We were lucky to catch up with Michelle Maggard recently and have shared our conversation below.

Michelle, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s kick things off with a hypothetical question – if it were up to you, what would you change about the school or education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career?

I think that the current education system in our country is set up in a way that can severely restrict creativity. If I could make adjustments to the education system, I would make it so that the student is left with the power to choose how they wish to learn, or to at least have access into experiencing how different and creative ways of learning can help them succeed.

The arts, as well as alternative learning styles should be integrated more into standard classrooms. In my own experience, the classrooms I found most effective were the one’s that left space for finding tactile or visual ways to connect with the information. Something that created a way to connect emotion with the content of the lesson.

In general, I believe giving the space for a student to learn in a way that resinates most with them, sets them up for a future where there is a deeper understanding and value for different ways of thinking and different ideas. In turn, I think this ultimately leads to a fresh mindset that individuals can apply to their careers and lifestyles – finding tailored ways to learn, achieve and enjoy doing so.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a graphic designer by trade, however, in recent years have been able to expand my skill set – becoming a bit more of a utility player in the creative world. I’ve been lucky enough to work on projects ranging from from brand identity, packaging designs, consulting, illustrations, large scale murals, the list goes on. It’s been really fun being able to bounce around to different types of projects and bring a clients ideas and goals to life in a visual way.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I think the most rewarding part of being a creative is being able to bring things to life in a visual and tangible aspect. Whether concepts are coming from my own ideas, or that of a client, it’s a fun journey to have the design process unfold into something like a completed mural, or a piece of packaging sitting on a shelf. The thrill of having work that you’re proud of out in the world for the eyes of everyone to see has never really worn off for me. It’s a rewarding feeling knowing that in a way, you have a chance to leave something beautiful behind.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I experienced an enormous life and career shift when in one month span of time I had watched a dear friend lose her battle with ovarian cancer, then, just a few weeks later was unexpectedly laid off from my job with no warning. It certainly was a lot to process in such a short time and a big lesson in “life happens, but the world won’t stop moving.”

It was a bit chaotic and overwhelming during that time of navigating grief, along with the reality of being without a full time job and all the benefits tied to that. After sitting with the initial shock of it all, I elected to take some time for myself before deciding what’s next. It really allowed me to reflect on the things that are valuable in life. Success and happiness are not measured by your career, or the money that you make. Success and happiness are measured by the experiences, memories and relationships in your life that keep you fulfilled.

By late summer I was able to start working more for myself. I picked up more freelancing, some consulting work and was even able to mix in some passion projects. I focused on re-prioritizing how I’m spending my time, and really settling in on my life-work balance. (Life should always come first.) I found a new found appreciation for the flexibility- traveling more, enjoying time with my family, and taking time away from my screens when I felt I needed it.

Through it all, I look back and am thankful for such a difficult time. Though having to pivot from the traditional 9-5 still has it’s challenges, the flexibility, balance, and most importantly, the perspective I’ve been gifted in this past year is something ill always be grateful for.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mmaggard.myportfolio.com
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-maggard-a8029194