Thinking Outside the Box: A Lesson That Shaped My Creative Journey

Back in college, I was assigned a project to create an unconventional package. It was one of those assignments designed to push boundaries and encourage us to think differently. I remember how one of my classmates approached the project methodically, spending hours meticulously planning and assembling her package. Her process was thorough and precise, a reflection of her dedication and hard work.

My approach couldn’t have been more different. Instead of mapping everything out, I decided to play around with the different sides of the package, letting my creativity guide me without overthinking it. It didn’t take me a ton of time, but I was fully immersed in experimenting and exploring new ideas.

When it was time to present, our professor showed genuine interest in both of our projects. Despite the stark contrast in our approaches, each package brought something unique to the table. However, I noticed that my classmate seemed upset. I didn’t understand it at the time, but later, in another class we shared, I overheard her talking to someone else. She expressed her frustration, saying it was “stupid” that I had barely tried while she had put in so much effort.

She didn’t realize I was in the room, hidden behind a bookcase. When she did, the conversation abruptly stopped, and I could tell she was embarrassed. That moment stuck with me, not because of her resentment, but because it made me reflect on how differently people perceive effort and success.

I’ve never held any resentment toward her feelings. If anything, that experience taught me a valuable lesson: there isn’t one right way to approach a problem. Creativity doesn’t always follow a linear path, and thinking outside the box isn’t about how much time you spend; it’s about how you engage with the problem in front of you.

Today, that mindset shapes everything I do. In my work in marketing and design, thinking differently, being open to new perspectives, and embracing unconventional solutions have been key to my growth and success. It’s not about comparing methods or measuring effort against outcomes. It’s about understanding that every creative journey is unique.

So, if you ever find yourself questioning your process because it doesn’t look like someone else’s, remember: it’s not how you get there, it’s what you bring to the table that counts.