Manager takeaways
Takeaways, Mantras, and Lessons Learned: 12 Years as a Creative Leader
Over my 12+ years in the design industry, both as a maker and a manager, I’ve collected key takeaways, mantras, and lessons that have shaped the way I lead and inspire others. Here’s a look at the guiding principles I return to again and again.
You bring the weather.
As a leader, your attitude and energy set the tone. The mood you bring into the room influences your team’s outlook, creativity, and productivity.
Never underestimate the power of 5 minutes.
Five minutes can make all the difference. Whether it's a quick check-in or a brief moment of connection, sometimes all it takes is a few minutes to shift momentum.
Command-I or die.
A mantra for the creatives out there: save your work, and save it often. (Because we’ve all been there.)
Start with “Yes!”
Lead with openness and curiosity. Saying “yes” creates space for exploration, creativity, and solutions, instead of shutting down possibilities.
Be a listener.
In one-on-ones, aim to listen 80% of the time and speak 20%. Even then, your 20% should be filled with thoughtful questions. Great leadership starts with truly hearing what your team has to say.
Hand over the mic.
Empower your team to speak up. Whenever possible, let them take the lead in discussions and presentations—it helps build their confidence and ownership.
Make your mixed tape.
As a leader, it’s your job to keep certain priorities at the forefront. Like a seasonal mixtape, remind your team of the key themes and values that guide their work.
Make work light.
Easing the way for others is part of being a leader. Be an example of lightening the load, and expect your team to support one another in the same way.
The power of “we.”
Foster a collectivist culture. It’s easy to fall into tribalism, but breaking down the “us vs. them” mindset is essential. I always tell new hires, “We use ‘we,’ not ‘I’”—and I hold myself accountable to it in front of the team.
Be specific with your praise.
Don’t just say, “Great job.” Offer thoughtful feedback by explaining what you observed and why it mattered. What impact did it have on others? How did it reflect the values of your organization?
Ask questions.
Never assume. Ask questions like, “What does that look like?” or “Can you clarify what you mean by that?” or even, “I heard you say this—am I understanding it correctly?”
Make space and take down walls.
Everyone comes with their own narrative and assumptions. As a leader, it’s your job to help remove those mental barriers and empower your team to chase their ambitions. Often, the best thing you can do is get out of their way.
Celebrate.
Celebrate your team’s wins. Their success is your success. By shining the light on them, you also catch its reflection—because when they win, the whole team wins.
Everyone is looking for recognition and empowerment.
At the end of the day, people want to feel seen and valued. Recognition and empowerment are two of the most powerful tools in a leader’s toolkit.
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When you are a leader, you:
Bring the weather
Set the pace
Tolerate what you teach
Measure you manage
Your role is to:
Make room for others
Filter feedback, give it in the moment
Be clear with expectations
Listen first, ask questions, stay curious
Connect others
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Mantras:
Data, not drama
Change the way you look at something the thing you look at changes
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Books/Podcasts: