

I got interested in typography when I took my first type class in design school. I didn't know what to expect and I thought it would be all about page layout and computer software programs. Little did I know that the entire class would be about the history of type and many different applications of the tactile way of working with it. It was quite interesting and I am so glad I took that class. I fell in love with Gutenburg, of course, as well as the pioneers of type casting - Bodoni, Baskerville, and Durer, just to name a few. Those scribes didn't know what kind of thing they were starting when they were writing those books for the kings of the day.

When I took the second class in typography, I learned about the color of type and how to make things readable and legible. This got into the professional software that I use today, but the training I got was irreplaceable. I fell in love with so many of the Adobe fonts that I had to buy the whole set. Since then, I puruse catalogs and buy fonts like a shopaholic. It is amazing and fun for me to create a message using a certain typeface or two that evokes the essence of the piece to be communicated which, by simply changing the font, would change the message entirely and how it would be received by the audience. Long sentence I know, but it is a wonderful thing to be able to create an impacting communications piece with no images or pictures whatsoever. Typography rocks!

Anyway, there are some of us that take this love of type even further. Some of us become type designers and actually come up with our own typefaces. I am not in that class, I don't think I have the patience for what that entails. I choose to appreciate their craftsmanship and sometimes buy their work. By doing so, I have quite an extensive font library of my own.

Type is good and it is nice to know that there are other options out there than Arial or Times New Roman. So, next time you read a really good article or see a print ad that really astounds you, just think of the work done behind that piece and give a nod to the type setter. What do you think? Do you appreciate good typography? Do you like a good font? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Don't Forget to Have Fun

2005-11-11T16:24:00.000-08:00

I just completed designing a few logo concepts for the annual Bike to Work Day. It is a grass-roots organization and I received an email that they were looking for a new logo design for next year. I jumped on it.

I get so caught-up in the day-to-day worklife and sometimes monotonous daily affairs of doing things that I forget to take a break and do something that I really enjoy - like designing a brand or logo. It is a chance to break free of many of the restrictions that contract work puts on me and get creative in my own way. It is a great exercise in keeping fresh and current. Not to mention that it's a lot of free publicity and promotion for my work if I am fortunate enough to get chosen.

I also like the research and development portions of designing for an event like this. It's fun for me to get educated on the event at hand and the organization that puts it all together. This one happens to be the SF Bicycle Coalition and I am all for them.

So, let's see what happens in the next week or so to see if my two submitted concepts go anywhere. I like them and it was fun for me so that's reward enough in itself. It is a good exercise and allows for my creativity to keep churning. What do you think? Do you get involved in pro-bono submissions? What do you do to keep your creativity going? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike.

Make Your Mark

2005-11-09T22:17:00.000-08:00

I went to the polls yesterday to cast my vote. I always vote. I like to cast my ballot and make my mark in my own little way. I don't really know how good it does in the big scheme of things, but it makes me feel good and that I've done my part.

In San Francisco, we voted for a few different local measures - from fixing our potholes to banning ownership of hand guns in the City. I voted YES on both of those. We also voted on whether or not we think military recruitment should occur on high school campuses...a big NO on that one.

I think I reside in a pretty liberal city at times. But, there are always a few of those others out there that really believe in things that are just insane and take away a person's civil liberties. What do we do with the homeless? What about the criminally insane? Do we just throw them away somewhere and hope they go away? I know many people out there think that if they're homeless or insane, they did it to themselves and should just get a job. If only those folks that believe that sort of thing would put themselves in someone else's shoes for a day, they may just have a different view. Who would take care of their SUVs that day? Heaven forbid they miss their non-fat latte.

Anyway, it is important for all of us to have our opinions and have the freedom to feel and say what we want. Of course we always will not agree with one another, but that has to be OK. Even though some folks think that what they believe and think should be forced on everyone - it just doesn't work that way. So, we need to make our trip to the polls no matter how big or small the election is. This mark we make may just make a difference sometime. What do you think? How do you feel about voting and making your mark? Please post your thoughts and feelings here as we'd love to hear what you think. Mike

Deadlines — Yours or Mine?

2005-11-06T13:18:00.000-08:00

I'm usually a good egg when it comes to meeting deadlines. I have always hated doing things at the last minute or putting things off. I am one of those folks that doesn't work well under pressure. I usually have my own, internal deadline that I want to make that comes prior to when the physical deadline actually falls. That's good practice, I think. But, my deadlines don't always coincide with the reality of the project or client.

There have been times when I am ready to send concepts or revisions to a client when I feel it is too soon or the client will think that I didn't spend enough time on them. There are also times when I meet a deadline - or come in before a deadline - for an RFP, for example when the deadline suddenly changes or gets pushed back to a later date. What does that do for my credibility? Does this deadline change allow others to get into the pool that were late before? Does the fact that I was on time or even early account for how I would work when awarded the contract? I wonder about that sometimes.

I spend a lot of time working on projects in my head. I brainstorm on paper, sure, but I do a lot of ruminating and contemplating in my head before I get to the paper or computer stage. There are many times when I get a solution in my head and know exactly what I will design for that solution before I get to a computer. Sometimes solutions come rather quickly and sometimes it takes a long time to let the answer come. Nevertheless, the time and diligence spent on the intangibles amount to a lot.

When I complete a project before it is actually required, does that mean that I came up with the best solution? Did I display my best work? Or, could I have spent more time on it and come up with something better? Maybe so, but I am not in the market of second-guessing myself all the time. I work on things 24/7 in my head which I don't bill or get paid for. It's part of the love and passion for design. It makes me crazy too.

So, deadlines are good for all of us; early-birds or procrastinators. We both need to be aware of time and put our creative models in action to keep the cycle of problems and solutions moving. Maybe I'll submit my concepts at 5 PM on the deadline day sometime. I shudder at the thought. What do you think? How do you deal with deadlines? Do you wait until the last minute? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

I Want the World and I Need it by Tomorrow

2005-11-03T16:52:00.000-08:00

I received a referral from a colleague that basically amounts to a lot of work for little compensation. Don't get me wrong, I am very grateful for leads and referrals and I do thank my friend for sending it my way. I do have to say, though, that sometimes what appears to be like a good thing upon first glance, may be anything but when looked at closer.

This particular potential client wanted to have a few different-sized communications pieces designed for use to promote some upcoming financial classes. They desired to have the text easily changeable and alterable so they could use the pieces for future class dates. They also needed this done in less than 5 days. I quoted them a very doable rush price to get this done. The potential client then came back to me to tell me that they only need one piece done and the budget was half of what I quoted. I said I'd love to work with them but with the parameters and usage of this piece, I'd have to propose a fee in the middle of our two prices. C'mon, people! What's the value of good design?!

First of all, I wonder what they're charging the registrants to take these classes. I also wonder how many times they'll plan on using this same piece for other classes. They weren't even going to use a qualified printer or service bureau to produce it as they were going to "use a client's printer" to get it done for free. What's the value in this and when will design be seen as part of the overall budget of a program or event and not as an afterthought?! Whew. I got that out.

There has to be a lot of education sometimes when one does artistic or rather intangible things for a living. The time and talent required to communicate the desired message to the intended audience have to amount to something. Sometimes its not worth trying to educate because they simply will never get it and that's OK. There are other times when it's valuable and viable to get the word out of the worth and quality of good design. Maybe I'll sign up for their financial class. What do you think? How do you feel about the quality of design? What is it worth to you? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

What Time Is It?

2005-10-30T10:33:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time of year again when I wake up one day and don't know what time it is. No - I didn't go out and do a little too much partying (too old for that) - it's that time of year again when we "fall back" and change our watches and biological clocks back an hour. I like the idea of gaining an hour in terms of my biological clock, I need all the help I can get in that area. I just don't like the notion of the days getting shorter again and darkness falling earlier and earlier.

I really knew what time it was when I got up this morning. I am so obsessive - I started changing all the clocks in the afternoon so I could get my mind ready for the change. I need to do things like that in order to handle change effectively.

So, it's a new day and I gain an hour...maybe I'll have another cup of coffee.

What do you think? Do you know what time it is? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

The Feeling of Worth

2005-10-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

I attended an event the other night in a grand old ballroom in downtown San Francisco. I was invited to attend in payment for graphic design services I did for the promotional collateral end of things for the evening. It was a benefit for displaced musicians from the recent southern disasters. Various local cabaret singers and other performers were on hand to present an evening of entertainment and money-raising to benefit the cause. Boy, was I totally out of my element.

I am not used to going to an event where there is a who's-who of a particular area of society (like the cabaret set). I got there sort of early, too early, and felt like an oddball. After paying my respects and hellos to those I worked with on this project, I almost slipped out. I decided to face this particular fear and stick it out. I'm glad I did.

Once the evening got going, it was quite an experience. I really do like cabaret music and the standards, but like to experience it in the safety and security of my own home (my bubble). I got to sit at a VIP table in front which was real nice too. I sat at the table and met some very nice and interesting people. Other friends and acquaintances I know sat at my table as well. I was still sort of reticent to get up and walk around the ballroom, so I stayed in the safety-area of my VIP table. The evening was fun (a little long) and I stayed for the entire thing. Go figure.

OK, what's to learn from this? Well, first of all, I don't need to feel that I don't belong in ANY situation or group. I may not be as well-versed in certain areas of culture as others in the room, but I am still a good person and a nice guy.
Additionally, just by showing up and giving things a chance, I may find that I meet some others just like me or learn a little more about something, like music from New Orleans, for example.

The graphic design stuff I did looked good and it made me feel like I was part of the event as well. The program didn't come out as I would've liked, but I don't think that ruined too many people's evenings.
So, what do you think? How do you face your fears? Do you ever feel like you don't belong? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Pricing the Worth of My Services

2005-10-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

An issue that comes up a lot in my daily business dealings in that of price.

What do you charge?

is a common refrain I hear before any real business is done. It is a difficult thing to answer right on the spot and some potential clients may not understand.

It depends

is a common refrain I give back in this question.

What do graphic designers charge for their services? How do service businesses in general set up a pricing structure? From what I've learned in business school and in my business planning class, there has to be a break-even point, or point when all expenses and revenues are equal. After that point, there is an opportunity for revenue or profit.

In the graphic design industry, as in all industries, there are standard rates or current rates that are being charged in the marketplace or geographic region. Of course, I don't want to over charge a client for my services. Additionally, it would be a crime for me to consciously undercut others' bids or price mine so low that no other designers can compete. That is not fair and undermines the entire industry.

There are many factors that come into play when pricing as well. Level of experience, type of project, output requirements, what is provided or existing and what is not are a few examples that need to be considered by all parties when working together and pricing services. I try to stay true to myself and others and do the best that I can to ensure the best service at the best rate possible. Shorter than normal deadlines are a time when my pricing may come in at a higher rate, for example.

The main goal for me is to not only offer great service at fair prices, but to also develop long-term relationships that benefit all of us. Repeat clients are great and are offered more discounts and leniency in pricing because the relationship is important and I feel rewards for loyalty are paramount. It's nice to know how each of us works and what style we have. It only saves time in the long-run. I think the value of long-term client relationships is far more valuable than the prices charged.
What do you think? How do you price your services? What do you think about long-term client relationships? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear them. Mike

Fall and Times They Are A-Changin'

2005-10-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

It's getting to be the fall season around here. The days get shorter, the sun sort of doesn't sit as high in the sky anymore and the air is a little crisper. I love this time of year. Granted, in San Francisco, there isn't much of a season change, but I notice and like it just the same. I do miss the turning leaves, though.

This time of year makes me think of what has happened in the preceeding year and how things change. I've had an extremely rocky year in terms of health, business, relationships, and life in general. I didn't like a lot of it and I still don't. However, I do learn from all experiences and try to remain teachable and grow no matter what transpires. There have been good things this year as well, I just forget about those.

As the days get shorter and night falls upon us more quickly now, I will continue to move ahead and take stock of what I do have and not worry about what I don't. Thank God, I'm not a material sort of soul. I am pretty content with the small stuff and my little world in the bubble called San Francisco. What do you think? How is this time of year for you? Do you even think about it? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Checking In

2005-09-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hello. It's been a few days, well, maybe a week or so, since there has been any entry on this blog. Here is one.

It's been a little hot lately in San Francisco, and I mean that in terms of weather. I don't particularly like the hot weather so I'm glad it doesn't last too long. Hot here is anything over or around 75 degrees. I personally don't like any temp over 68.

Also, I will be moving office space in the next month. I have decided to move to another area of the building where I work and move into a cubicle space. It will be a better location and cheaper rent. Since I've been dealing with health lately, I have had to slow down on some of the work projects and activities that generate revenue. So, the change and slight downgrade is OK and also needed. What's most important to me these days is staying healthy, feeling good, and being a pleasant human being. I don't need the material things that seem to be so important to be successful in some circles. Consumerism has never been my deal. I am happy to have rent money and some left over to eat and have some entertainment.

I do foresee some other changes ahead for me and the world in which I live. I like to be present for these things and have the intellect to accept and try to understand. At present, I just need to stay in the present.
What do you think? How are you doing these days? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Working in Teams

2005-09-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in most people's lives when it's necessary to work in teams. This can happen as a result of a work group, a committee or a project that requires a group effort. This scenario causes one to be flexible and adapt. Well, at least try to flexible and adapt...

In my case, I welcome a team approach to things. That's way different than the way I used to feel about it. It is always a lesson in stepping back and letting go of my controlling ways and my need to be involved in everything. That attitude of "I'll just do it, because no one else will" or "no one else can do it as well as I can" has been slowly abandoned over the years and it is a life saver. Of course, it still pops up now and then, especially if I feel that someone on the team isn't pulling his or her weight or is dropping the ball. However, I still can step back and not get all controlling - things have a way of working themselves out. Checks and balances occur and the wheat gets separated from the chaffe, or something like that.

Anyway, even though I know I can do everything and need no help whatsoever, I have learned to allow others in and work in a team effort when called for. (I'm totally kidding about the knowing I can do everything part.) I really like it when others on the team can use their individual expertise on things which makes the result a much better thing. I remember back in the '80s when the Japanese team approach was such a new thing and it was taught in the business schools. Hmmm. It wasn't such a bad idea then and I think it's not now either. What do you think? How do you like working in teams? Do you thrive on it or feel stifled and resentful? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

New Blood

2005-09-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

I have had some new blood brought into my life. Literally. I had a blood transusion yesterday and it was quite an experience.

I have had very low blood counts lately as a result of some medical treatments and was directed to get this transfusion. It took about six hours for the two units (bags) of red stuff to be pushed in my body. I have found out that my blood type is O-positive and that my donor's blood was O-negative, which is the 'universal donor' type that anyone can take. Interesting.

Anyway, I feel a little different today. I am not so tired and out of breath as I was for the past few weeks. I guess I need some blood for oxygen to be carried around my body. Very interesting thing, the body.

So, as I change and have some new blood, I hope that things will steadily improve in the healthcare front and that my donor is a genius and has genius blood...
What do you think? Have you ever had a transfusion? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Change is Good, Right?

2005-08-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

This summer has been especially rough for me. I not only have achieved a little burn out from taking on too much work on a continuing basis, I've also had some "big deal" health concerns come up that really threw me off base. In other words, things have been changing for me whether I like it or not and I am not the biggest fan of change.

In my power-drivng, willfull world, I will embrace change when it works into my schedule and when I want it. Of course, all change has to be the way I want it to be as well. Guess what? My world is not perfect and I don't think anyone else's is either.

I have learned a lot in the past 4-plus years that assist in my peace and serenity and allows me the ability to get and stay in the moment. It is not an easy task to do and I don't do it all the time, but I try.
Change and the pain that sometimes accompanies it is supposed to be good and a sign that you're not dead. It also makes one mature and grow and be a real human in the bigger scheme of things.
So, here I am, trying to say NO when I can or when I need to and taking care of myself and caring for myself in a non-selfish way. I believe this is a life-long undertaking.
What do you think? How do you deal with change? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear about them. Mike

Being Left Alone vs Isolation

2005-08-22T14:23:00.000-07:00

I am one of those people who likes to be left alone to do my work. I don't need to have a person close by to talk to or a group of folks to listen to. I am pretty fine in doing my stuff without other people around, thank you. But, when does that self-sufficient attitude turn into isolation?
I know that I am prone to isolation. I get sick and tired of people sometimes and just want to be in my own little bubble. It's not that people are bad, it's just that sometimes I don't want to deal with others. I know it's a lot about control, manipulation, intimacy issues, etc. but I'm not in a therapy session here. I am glad that I can be comfortable with myself and be productive as such. My Mom envies this in me because she hates to be alone.
So, as I sit here with my headphones on and work in my own little world, I know that I can say HI to someone and have a conversation if I want to - just not now.
What do you think? Can you work well alone? When is it not healthy to or work alone?
Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think. Mike

Life Changes

2005-08-12T13:14:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been feeling older than ever. It's funny how one day I wake up and find that my metabolism is slower and that I'm getting those little "liver" spots. I tend to get tired a lot more easily and, of course, things are sagging here and there.
Additionally, I've recently been diagnosed with a condition that causes me to get treatments every few weeks to keep it in check. It's kind of scary, but I know things will work out the way they're meant to.

I've made some changes in my life and more are sure to come. I've left two of the networking groups I belonged to with the intention of finding something different. I don't know if I'm interested in working like I used to in the business or if I need to take a step back and evaluate where I am and what I want to do. I've needed to slow down a lot and it sucks. It's also kind of good. I think it's supposed to be this way right now. Stay tuned, as I'm sure the news will change as well. mike.

Client Feedback

2005-07-22T11:44:00.000-07:00

After a project is completed, I usually send the client an evaluation and feedback form so they can address their experience. I say usually because sometimes I don't remember to do it in a timely manner. I'm working on that. I like to get feedback on how the project went from start to finish - addressing the quality of communication, follow-through and follow-up, pricing, results, etc. When clients actually send a completed form back to me, there is always some valuable information that helps me and the business continue to do what works and change or adapt what doesn't.

Of course, I don't like to hear negative or constructive feedback. I tend to take everything too personally and take a constructive comment on what didn't work as a hit against me and either get angry or sad. That is changing and I am increasingly able to put comments in the right perspective. What I desire to get most importantly are client testimonials that I can use when promoting our services to potential new clients.

I have to say, the majority of the comments I get returned are extremely positive. I always like to read those and they make me feel good. I guess the more important comments are those that offer some constructive suggestions that may help the business grow and change.

I recently received some feedback from a client who was very challenging to work with. (I'm sure I wrote about this in a previous entry.) While the feedback on the work and follow-through was extremely positive, that of our interactions was not too great. I have a tendency to get somewhat frustrated and impatient when things don't go according to the contract or when I feel that some liberties are being taken. I guess also I don't like it when things don't go my way. Anyway, there were comments made on my hot and cold demeanor while going through the design process with the client. Looking back on this particular project, I can honestly see where this may have occured. I do believe the client is right and needs to be pleased. I don't believe that I should give away more than what is contracted for and when there needs to be an issue raised regarding that, I feel I need to discuss it. In my experience, the design process and what is involved is many times not fully understood by the client and some education needs to be given. I hope not to come across too harsh or gruff, but I am human and I do care a lot about what I do. There has to be a delicate balance between what is offered as part of the project and what is expected that goes beyond what is contracted.

So, I get a ding on my client interaction style. Duly noted and I will do the best that I can to adapt and change this for the better. I don't know if I'll get to work with this particular client again or not. I will have better client relations as a result in any regard.
What do you think? How do you deal with addressing sensitive issues with clients? What do you let slide? How do you deal with the balance of giving things away and sticking to the contract? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think.
Mike

Be Careful of Burnout

2005-07-20T02:32:00.000-07:00

I have recently been suffering the feelings of burnout. I have worked for a long time without a real vacation and am now feeling the affects as such. I guess I am not feeling burnout not only from work, but from life in general right now. I've been doing a lot of things in my "day-to-day" as routine lately - not to mention some health stuff - and I am in need of a boost or some excitement.

What does a person do when they're in need of a fresh perspective, a new outlook? I know for me that a change in the old routine is usually good. I am one that gets into the habit and "schedule" of doing the same thing (the same way) for awhile then gets sick of it and needs a break. Variety - someone once said - is the spice of life. Well, I need some new spice.

I have decided to rent an RV and drive across the US for about 2 weeks. Can't really afford it, but I am hoping to get someone else to make the trek with me (and my cat) to share in the costs. I made this journey when I first moved to California about 15 years ago and loved it. So, in my compulsive style, I decided to do this, went to AAA and got the necessary maps and atlas, called an RV rental place, and, in all of about 3 hours, booked a hotel room on wheels and started obsessing about it. I don't do anything in small ways.

On this journey I hope to find some time to be with myself, enjoy some different scenery - and hopefully people - and get some rejuvenation. I really need it as my ambition and drive in the freelance world has taken some hits. I don't like that feeling and it makes me feel like I am losing something.

I think what I am attempting to do is a good thing and I am sure that I will come out on the other side a more pleasant person to be around. If not, at least it's been fun reading through tour books. What do you think? What do you do about burnout? How do you avoid it and how do you get out of it? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear about them.
Mike

A Protest "Turn-Off"

2005-07-16T11:49:00.000-07:00

I am sitting in my living room on a bright Saturday morning, listening to rather boisterous pro-choice protesters countering some pro-life advocates that congregated outside of the Planned Parenthood facility in my neighborhood. The pro-life supporters have been holding silent prayer vigils on Saturday mornings for as long as I have lived here - about 10 years. I never really notice or see them because they're silent and don't have vociferous protests. For some reason today, however, there is a group of pro-choice miscreants that have decided to invade my neighborhood and rant. This is replete with bullhorns, noise-makers, signs etc. When is a protest too much? When does disturbing the peace come into play?

I usually am one on the front-lines of freedom-to-choose, hands-off-me, etc. But, when the protest comes to my living area and the high density of the population living around me, the notion of tactics and respect comes into play. I see many of the more boisterous, far-left population resorting to more harmful tactics to get their message heard. Not that yelling in my neighborhood for a few hours is harmful -it is annoying - but when property and human beings are vandalized and harmed, the line needs to be drawn. That does not seem to be occuring here. But, I don't feel loud and obnoxious protests are welcomed or should be tolerated in areas where a majority of people live. Oh, yes, I filed a noise complaint with some "hands-tied" officers on site but to no avail. There is something about decibal levels and right-to-protest during certain periods of the day that circumvent any law-abiding citizen's noise complaint.

Am I just a curmudgeon? Am I trying to control the entire neighborhood, and world, according to my idea of right and wrong? I don't know - I just know that when the more extreme practices of protesting inhibit or hinder my personal space, I get extremely turned-off and any message I may normally agree with is lost.
What do you think? When are protests or other noise-producing tactics too much? Are they ever? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think.
Mike

When Is A Person "Too Old"?

2005-07-08T21:52:00.000-07:00

I went to a book signing the other night for Seymour Chwast, one of the most prolific graphic designers of our time, in my opinion. He did a lot for the field of graphic design before it was even an industry. He is getting up in years, but, when I met him, he seemed so calm and content with all that was going on around him. He had obviously "done this before" and his presence showed a lot of knowledge and experience which made me feel somewhat awestruck. When my turn in line came up, I shook his hand and almost found myself gushing over "Mister Chwast". He is really just another human being on this planet and is really just a man that spent many years doing what he likes and knows how to do. He is an elderly man who has earned a lot of respect from a lot of people. It made me feel that one (me) may not be "too old" to be working in this young-person's field.

Yes - I feel that I am old and started in the field of graphic design a little late to be recognized as an "up-and-coming" or even taken seriously. I had a long career in sales and marketing and went back to school to learn a thing or two about graphic communications. That's what I feel it's like sometimes - a thing or two. Am I too old to be going after accounts or positions in various professional associations that are meant for the younger graphic designer? Should I be more of what is called the seasoned professional or the figure-head at my age? (I hate using quotation marks a lot, so I am stopping). I am not there at all professionally, so I don't deserve those latter designations yet. So, can I be taken seriously and not kind of shooed aside so the youngsters can have their day?

Granted, I am a paranoid and neurotic individual and I can accept that. I also know that feelings are not facts and that what I get in my head is, many times, not reality. I just think I am experiencing what a lot of folks in middle age experience when they get into a new area where there are younger peeps around. I think I would like to have the respect of these young "whipper-snappers" and hope they realize that I may be at their same level (or even a little lower) in the profession, but have a lot of work and life experience under my belt that one can't get in school. Maybe someday I will be sitting behind a table and signing my book for my adoring crowd.
What do you think? When is one too old to be going after things? Is one ever too old? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think.
Mike

Get Behind Design

2005-06-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

The value of design is more important to me than most other things right now. I just did a presentation to one of the networking groups I am in on this concept and I think it was well received. My goal was to not only tell the other members that design is not a luxury and needn't be feared - but to emphasize the value of design to their businesses and themselves. It is important to me to communicate that graphic design can help businesses grow.

I am wearing one of the few (well, 5) T-shirts I got at the AIGA conference last week. It says "Get Behind Design" on the front and our Indianapolis chapter on the back (thanks, Indie). It is a great message and it reinforces the message that we can all get behind this concept no matter where we sit on the business or organizational level. (Not to mention that the T-shirt is in olive green - I look good in that color.)

I want to take the profession and discipline of design to the next level in my world and business. I will take and own the attitude of assisting the client in creating solutions that are viable for them and speak to their audience. Of course, my attitude is to offer solutions that are "anything but standard" as well.
What do you think of the value of design? How do you communicate this? Do you even think about it or even care? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear about them.
Mike

Motivational Trip

2005-06-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

I just came back from a leadership retreat with the AIGA. I was in Pittsburgh for about 4 days with other board members from almost all of the other AIGA chapters including most of those from our own. I have to tell you, the warmth and friendliness of virtually everyone there made me feel welcomed, accepted and a valued member of the design community...just what I needed.

Conferences can sometimes leave one cold or frustrated. This was the second retreat of this type I've attended and can say it was a trip well-spent. Not only did I get to interact with other members on my board that I know pretty well, I got to meet many other individuals from all over the country who share many of the same professional and personal values as I do. Also, I was able to share and learn from peers that are basically very nice people.

Coming back home from this uplifting experience will help in my dealings and activities on the board and our chapter as well as in the day-to-day operations of my freelance business. I needed a shot-in-the-arm like this.

So, if you have an opportunity to attend a leadership retreat or conference and feel it would be a waste of time, please reconsider. You may just find yourself full of renewed energy and a little happier.

What do you think? Do you get a chance to go to conferences or workshops? What do you put into them? How do you feel when they're over? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear them.
Mike

Whoo Boy!

2005-06-15T14:24:00.000-07:00

OK - Here I am, back to getting normal, at least as normal as I can be. After being not too healthy for awhile, it is good to feel better. I don't like the feeling of not being up-to-par, but the way I work, I usually push too far and then I have to pay for it.

So anyway, I am almost back 100% and have to get back to things that a "healthy" guy does. I had many projects going on as I got sick and advised clients of the potential for delay. All of them were very gracious and understanding. Although I attempted to work from home, there were many days in the past week or so that I just didn't have the energy to do anything. Of course, I went into the guilt mode and the feeling that I would lose all clients and the business would close. (It was the fever, I'm sure). I hate the feeling when I want to do something and I just don't have the energy.

So, I am doing OK now and have picked up where I left off. If there is a main disadvantage of being a sole proprietor, it is when the "proprietor" gets sick. I am the only one who "opens and closes" the place, the only one who pays the bills and sends out the invoices, the only one who communicates and develops new business, etc. It can be a heavy situation when an illness comes.

What can I do about it? I think that I need to remember that health and serenity come first and to be grateful for what I have, even if when it's time to rest. As I look around I see that the world is still functioning without me - as I am sure it always will. What do you think? What do you do when your body tells you to slow down? Do you have contingency plans in case you get sick? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear them. Mike

Slow Moving Times

2005-06-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

Being a sole proprietor can be extremely rewarding and exciting. For me, it is great not only to be the "senior" graphic designer, but also the art director for great projects. What happens when the designer and art director gets sick and is forced to slow down?

Well, that's exactly what has happened to me. I have always tended to go and push and work overboard until I need to stop. Well, that's happened again. I have been hit with a new stage of a long illness I've been dealing with and have to slow down.

I don't like it, it makes me angry, but I have to do it. This type of situation seems to always happen to me just as a new level of business development is occurring - of course, it doesn't sit well with my controlling personality at all.

Anyway, all I can do at this point is take care of myself, do the best that I can in all of my affairs and communicate to those involved with me and the projects at hand.
The big picture here is much more important than the short term design projects. A little humble pie is not a bad thing at all.
What do you think? How do you deal with illness? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think. Mike

Project Feedback

2005-06-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

One thing that is very important in my field and one of the things I fear most is the client feedback session - or, the post mortem. I let my fear of negative criticism get the best of me and it can mess with the whole experience. I forget the fact that the feedback session may be of positive comments. My crazy mindset is always to go to the negative outcome. (Yes, this is an issue for therapy. Rest assured, I am there.)

Anyway, just as I get extremely uncomfortable with critiques or feedback in general, I also get this way when it's time for the client to let me know what went well and what could have been better or what needs improvement. This kind of dialogue is very important and any feedback can only benefit the business in the long run. It's great for growth - not only physically for the business but also mentally and emotionally.
I am terribly sensitive and take things way too personally. A healthy dose of those characteristics can be of value to a person. But, in my black and white version of the world, all is great and there are no problems at all or all is horrible and there is not reason to go on. Whew, what a scale.

I have been aware of this for quite some time now and have really been coming to terms with it and also seeing how to look at things a little differently. I have a long way to go, but one of the best ways to get through this sort of fear is to go through it and see what comes out on the other side. I need to let go of the outcome and remember that the world probably will not end because of some constructive criticism. There are many more things out there that could.
What do you think? How do you deal with feedback, negative or otherwise? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear from you. Mike

Pro Bono vs Con Bono

2005-05-29T14:33:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in every designer's life when we're presented with a project that we would like to be compensated for, but it's just not in the budget of the presenter. Sure, they say "charge me the best rate you can" as their facial expression shows the wince and hopeful look of getting the work for free. What a conundrum that puts us in. But, if we step back and look at all of the factors involved, that dastardly big picture, then we may see that a pro bono project can be more of an opportunity than a hassle.

This happens to me time and again. As I get out there more and experience more of what the world needs in the way of quality design, the subtle pro bono request comes around. I had this exact thing happen to me a few days ago. The project was for a grass-roots philanthropic organization that I truly believe in. The request was to design a visual graphic and some typography that would be used to promote some upcoming events that would help them garner some funds and assist their participants. Sounds good enough. However, I worked with this organization before on a very low-rated project that turned into one of those never-ending things. OK, I learned from that experience. So, after I was asked about this project and told the "charge me the best rate you can" scenario, I thought about it for awhile and told the client that I'd be happy to do it gratis.

Not so fast, though. I had to make a few stipulations that would get the project completed within their deadline of four days (a whole separate issue) and offer a solution that solved their problem while also protecting me. Basically these stipulations included number of concepts and rounds of revisions, proofing, etc. The client was agreeable to this and the project went on without difficulty.

What's the big picture here? A not-for-profit client that is happy, a well-designed piece that promotes the importance and value of good graphic design, another piece for my portfolio and possibly some residual projects or income because of this pro bono work. It's good experience and, put in the correct context, can be done without the pains experienced and lessons learned before. Granted, there will be times when this sort of request just can't be honored due to other deadlines, travel, etc. But, when this sort of work can be done, it is for a greater good.
What do you think? How do you handle pro bono requests? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think. Mike

Tired and Grumpy

2005-05-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

Whew! Am I grumpy and bitchy lately. I have had this chip on my shoulder for awhile now and it's time to knock it off. What's this chip about, you ask? You can ask 'cause I don't know. I think it has to do with my false reality of needing to control everything. Just do things how I see it and all will be OK. It doesn't work and I get grumpy and bitchy because of it.

I am not working with the type of clients I want, the politics in this state and land aren't what I want them to be, people are not acting or behaving in the way I want them to be, ad infinitum. I've done a lot of networking today and maybe I feel that everyone should've dropped to my feet and begged to work with me and to offer my words of wisdom to them. Of course that didn't happen and I feel like a failure in some way. What's up with that?

It is a deep sense of inferiority and low self esteem, in my view. I usually act the opposite of how I truly feel. What to do? Do something different, act differently than I usually do. Keep it simple. Don't take myself too seriously. Learn how to play like an adult.

OK, I'm done. What do you think? What makes you tired and grumpy? What do you do about it? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear about them. Mike

Even Bigger than the Art of Freelancing

2005-05-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

I was privileged to be part of a student-attended portfolio day over the weekend. My main part of this whole thing was to be part of a freelancing workshop which addressed the whats and hows of freelancing and some experience-based dialogue. Two other colleagues and I spoke on things that we deal with based on freelancing in studios or being sole-proprietors in the graphic design front. I feel it was good for those that attended and good for me too.

I am a strong advocate of doing more in the community than just working for the client and making some money. It is a good thing, in my opinion, to offer experience and tips to others as well as offering assistance on how to get through the maze of small business rules and regulations, networking, marketing, client relations, etc. It is very important for professional and personal growth to do more for the industry and give back knowledge. This type of philosophy will only pay off in the future.

I was reading an article in a design magazine that addresses this same type of thing. What the article was really addressing was how to avoid burnout. Some of the suggestions were to teach, volunteer and get involved in an industry association. Of course, all of these suggestions should be incorporated with the subject of graphic design, especially with how I am addressing this. Not only do they help stop burnout, I know from experience that these suggestions really work and provide a lot of insight for me and those on the other end of the table.

What do you think? Do you give back to your community? What do you do? Please post your thoughts here as we would love to hear from you.
Mike

Is it Time for Help?

2005-05-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

My freelance business has been very busy lately and I am finding myself juggling quite a few projects simultaneously. I am working on five or six projects right now and am slowly getting stretched a little thin. I am not sacrificing quality design work - I am just getting closer to deadlines and feeling a little rushed. Is it time for me to get some help?

I have said more than once that I need an intern or someone to help out on some of the management type of things. I don't think I can really use an associate on a full time basis. I do know that I am a control freak and it would be a lesson in patience and letting go to have a helper. I also feel that there is a lot more business out there in the design world and that I am in a good place right now.

So, what do I do? I think a part time intern would be good. It's getting to be the end of the school year for many students and I know that some would be looking to get some experience. It just may be a good time to bite the bullet and get one. This is a good problem to have, so I should continue to count my blessings.
What do you think? Do you have experience with interns or part time help? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you ahve to say. Mike

How Preferred Should a Preferred Client Be?

2005-05-18T18:54:00.000-07:00

I am in a few business leads groups where the premise is to meet on a regular basis, get to know each other, and refer business. These leads groups are good for my freelance business in many ways. There are many nice folks and viable other industries and businesses represented. As part of my quest for developing new relationships that lead to business, there are a few individuals who I would like to work with in my groups. I like to get business from other "like" industries, such as advertising or architectual firms. I recently had this chance presented to me.

I was recently called by a professional in one of my groups to design a change-of-address-card. Sounds simple enough, but this person is in an industry that is extremely detail-oriented and who do a lot of their own designing in their profession. I was told this by the new client up front, so I thought I would be prepared for it. Well, I went to great lengths to prepare a proposal and get some printing quotes for the client in about 12 hours' time. I wanted to make sure all of the details were covered before the client meeting. I know, this is part of the job, but what happened when the client dropped by wiped virtually everything away.

Almost every single clause and term was rewritten and edited, the price quoted for the project was fine until the client told me that the card would need to be completed in 7 days or less which resulted in a standard proposed rush fee (not acceptable), the printer quotes were all too high or not quoted for the desired card size, and a deposit was given and sort of forced on me without any regard to the full prepayment clause in the contract. And the job hasn't even started yet.

I agreed to all of these things mainly because I like this person, I am in the same leads exchange group as this person, and I consider this as one of my preferred industries. I have learned a lot in my freelance world and now have the confidence and experience to stick to my guns in many things. I realize I could've addressed or pressed some of the issues, but, the long term effects and big picture view were and are of higher quality. I really hope the design and production part of this job goes smoothly. Oh, I was told I would not be designing this as the client knows exactly what is needed on the piece. Uh-oh...
What do you think of all this? How do you deal with this type of thing? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think.
Mike

The Time Between Projects

2005-05-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

My freelance business has been pretty busy lately. I have been working up to five projects at the same time in the past 45 days. For a guy like me who hates to be bored, it's been great and has kept feeding my secret craving for stress and drama. When I am in these modes, I work very hard and have little time for anything else that's important in keeping a small business going - like business development. Consequently, I am now in the state that I get into quite frequently - little to no contracts or business on the burner.

It's interesting to me to get into this position every now and then. I know how to run and manage pretty much all sides of a business, but there are not enough hours in the day and a guy like me is only human (even though I struggle with that non-productive way of being)and can only multi-task so much. There are many aspects to a business that need to be addressed constantly. For me, however, when I am working on five projects at a time, marketing and business development fall to the wayside. I know enough about this cycle enough now to realize that the tide will rise again and there will be clients needing contracts all of the sudden. It's funny how the universe can't keep this part of the business at an even pace. If things would only go according to my schedule...

Anyway, the business comes and the business goes. I do a lot of networking and have resources that provide business most of the time. Maybe, at times like these, I should take a break and slow down for awhile. I don't think so.
What do you think about this? How do you keep the business coming in your freelance or sole-proprietor business? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear about them.
mike

When Design Feels Like Order-Taking

2005-05-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

I have run into a situation where what started out as a great chance to design a visual communication piece has turned into a simple matter of what feels like order-taking. How does this happen? Did I do my background homework and research thoroughly? Did my creative brief have relevant and effective information on it that addressed the client and intended audience's needs? Did I explain the design process and effectively sell the client enough on the intended solution? A lot of tough questions, but ones worth looking into.

This project started out harmless enough. It was to be a redesign of a newsletter for a non-profit. I was contracted to do the redesign and page layout for the project. I was led to believe that I would have some free-reign on the design solution and could be somewhat flexible on elements such as typographic color, for example. There was a strong desire by the client to keep the newsletter somewhat like the original in terms of section titles, type of content, images, etc. but I thought I could do a little more.

Well, after the first concept was presented to the client, the project slowly turned into a back-and-forth order-taking experience where most of the original elements creeped back in and the design turned into a less-than-optimal solution. Some of my ego was hurt, of course. I also felt as though some of my integrity and knowledge had been lost and I was not trusted by the client. The project will turn out just fine and will indeed look much better than what I started with. However, I feel that the importance and meaning of good design was once again downplayed by conservatism and appeasing inside politics and non-boat-rocking.

Now, back to those questions. I will look at all of them and learn and adapt. I know that I am not perfect and I can be way off base at times. I just have a strong desire to bring the value and importance of design to all areas of life. What do you think about all this? Do you ever run into experiences like this? How do you stick to your convictions and still not piss-off a client? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear about them.
Mike

When Will It End?

2005-05-05T01:27:00.000-07:00

I am on another project that seems to never end. Did I rant about this in a previous post? Maybe so. However, the time has come again when a self-proposed deadline for a layout project has passed, but the client is still going strong. Yes, I do have clauses in my contracts for timelines and keeping the ball rolling - they are sometimes arbitrary and hard to enforce at times. After all, the client is not unhappy with things when it's in their court. And I do need to keep the client happy.

It is just hard to explain the concept of a project pipeline and the cycle of getting business, working on the project, closing the project and starting all over again. It is though I am just sitting around and waiting for the client to throw me a bone or something. Well, it doesn't work that way. I found myself working on five relatively big projects simultaneously a couple weeks ago. The main culprit that caused a bottle neck was the aforementioned layout project that should've been completed - or at least proofed and ready for production. This type of scenario causes lost time in networking, confirming projects and sending contracts, etc.

So, I rant at this late hour of the morning. It's what it is and I have no control over what my clients do. I CAN mentally be prepared for this type of thing and not be so reactionary when projects seem to run on ad infinitum. I have to be aware of my propensity to get bitchy in word or email and change course when that happens.
Let's just hope I get paid.
What do you think? Do you have the same situations in your work? Please post your thoughts here as we would like to hear from you.
Mike

What Exactly Do You Do?

2005-04-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

I was meeting with a prospective client yesterday. We were talking about ideas for her on how to market her chiropractic practice. She is going toward a new, niche market and wants to reach them in a smart way. She is interested in having me design a brochure that will communicate to this market. Anyway, she told me that she has an updated logo (WHO did it?), copy for the piece and color ideas already squared away. She mentioned that she told a friend of having all of these preliminary graphics and content that prompted the friend to ask, "Then what do you need a graphic designer for?" The client then proceeded to ask me the same question. "Just what do you do?"

Oh, man.
After my mind's jaw dropped to the floor for a minute, I looked at her and proceeded to fill her in on elements and principles of graphic design, typography and the color of the text, and paper and printing components. She was totally satisfied with my answer and I think that she realized that she didn't know what I actually do.

I guess I thought EVERYONE knew what graphic design entails. After all, aren't we all admired and adored because of our "gift"? It was funny how I get comfortable and stuck in my design world bubble and don't realize that my field and industry is just as foreign to some people as gene-splicing and biotech is to me. Go figure. It's nice to be able to comfortably and accurately explain what exactly it is that I do and not have to feel that I am trying to justify my existence. If it weren't for graphic designers, think of what the visual world would be like. I shudder to think.
So, what do think about all this? Do you have to explain yourself at times? Are clients pleased with your explanation of your job? We'd like to hear what you think.
Mike

We Will Succeed

2005-04-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Some thoughts from a friend. These words really put things into perspective for me:

If Oscar Schindler can walk through Hell on Earth, and save 1,200 Jews right from under the nose of the demonic SS, then we too can survive and flourish in much less harsh circumstances.

If Fidel Castro can sit in the shadow of the most powerful nation on the face of the planet for 40 years, and not be taken out of power, we too can find a solution to our nation's problems.

If Steve Jobs can stand the fury of one of capitalism's finest competitors, Microsoft, and come out shining like a star, we too can find the way.

We will do it through Science.
We will do it through Business.
We will even do it through Religion if necessary.
We will do it through whatever works, as long as our values are not compromised.
We will study our opponents and learn what works.
We will not complain or be disheartened.
We will use mental judo, and turn what they resist into our most powerful tools.
We will find a way, to find the common ground of humanity, and protect our future generations.
We will find the path that leads humanity to stronger country and a better world for everybody who wants it.
We will become the change we want to see in the world.

We will succeed, or else.

It's Getting Way Out of Hand

2005-04-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

When is safety and security going over-the-top and getting out of hand? When is public safety and the measures taken to fight all these so-called terrorists too much and bordering on paranoia?

I heard yet another news report of a passenger who boarded a plane, apparently drunk, and had a carry-on bag that wouldn't fit in the overhead bin. When the flight attendant told this person that the bag would need to be checked, the passenger said that wouldn't be a good idea because there was a bomb in it. So, based on that rather tasteless joke, which is now considered a federal offense, the entire plane was evacuated, all of the luggage on the plane, including the bags in the overhead bins, were taken out and rescanned, the plane was taken to a secluded part of the airfield and searched and all of the passengers were forced to go through security again. Thank God for Homeland Security.

Is it me or does this whole scenario seem slightly outrageous and a little paranoid? Granted, a person made a mistake and made an offhand comment that is extremely sensitive "since 9/11" (that overused phrase is a whole other story). But, were the measures taken as a result of this a little extreme? Since we now have this "Patriot Act" and we are constantly being protected from these "evil-doers" that are everywhere but no one can tell us where they are, aren't all of these fear-producing measures a little manic?

It seems to me that we are increasingly being unnecessarily poked, prodded and searched for bombs and other incendiary devices that will harm all of humankind. We are also being monitored, watched and basically followed by a paranoid government that has basically gone mad and is trying to show mid-America that we are safe and that these measures being taken are all to fight these terrorists that are "everywhere". It sounds to me that ever since the administration screwed-up and didn't act on legitimate terrorist threats prior to 2001, instead of admitting any wrong, the whole thing has been twisted into these civil-liberties-revoking policies that only feed more fear on the illinformed. The average person in this country is now the terrorist and can't be trusted.

The whole scenario is too bad. It is amazing how fear and panic can generate such extreme measures - not only in the terrorism area but also in cultural and social situations. Remember, if there is something that we can't handle or don't understand, it must be wrong, immoral or a threat to our safety and has to be stopped. That is the new American way.
What do you think? How do you feel about all of these public safety measures? Please post your thoughts as we would love to hear about them.

Things Are Looking Up

2005-04-22T23:10:00.000-07:00

I increasingly have the feeling that things, economically speaking, are looking up. Everybody I talk to are "swamped" and "stressed". The pink-slips, layoffs and downsizing that's been going on since the dot-bomb are not happening so much anymore. Those of us that are left are required to do more than we used to. We've all sort of shifted. Business is increasing but we're all still in this "lean" mode.

In my business world, colleagues are making money and getting more projects, clients are interested in marketing and promoting their businesses or organizations and all of this is the result of a new way of looking at things. We've had a good five years of doom-and-gloom and learning how to do more with less. I think that we're all sick of complaining about how bad things are and are now getting on with things. Granted, the money-grabbing crooks are running this country right now. But, we're looking beyond that and moving on with our lives and businesses. One way to get those crooks out of Washington is to become more empowered ourselves, stand up for ourselves and fight for our individuality and civil rights. We can't do this by rolling over and taking it up the ass.

I am glad that we're all seemingly doing much better than before. For me, I have to learn again how to get some balance in my life and not ruin my health with stress. I am looking at things a little differently these days. I realize that I can't be perfect and be and do all things for everyone. All I can do is do my best and try as hard as I can. Things seem to work out much more smoothly when I am in this state. I don't see myself as being "the Donald" anytime soon, nor do I want to be. Peace and a state of balance are good enough for me.

Who Are You?

2005-04-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

I spend a lot of time designing identities and logos for many clients. This part of my job is very exciting and rewarding for me. It is satisfying for me to research the client and their industry, ask questions to learn about their style, philosophy and way of doing business and then create a mark that captures all this. A logo or mark can be extremely personal for a client. I love it when the client's face lights up and says, "That's it!".

For me, and I hope that I'm not alone, creating an identity and brand for my own business, and me, is more difficult. I tend to go through a lot of anxiety and fear about just what to use to represent me. I tend to avoid looking at this because I'm
"too busy" doing this job for others that pay me. I guess I feel that my brand is less important. This is very hypocritical on my part because I teach a class on selling ourselves and marketing as entrepreneurs. What's up with that? I even have a difficult time updating my online and tactile portfolios because the client comes first. Although that may be true in many scenarios, I realize that my own lack of confidence and self-esteem in my life are the underlying reasons why I find other projects that are "more important".

Rest assured, this outdated way of looking at my abilities has changed and is continuing to change as I move forward and grow professionally and emotionally. I have had my logo since the business began and have updated my tagline to communicate my style. I also finally updated my online portfolio a few months ago and am determined to keep it that way as time goes on. That is pretty phenomenal for me and I need to remember to be proud and thankful that I am gaining the confidence and motivation that "I preach". I do get pissed-off at myself at times about all this because I am in my midlife and should be all grown up by now. Well, apparently there are some old wounds and deeply stuffed stuff that need taken care of and healed. An identity and brand are very personal things and I take great care and determination to get it right for my clients. I need to continue to do the same thing for myself.
What do you think? How do you "brand" yourself? Do you have any of the same difficulties as I? Please post your responses and feelings here as we would love to hear what you think. Mike

Filling the War Chest

2005-04-16T22:07:00.000-07:00

I had to pay the IRS some tax money yesterday. Since I have had my design business for a few years and am slowly making some net income, I now have to pay quarterly estimated taxes. I don't get it, but it seems that old Uncle Sam always seems to have his hand out.

What I really think is that my money, as well as most other's, is going to fund the war machine and keeping the war chest full. I feel that there is more and more little taxes that don't mean much individually, but they add up to a whopping amount of money when all pooled together. This administration has to come up with ways to finance the billions of dollars it costs for imposing our democratic philosophy on the world, the millions it takes to keep the oil barons happy so their close ties with other crooks in the US remain, and the hundreds of thousands it takes to fuel hatred and fear in middle America - all in the name of God, of course.

I didn't want to pay a damn dime. Why should I be forced to fund this crooked administration and government? Because they have people, like me, by the short hairs. It's a Federal crime to hedge on income taxes. What's funny is even though I am seen as a second-class citizen and don't have the same equality as the mainstream, my money still is good. Once my tax money starts going for the assistance and services of those who need it at home, in this country, then I'll be more inclined to part with it.
What do you think? Did you have to pay a lump of coal to fund the war? Please post here as we would love to hear your thoughts. Mike

Just Answer the Question!

2005-04-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

My good friend has earned another guest post on my blog...
follow this link (click on the title above or copy and paste the link below in your browser address window)

http://www.bushin30years.org/view/?n=9&session_id=308bdbe46a5d040d8c7a3d1b79c03232

See the master of deflection

Just Who is the Guru of Design?

2005-04-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

I read a lot of design magazines, newsletters, email messages, other blogs, etc. where the content is written by graphic designers who are held in high regard in our industry. Many of these names add value to a magazine or newsletter and spur sales or increase readership that pleases the owner of the media. I have to wonder how these "gurus" of graphic design get that status and is everything they tell us the way to go?

I realize that many of these celebrities of graphic design have years of experience and have produced award-winning solutions that helped them get this notoriety. My point is do we, as less-experienced designers, take everything that is said or proposed by them as the ONLY way to do things? There are so many vague or unexplained aspects of what constitutes great design, in my view. It also seems that there are certain design concepts, images and even typefaces that are considered passé or just not done or used. It seems that we are always trying to make sure we know what is NOT to be done so as not to be perceived as "out" or less-than. It's sort of like a twist on the Emperor's New Clothes story. Everyone wants to be "hot" and "in" and is afraid to say what they really think so they don't lose face or come across as less-than-established. I do the same thing, so I am not trying to sound resentful, it's just something I think about.

I go to lectures or receive flyers for conferences that have the current top-name designer celebrities as part of the event to be used as a draw to attract larger audiences. I guess that is common practice in all industries. How do these celebrities get that way? I realize that experience, talent and recognition are extremely important parts of becoming a guru or spokesperson for the masses. I would like to be one of these people and I guess my impatience comes up because I feel that I should be a design guru now and not have to pay my dues to get there. It is so funny to feel this way. I am the same person that lacks self confidence and always feels judged. Who am I to think I can be a designer celebrity just because I say so when I still feel this way? Do the current gurus feel this way too? I would like to sit down and hear the inside feelings and emotions that these folks experience. I think that would help me a lot in addition to their personal views on design.

I really value and appreciate those designer gurus that share their views with the rest of us. I also know that I can take what is said at face value and use it to help my craft or not. It's all part of developing my own style. I guess I'll be a guru in a year or two. :}
What do you think? Are you a design guru? Do you even want to be? Please post your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think. Mike

Dazed and Confused

2005-04-09T22:39:00.000-07:00

I had a rough week, emotionally speaking. I am having a birthday soon and I think I am going through a mid-life crisis. I've had a few before but I am feeling a lot of disillusionment and anger over the state of the world. I actually feel like I am going through a lot of the same angst that those felt back in the early 70s when this country was in another senseless war. It's funny how history repeats itself over and over again. Only history seems to repeat itself in much smaller intervals.

I have had the feeling that most people "out there" right now are uncaring and don't really give a damn about the immediate world around them - let alone the planet. I feel that there is no guidance for the youth of today and that young adults are spoiled and extremely materialistic. Kids litter, tag and spit all over the place, and those slightly older folks are the most consumer-istic individuals than ever before. I feel that there may be some yuppie activists that are against the war and current administration. They may even go to a protest or send some money to the most recent, glamorous political cause. However, don't even think of taking away their SUV or designer latte. It's strange to me to see some anti-war protesters in Gucci and other designer attire. Where's the real protests and uprising in the streets?

I see and hear the news from other countries where the people are up-in-arms over a current political climate or corrupt regime and they're all in the streets chanting and demanding change. That is the power of the people. Where is that in this country?
Are we all so spoiled that we really don't have time for a revolution? Do we still think that as long as we have a paycheck and can buy, buy, buy that no personal strife or hardship can come to us?

That gets me back to my original feeling of having some sort of mid-life crisis. Where do I fit in all this? What kind of difference can I make? I am very guilty myself of going into denial or turning my head on things that truly matter for humanity and personal freedom. As I get older, I can see or feel that the world is really going to hell and it's going to get worse before it gets better. I don't like having such a pessimistic view of things, but I can't help it. All I can do is focus on my own small world and do what I can in it to be nice and helpful to others and not become the person I don't like - one of anger and bitterness. I do think it's time for the people to have a revolution - and soon.
How do you feel about the state of the world these days? Are you pessimistic about things? What do you do to make a difference? Please post here as we would like to hear what you think. Mike

A Guest Post

2005-04-07T07:50:00.000-07:00

I received an email from a good friend and had to post it here...he and I think a lot alike.

"Politicians love to divide people. It keeps the masses from uniting
and truly being powerful. Why do you think they drew the lines up in
the middle east that have brought so much fighting? Because they
wanted peace? No, they split the kurds and the palestinians up,
because they didn't want to be challenged by a united people.

Now they want us to believe our states are either red or blue. Why
does the media want us to think in these simplistic terms? Why do
they seem to think there are no other colors in the rainbow?

Plow your own road. Don't follow the herd. Be whatever color you
want to be. Refuse to be pigeonholed by the simple minded,
black/white, red/blue, good/bad, right/wrong puritanical mentality of
the political powers that be. Consider that you are an American, a
citizen of the world and a part of the great melting pot of life.
That's why I'm going to be purple damnit.

When we focus on what you have in common, we realize we aren't so
different. We are all human, after all."

Donovan

Maintaining the Peace

2005-04-06T15:14:00.000-07:00

I am on the board of a prestigious graphic design organization and have found the experience so far to be extremely rewarding. I've been in the position of communications, which mainly is disseminating information on events through design publications, local media, online email blasts and any other way that our membership and public at large can receive what's going on. I've been on the board for about 3 years now and have met many people and professionals in design and the media that have helped me and my business. I am extremely grateful that I have had the opportunity to serve on the board. There is a "but" coming, can you sense it?

The one thing that continually has pushed my buttons since the first board meeting are the board meetings. I get frustrated every month when we have our meetings. Why? Well, mainly it's all about some of the members of the board who have a lot to say about what we should be doing, but do little if anything to make it happen. There is not a lot of initiative or personal responsibility floating around the room. Some of the members have been around a long time and they have their roles which are important to the longevity of the organization. There are others, though, that seem to have a lot clout and connections in the community and don't use them. There is a "let somebody else do it" mentality in these members that doesn't add to the team effort. Granted, I am of a little different mentality (crazy) than most of them, but there are only a few members that do any of the actual work. I sit in those board meetings in silence many times because I can't allow myself to blow up or say the wrong thing to someone that will cause a confrontation. I don't do well in those situations. I have said a few things in the past years that didn't make a difference or cause any change (yes, the controlling thing comes out) so I really don't do it anymore. I have learned to listen and keep silent. I also have learned to do what I do and not to get angry or resentful at the rest of them. We are all so "busy". The word "busy" is used too often, in my opinion.

I guess that I can make a difference or cause some change just by the actions that I do and not the angry or bitter words that I can spew. (Nice rhyme.) I haven't yet got the hang of remaining calm and making my point or thought come across in an intelligent, articulate way. I allow emotions to come into play and that doesn't work well in "winning friends and influencing people". I have found that I can write much more clearly and articulately than speaking in the moment. One reason for this is the same old tape of thinking that I don't have anything intelligent to say and that no one really wants to hear me anyway. So, I get tongue-tied and frustrated as that tape goes through my head while attempting to speak in the moment or make my point.
I will continue to do my best on the board and be a team player whenever I can. I also know that I will continue to try to maintain the peace while speaking my point-of-view. I am not the only one that gives a damn or does any work for the organization. There are a few other great people that I admire and enjoy working with, and that makes a difference too.

What do you think? Are you on the board of any organization? How do you handle articulate speaking and making your point heard? Please post here as we'd like to hear what you think.
Mike

How I Relate to Howard Hughes

2005-04-03T12:24:00.000-07:00

I finally went and saw the Aviator on the big screen yesterday. I am not usually one that goes to the theatre on the first day a new film opens. I heard it was a great movie and a must-see on the big screen. I'm glad I followed that advice - the flying scenes and open sky shots were awesome. It probably would be even better on an IMAX screen. (Always looking for something more.)

Anyway, the story of a man who built an empire and kept wanting more and more and making things as perfect as possible while hiding a deep, dark secret really moved and caused me to ponder my own life. Howard Hughes had obsessive/compulsive disorder that permeated through his entire being. All I ever heard about him when I was young was that he was an eccentric recluse and never heard much more. In the movie, I sat there relating to that main character more than I intended to when I finally decided to see it. I noticed a lot of the obsession of wanting to make things absolutely perfect and always wanting it better. I also noticed the compulsion when making spur-of-the-moment decisions about purchasing things without really allowing time to really think about it. Additionally, Mister Hughes loathed germs and had the obsession to keep his hands clean, for example, and not shake another's hand. He had a determination to be in control of his life, and others, and could not deal with the notion that he may have a mental condition of which he had no control. There was to be no sign of weakness or vulnerability in him for others to see. That secret eventually led him to a break-down and hurt many people around him.

I can relate to a lot of the characteristics and actions of this man, but on a much lighter level. I realized that I have some OCD traits a few years ago when covering some new territory with my therapist. I am obsessive over keeping my hands clean, not to the level of making myself bleed, though, making sure that everything is in its place at home and office and ensuring that nothing is left undone to be stressed-over at the last minute. I am compulsive when getting an idea in my mind and having to get or buy an item in the moment or making sure that I don't run out of something and a supply is always on hand, for instance. It is a little crazy and eccentric, but that's really OK and it works for me. I don't have OCD at a deep level, but when I relate to someone who does, I realize that I can't go into denial about it. I grew up in denial and that's not a place in Egypt (OLD joke).

So, even though I don't have the riches and fame that HH had, I related to his internal struggles and intend to learn and mature from that. I don't wish to look for another reason to beat myself up, I know I'm good at that and don't need to develop it anymore. I feel a little eccentricity helps in the creative effort and allows a visual person, like me, to go outside the line a little bit and attempt to create something that is not expected or obvious. I did't come up with "anything but standard" as my tag for nothing.
Yes, I exposed a lot here. How do you feel about this? Do you relate in any way at all? Do you look at your deep, dark secrets or keep them hidden? or, to keep things lighter, did you see the Aviator?
Please share your thoughts here as we'd love to hear what you think. Mike

Can I Really Do This?

2005-04-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

It gets to me sometimes when I get a new contract for a project that is pretty huge and more high-profile than some of the others I typically work on. I get a little overwhelmed, scared and insecure that I don't really have the talent and creative mind to give the client what they need. I care a great deal about what I do and feel a strong personal attachment to my work. My self esteem and confidence seem to take a little beating when an important project comes my way. Not to say that other projects aren't important - it's just that I get the feeling that the client truly doesn't know what they're getting into by hiring me for a huge project. What are they thinking? Do they really think I can do this job?

I have always had a hard time with self-confidence and the feeling that others judge and ridicule me. It comes from early formation of my personality and self-worth when I was a kid. Without going into too much of a therapy session here, I didn't get much in the way of approval and support when wanting to do things I liked. Instead, I was sort of forced into activities that I was "supposed" to do and that I hated. No matter what I did, I never really did it well enough and kind of never had a cheering section for any of it. Flash forward to now and I see the same feelings of inadequacy and floundering that I had back then. No wonder I go through this stuff when I am supposed to present great work that "wows" the crowd and creates great success for the client and myself. (Oh yeah, black and white thinking is also a result of my formative years.)

Being a freelance designer is an educational experience in the confidence and self-esteem areas. I have to cut myself some slack sometimes and realize that I am doing the best I can and I must have something that people want. I am also doing what I want. I am a hard-headed guy and I go to great lengths to do things myself and not ask for help. A weakling asks for help, right? A man isn't supposed to need help or support, right? I called a colleague who I admire and respect a lot and he told me that he has the same fear and anxiety on certain design projects. He gets through it by "going through it" and it somehow works out just fine. Imagine that?

I wish that my self-confidence and self-worth were developed when they were supposed to be way back when, but they weren't. I have to accept that and realize that I am learning a lot about myself and maturing. It's OK and I have put a lot of time and effort to be the designer I am today. I don't know everything, but I do know that I get great feedback from most clients I work with. That's a great thing and my experience and knowledge grow with each new project, high-profile or not.
What do you think? How do you deal with fear when you feel out of your league? Please let us know, we'd like to hear what you think.
Mike

Time for Spring Cleaning

2005-03-30T10:46:00.000-08:00

The long, cold (relatively speaking) winter is finally coming to an end. The sun is coming out a little more often and the birds are singing. It's also time to spring the clocks forward soon so we can have another hour or so of daylight. Pollen and other allergens start to bud and grow, too, but that's another blog.

The notion of "spring cleaning" comes from the midwest, I think, or at least from areas that actually have seasons. Being from the midwest myself, I always had this philosophy thrown at me every year so I still have it embedded in me today. This time of year always makes me think of doing some cleaning, or cleaning out, of the old crap from last year (or from many years) and making room for the prosperity and successes of this year.

This being the case, I know that I have a lot of crap in my home, but I have crap in my office as well that needs to go. I have a tendency to hold onto a lot of paper and other tactile materials because "I may need this someday" and I won't have it when that day comes. That day comes very rarely and I need to learn to throw away, actually recycle, stuff from last year and years before that really don't need to be in my file cabinets anymore. When the files don't fit anymore and I fight with the cabinets and drawers just to make them do so, it's time to purge.

Just like I hate cleaning the bathroom at home, I hate to go through everything and keep what is needed and discard the rest. I am too busy for that menial task, as you should know. What I could do is use this as a time for a "zen" experience and use it as therapy or a spiritual experience that makes room for the prosperity of the new year. Yeah, I need to take a Saturday and concentrate on this. Maybe when I do this, the business and money will roll in so quickly, I'll have to make room for more.
What do you think? When do you clean out your old stuff? Please post your ideas and thoughts here, as we'd love to hear them.
Mike

Just Say "Good-Bye" Already

2005-03-28T18:12:00.000-08:00

I do a lot of my business and personal correspondance via email and find it very useful and productive. I can email clients and colleagues when I want to and they can do whatever research or thinking they need to before getting back to me. I can also save responses and data that is sent with them in the email archives for future use. I think this is a very efficient way to communicate in the digital age.

I do, however, have to share my thoughts about the many ways people close their email messages. In school way back, I learned that there were greetings and closings in letters. Most greetings started with "Dear..." or some other variation on that. Closings usually consisted of "Sincerely", "Respectfully", etc. I know that we're not as formal as we used to be in our personal correspondance, but there are some closings that drive me crazy.

What's the deal with "Best", for example? What does that mean? Is that short for "I wish you the best"? Has our time become so valuable that we even abbreviate our letter closings? Another one is "Later". That one isn't quite so aggitating (I use it sometimes). But, once again, is this short for "See you later"? Or better yet, "See you much, much later, because I don't really want to correspond with you anymore, let alone see you." In that case, maybe "Later" is more cordial. I have also seen the closing "Late" at the end of an emai. Did they forget the letter "R"? There are others that I am sure you come in contact with daily in your email messages.

I see this as only the beginning to a new unfortunate way of communication. Pretty soon the "C U L8ter" and "I M, R U 2" which is the language of text messaging will go to our daily email correspondance. Pretty soon, in order to quickly say "Thank you so much for the information you sent us" it will consist of a few letters or symbols like
"T U 4 ## U ^ }". It'll be a whole new, rather cold language.

Maybe I am old fashioned. But I like the "Very truly yours" and the "With respect" closings of the past. I know if I start using them in my email messages, I will most certainly be seen as more of an eccentric than I already am. Oh well - "later".
What do you think? Hpw do you feel about this? Do you even care? Please post here and let us know.
Mike

Tough Skin

2005-03-24T21:07:00.000-08:00

I have always been a sensitive person. I was born as a nervous, rather uncomfortable human. As the years went on, a lot of my nervousness went away - but what remained changed and morphed into other sensitivities that can affect my life. I can take things very personally and get my feelings hurt a lot. Yeah, I've heard it all, "toughen-up", "get a tougher skin", "just let it roll off your back", etc. That type of attitude is easier said than done, in my life.

Think about the world of a graphic designer, for example. There are always critiques and feedback sessions from colleagues or clients. If a person that is sensitive, like me, gets upset or defensive every time there is constructive criticism, no real growth or maturity in the industry will come about - at least in a "normal" way.

I never liked critique sessions in school or presenting work to other students or instructors. I put a lot in my design work and end up putting a lot of myself in each graphic design solution. Thus, when there may be some constructive criticism or a different way to come to a solution, I take it personally and think it's me that is getting criticized and, ultimately, close up. The ironic thing is that there's ego in this reaction and I never thought I was egotistical. Egotistical may too strong of a word, but there is some ego just the same.

I have been working on the tougher skin concept for a long time, both personally and professionally. I have a business mentor that talks with me about it and gives me suggestions on how to get better with it. Also, I am making a conscious effort to observe how I tend to feel and react when faced with feedback that I don't want to hear. I know that this soft skin way of being will continue to change and morph and I will continue to learn and grow as a designer. One day, I will take feedback and critiques for what they are and not what I think they mean. It's tough being human.

What do you think? Are you tough-skinned? Were you born that way and developed a tough skin later in life? Or have you always been tough? We would love to hear your thoughts. Please post here.
Mike

The Value of Getting Involved

2005-03-23T17:15:00.000-08:00

I seem to get myself into a lot of busy situations that sometimes get me overwhelmed and stressed. I am not saying that it is the situations that do the stressing, it's how I can allow myself to over commit sometimes and, thus get cranky and impatient.
Most of the time it has to do with the professional organizations or networking groups I have joined. I feel that it is extremely important to get out there and meet the appropriate "movers and shakers" in my professional world, especially as a freelancer. I also know that if I get involved on some deeper level in these organizations, I will not only be noticed on a more professional level, it will hopefully lead to valuable business and personal contacts. However, the problem comes when I don't set boundaries from the onset and end up saying yes to everything and everyone.

OK, it has been stated somewhere on this blog site that I am an extremist and tend to have an all-or-nothing way about me. This way of being also goes into this organizational involvement area. I am a member of 4 professional organizations, 3 of them very actively, and 3 business lead-exchange groups. I haven't sat down and audited them lately, if ever, to see if one or more of them aren't productive for me or my business anymore. I tend to get stuck in habits a lot (addictive personality)and end up shutting down entirely when I've exhausted myself and can't do it anymore. THAT is unproductive.

Being an active member, or not, in professional organizations that relate to what I'm doing or interested in is educational, supportive and a way to keep in the know about what's going on. Lead-exchange groups are great too, especially if they're set up in a way that works for the members and has qualitative and quantitative results. But, one also has to have the time away from those things to actually apply what is learned, follow-up on those leads, etc.

Maybe I should be a member of some group on a purely recreational basis. I don't think of that too often. What am I passionate about in my leisure life? It is a sad thing to think that I don't know right now. That old midwest work ethic was embedded in me a long time ago and is still with me today.

I hope to change a little in the future and work on things in moderation - maybe 2 professional organizations and 1 lead-exchange group. That sounds so boring, though.
What do you think? What do you do for your professional and intellectual growth?
Please post here as we would all like to know.
Mike

2005-03-22T14:52:00.000-08:00

These Guys ARE Stupid

How many Bush folk does it take to zip Dubbya's fly?

Those Guys Weren't Stupid

2005-03-21T08:57:00.000-08:00

I am seeing more and more how much the founders of this country knew when they were adopting the documents of how a free society should function. There are so many things that come up in our modern world that go against these wise men's vision. I bet they're fuming on the other side right now about what is happening.

Take the US government's intrusion on our individual rights. It seems to me when there is an underlying agenda that caters to the current extreme right, the government will get involved with personal lives or organizations that have no affiliation with them at all.
It is strange and scary that congress will get involved with a human and personal right to abide by a health directive that will stop pain and suffering of a loved one and force their agenda on the family by passing laws that will go counter to the sick one's wishes. How dare the government stick their conservative noses in a family's personal life and force things on them that are none of their business! They want to keep this person alive to cater to the religious and so-called moral right that blindly follow them. It's funny how this same group of people who are right-to-lifers on one hand are for killing another human being with the death penalty on the other. This whole "moral" attitude stinks of hypocrisy and selfishness of a group of people that seem to want everything the way they want it. How selfish is it to keep someone alive that does not want to be kept alive by a few immediate family members so they can possess this person and keep this person in their lives?

Another example of the US government forcing an agenda on entities that have nothing to do with them is when an organization, such as MLB, has an internal scandal involving illegal drug use. This is an internal situation and not something that the federal government has any interest in except by stalling their constitutional responsibilities by holding hearings shown on worldwide television to show their strength and "moral" objectives. Hey, congress, why not deal with the astronomical deficit you've caused and your war that forces your agenda on countries that don't even want it?

If those folks that blindly follow this current government and administration don't see how our individual rights are slowly being chipped away, it is a sad day indeed. I can't help but feel that as long as these same people have their SUVs, can buy their material things they don't need and simply throw away their non-recyclable material things, live in a homogenous area where everyone is the same and pray to the only God that the government says is OK, they are fine and will keep the other things that really matter at arm's length. Denial is easy to live with in this type of environment.

So, back to the guys that founded this country. Many of the values and philosophies that were carefully thought-out and developed to form a free country are being stomped-on and disregarded as the current administration moves forward with their corrupt and self-serving agenda. How I wish I could hear what our Founding Fathers would say about what is going on.
"Don't Tread on Me" means as much now as it did then.

What do you think? What are your feelings about all of this? Please post your thoughts and let us know your thoughts and ideas.
Mike

A Very Touchy Subject

2005-03-18T11:25:00.000-08:00

I am going to address a touchy subject that has resulted in an ongoing feud in the design community - that is the subject of Mac vs. Win operating systems. What's the big deal? I, for one, have never really understood the attitude that a Mac produces much more high quality design solutions than a PC. Is the Mac operating system so magical that one is transcended to a higher level just by using it? I get the feeling that there is a snobbish attitude in the Mac design community and if you don't naturally work on one, you're an alien and can't possibly be a contributing graphic designer. Well, if confessions be made here, I work on a Win system and have had very successful design solutions as a result.

I had an acquaintance once tell me that if I really want to be a serious graphic designer, I need to be on a Mac. Well, the next two words out of my mouth started with an F and ended with a You. Comments like that make me want to be more of a rebel than I already am and stay on the PC to prove that bastard wrong.

Maybe in the beginning of the computer-based graphic design era in the 80s there was a big difference in the Mac of old and the Win operating systems. And, quite possibly, the Mac was originally configured to handle more RAM-eating programs that we use. I do know that when I was working on a Win 95 and 98 platform, freezing and crashing were common and that was very unproductive. However, now that I've been working on Win 2000 and XP, the freezing and crashing are virtually non-existent and it has been quite pleasant to work on them.

Another reason that Macs are used in our community is that the potential for viruses are minimal, if possible at all. I have firewall and virus protection software, of course, and the threat is much lower.

I learned all of the graphic design software programs on a Mac at school, but used my PC at home. I feel confident in the fact that I can work on both platforms, if necessary. I am more marketable in that arena if dual-platform needs arise. Even if I really wanted to "make the switch" to all Mac-based design, I couldn't afford it right now. It is very expensive to convert, even with the new Mini-Mac which has great design and is very cute. Software costs are a whole other story.

So, I don't have to hang my head in shame or hide behind my operating system. I am determined to acheive a reputation in the design community that is on the same level as Mac people, if not higher. It is what is produced and what solutions are made for the client that count. A great designer can be great because of what they do, not what operating system they're on.

What do you think? How do you feel about this? Please give us your thoughts and let the healing begin.
Mike

Creatives and "Lefties"

Such Negativity!

Is That All There Is?

Where Have I Been?

Public Relief

How Weird

What is the Definition of 'Illegal'?

I've Hit the Big Time

How Much Am I Worth, Anyway?

100 Years...and waiting...

Take a Picture, Already!

Apple v Apple

SAD

Spring is Here

St. Patty's Day

Just a Check In

Everything is Better in PINC

Rainy Days and Mondays...

The Project Pipeline

Bringing the World Together

An Anniversary

It's Amazing How We Can Get Anything Done!

Powerless but not Hopeless

Agitation

The Worst Day of the Year

When Depression Hits

Checking In

When Someone *Disappears*

Give Something Back

A Random Act of Kindness

How Spoiled Are We?

The Right to have a Gun

Another Year for the Record Books

Designer or Production Artist?

Those Last Minute Details

Civil Liberties?

Giving Back

Love Story

Saving Face

Annual Party - True Success!

The Greatest Obstacle

Happy Holidaze

I Want it All and I Wanted it Yesterday

A lot of Thanks

Personal Milestones

The Value of Design Competitions

Mystery Date

Havin' A Party

She's Still Got It!

The Correct Type

Don't Forget to Have Fun

Make Your Mark

Deadlines — Yours or Mine?

I Want the World and I Need it by Tomorrow

What Time Is It?

The Feeling of Worth

Pricing the Worth of My Services

Fall and Times They Are A-Changin'

Checking In

Working in Teams

New Blood

Change is Good, Right?

Being Left Alone vs Isolation

Life Changes

Client Feedback

Be Careful of Burnout

A Protest "Turn-Off"

When Is A Person "Too Old"?

Get Behind Design

Motivational Trip

Whoo Boy!

Slow Moving Times

Project Feedback

Pro Bono vs Con Bono

Tired and Grumpy

Even Bigger than the Art of Freelancing

Is it Time for Help?

How Preferred Should a Preferred Client Be?

The Time Between Projects

When Design Feels Like Order-Taking

When Someone Disappears