Nothing like some good ol’ friendly competition to get the blood pumping right? The saying “Iron sharpens iron” has been on my mind for a while now, which means to help one another become a better version of themselves.
The idea is to do this in order to accomplish common goals. Another related saying is “he/she lost their edge,” meaning how someone has either lost their talent or isn’t as effective in their craft.
It’s natural to have days where we feel dull and not so aligned with our work. We can be worn out just like everything else in life if not maintained. This concept came to mind because I see how important it is to always support and in this case “sharpen” each other.
I’ve personally started shopping with local businesses & artists at least 3-5 times a week or I try to at least give them a solid shoutout/review. It’s really easy to have tunnel vision to the paper but to truly be successful you have to help those around you succeed. I love collaborating with others because it creates a dynamic that empowers us to push past our self proclaimed limits.
What is it that the “GOATS” always say?! To be the best you gotta beat the best! Competition isn’t a bad thing, it helps rivals work towards a common goal and it’s a learning experience for both parties. Just remember you only lose if you give up.
Here are some ways you can become a source of support to the all the people around you:
Show your people you care and love them. It only takes a couple of seconds to speak some words of encouragement to someone who spends 100+ hours perfecting their craft.
Build genuine connections. Organic relationships are crucial for a proper collaboration, make sure your connections are built on your values! “If it ain’t real it won’t last”
Praise in public, correct in private. If you really support something, say it with your chest! A simple retweet/repost goes along way. If you need to correct someone, do so one on one; don’t expose them for your pleasure.
Speak vision and potential into others. Someone might not see in themselves what you see in them. Let em know! It can spark something and give them the courage to take action ideas they’ve been sitting on.
Discover and develop others peoples strengths/talents. Always highlight at what others are good at, you might help drive them in the right direction.
Share leadership. Don’t be afraid to give others responsibility. They’ll rise to the challenge if you give them the opportunity.
Implimenting this dynamic everywhere you go will create a network of positive relationships. It’s like a domino effect that has no end.
An example of this ecosystem would be pop up shops, galleries and showcases. Showing up to these not only boosts morale for the artist but can inspire you as well. “Team work makes the dream work.”
Here’s a great example of a collaborative piece we put together with some local artists. The end result came out amazing, everyone brought their A-game. Thank you to everyone who copped one! We’re gonna make these a yearly thing to put multiple artist on at the same time.
Above all else remember the answer is always love! I can’t emphasize that enough, show love, spread love and receive love when it is given to you. It’s our biggest weapon when fighting our day to day haters. Push your fellow peers and remind them you won’t let up so they shouldn’t either.