Coffee: Let Me Count the Ways

For as long as I can remember I start each business day with a cup of coffee. It usually doesn’t stop there, since I drink it all day long now, probably 10-12 cups a day. There is something about the aroma and smell that even surpasses the taste. I’ve said before that as long as it is hot, I’ll drink it. I wouldn’t say I am a connoisseur of coffee by any means like many of my friends, knowing the background of how and where it is grown, etc., but I do love a hot cup of coffee. For me, it is the bridge to conversations, inspiration, and relaxation and focus on the things I design and create.

Creaffination
There are so many analogies to what I do and life itself found in coffee. Take for instance the coffee bean, they are all different and unique, just like the many creative designers and partners I have worked with through the years. Each bringing their own talent and flavor to the project.  When the beans are ground they mix together for a special flavor all their own, then when heat and water are added they become a product for all to taste and savor.

Reflection
Through the years I haven’t always stopped to enjoy the projects that  I have collaborated with  
to design. In his new book, Greenlights, Matthew McConaughey states, “We need to take time where we stop and do inventory. Let’s go back to our last week, who we were in it. How did we do?'” After 45 years, I have spent more time recently reflecting on the incredible talents of the thousands I have had the opportunity to share coffee with during the creation of designs that have touched so many. A strong aroma of gratitude lingers in regards to the thousands of hours spent to develop identities and brands for companies large and small.

Motivation
Coffee, like the work I love, continues to motivate me for more. Solving a client's problems, whether design or procedure, motivates me to drink another cup, and enjoy the taste. The taste of satisfaction while realizing how blessed I am to get to do this thing called design that I love so much.  Most of all, I'm grateful to God who reigns and am humbled by how he continues to use me in many small ways.

Now it’s time to go back to work, and pour another cup.