The story of purpose in design, life & happiness - Stefan Sagmeister

"Something that's good has the chance to make a real impression. Something that's mediocre doesn't. So why do the work if it's not gonna make an impression?" - Stefan Sagmeister 

A candid conversation with renowned designer Stefan Sagmeister about his journey from creating theater posters in Vienna to becoming a celebrated designer in New York. He discusses the evolution of his career, the importance of sabbaticals in creative growth, and his deep insights into happiness and creative fulfillment. The interview reveals how strategic pauses and intentional career shifts have shaped his work and perspective on life.

Key Takeaways:

• Early success came through meaningful connections and being open to opportunities
• Taking regular sabbaticals (every 7 years) has been crucial for creative evolution and preventing stagnation
• True happiness often emerges from improving relationships and pursuing meaningful work rather than direct pursuit
• Setting limitations and constraints can lead to better creative outcomes than complete freedom
• Commercial success shouldn't prevent you from making major career pivots when needed
• Fear of change (like taking sabbaticals) often proves unfounded when you take the leap
• The definition of happiness varies by timeframe - from momentary pleasure to long-term meaning
• Self-improvement and happiness shouldn't be pressured pursuits but natural outcomes of meaningful work
• Being known in design circles brings mostly advantages without the drawbacks of true fame
• The best creative opportunities often come from doing quality work rather than chasing commercial success

Mindful Creative: How to understand and deal with the highs and lows of creative life, career and business

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