Sometimes the design idea well runs dry, or so it seems. But church designers shouldn’t despair when it happens. Creative Director Phil Cooke, founder of Cooke Media Group in Burbank, Calif., shares this advise from years of working collaboratively with teams.
Although Cooke's experience is with filmmaking, his knowledge is evergreen when it comes to any type of creative design discipline. See if you can relate.
“Take a break or take a walk. Original ideas are often made from random connections, so when we hit a wall it usually means we’re stuck in a rut. I’ve discovered the best way to break through that wall is a complete change. Visit a museum, read a book, or take a hike. Anything that will change the cycle and get you thinking in a different way.
Steve Anderson Photography
Phil Cooke, Creative Director & Owner, Cooke Media Group, Burbank, CA
“I’m always listening to outsiders. Our team is fantastic, but we’re secure in knowing that we don’t know it all. ‘Outsiders’ could mean reading what others have done, comparing our work with competitors’, or simply listening to outside advice. Getting a different perspective is what’s important, and I’m open to hearing that from anyone.”
"Getting a different perspective is what’s important, and I’m open to hearing that from anyone.”
“Absolutely—[sometimes just stopping something and coming back later can help]. If it were a formula, everyone would be wildly creative and probably rich, as well. Always expect that you’ll have dry periods, and be ready with a plan to shake up your thinking so you can get back on track.”
"If it were a formula, everyone would be wildly creative and probably rich, as well."
“Procrastination is my secret. Everyone thinks procrastination is a negative thing, but the truth is … that combination of anticipation, excitement, and outright fear is what I need to get the adrenaline pumping and the ideas flowing. For instance, when I’m writing, I put it off as long as I can and just think about it. It builds and builds, so by the time I actually sit down to write, the ideas start flowing like a dam breaking.”
