When a person is truly enthused by what they do, it emanates. When they can articulate that enthusiasm with well-researched facts and a genuine passion, it is simply infectious.
Last night we were lucky enough to be treated to a talk by one such person, in a very intimate setting with a decent coffee and a quality Sauvignon, surrounded by a handful of like-minded creative folk. It was fantastic.
As Global Head of Business Development – Games at Research In Motion, or BlackBerry as you may know it, Volker Hirsch is used to a slightly larger stage than the floor of the Inca Café in Macclesfield, and watching him speak, you imagine that he could certainly fill it. His genuine in-depth knowledge, understanding and passion is truly inspiring, not only because of the subject matter, which was certainly an eye opener, but because of his palpable energy and conviction.
So often in this industry, it is easy to be caught up in your own work bubble, to deal only with your clients and colleagues and spend little time with the other creative, passionate and hard working people who surround you and share your line of work. It is all too easy for people offering digital services (and in all industries, I imagine) to fall into that trap of seeing your work simply as a way to make a quick buck. Get a job in, churn it out as quickly as possible for maximum profit, get paid, go home.
Last night’s meeting, and the fact that talented people, who could have been at home having made their day’s wage, came together to listen to what Volker had to share and to meet and share their own knowledge, was inspiring to say the least. Being creative is what it is all about, being passionate and genuine. Doing your absolute best with every job, not because it makes you more money, but because you love what you do and take unquestionable pride in your work. Because your work is who you are.
Later, over a few drinks, Volker talked earnestly of the importance of doing what you love, not simply for financial gain, not for recognition, but because it is the only way to truly live. Do you know what? He’s right.
Team ADO would like to say a big thank you to Volker for giving up his evening, inspiring us, and being a genuinely great chap. And to Chris @ Abstraktion, another genuinely great chap, for using his valuable time to organise the Digital Edge meet ups, getting us out of the studio and amongst like-minded and inspiring individuals who have given us a feeling of renewed vigour and excitement.
We love what we do, we take true pride in our work and we will never compromise on this. Changes happen and sometimes the proverbial dung hits the fan, but last nights meet up reminded us that we are on the right track. We are lucky to be surrounded by like minded people who just want to share their passion, who do take pride in their work and a genuine interest in yours. We will move forward, inspired, and continue to do what we love with pride and enthusiasm. Can you say this much about your work? If not, get on with it! It feels great.