Hug Your Firsts
The most creative leaders aren't just bold thinkers—they're insatiable learners. According to advertising executive Roy Spence, ==truly innovative leaders "hug their firsts," constantly seeking new experiences and unlikely partnerships that challenge their established thinking.== In his book "The 10 Essential Hugs of Life," Spence argues that while childhood is naturally filled with firsts, maintaining this curiosity becomes a deliberate choice as we age. "You're only as young as the new things you do," he writes, drawing inspiration from management guru Jim Collins. This commitment to remaining interested—attending unfamiliar conferences, exploring unrelated fields, connecting with diverse people—keeps leaders relevant and their organizations vibrant. The most powerful leaders don't just rest on what made them successful; they continuously question assumptions and embrace the uncomfortable newness that fuels growth.