Last evening I went to a joint APA/ASMP event here in San Diego.
First off, how great is that?! APA and ASMP working together. We do that sometimes here–have meetings that are sponsored by both organizations–and I encourage other locations to follow the example. The groups may not always agree on everything, but the shared fundamental are there.
Anyway, I went even though I am swamped with school stuff. I was, quite literally, eating a wrap while reading Torts in my car before the event (having finished my classes at 5pm and the event started at 6:30) just so that I could get everything done and still attend. I made the effort because I miss seeing people from the photo community and thought this meeting would be good.
I knew that I was missing the contact, but didn’t realize just how much until I started talking with folks there. At first I was almost manic, then I was just very happy to be a part of the crowd. Mark Robert Halper, the guest for the event, spoke about intent and vision (and mentioned the crappy contracts issue and the importance of not lowering your fees now!!!) and shared many good ideas, but for me the real highlight (no slight to Mr. Halper!!!!) was just being around people I knew were creative and compelling–people who are my “constituency.”
I love law school. I’m lucky with that. But it’s hard, hard work. Last night helped reinforce the fundamental reason why I am here (at school, that is). I think connecting with the people you seek to serve is a great way to revitalize your attitude about your work. Right now, I am heading into exam-prep hell, but meeting with people yesterday has served to inspire me to get through that hell.
Maybe if you take the time to connect with your constituency–the people you work with like ADs or PEs, etc.–you can re-find that inspiration to get through this hard time in your career. Go to a local AdClub meeting or AIGA event (or AIA if you do architecture, or whatever group fits your clients). Get involved with the group (I’m going to be doing something with APA here soon). Remind yourself how great it is to know these people and, even if only sometimes lately, to work with them.