In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it can be easy to lose sight of the deeper and more meaningful aspects of life. We can get caught up in the pursuit of achievement, chasing after the latest trends and fads, and forget about the importance of having a personal connection to the work we do. Or, on the other hand, we may get complacent and comfortable in repeating what we’ve always done in the name of consistent success. However, as this week’s podcast guest alludes to, discovering the soul of an idea and having a personal connection to one’s work is crucial for lasting success.
What is the “soul” of an idea? As David Copperfield says,
Then it's conveying the message, the story, the feeling, the emotion. That's what's interesting. It connects. If people in the audience are amazed and cry, then it's interesting. If the people in their hearts are amazed and are inspired, then it's interesting.
This personal connection can stem from various sources, such as a strong belief in the mission or a passion for the work. When we have this connection, we are more likely to be committed and persistent in our pursuit of success.
Having a strong tie to one’s work can also lead to a greater sense of fulfillment and purpose. When we feel that our work is meaningful and aligned with our values and beliefs, it can provide a sense of satisfaction and joy that goes beyond just monetary success.
But how can we cultivate this personal connection and soul in our work? One way is to question why we are doing what we are doing. Are we just following the latest trends, or do we have a genuine interest in the work? Are we doing it just for the paycheck, or do we feel that it aligns with our values and passions?
Another way is to seek feedback from others and question their opinions. David often films his illusions and reviews them with other people to continuously improve them and get their feedback. By understanding why people like something or are drawn to it, we can gain insight into the qualities that make it meaningful and significant. This can help us create work that resonates with people on a deeper level and has a lasting impact.
In addition to these strategies, it’s also important to remember that this kind of connection is not something that happens overnight. It takes time, dedication, and persistence to cultivate this connection and create work that truly matters.
This idea of soul is a word that I've never really used. I love it because I think it helps explain something ethereal as to why you should commit to something and why you should be stubborn to try and figure it out…Because it matters. And to have personal connection to the work that we do is what distinguishes a long career like yours, a 40-plus year career like yours, versus somebody who may have short term success. And the lasting success is you've got to really believe in the things you're doing. You have to have a visceral, emotional connection, otherwise it's not worth committing the energy to. I've learned that from you. And the other thing that I've learned is the desire to really understand why people like things, not because you're testing them. It's because you want to find out what you're missing or where there's something you can learn and to question people's opinions about things for growth. I think it's something I wish we would all do.
Listen to his full conversation with David:
If you have a story about someone you know inspiring people to help others or how Simon’s work has inspired you, send it to us at [email protected], and we might share it here!
