 Drawing Inspiration from David Goggins' 'Can't Hurt Me' for Creative Resilience David Goggins, a renowned ultramarathon runner, triathlete, and retired Navy SEAL, has become a symbol of resilience, mental toughness, and unyielding determination. His autobiography, "Can't Hurt Me," is more than just an inspiring tale of physical endurance; it's a roadmap for anyone looking to push past their limits and conquer their dreams. For designers and creative professionals, Goggins' philosophy and experiences can be a transformative guide. His principles, ranging from embracing challenges to nurturing a relentless commitment to excellence, resonate deeply within the design world, offering valuable insights for personal and professional growth. In this piece, we'll explore how Goggins' writings and life lessons can empower designers to tackle their challenges with courage and innovation.
"Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins is more than just a memoir; it's a manual for mental resilience and toughness that has surprising resonance within the design profession. In the book, Goggins shares his life journey, one filled with hardship, struggle, and ultimately triumph. His principles can be applied directly to the world of design, where the grind is relentless, and attention to detail is key. From the ideation stage to the final rendering, designers must push through obstacles and never settle for mediocrity, much like Goggins' rigorous military training. His theory that most people only tap into 40% of their potential is a challenge for designers to break through self-imposed limits, accessing the untapped 60% to create innovative and impactful designs. Building a resilient mind helps face criticism and failure; in design, rejection and revision are part of the process, and learning to accept and grow from them makes the end product more robust and refined. Holding oneself accountable through setting clear goals and meeting deadlines is paramount in achieving success, and visualizing the successful completion of a design project can be a powerful motivator. Goggins often took the road less traveled to reach his goals, and in design, thinking outside the box and exploring unconventional methods can lead to groundbreaking work. "Can't Hurt Me" provides a robust framework for anyone seeking to elevate their life, and these principles resonate profoundly within the design profession. By adopting Goggins' mindset, designers can build resilience, innovate, and create without fear of failure or rejection. It's a call to action for all creatives to strive for excellence, no matter the hurdles in the path. In embracing the lessons of "Can't Hurt Me," designers find a powerful ally in the quest for creative excellence. The tenacity, resilience, and unbreakable spirit championed by Goggins resonate deeply with the challenges and triumphs inherent in the design process. By applying his philosophy to their craft, designers can transcend ordinary boundaries, face adversity with courage, and transform obstacles into opportunities for growth. David Goggins' story is a testament to what can be achieved with unwavering focus and determination, values that can inspire designers to reach beyond the expected and create works that are not only visually compelling but emotionally resonant. His mindset becomes a tool, a guide, and a constant reminder that in the realm of creativity, just as in life, one's true potential is bound only by the limits they set for themselves.
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 In the age of instant communication and remote work, the line between work life and personal life has become increasingly blurred. As someone who works from home, I have firsthand experience of this delicate balance. The ease of sending an email at any time means that our inboxes are never really off-limits, even during the weekend. Recently, I stumbled upon a note suggesting that an email sent on Sunday is more likely to be read. While this might be true, it raises a crucial question: Should we be imposing on our employees' time off, particularly when many of us are working from home? Work-Life Balance in a 24/7 World The concept of work-life balance is more relevant now than ever. Working from home has its advantages, but it's easy to slip into a pattern where work invades our personal lives. A Sunday email might seem harmless, but it can be a subtle reminder that work is always lurking, waiting to infringe on our time with family or self-care. Setting Clear Boundaries Setting clear boundaries and expectations regarding communication outside of working hours is crucial, especially for those of us working from home. While some employees might not mind the occasional weekend email, others may feel an undue pressure to respond, leading to stress and burnout. Employers and managers can take the lead by setting guidelines on when it's appropriate to send emails and communicate outside of typical working hours. Encouraging a culture where personal time is respected can lead to happier, more balanced employees. A Personal Perspective As someone who values the distinction between work and personal life and works from the comfort of my home, I believe that we must be mindful of our communication habits. A well-timed email can wait until Monday morning. What's urgent to us might not be urgent to the receiver, and respecting that boundary is a sign of a healthy work environment. Conclusion Respecting employees' time off isn't just about being courteous; it's about fostering a healthy work culture where individuals can thrive without feeling pressured. Working from home offers us the convenience to send emails at any time, but it also demands a new level of respect for personal boundaries. It's time to rethink our habits and consider the impact of that Sunday email. Next time you're tempted to hit 'send' on a weekend, pause and ask yourself if it can wait. In a world striving for balance, sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is respect one another's time.
 Introduction to AI Art Are you intrigued by the combination of AI and art? You're not alone. AI art, or artificial intelligence art, is transforming how we create and perceive art. What is AI Art? AI art, also known as algorithmic art, employs machine learning and algorithms to generate visual masterpieces. Here's how it works: The Process of Creating AI Art
The Impact of AI Art Democratizing Creativity With AI art tools, digital art creation is accessible to everyone. A New Artistic Medium For professional artists, AI introduces a fresh, innovative medium. Ethical Considerations The ownership and authenticity of AI-generated art raise exciting debates. My Experience with AI Art: Photoshop's Beta Gen Fill and AI Remini App As someone deeply engaged in the world of design, I've had the unique opportunity to experiment with cutting-edge AI tools. Two tools that have particularly caught my attention are Photoshop's beta gen fill and the AI Remini app. Photoshop's Beta Gen Fill: A Game Changer Photoshop's beta gen fill is an innovative feature that leverages AI to enhance creativity. I've found it to be an incredibly powerful tool that allows for intricate manipulations and refinements in my designs. By enabling a seamless blend of human creativity and AI's computational prowess, it's opened new horizons in my work. AI Remini App: Recreating Memories I've also explored the AI Remini app, a brilliant tool that turns low-resolution images into high-quality photos. By using this app, I've been able to breathe new life into old memories, transforming them into stunning visual experiences. The ease of use and quality of output have been nothing short of astonishing. These tools are more than just technological advancements; they represent a shift in the way we think about and create art. For professionals like me, they offer endless possibilities to innovate and redefine the boundaries of creativity.  I used this prompted generated by Chat GPT to create this image in Photoshop Beta: Create a dynamic and visually striking representation of the future of AI art. The piece must resonate with the cutting-edge nature of AI's impact on the artistic world, weaving together hyper-realism, abstract technological elements, and vibrant colors. The Future of AI Art - A Symphony of Hyper-Realism, Abstract Technology, and Vibrant Creativity Breakdown:
Final Note: This creation will not only be an artistic piece but a statement on how AI is revolutionizing art. It should inspire artists to explore new territories, embrace cutting-edge tools, and challenge conventional creative paradigms. AI art is reshaping the art world. Its intersection with creativity offers a fascinating look into art's future. Want to join the conversation about artificial intelligence in art? Share your thoughts below.
Drawing Inspiration from Comic-Con San Diego 2023  Greetings from the veritable Valhalla of pop culture – Comic-Con San Diego 2023! More than a convention, this is a dimension where creativity takes on a colorful, spandex-clad life of its own. As a Creative Director who’s drawn inspiration from the glossy pages of comic books for over a decade, these annual gatherings feel like a pilgrimage. This year’s Comic-Con proved to be no different, offering a myriad of panels, workshops, and sessions that fueled my creative spark.
Beyond the insightful panels and intriguing discussions, Comic-Con is a veritable treasure trove for fans and collectors alike. It's in the bustling exhibit halls and the vibrant artist alleys that you encounter the heart of the Con - the hunt for those unique pieces of memorabilia, the limited editions, the hidden gems that make your fan heart flutter with a pronounced 'Excelsior!' This year, my treasure hunt led me to two incredible finds that felt like hitting the jackpot in the vibrant universe of comics. First on the list was Rob Liefeld's "Deadpool: Badder Blood". This action-packed adventure takes you on a rollercoaster ride with everyone's favorite wisecracking anti-hero. The artwork is as dynamic and edgy as Deadpool himself, showcasing Liefeld's iconic style that has left a profound mark on the comic book landscape. My second triumph was securing a copy of the emotionally charged "TMNT: The Last Ronin." This deeply resonant tale stands out in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles saga, taking fans on a journey that's as gritty and intense as it is heartrending. It's a brilliant homage to the enduring legacy of the TMNT and a testament to the emotional depth that comics can achieve. Securing these gems amidst the whirlwind excitement of Comic-Con felt like a superhero feat in itself. In the buzzing milieu, each find is a victory, each unique piece a cherished memento of the shared passion for the remarkable world of comics. Now, you might wonder, “What’s the connection between Comic-Con and your life as a Creative Director?” The answer: everything! Here’s how:
 To top off the day, my Spiderman 2099 t-shirt design was a real crowd-pleaser, earning nods of approval from fellow attendees. Comic-Con 2023 was a treasure trove of inspiration, a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, and a reminder of why I love my work. In a world of superheroes, isn’t nurturing creativity the greatest superpower?
Glizzies, Mutants, and Marketing: Savoring Reinvention Lessons From Jim Lee's Comic-Con Panel7/21/2023  Howdy, fellow creatives and marketers! Your chief creative hero, Mike Matamala, here, checking in post a whirlwind adventure at San Diego Comic-Con. Amidst the technicolor dream of cosplays and fervor of fandoms, I found myself in a panel that was nothing short of enlightening. Guiding us through this journey of imagination and wisdom? The maestro of comics, Jim Lee!  You know Jim Lee, right? Yeah, the comic book legend who went from being a kid in South Korea to one of the most influential creators in the industry. He started at Marvel, gave the X-Men a complete makeover, then shook the industry to its core when he co-founded Image Comics. Imagine the guts it took to say "Hey, we should own the rights to our characters" and actually do it! Now he's running the show at DC Comics, reinventing beloved icons for a new generation. So, when we talk about reinvention, Lee is the superhero we should all look up to. This guy's journey, from the pages of X-Men to the executive suite at DC, is something every marketer and creative can draw inspiration from. During the panel, Lee cooked up some food for thought - a discussion about reinvention. Now, before you start scratching your heads, picture this: Would a hot dog still taste as delightful if we called it a 'glizzy'? Probably! Even though you've slapped on a trendy new moniker, you're still enjoying that same familiar, comforting bite. In the same vein, the key to keeping our marketing strategies appetizing lies in creative reinvention. Just remember not to let the glizzy jokes catch you with your buns down, marketers! Drawing parallels to X-Men, Lee touched on the inherent need for individuals and brands to be seen, acknowledged, and valued. This is where the mighty marketing lesson lies - understanding your audience's narrative, needs, and nuances.
In the fast-paced world of marketing, staying ahead of the curve means constant reinvention. Like the comic book heroes we adore, we need to be ready to adapt, innovate, and take on new challenges. Whether it's giving an age-old brand a fresh face or creating a marketing strategy from scratch, we draw our strength from the same well of creativity that fueled legends like Jim Lee. His story, and the timeless tales told within the pages of our favorite comic books, reminds us to embrace change, keep our narratives compelling, and above all, stay true to the essence of our brands. So, let's leap into action and start crafting marketing strategies that are as dynamic, engaging, and resilient as our favorite comic book heroes!
A Web of Marketing and Graphic Design Inspiration How often do you find a superhero movie that makes your jaw drop, not just for the action sequences, but for its graphic design? Not often, right? Well, "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" has done just that, pushing the boundaries of animation and providing a plethora of graphic design inspiration. 1. Dare to be Different: The film flaunts a unique blend of 2D and 3D graphics, comic-like texture overlays, and unconventional color palettes. As graphic designers, we should take a leaf out of the Spider-Verse's book and dare to challenge the status quo. Being different in your designs can make you stand out in an ocean of sameness. 2. Embrace the Power of Color: Spider-Verse is a psychedelic explosion of color that creates mood, shows character personality, and guides the audience's attention. Color is a potent tool in graphic design that can evoke emotions and make a design memorable. 3. The Magic of Text: From the quirky comic-style onomatopoeic words to the poignant quotes, the film uses text creatively to enhance visual storytelling. Text isn’t just for conveying information; it can be a powerful design element when used inventively. 4. Consistency is Key: Despite its diverse array of visuals, Spider-Verse maintains a consistent design language. It's a lesson in maintaining brand consistency across different designs and mediums. 5. Take Risks and Experiment: Spider-Verse is a result of brave experimentation, which paid off tremendously. As graphic designers, we must not shy away from risks. Pushing the boundaries is often the way to create groundbreaking designs.  Web-Slinging Through Marketing: Lessons from 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse In the depths of the bustling multiverse, one movie emerged, teaching us not just the beauty of being unique but also some valuable marketing lessons we never saw coming. Enter the vividly imaginative and universally celebrated "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse." Today, we're unmasking the hidden marketing gems this box-office sensation has to offer. 1. Embrace the Power of Uniqueness: Just as the film showcased a medley of distinctive Spider-heroes, your brand should highlight its unique qualities. Amidst a multitude of competitors, what makes your brand stand out like Spider-Ham in a group of Peter Parkers? Define it, flaunt it, and own it! 2. Storytelling is Key: 'Spider-Verse' left us all mesmerized with its powerful storytelling. Likewise, compelling narratives can significantly boost your marketing efforts. Engage audiences with stories about your brand, your journey, and your victories. 3. Cater to a Diverse Audience: Just as the Spider-Verse is home to a diverse ensemble of characters, your marketing should aim to reach a broad spectrum of audiences. Appreciate the diversity in your audience and tailor your marketing strategy accordingly. 4. Bold Visuals Captivate: 'Spider-Verse' is widely praised for its innovative and vibrant visual style. In your marketing efforts, make sure to incorporate eye-catching visuals. A well-placed infographic or an engaging video could be your ticket to capturing audience attention. 5. Stay Agile and Adapt: In the Spider-Verse, our heroes continually adapt to new challenges. Similarly, marketers need to be flexible and ready to adapt to market changes, customer behaviors, and industry innovations. In conclusion, 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' is not just an epic superhero tale but also a treasure trove of marketing wisdom waiting to be unlocked. So, as we swing forward, let's take these lessons to heart and bring our own marketing universes to life, one web at a time.
Hello fellow Creative Crusaders! Allow me to lift the cape and shine the Bat Signal on some crucial tomes that have been my trusty sidekicks on this thrilling journey in the design universe. These books have bolstered my design superpowers, serving as my Alfred to my Batman, providing insights, advice, and inspiration in every swoop and swirl of my creative endeavors. First up in our Hall of Justice is "Thinking with Type" by Ellen Lupton. This book is like my Green Lantern’s power ring - a vital tool for harnessing the universe's raw energy - in this case, typography. It’s a deep dive into understanding and appreciating the elemental yet profound role of type in design. Next is "Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative" by Austin Kleon. This book reminded me of the true power of 'mutation' a la X-Men. It champions the philosophy of adopting, adapting, and evolving ideas into your own unique creative expression. "Logo Design Love: A Guide to Creating Iconic Brand Identities" by David Airey is the Captain America's shield of design books. Airey shares strategies to build iconic brand identities, as resilient and recognizable as Cap’s shield. "How to be a Graphic Designer, Without Losing Your Soul" by Adrian Shaughnessy is like the heartwarming narrative of Spider-Man, reminding us of the mantra, "With great power, comes great responsibility". It guides us on maintaining authenticity in our creative journey. Then we have "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman. This one is the Wonder Woman's Lasso of Truth for designers, illuminating the truth behind intuitive design and user experience. In the lineup, "Make It Bigger" by Paula Scher is the Thor’s Mjolnir, wielding the power of her extensive design experience and wisdom to deliver a thunderbolt of inspiration. "Grid Systems in Graphic Design" by Josef Müller-Brockmann – the Iron Man's suit of the design world, it's all about precision, structure, and technology – the backbone of every solid design layout. And lastly, "Sagmeister: Made You Look" by Stefan Sagmeister. This is like stepping into Doctor Strange's Sanctum Sanctorum, a treasure trove of the mystical and unique, sparking immense creative inspiration. Book Covers and Amazon Links:
Honorable Mention:
As we conclude this thrilling escapade through the maze of inspiration and wisdom, one thing is clear – a Creative Director’s education never truly ends. Much like our cherished superheroes, who continually adapt and evolve, we too, in our design journeys, must keep exploring, learning, and pushing boundaries. We covered typography to branding, creativity to authenticity, user experience to professional wisdom, and structured layouts to unique inspiration. But there’s always more knowledge waiting to be unveiled, more wisdom to absorb.
For the sake of honorable mentions and a special nod to our superhero theme, we can't ignore "How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way" by Stan Lee. This classic resource, as timeless as the invincible Wolverine himself, offers valuable insights into the art of creating iconic comic characters. It's the perfect combination of education and entertainment, reminding us that at the heart of our profession lies a simple truth – design is meant to be fun, adventurous, and a little bit extraordinary, much like the superheroes we've been referencing. So, as we hang up our capes and stash away our power rings for the day, let's remember to keep our minds open, our pencils sharp, and our spirits high. Like superheroes saving the world, we have a mission too - to make it more visually appealing and meaningful. And armed with the power of these phenomenal books, there's no challenge we can't conquer. Until the next adventure, fellow creatives!  Completely generated in Photoshop without reference photography. Welcome to the new era of digital design, where technology meets creativity in a vibrant clash of innovation and color. Just when you thought Adobe Photoshop had pulled a Superman, leaping tall buildings in a single bound, they've gone and done a Tony Stark, inventing a whole new suit of armor for the design world to gawk at. Ladies and gentlemen, put your capes on for the Adobe Photoshop Beta with AI!
Dubbed by some as the "Infinity Gauntlet" of design tools, this powerful new iteration of Photoshop is about to change the game completely. As if stepping into a world straight from the pages of Marvel comics, we're looking at a program that is no longer merely reactive but predictive, intuitive, and - dare we say - almost sentient! Through the magic of AI, the new Adobe Photoshop Beta not only accelerates your design process but also opens up an entirely new universe of creative possibilities. Imagine a tool that can anticipate your needs, streamline workflows, and dramatically reduce the time spent on mundane tasks. Imagine having a superpower of unlimited design capability right at your fingertips. This incredible breakthrough means that we can now let our creativity soar without constraints, just like our favorite superheroes. Whether you're sketching the next iconic logo, adding the final touches to an intricate illustration, or putting together a stunning visual for a client's marketing campaign, the Adobe Photoshop Beta with AI is your sidekick, ready to leap into action and save the day. So, dust off those capes and prepare to embrace the future of digital design. The new Adobe Photoshop Beta with AI is here, offering a marvel of features that will supercharge your design process. Stand back, fellow design heroes, it's time to unleash your creative powers and take the design world by storm! Top 5 reasons to try the Adobe Photoshop Beta with AI:
#AdobePhotoshop #AIBeta #DesignHeroesUnite #HarnessingThePowerOfAI #PhotoshopSuperpowers Peach in the Mushroom Kingdom and Beyond Welcome, Nintendo ninjas and Super Mario marvels! Buckle up for a magical warp pipe journey through the world of the iconic Mario Bros., with a special focus on everyone's favorite damsel-not-always-in-distress, Princess Peach. With her golden hair, pink dress, and unyielding courage, Peach has been both a beloved character and a style icon in the gaming universe. She has sparked our imagination and, recently, even inspired our latest t-shirt design! The Birth of a Princess Nintendo's Super Mario Bros. was launched in 1985, and Princess Peach (then known as Princess Toadstool) made her debut. She was the creation of the legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto, the mastermind behind some of Nintendo's most iconic characters. Miyamoto's goal was to create a character who, despite being a princess, was far from being a fragile stereotype. Peach was designed to be the beacon of hope for the Mushroom Kingdom, an empowering figure who could stand up to the evil Bowser. Even when kidnapped, she often played an active role in her own rescue. Talk about girl power! Peach in the Spotlight Over the years, Peach's character evolved significantly. She went from being the game's trophy to a playable character in her own right, such as in Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Princess Peach, and many of the spin-off games. Peach's character development embodies a significant shift in the gaming industry's perception of female characters, from damsels in distress to dynamic heroines. Princess Peach and The Mario Bros. Movie Magic Fast forward to 2023, and the world has been treated to a fresh take on the Super Mario Bros. universe with the release of the Mario Bros. movie. One of the most unexpected surprises in the film was the hilarious and catchy "Peaches Song" performed by none other than Jack Black. Now, what do you get when you mix a rocking tune, a comedic genius like Jack Black, and an iconic princess? A viral sensation that had us all humming, "Peaches, Peaches, Peaches, the Princess of the Pitches!" in the shower, at work, and pretty much everywhere else.  The Peach-Perfect T-Shirt Inspired by the phenomenon that is the "Peaches Song", we’ve decided to bring a piece of this magic to your wardrobe. Our new t-shirt design pays homage to Princess Peach and the Mario Bros. movie in a way that’s both stylish and fun. It features a stylishly cartoonish version of Peach, surrounded by whimsical musical notes, with the catchy "Peaches" lyrics playfully winding around her. And if you're wondering, yes, the design is as catchy as the tune itself! We like to think of it as wearable art that celebrates the fusion of gaming and pop culture. It's also a conversation starter, a perfect piece for any gaming convention or just a casual day out. So, let's take a leap of faith, just like Mario does towards those seemingly impossible platforms. Embrace the magic, the adventure, and the nostalgia that comes with it. Be a part of the Super Mario legacy, one t-shirt at a time. After all, we're all a little bit of Mario, running through our own worlds, overcoming our own challenges, and yes, occasionally rescuing our own princesses.
Now, it's time to let your style reflect your gamer spirit. Are you ready to sport your very own piece of the Mushroom Kingdom? Click on "Grab Your Peachy Tee Now!" and let the world know that you're not just any player, you're a Super Mario Bros. connoisseur. Remember, in the words of our favorite plumber, "Let's-a go!" and let's carry the magic of Princess Peach and the Mario Bros. with us, in our games and in our style!  Well, let's zoom in on this question faster than the Millenium Falcon in hyperdrive. Mike's career journey is more diverse and action-packed than a Marvel comic strip. He's been a peacekeeper in the U.S. Marine Corps (think Captain America, but with less spandex), a mentor at Platt College (the Yoda of design, if you will), and a Creative Art Director at Reliance Worldwide Corporation (a role where he wielded creativity like Thor wields his hammer). Currently, as the Creative Director at Enlyte and the genius behind AstroBrand Media, Mike is pulling off a Nick Fury-meets-Tony Stark fusion. He's gathered an extraordinary league of marketers and designers, and together they are making their mark across a range of industries, from retail to solar. But what about his powers, you ask? Mike is a wizard in design, his command of Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator would make Doctor Strange envious. But his true 'Infinity Stone'? His mastery in video and animation production that would have Peter Parker racing to catch up. Mike draws his design inspiration from the same source as a Jedi draws power - from everything around him. But two elements stand out – comic books and Star Wars. He harnesses the visual drama of comic books, combining it with the narrative depth of Star Wars, to create designs that are as visually striking as they are engaging. His work doesn't just tell a story, it immerses you in an experience - a journey into a galaxy where creativity and strategy intertwine like the strands of the Force. His leadership? Imagine Captain America's inspiring presence combined with Obi-Wan Kenobi's sage-like wisdom. Mike guides his creative Avengers, tackling deadlines and design challenges with the tenacity of a Mandalorian bounty hunter. But don't just take my word for it. Mike's LinkedIn is a veritable Hall of Justice of glowing recommendations. From Marine comrades to design disciples, all laud his professional prowess, creative genius, and Jedi-like leadership. His work ethic? Solid as Vibranium. His leadership? Comparable to the greatest of the Jedi Order.
So, to answer your question: Why hire Mike Matamala? Because he's the creative, experienced Jedi Master your brand is looking for. He'll take your project to a galaxy far, far away and back again, delivering results that will leave you in awe. So, what are you waiting for? Give Mike a call, and like any good Marvel post-credits scene, prepare to be on the edge of your seat, excited for what he'll conjure up next!
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