HD Expo Recap Conference Highlights

Was there a moment that defined your career?

In 2004 I suffered from a stroke in the middle of a client meeting and had to have open heart surgery. It was the ultimate reminder to pause and take account of what is most important. That time post-recovery was one of the most liberating of my life – I had complete clarity and laser-focus on what was actually important and what was a waste of my time. It is now something I try to practice regularly – What is most essential right now? What is the best use of my time?

Advice for women wanting to follow your line of work?

It’s a female trait to try to be good at everything and do everything. That just doesn’t work in business, in fact it’s impossible. My advice would be to find your strengths, hone them and nurture them. Don’t waste your time trying to do everything, especially things that other people around you might be more skilled at. Perfect your strengths, accept your weaknesses, surround yourself with talented and diverse people, and be open to learning from them.

Stay passionate and curious. I recently babysat a four year old for the weekend – every other word was “Why?” “What’s This?” or “How Come?” It was a beautiful reminder of the importance of maintaining our childhood curiosity. As creatives we should be curious, observant, and always ask why.

I think young professionals now are much more career focused than I was.  My advice would be that things fall into place if you put in time, passion, and hard work. Be engaged, hungry, and keep learning. Be bold, don’t wait for people to tell you what to do, and ask for what you want.

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