Since we started The Pop Up Agency we have been committed to speeding up the way advertising agencies operate. We believe there is too much time wasted on bureaucracy, inefficient structures and old fashioned processes.
But these are not the only barriers to working quickly and efficiently. Another big thing is: forcing stuff.
When ideating or working in groups, from time to time we felt the process was not going smoothly enough, that something was not going right. So we now have a really strict rule: When ideas are not flowing, change your method, change the context, try something completely different or take a rest, because forcing the flow or a concept doesn’t lead to anything but time- wasting.
And this is something that doesn’t happen only in creative processes. We have come to realize that you can apply this principle basically to everything.
How many forced situations have you found yourself in? How many times have you felt you weren’t doing things in your own style but in a forced way? How many people are staying in a job they don’t fit in? or studying something they don’t like? Keeping silent in situations they can’t cope with anymore?
We have way too many forced situations in our daily lives that are not leading to anything. Too much energy wasted in something you know won’t work that you could use for starting a new project, being more productive, or simply being happier.
And the solution is quite simple: identify when you are forcing stuff, be honest with yourself, and change the situation.
Next time you’re in murky waters, stop rowing against the tide and go with the flow!
Alejandro (@masymasgrillas)
