It’s no secret I love non-fiction advice and self-help books.
Last week in my Personal Branding class, we had a panel on brand storytelling. During the panel, three accomplished DC-based public relations professionals talked about how to find what it is you truly love to do, and then how to share that passion with others through storytelling.
While all three of the panelists do different things at their day jobs, they all had one thing in common—they landed in the roles they are in because they relentlessly followed the passions and things they loved to do when they were young. Essentially, they were living the Rules of the Red Rubber Ball—which coincidentally, is one of my favorite reads.
In a quick 30 pages, Kevin Carroll shares his seven Rules of the Red Rubber Ball through simple illustrations and minimal text so that ultimately, you can find and chase your own red rubber ball just like you did on the playgrounds of your youth.
Throughout the semester, but especially after this panel, I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking about what I’ve always loved to do. And I always come back to the fact that I’ve always loved to read, write, and be creative—so I guess it’s a good thing I fell into blogging ;]!
But I’ve also always loved paper products, and have toyed with the idea of opening a paper shop of some kind for a long time. Luckily through this Personal Branding class, I’ve had the opportunity to work through some design concepts for a brand, and do some background research on the stationery scene. Above are two logo concepts I turned in for class, and I know something like a paper shop or other creative, entrepreneurial endeavor is part of my red rubber ball because I worked on these logos on a Friday night and it didn’t feel like work at all.
I also consider myself lucky because in addition to this blog, my day job provides ample opportunity to express my creative side through writing, graphic design, photo staging + art directing, and using digital platforms to get our messaging across. And I am learning skills that will help me pursue my red rubber ball even more than I am now.
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So I’d love to know—what do you love doing that doesn’t feel like work? What is it that you can spend hours on without realizing time is passing? What do you think is your red rubber ball?
I really love food blogging and blogging in general. I think talking to people/meeting folks through the blog is the most exciting thing and getting to share my love of cooking and baking is the best!
Ah yay! I am so glad you found blogging and are able to connect with people, but also share your passions with your readers! xx
i love blogging–writing posts, taking pictures, creating beauty DIYS, and testing beauty products. I even love filming videos. The b-t-s stuff, i don’t like!!
Yes! I love all those things you just said :] So glad you also found blogging! xx
That’s such a cool concept. I’ve never read the book, but now I want to. I’m not exactly sure what mine is yet. I do love to write, and this blog is a great outlet. I also love to create and dance, so maybe someday I’ll get to combine those some how.
Thanks Shann – would definitely recommend it. A quick, but powerful read. And yes! Keep chasing those things you love – I am sure you’ll find your red rubber ball. xx
Love this! I can COMPLETELY relate to this because of what I do EVERY day. Going to art school I often get asked how I accomplish all of the work that I do, or how I manage countless sleepless nights, but honestly none of it feels like work. (Except those general education classes- HA!) I truly love getting to do anything that has to do with the fashion or lifestyle industry that I’m scared for when I need to pick a specific career path.
Xx Taylor
http://lightscameracatwalk.com
Ah, so glad you can relate Taylor! HAH YES! We all have those classes that feel like work and then we have those classes that just fly by. I am so fascinated by your school work, would love to see some of it on your blog! xx
An inspiring post, I’m glad you love what you do! I’ve been painting a lot which isn’t work but attempting to open up a webshop soon. Currently also studying behavioural psychology which I love! Looks like a captivating read! Have a lovely week! x
Louise
http://louiseplace.com
Thanks Louise! I love your paintings, and definitely think you should open up a web shop! Plus, behavioral psych sounds so cool! Keep on doing you.
Lovely post. As branding, design and marketing is part of my daily life, it’s exciting to read 🙂
It’s nice that you fell into blogging and feel right in your place with it!
Thanks lady! Glad you enjoyed it :]
I had never heard of the book! Its really cool that youre sharing what you learn in your branding class!
Your logo designs are amazing by the way!!
Kat | Delirium Style
Thank you so much lady! Definitely check out the book if you ever have a chance. xx
I must say you did a wonderful job on the logos girl. I especially love the Teal and Main logo. I don’t know why I fell drawn to that name, but I did. Personal branding is such a tricky topic and it definitely, for me, requires one to really sit and figure out who they are. I absolutely love reading this post. But then again, I always love reading your blog girl.
Kia / KTS
http://www.houseofkts.com
Thank you Kia – that means a lot coming from you because you are so talented! I love that name too. I always love reading your blog, too :] xx
I have absolutely fallen in love with blogging. I love coming up with new ideas and even when I’m staying up late to get the perfect photo edits done, it never feels like work.
Also, both of those logos look adorable and I know I would be an avid shopper at your paper store company. 🙂
Kelsey | http://www.abalancingpeach.com
I completely agree Kelsey! I love doing all the work behind a post, too, which is exactly why I am up late now. And thank you – you’ll be the first to know when it launches ;]
I love blogging to. It’s become a true passion of mine. There is something so gratifying about writing something that others look forward to reading. It’s great that you’ve found what you love!
So glad you’ve found blogging, too! I completely agree about writing and having others look forward to reading it, and I just love the creative outlet it provides. Plus, the people I’ve met and the experiences I have gained through blogging have really changed my life for the better.
Very cool! Love the Palmetto Paper logo. So fresh and clean which I think represents your personal style! I love blogging because it really taps into all my passions: writing, fashion, food, decor, travel and beauty. I’d love to open up a small boutique when my kids are older and sell unique items that you don’t see at department stores. I’m also really passionate about educating consumers about the benefits of using natural beauty products so I would love to sell those as well. One day….
Taffeta & Tulips
Thank you so much Kate! I can see all your passions really come out on your blog, and I am so glad you have found a way to wrap them up nicely in one place. I would 100% shop at your boutique! I can only imagine how well curated it would be. And you could do a line of beauty products! The possibilities are endless.
This sounds like such a great book! Sounds like I really need to read this one. There are so many motivational publications that help motivate you. I could use that right about now. Thank you!
Thanks M! Would highly recommend – a quick, yet powerful read. xx