16 Comments

"a more playful approach" - this can be so powerful and as you say, if you jump too early when developing a brand, you may miss something way more powerful. I'm working on an AI project where we are trying to adopt a "more playful" approach as this technology is so new and the ideas of what we could do just seem to keep flowing. Hopefully we can move forward in a playful manner to create something powerful - but also has the ability to evolve over time.

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It can be challenging but I try to keep playfulness at the heart of my work. As you say, it helps with creative flow, and so much more! Good luck with the AI project. I can imagine it’s fun to be working in this area!

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I know almost nothing about AI but keen to lean into it and this project is probably a good one to have a more playful approach and see what is possible with using AI - it’s to do with 3D animation of a mascot for a sports rights holder

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I use AI fairly lightly in my job but my partner, who works in digital, is excited about the possibilities!

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Oh my gosh I adored this! You perfectly articulated how to build a brand with intention, intuition, and integrity. Thank you for outlining this process so wonderfully.

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Thanks, Erin. That means a lot coming from someone who works in strategy AND for writers. Phew! I think one of the toughest jobs we have as strategists is making the work of dreaming and planning and moving towards goals accessible and exciting. I used to think of strategy as quite a dry topic and would love to change that view in others.

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Absolutely, it can be really exciting and empowering! I freaking love strategy.

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This is a wonderful post - I love how you incorporate play and respect that it is a process. In this fast culture, respecting that something can take years to grow is precious. Your words are like honey, Sarah!

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Pleased this resonated with you, Nadja. Thanks for your kind words. It can indeed take time, and that's why I think it's important to invite some play into the process and not take it too seriously!

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**LIKE**

That's my playful way of liking through a more valuable engagement metric. 😆

Have liked anyway too. Win-win!

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I’ll take a like, or a *LIKE*, but I don’t think we should get too hung up on it. Hope you enjoyed the article!

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Indeed, all levels of engagement form more engagement than none. An action undertaken, some movement felt!

I did enjoy the article, thank you for bringing together the foundation, positioning, and essence. Looking inward and outward, considering right now as well as the future, allowing the different elements to work in a healthy and valuable combination. And all while being playful.

That's my more serious appreciation...Though my fun **LIKE** still stands. ;-)

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This was what I needed to read thank you. I'm definitely of the opinion of approaching my Substack playfully and trying out different things that bring me joy 😊

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There is so much more joy to be had when you don’t confine yourself to a particular formula or framework. It helps to have a loose strategy but I believe we can build it around what feels good! I chat a bit more about this in my last post 😀

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Thank you for the collaboration once more! What a great resource 👌

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Glad you think so, Carmen! I hope you enjoy it and look forward to diving more deeply into strategy with you and other Brand Seasons members 🙌🏻

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