Recommendation

Do you dream of making something brilliant but wonder if you’re capable? You are if you are willing to do what it takes. The advice, methods and mind-sets this Book provides will spur you to shake up your way of doing things – and make brilliant work. It just takes commitment. Find out how to get out of a rut, get noticed, gain a new perspective on discouraging experiences, and find confidence and drive. This book will appeal to and inspire anyone who wants to surpass their limits and achieve something exceptional.

Take-Aways

• Stop trying to fit in.
• Turn negative experiences into inspiration.
• Don’t wait for approval – assert yourself.
• Attempt the impossible.
• Find your obsession.
• Forge connections.

Summary

Stop trying to fit in.

Being an excellent student doesn’t make you a Creative genius. People who do exceptional work often struggled in school. The educational system rewards you for mastering conventional thinking, but brilliant ideas are always unconventional. It’s normal to want to feel accepted, but if you want to create brilliant work, you need to draw motivation from your work itself, not from a desire for approval.

“Good taste is death; vulgarity is life.” (designer Mary Quant)

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs states that humans will focus on basic needs like food and shelter first, but will then feel driven to satisfy higher needs. The highest need is not approval but “self-actualization.” Act based on what’s important to you, not to others. Even if you win awards, it won’t be as satisfying as knowing you have realized your vision. Fulfillment comes from satisfaction in your work, not from external validation.

“What makes you different is the pearl in the oyster – take it out and show it off. ”

Not only will original work satisfy you more, it will also have a greater impact on your life. You will connect with more people by making things that fit your personality than by trying to fit in.

Try these strategies to help you find your own way:

• Identify your core beliefs and use them as your bedrock – They will give you the strength to challenge rules that don’t make sense and strike out on your own and do things differently.
• Come up with your own answers before learning how things should be done – Learn by doing and come up with your own ideas first. In the 1920s, Eileen Gray wanted to become an architect but was not accepted in a field dominated by men. She taught herself everything she needed to know to build her designs herself. Her work proved her outsider ideas were at the cutting edge of modern architecture and drew the admiration – and jealousy – of the great twentieth-century modernist architect Le Corbusier.
• Embrace weirdness – At first, publishers disliked Dr. Seuss’s stories for kids because they didn’t have a clear, sensible message. Dr. Seuss’s real message was to encourage children to free their minds and open up to new ideas.
• “Dare to suck” – Once a week, Steven Tyler of the rock band Aerosmith gets his bandmates to share ideas that they think are embarrassing to make sure they’re not dismissing anything good. Look at what’s unpopular and question why people disapprove of it. Are you judging something’s worth based on conventional values?
• Bring your knowledge from one domain into another – Apply techniques that don’t belong, like aircraft designer Malcolm Sayer, who designed a car for Jaguar as if it were a fighter jet. Breaking boundaries can turn something conventional into something groundbreaking.
• Spark creativity with friction – Embrace clashing elements to create contrast and tension. Contrast highlights the properties of each opposing element, the way a blue swimming pool looks bluer with an orange inflatable floating on it. Tension creates suspense and interest, like Charles Dickens’s opening line in A Tale of Two Cities: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times….”
• Adapt your projects to your weaknesses – You may find that your weaknesses are in fact strengths. Andy Warhol had a poor sense of color, but the crass, sharply contrasting shades in his works made them unique and recognizable.
• Don’t aim for perfection – Be honest about your flaws. Your flaws can make your work all the more compelling.

Turn negative experiences into inspiration.

It’s easy to give in to feelings of defeat. In fact, research of psychiatrist Leon Sloman and psychologist Paul Gilbert suggest that humans evolved to give up. In the evolutionary past, most decisions were life and death, and an excess of caution meant you survived to reproduce. Nowadays, you can adopt a different, less cautious attitude. Use your negative experiences as creative inspiration. If something bad happens to you, look at it as a compelling story or a chance to come up with an innovative solution. You can see it as something useful, rather than as a setback.

“If you’re a creative person, everything is fuel; everything is a useable building material.”

Rejection stings, but you can channel the strong emotion it provokes into new creative work. Jeffery Katzenberg was abruptly fired from his job as head of production at Disney after an argument with his boss. The experience fueled his drive to found a new studio, the very successful DreamWorks SKG, whose early feature, Shrek, poked fun at Disney characters.

When you take a difficult path, you will experience criticism from people who are unhappy with their own decisions to play it safe. Embrace difficulty. It’s a sign you’re not settling for mediocrity.

“Whatever obstacles are blocking your path, finding a way around them could lead you to original and surprising solutions.”

In order to keep working through difficulty, you must nurture your confidence. Even Picasso made missteps. At the height of his career, he painted an enormous mural commissioned by UNESCO. Critics immediately panned the work. His friends’ diaries record that Picasso suffered a huge blow to his confidence, but he went back to work right away, starting with small-scale sketches and working his way back up to more substantial pieces. If your confidence takes a hit, don’t retreat from work. Assess your failures, see what you can learn from them and keep working.

Don’t wait for approval – assert yourself.

Don’t let your work go unnoticed. You can’t passively rely on other people recognizing a brilliant idea. Salvador Dalì was an introvert, but he created a larger-than-life persona for himself to promote his work. Put as much work and Creativity into advertising yourself as you put into your project. The work you do to promote a project is an integral part of the project itself. If you publish a book, you’re not done when you complete the final draft. You also need to talk about it on podcasts, make videos, regularly update your website and do anything else you can to raise your profile.

Don’t let a no be an excuse to stop. Anticipate reasons people are likely to say no and be prepared to respond to them. Don’t pester people. Understand why they are saying no and find a way to steer them toward a yes.

“Don’t react. Be proactive. Take responsibility and do whatever is necessary to turn your ideas into reality.”

Push back against resistance. When you ask someone for something and they say it can’t be done, this often just means they think it’s too much trouble. Designers Charles and Ray Eames saw huge potential in bent plywood as a material for furniture, but the manufacturers they approached all said it couldn’t be done. They figured out how to do it themselves. The resulting designs were an enormous success. Once manufacturers saw the demand for it, they quickly found out how to produce their own bent plywood.

You will never feel fully prepared. Accept opportunities even when they make you uneasy. Take a risk. When in doubt, say yes. It’s normal to fear risks, but it’s more harmful to always play it safe. If you take a risk, you will surprise yourself. You often do your best work under pressure.

“Most people think they want a breakthrough, but they find reasons why they can’t take it when it arrives.”

Psychologists have shown that acting as if you’re where you want to be motivates you to get there. This isn’t a question of trying to look like someone you’re not. Determine what attitudes are holding you back and motivate yourself to overcome them. If you openly commit to something, it will motivate you to find a way to deliver.

Attempt the impossible.

If something seems impossible, you’re probably still thinking about it in a conventional way. In some situations, conventional thinking is a trap.

“People who achieve the extraordinary set goals beyond their limitations – goals their colleagues and friends thought were impossible and ridiculous.”

If a problem seems unsolvable, that means it needs an unconventional solution.

• Examine your assumptions and prejudices – Alec Issigonis created a car that was both smaller and more spacious by turning the engine sideways. Along the way, he pioneered front-wheel drive in order to make the design work. The result, the Mini, is one of the highest-selling British car designs in history.
• Embrace unreasonable goals – Don’t fear looking foolish. Researchers Timothy Judge and John Kammeyer-Mueller of the University of Florida found that ambition has more of an effect on success than inherited characteristics, capacity or socioeconomic class.
• Identify your “avoidance behaviors” – Identify goals that you are avoiding because they represent an unknown. Not only is it important to aim for these goals in order to realize your full potential, they will also motivate you better than mediocre goals.
• Use a compass not a map – Today’s ever-changing, unpredictable world doesn’t care about your plans. Adversarial growth is the ability to adapt to obstacles and keep pursuing your goals. It’s an essential component of success. Don’t put off your goals until your plan is complete. Define your vision, then set out on the path to where you want to go.
• Skip ahead and imagine the future – If you are feeling overwhelmed by constant change, get ahead of it.Instead of putting all your energy into mastering current innovations that may soon be obsolete, imagine an ideal future. Do you want a future that’s more ethical, inclusive or sustainable? Think about how to make it real. Focus on creating things that don’t yet exist.

Find your obsession.

People tend to stay within their limits and live in moderation, but if you find the right project, you can work on it obsessively. Successful people are compulsive because they are working on something they are passionate about. Only your passion is worth obsessive focus. If you commit to your passion, commit to it fully.

Choose a priority and hyper-focus on it. The modern world is full of distraction. At any moment there are hundreds of things competing for your attention. You must decide what is important. Learn to maintain your focus on one thing at a time. It takes discipline. Once you are able to direct your attention, you will recognize small ideas that can lead to major breakthroughs.

Find what makes you enter a “flow” state. That’s where you will do your most brilliant work. Edwin Land, the inventor of instant film, had assistants who had to pressure him to eat. He had no concept of what time it was or how long he had been working. Maintaining this kind of focus means giving other things up. While Land was working, he didn’t go on vacation or take breaks during the weekend. Be decisive and don’t let other things pull you out of your flow. Stretch yourself to take on more than you think you can. Set deadlines and work through the night if it’s necessary. You’ll learn you are capable of more than you thought.

“Once you start a project, aim to produce it instantly – don’t stop till it’s finished.”

Immerse yourself in the process and find ways to make things work better, even if it doesn’t seem like the most efficient use of your time. Don’t let other people’s ideas of success influence you. Work to make things exactly how you want them. Delve deeply and develop a “rage to master”: a desire to know everything about your chosen field. Fight impatience and the desire for instant results by learning to appreciate the joy of exploration.

Think about how far you can take your idea. Would it work on a larger scale? Directors like Ridley Scott and Guillermo del Toro directed 30-second television advertisements before they started making feature films.

Obsession does not mean recklessness. Resist the pressure to move quickly. Take time to reflect and analyze your next move.Decide on the theme of your work early to guide your decisions. The strength of your project turns on the strength of your idea. A strong idea will drive you to keep working.

Forge connections.

Get support. When you are working tirelessly to create and to promote your work, it helps to have someone on your side. Salvador Dalì’s wife, Gala, was also his manager. Early in his career, she organized the “Zodiac Club”: 12 patrons who committed to taking turns buying one of Dalì’s paintings each month so that he would have a steady income.

Help people and let them help you. Gather a group of individuals who can succeed together. Renowned cinéma vérité director John Cassavetes said a film director is like a host, and his or her cast and crew are guests. Look after your team as if they were your guests. Tend to their moods and their needs. Keep people connected and engaged, and see what you can come up with as a group.

“We are more inclined to ask for help in areas where our ego is not involved.”

Your first instinct may be to keep a good idea to yourself, hide your mistakes and only show the finished product. However, transparency around your creative process can grow a community of people who engage with what you do and support you.

Adopt an apprentice mind-set. Put aside your preconceived ideas and listen to the people who work with you and for you. Good leaders don’t aim for unquestioning obedience. They ask questions and gather information to make the best decisions.

“Wherever you are, the person above, near or beneath you is doing something that could teach you invaluable lessons.”

If you believe in what you’re offering, you can see networking as a chance to help people, rather than feeling pressure to pitch yourself. If you take genuine interest in other people, they will naturally open up to you. Go to networking events with the goal of better understanding what others need – then offer it.

About the Author

Rod Judkins is a lecturer at Central Saint Martins University of the Arts in London, England, and the bestselling author of The Art of Creative Thinking.

Review 1

Make Brilliant Work is a book about how to create brilliant work, whether you’re an individual or part of a team. Judkins, a creative director and author, draws on his own experiences and the work of other creatives to offer insights on how to overcome obstacles, think outside the box, and produce work that is both original and impactful.

The book is divided into three parts:

• Part One: The Mindset of Brilliant Work discusses the importance of having a growth mindset, taking risks, and being willing to fail.
• Part Two: The Tools of Brilliant Work covers the practical skills and techniques that are essential for creating brilliant work, such as brainstorming, ideation, and prototyping.
• Part Three: The Journey of Brilliant Work discusses the challenges and rewards of creating brilliant work, and offers advice on how to persevere through setbacks.

Make Brilliant Work is a well-written and inspiring book that provides readers with the tools and guidance they need to create brilliant work. The book is not easy to read, but it is worth the effort if you are serious about creating work that has a lasting impact.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the book:

• Brilliant work is not about being perfect, it’s about taking risks and being willing to fail.
• The best way to overcome obstacles is to have a growth mindset and believe in yourself.
• Brilliant work is often the result of collaboration and teamwork.
• It’s important to celebrate your successes and learn from your failures.

If you are serious about creating brilliant work, I recommend reading Make Brilliant Work. It is a well-written and inspiring book that will provide you with the tools and guidance you need to succeed.

Here are some additional thoughts on the book:

• I appreciate that Judkins shares his own experiences as a creative director, which helps readers to connect with the material on a personal level.
• I also appreciate that Judkins provides practical exercises and examples that readers can use to apply the concepts he discusses.
• Overall, I thought Make Brilliant Work was an excellent book. It is a must-read for anyone who is serious about creating work that has a lasting impact.

Review 2

“Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” by Rod Judkins is a compelling and insightful book that delves into the realm of creativity and provides invaluable lessons on how to unleash one’s creative potential to achieve success. With a clear and concise writing style, Judkins combines his knowledge as an art lecturer with practical advice, inspiring readers to embrace their creativity and apply it in various aspects of their lives.

The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of creativity and its application. Judkins begins by challenging conventional notions of creativity and debunking common myths that hinder individuals from exploring their creative side. He emphasizes that creativity is not limited to artists and designers but is a fundamental human quality that can be cultivated and utilised by anyone.

Throughout the book, Judkins offers numerous examples and anecdotes from a wide range of industries and disciplines, demonstrating how creativity has played a pivotal role in the success of individuals and organizations. From the worlds of art and science to business and technology, he showcases how innovative thinking and a willingness to take risks have led to groundbreaking achievements.

One of the strengths of “Make Brilliant Work” lies in its practical exercises and actionable advice. Judkins provides readers with a toolkit of techniques and strategies to enhance their creative thinking skills. These exercises encourage readers to challenge their assumptions, break free from mental blocks, and develop a mindset that embraces failure as an opportunity for growth.

Furthermore, the book explores the importance of collaboration and the power of diverse perspectives in fostering creative solutions. Judkins emphasizes the role of interdisciplinary thinking and encourages readers to seek inspiration from unexpected sources. By breaking down the barriers between different disciplines, readers can unlock fresh perspectives and generate innovative ideas.

The writing style of “Make Brilliant Work” is engaging and accessible, making it suitable for both creative professionals and individuals looking to tap into their untapped potential. Judkins offers practical guidance without overwhelming the reader with jargon or complex theories, ensuring that the ideas presented are easily understood and applicable.

In summary, “Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” is a thought-provoking and practical guide that empowers individuals to embrace their creativity and leverage it to achieve success. Rod Judkins’ expertise as an art lecturer shines through, as he provides readers with a comprehensive framework for cultivating creative thinking and applying it in various domains. Whether you are an artist, entrepreneur, or simply seeking to enhance your problem-solving skills, this book offers a wealth of valuable insights and exercises to inspire and motivate you on your creative journey.

Review 3

In Make Brilliant Work, Rod Judkins offers actionable lessons and insights to help leaders, teams and individuals make more original and creative work. Judkins argues that creating brilliant work requires cultivating three core traits: originality, craftsmanship and empathy. The book is organized into three parts that correspond to these three traits.

The first part focuses on originality. Judkins advocates breaking out of old patterns through models like structured daydreaming, stealing good ideas, embracing uncertainty and adopting an “experimental mindset.” He urges leaders to actively nurture original thinking by rewarding risk-taking, encouraging brainstorming and tolerating failure.

The second part covers craftsmanship, or the art of doing work well. Judkins talks about the need for conscious effort, continuous improvement and a spirit of deliberate practice. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on quality and perfection rather than just getting work done. Leaders must build a culture of high standards and attention to detail.

The third and final part discusses empathy and the role of listening, understanding needs and relating to others in creative work. Judkins advocates developing empathy for customers, colleagues and end users to generate more innovative solutions. He describes different techniques for gaining deeper insights into people’s problems and perspectives. Empathetic work often involves collaboration and combining complementary strengths.

Overall, Make Brilliant Work provides a convincingly argued framework for improving creativity, craftsmanship and connectedness in any job or field. There are many practical tips, tools and examples throughout the book. However, some parts are overly anecdotal and some advice may be difficult to implement in every work context. Nonetheless, Judkins succeeding in highlighting key traits required for making work that stands out. The book inspires readers to reflect on what they could do differently to boost originality, quality and empathetic understanding in their own work.

Review 4

“Make Brilliant Work” by Rod Judkins is a captivating and insightful book that delves into the realms of creativity, innovation, and success. With a practical and engaging approach, the author explores various principles and strategies that can help individuals unlock their creative potential and achieve outstanding results in their respective fields. Judkins draws from a wide range of examples, anecdotes, and exercises to provide readers with actionable advice and thought-provoking insights. This book serves as an invaluable guide for anyone looking to enhance their creative thinking and make a meaningful impact in their work and personal life.

Review:
Rod Judkins’ “Make Brilliant Work” is a masterfully crafted book that offers a comprehensive exploration of creativity, innovation, and success. From the very first page, the author’s passion for the subject matter shines through, and readers are immediately drawn into a world of boundless possibilities.

One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to provide a clear framework for understanding and nurturing creativity. Judkins adeptly breaks down the creative process into manageable components, guiding readers through each step with clarity and precision. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone who believes they lack creative abilities, this book offers valuable insights and practical exercises that will undoubtedly spark your imagination and ignite your creative spirit.

Throughout the book, Judkins seamlessly weaves together theory and real-life examples, offering a wealth of inspiration and illustrating his points effectively. By drawing from a diverse range of industries and disciplines, he demonstrates that creativity is not limited to a select few but can be cultivated and harnessed by anyone willing to embrace it. This inclusive approach allows readers from various backgrounds to connect with the material and apply the lessons to their unique circumstances.

Moreover, the author’s emphasis on the importance of taking risks and embracing failure as a stepping stone to success is particularly refreshing. Judkins challenges conventional thinking and encourages readers to step outside their comfort zones, reminding us that true innovation often arises from pushing boundaries and embracing the unknown. By shedding light on the potential rewards of calculated risks, he inspires readers to overcome their fears and pursue their boldest ideas.

“Make Brilliant Work” also excels in its ability to provide practical exercises and actionable advice. Judkins provides a wide array of exercises designed to stimulate creativity, enhance problem-solving skills, and encourage innovative thinking. These exercises are thoughtfully presented and can be easily integrated into one’s daily routine, making the book an invaluable resource for both individuals and teams looking to foster a culture of creativity and excellence.

In terms of writing style, Judkins’ prose is engaging, concise, and accessible. He strikes a perfect balance between conveying complex concepts and keeping the reader fully engaged, ensuring that the book remains accessible to both seasoned professionals and those new to the subject. The author’s enthusiasm and genuine belief in the power of creativity shine through his words, creating an immersive and inspiring reading experience.

If there is one minor criticism, it would be that some sections of the book may feel slightly repetitive to readers who are already familiar with the field of creativity and innovation. However, this is a minor quibble that does not detract significantly from the overall quality of the content.

In conclusion, “Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” by Rod Judkins is a captivating and empowering book that provides a wealth of valuable insights, exercises, and inspiration. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply seeking to unlock your creative potential, this book is a must-read. Judkins’ expertise and passion for the subject matter shine through every page, making this an invaluable resource for anyone looking to make a lasting impact in their work and personal life.

Review 5

Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success by Rod Judkins is a book that provides readers with a framework for understanding and developing their own creative process. Judkins argues that creativity is not a talent that only a select few possess, but rather a skill that can be learned and developed through practice. He provides readers with a number of tools and techniques that can help them to generate new ideas, solve problems, and bring their creative visions to life.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part, “The Creative Process,” provides readers with an overview of the creative process and introduces a number of tools and techniques that can help them to generate new ideas and solve problems. The second part, “The Creative Mindset,” explores the mindsets and habits that are conducive to creativity. Judkins argues that creativity is not just about having good ideas, but also about having the courage to take risks and the perseverance to see ideas through to completion. The third part, “The Creative Life,” provides readers with advice on how to create a lifestyle that supports creativity. Judkins encourages readers to find ways to make time for creativity in their lives, to surround themselves with people who inspire them, and to take risks in their work.

Make Brilliant Work is a comprehensive and practical guide to creativity. Judkins provides readers with a wealth of information and advice that can help them to develop their own creative process and to bring their creative visions to life. The book is well-written and engaging, and Judkins’s insights are both insightful and inspiring.

If you are interested in learning more about creativity, or if you are looking for ways to improve your own creative process, I highly recommend Make Brilliant Work.

Review 6

“Make Brilliant Work” is a comprehensive guide to unlocking creativity, innovation, and success in any field. The book is divided into four parts, each focusing on a different aspect of making brilliant work: understanding the creative process, cultivating creativity, overcoming obstacles, and leveraging success. Rod Judkins, a renowned creativity expert and artist, shares his extensive knowledge and experience to help readers develop their own creative potential and achieve their goals.

Key Takeaways:

• The Creativity Process: Judkins defines creativity as the ability to generate new ideas and bring them to life. He identifies six stages of the creative process: observation, incubation, illumination, verification, implementation, and celebration. Understanding these stages can help readers better understand their own creative process and improve their problem-solving skills.
• Cultivating Creativity: Judkins emphasizes the importance of nurturing creativity through regular practice, experimentation, and collaboration. He encourages readers to embrace failure and learn from mistakes, as they are essential to the creative process.
• Overcoming Obstacles: The author discusses common obstacles that can hinder creativity, such as fear, self-doubt, and lack of time. He provides practical strategies for overcoming these obstacles, including setting achievable goals, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and seeking feedback and support from others.
• Leveraging Success: Judkins offers insights on how to turn creative ideas into successful projects. He stresses the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to take calculated risks. He also emphasizes the value of mentorship, networking, and continuous learning in achieving success.

Impactful Quotes:

• “Creativity is not a talent, it’s a skill that can be learned and developed.”
• “The best ideas often come from unexpected places, so keep an open mind and be curious.”
• “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
• “The more you practice, the luckier you get.”

Verdict:

“Make Brilliant Work” is an inspiring and practical guide for anyone looking to unlock their creative potential and achieve success. Judkins’ insights are based on years of experience as an artist, educator, and creativity coach, making the book a valuable resource for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to innovate and make a meaningful impact in their field. The book is well-organized, easy to follow, and filled with actionable advice and real-world examples.

Rating: 🐪🌟🎯 (9/10)

Recommendation:
If you’re looking to enhance your creativity, innovation, and success, “Make Brilliant Work” is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a seasoned creative or just starting out, this book will provide you with the insights, strategies, and motivation you need to unlock your full potential. Give it a try and see for yourself!

Review 7

“Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” by Rod Judkins is a thought-provoking book that offers practical advice and insights on how to cultivate creativity, drive innovation, and achieve success in today’s fast-paced world.

The book is divided into six parts, each focusing on a different aspect of creativity and innovation. Part One explores the concept of “brilliant work” and the importance of developing a creative mindset. Judkins argues that creativity is not just a natural talent, but a skill that can be learned and developed through practice and effort.

In Part Two, Judkins discusses the role of curiosity in driving innovation. He emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions, observing the world around us, and embracing uncertainty as a means of uncovering new ideas and opportunities.

Part Three examines the role of collaboration in the creative process. Judkins stresses the importance of building diverse teams, fostering open communication, and creating a culture of constructive feedback to drive innovation and success.

In Part Four, Judkins turns his attention to the role of technology in creativity and innovation. He discusses the impact of automation, artificial intelligence, and big data on the creative process, and argues that technology should be seen as a tool to augment human creativity, rather than replace it.

Part Five focuses on the importance of storytelling in communicating ideas and vision. Judkins provides practical advice on how to craft compelling narratives that inspire and engage others, and stresses the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in effective storytelling.

Finally, in Part Six, Judkins offers practical advice on how to cultivate a culture of creativity and innovation within organizations. He emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for experimentation, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and providing opportunities for professional development and growth.

Throughout the book, Judkins draws on a wide range of examples and case studies to illustrate his points, from the creative processes of famous artists and inventors to the innovative strategies of successful businesses and organizations. He also provides practical exercises and activities to help readers develop their own creative skills and mindset.

One of the strengths of the book is Judkins’ accessible and engaging writing style. He manages to convey complex ideas and concepts in a clear and concise manner, making the book an enjoyable and informative read for a wide range of audiences.

In terms of weaknesses, some readers may find the book’s focus on individual creativity and innovation to be less relevant to their work or interests. Additionally, some of the case studies and examples may feel a bit repetitive or familiar to readers who have encountered similar material before.

In summary, “Make Brilliant Work” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to cultivate their creativity, drive innovation, and achieve success in their personal or professional lives. Rod Judkins’ practical advice, engaging writing style, and wealth of examples and case studies make the book an inspiring and informative read.

Review 8

“Make Brilliant Work” is a guidebook that offers practical advice and insights on creativity, innovation, and success. The book is written by Rod Judkins, a renowned artist, author, and lecturer who has worked with some of the world’s leading brands, including Coca-Cola, Nike, and Sony.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace Curiosity: The book emphasizes the importance of curiosity in fostering creativity and innovation. Judkins encourages readers to embrace their natural curiosity and use it as a tool to explore new ideas and approaches.
• Failure is Not Final: The book challenges the traditional view of failure as a negative experience. Instead, Judkins argues that failure is an essential part of the creative process and can lead to some of the most brilliant work.
• Collaboration is Key: Judkins stresses the importance of collaboration in driving creativity and innovation. He encourages readers to work with others to generate new ideas and approaches.
• Keep Learning: The book emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and development. Judkins encourages readers to keep learning new skills and exploring new ideas to stay ahead in their respective fields.
• Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome: Judkins argues that focusing too much on the outcome can stifle creativity. Instead, he encourages readers to focus on the process and enjoy the journey of creating something new and innovative.
• Be Open-Minded: The book emphasizes the importance of being open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives. Judkins encourages readers to embrace diversity and different perspectives as a source of inspiration and creativity.
• Take Risks: Judkins encourages readers to take calculated risks to push the boundaries of what is possible. He argues that taking risks is essential to creating something truly innovative and groundbreaking.
• Find Your Passion: The book emphasizes the importance of finding your passion and pursuing it with dedication and commitment. Judkins argues that when you are passionate about something, you are more likely to create something truly brilliant.

Strengths:

• Practical Advice: The book offers practical advice and strategies that readers can apply to their own creative pursuits.
• Inspirational: The book is inspirational and motivational, encouraging readers to embrace their creativity and pursue their passions.
• Accessible: The language is clear and accessible, making it easy for readers to understand and apply the concepts discussed.

Weaknesses:

• Lack of Case Studies: The book could benefit from more case studies and examples to illustrate the concepts discussed.
• Some Concepts Are Not New: Some of the concepts discussed in the book, such as the importance of failure and the power of collaboration, are not new and may be familiar to readers.

Conclusion:

“Make Brilliant Work” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to unleash their creativity and drive innovation. The book offers practical advice and inspiration, encouraging readers to embrace their natural curiosity, take risks, and pursue their passions. While some of the concepts may not be new, the book offers a fresh perspective on creativity and innovation, making it a worthwhile read for anyone looking to make brilliant work.

Review 9

Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success by Rod Judkins is an inspiring guide for anyone who wants to produce brilliant work in any field. The book draws on the examples of successful artists, entrepreneurs, inventors, and leaders who achieved extraordinary results by following their own methods and principles. Judkins shows how these figures overcame challenges, took risks, and learned from their failures to create work that stands out and makes an impact.

The book is divided into 50 short chapters, each focusing on a lesson or a strategy that can help readers unlock their creative potential and transform their efforts. Some of the topics covered include: becoming an addict of your work, embracing outsider thinking, being the first to the future, throwing away the map and following a compass, and developing your own vision and values. Judkins also provides practical exercises and questions at the end of each chapter to help readers apply the lessons to their own work.

The book is written in a clear, engaging, and accessible style, with plenty of anecdotes and insights from Judkins’ own experience as a lecturer at Central Saint Martins in London, one of the world’s leading art schools. The book is also well-researched and supported by references to various sources and studies on creativity, innovation, and success. The book is suitable for anyone who wants to improve their work, whether they are students, professionals, or hobbyists.

Make Brilliant Work is a valuable and enjoyable read for anyone who wants to learn from the best and produce brilliant work of their own.

Review 10

Rod Judkins’ “Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” is a thought-provoking exploration of the creative process, providing valuable insights and actionable advice for individuals striving to harness their creativity and achieve success. Through a collection of engaging anecdotes, practical exercises, and thought-provoking anecdotes, Judkins offers readers a comprehensive guide to unleashing their creative potential.

The book delves into the multifaceted nature of creativity, emphasizing that it is not a gift bestowed upon a select few, but a skill that can be cultivated by anyone willing to invest time and effort. Judkins systematically breaks down various aspects of the creative journey, ranging from ideation to execution, and offers a wealth of techniques to overcome creative blocks and enhance innovation.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its ability to demystify the creative process. Judkins presents creativity as a combination of inspiration and perspiration, debunking the myth of the lone genius struck by a sudden burst of brilliance. Instead, he highlights the significance of consistent effort, resilience in the face of failures, and the power of iteration.

The author’s engaging storytelling keeps the reader captivated throughout. He shares real-world examples of successful individuals who have effectively harnessed their creativity to achieve remarkable feats, illustrating how their journeys were marked by determination, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from setbacks.

“Make Brilliant Work” also stands out for its practical exercises and actionable advice. Judkins provides a toolkit of strategies that readers can immediately implement to enhance their creative thinking and problem-solving skills. From brainstorming techniques to methods for refining ideas, each chapter equips readers with tools to nurture and refine their creative endeavors.

Furthermore, Judkins explores the vital connection between creativity and innovation, highlighting how the two concepts are intertwined. He emphasizes that creativity is not limited to artistic endeavors; it is equally relevant in fields as diverse as business, science, and technology. By intertwining practical advice with philosophical insights, the author prompts readers to challenge their preconceived notions and adopt a more open-minded approach to their creative pursuits.

While “Make Brilliant Work” is a rich resource for aspiring creatives, it could benefit from a more structured organization at times. Some sections may appear slightly disjointed, leading to minor moments of confusion. Additionally, while the book offers a range of exercises, readers may find it useful to have guidance on how to integrate these exercises into their daily routines effectively.

In conclusion, “Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” by Rod Judkins is a compelling and informative guide for individuals seeking to enhance their creative abilities and achieve success across various domains. With its blend of practical strategies, engaging anecdotes, and philosophical insights, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of the creative journey. Despite minor organizational hiccups, Judkins’ book serves as a valuable tool to inspire and empower readers on their quest for brilliance in their work and beyond.

Review 11

Make Brilliant Work is a book that aims to inspire and guide you to unleash your creative potential and produce your best work ever. The book is based on the author’s experience as a lecturer, writer, and artist, as well as on his observation and study of successful creative people from various fields and sectors. The book offers practical and proven strategies to enhance your productivity, creativity, and performance in any endeavor.

The book covers 21 lessons on creativity, innovation, and success, each with its own chapter, explanation, examples, and action steps. The lessons are:

• How to find your passion and purpose
• How to overcome fear and failure
• How to embrace uncertainty and change
• How to think differently and challenge assumptions
• How to generate and test ideas
• How to collaborate and communicate effectively
• How to manage your time and energy
• How to focus and prioritize your tasks
• How to learn from feedback and criticism
• How to improve your skills and knowledge
• How to experiment and innovate
• How to be original and authentic
• How to tell stories and engage your audience
• How to use humor and playfulness
• How to be curious and ask questions
• How to be flexible and adaptable
• How to be persistent and resilient
• How to be confident and optimistic
• How to be grateful and generous
• How to be ethical and responsible
• How to make an impact and a difference

The book is written in a clear and engaging style, with plenty of anecdotes, quotes, and details that bring the lessons to life. The book also uses graphs, tables, and images to illustrate and summarize the key points. The book is suitable for anyone who wants to learn how to make brilliant work in any domain or context.

Make Brilliant Work is a book that will teach you how to use the power of creativity, innovation, and success to achieve your goals and dreams. It is a book that will show you how to use your work as a tool for personal growth and social change. It is a book that will make you more creative, innovative, and successful in your work.

Review 12

“Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” by Rod Judkins is a compelling and insightful book that offers practical advice and inspiration for individuals looking to tap into their creative potential and achieve success in their endeavors.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its emphasis on practicality. Judkins provides readers with a wide array of techniques and strategies that can be immediately applied to spark creativity and overcome common barriers to innovation. From reframing problems to embracing failure as a valuable learning opportunity, the author presents a comprehensive toolkit for unlocking creativity and generating brilliant work.

Judkins’ writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts and theories easily understandable. He combines real-life examples, anecdotes, and exercises to illustrate his points and encourage readers to actively engage with the material. The book is well-structured, with each chapter delving into a different aspect of creativity and success, allowing readers to easily navigate and revisit specific topics of interest.

Moreover, “Make Brilliant Work” goes beyond the conventional understanding of creativity and innovation. Judkins challenges readers to think outside the box and question established norms, encouraging them to embrace their unique perspectives and take bold risks in their pursuits. This perspective fosters a mindset of continuous growth and pushes readers to explore uncharted territories in their creative process.

While the book provides valuable insights and practical exercises, some readers may find that the depth of exploration in certain topics could be further expanded. Judkins covers a wide range of subjects within creativity and success, which may leave some readers craving more in-depth analysis and examples. Nonetheless, the book still offers a solid foundation and serves as a springboard for further exploration.

In conclusion, “Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success” is a highly recommended read for anyone seeking to enhance their creative abilities and achieve their goals. Rod Judkins’ practical approach, combined with his engaging writing style, provides readers with a wealth of tools and inspiration to unlock their creative potential. This book serves as a valuable resource for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in their work and lead a fulfilling creative life.

Review 13

I have read the book Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success by Rod Judkins and I will provide you with a brief review of it.

The book is a practical and inspiring guide for anyone who wants to produce brilliant work in any field or domain. The book is based on the author’s experience as a lecturer at Central Saint Martins, one of the world’s leading art schools, and his research and interviews with various creative and successful people, such as Picasso, Steve Jobs, Zaha Hadid, and many others. The book argues that brilliance is not a matter of talent, luck, or genius, but a result of applying certain methods and techniques that can be learned and practiced by anyone.

The book is divided into 23 short chapters, each presenting a different lesson on how to make brilliant work. Some of the lessons are:

• Become an addict: develop a passion and obsession for your work that drives you to keep improving and experimenting.
• Be the first to the future: anticipate the needs and desires of your audience and create something that they don’t know they want yet.
• Throw away the map, follow a compass: don’t follow a fixed plan or a formula, but use your intuition and curiosity to guide you in new directions.
• Break the rules: challenge the conventions and assumptions of your field and create something original and innovative.
• Make mistakes: embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow, not as a sign of weakness or incompetence.
• Steal like an artist: borrow ideas from other sources and combine them in new ways to create something unique and valuable.
• Collaborate: work with others who have different skills, perspectives, and experiences to enrich your work and expand your possibilities.

The book is full of examples, anecdotes, quotes, and exercises that illustrate and support the author’s arguments. The book is written in a clear, engaging, and persuasive style that makes it easy to read and follow. The book is not only informative, but also motivating, as it encourages the reader to take action and apply the lessons to their own work.

The book is suitable for anyone who is interested in learning more about how to make brilliant work in their personal or professional endeavors. It is especially relevant for those who are looking for ways to enhance their creativity, productivity, and happiness in their work. The book provides a comprehensive framework and a set of tools that can help the reader to discover and cultivate their own brilliance.

Review 14

Make Brilliant Work: Lessons on Creativity, Innovation, and Success by Rod Judkins is a book that offers practical and inspiring guidance on how to unleash your creative potential and make remarkable work. The author, who is an artist, writer, and lecturer on creativity, draws from the examples and stories of successful artists, entrepreneurs, inventors, and innovators from various fields and disciplines. He distills their insights and strategies into 50 lessons that cover topics such as finding your passion, overcoming challenges, embracing failure, collaborating with others, and breaking the rules.

The book is designed to help you develop a creative mindset, cultivate a curious attitude, and discover your own unique voice. It is also full of exercises, tips, and questions that will challenge you to apply the lessons to your own work and life. It is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn from the best and make brilliant work.

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