A combination of inspiring speakers, an impressive trade show, top-notch entertainment, nationally-recognized agricultural thought leaders, educational sessions — Commodity Classic is America’s largest farmer-led, farmer-focused educational and agricultural experience. On top of it all, Commodity Classic gives attendees the opportunity to network with thousands of farmers from across the nation.

#Classic20 is a week away! Whether you’re an attendee, exhibitor, experienced event-goer, or we’ve simply caught your attention — here are 10 fast facts about the annual event where the nation’s top agri-businesses come together with top agriculturalists.

Commodity Classic on Twitter

It doesn't matter what you grow -- or how many acres you farm. Commodity Classic will help you become an even better farmer. Register now at https://t.co/CuJ0AmXwhA! 🗓Feb. 27-29 📍San Antonio #Classic20 https://t.co/n76IlBvCQm

1. Two Commodities. One Vision: How did Commodity Classic begin?

ASA (American Soybean Association) and NCGA (National Corn Growers Association) each held their own conventions — Soybean Expo and the Corn Classic. The commodity groups saw the need to raise attendance, a steering committee of corn and soybean farmers was created and Commodity Classic was formed.

Bart Ruth of Rising City, Nebr., past president of ASA said,

“We found that a good percentage of our membership overlapped and we were all looking at ways to expand the number of people who attended. Corn and soybean growers are pretty much the same across the country, so many common topics and issues resonated with both. It was an exciting time because Commodity Classic was a new concept with bigger programming, headline entertainment and a larger tradeshow.”

2. The Originals: Who founded Commodity Classic?

Three representatives from the National Corn Growers Association, and three representatives for the American Soybean Association, served on the original steering committee. Who knew that this initial group of driven agriculturalists would begin what is now one of the most prominent events in the industry.

3. Coming Together: How was the first Commodity Classic viewed by the farmers?

Ken McCauley, a farmer from White Cloud, Kan. and past president of NCGA, recalls going to the first Commodity Classic with his father.

“We were in awe of the fact that the commodity groups were together,” he said. “It was a big change — and I’ve been to every Commodity Classic since.”

4. The Land of Red Dirt and Cactuses: When and where was the first Commodity Classic held?

1996 in Phoenix, Arizona.

5. Created by Farmers for Farmers: What is the purpose?

This annual event is the place for America’s soybean, corn, wheat and sorghum farmers to see the latest innovations first-hand, hear game-changing ideas, and meet other growers and ag leaders from across the nation. Talk about a one of a kind networking opportunity!

6. What Fire Code?: What was attendance like for the first Commodity Classic (1996)?

An ASA representative on the original steering committee — Gordon Wassenaar — remembers sneaking people in the side doors of the trade show after the fire marshal announced capacity.

7. Breaking Records: How is attendance to this day?

The 2019 Commodity Classic had more than 9,100 people, including approximately 4,500 farmers. The farmer attendance figure was second highest in the history of Commodity Classic, total attendance ranked third!

8. Who Said Work Travel Wasn’t Fun: What cities have hosted Commodity Classic?

The first Commodity Classic in 1996 was hosted in Phoenix, Arizona. Since then, Orlando, Anaheim, New Orleans, Nashville and San Antonio — to name a few — have hosted Commodity Classic.

The 2019 Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida and 2018 Commodity Classic in Anaheim, California attracted not only event-goers but their families as well. The draw, Disney and Commodity Classic — what a combination!

9. To Those Who Make It Possible: Who sponsors the present Commodity Classic?

After the 1996 Commodity Classic, in which ASA and NCGA sponsored the event, two more commodity associations joined: the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) in 2007 and National Sorghum Producers (NSP) in 2009. Fast forward to 2016, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) became a sponsor, bringing its members to Commodity Classic in New Orleans from the original AG CONNECT™ event.

The 2020 Commodity Classic is brought to you by the American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Sorghum Producers and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers.

10. “See Your Future Clearly”: What can we expect from the 2020 Commodity Classic?

Back in San Antonio, Texas, the 2020 Commodity Classic theme is, “See Your Future Clearly”. At one of the most sought-after events in agriculture, farmers who attend this year’s event will get so much more than cool swag. They will get the answers, solutions and insights they need to create a vision to bring back to their operation and ensure success for years to come.

Experience the positive energy of being around thousands of talented farmers and agricultural innovators at the 2020 Commodity Classic in San Antonio!

One of the best parts about rural America is its passion to help. A never-ending spirit of volunteering, serving and giving. That neighborly helping hand that doesn’t ask for anything in return. It’s the very reason we at OBP created the Rural Spirit Awards, a program that celebrates the people who support and improve rural America through community service, leadership and rural advocacy.

This year, we celebrated the second annual Rural Spirit Awards and our three award winners truly embody the rural spirit. This rural spirit we speak of? Quite similar to the spirit of the season — the selfless, giving spirit that we each feel this time of year. Need some inspiration this Christmas? Here are five takeaways that inspired a first-time Rural Spirit Awards attendee!

1. The humility of the recipients

From the moment they walked into the awards ceremony, to their speech and networking — the award winners showed nothing but humility and humbleness for receiving this recognition. It reminds you of how great acts of kindness are made by selfless people who ask for nothing in return.

2. The drive behind their causes

The love of agriculture and rural communities was apparent in the room. From saving farmers and ranchers in a time of need to feeding the youth and inspiring a younger generation to be leaders — each of the award winners were truly motivated to give back.

3. The passion to serve

The ability to give an hour a week to a community service project is difficult with our busy lives, but imagine donating any free-time to a cause. The Rural Spirit Award winners make their organizations a priority, and this passion is apparent in the work that they do.

4. The feeling of family

In a room of strangers — the recipients and their guests were quickly welcomed with open arms. The feeling of family was apparent — and I can’t help but think that’s a direct tie to their giving nature. You get back what you put out into the world.

5. The spirit of giving

Overall, the sense of selflessness and the spirit of giving was apparent. The Christmas season is often referred to as a time to give back, but the Rural Spirit Award winners do this all year-round. They are true Champions of the Rural Spirit.

Let’s meet the award winners that sparked said inspiration!

Bryan Kasten — Next Generation Leadership

In 2015, at age 11, Bryan founded and successfully launched a youth organization called Kids that K.A.R.E. (Kindness Always, Respect Everyone). The organization recently changed its name to Youth Empowered Service Team, and its purpose remains the same: create a positive difference in the lives of others. Bryan’s efforts have impacted countless community members throughout the greater St. Louis region, including students at his school. He has led fundraisers for families in need, organized events and initiatives to support organizations, and inspired his peers to make a difference in the world.

You can read more about Bryan and his award here.

Matt Schaller — Rural Advocacy

Matt is the President of Michigan-based non-profit organization Ag Community Relief, often referred to as the “Red Cross for Farmers.” Ag Community Relief’s goal is to bring relief to active farmers/ranchers who experience devastation across the United States by assembling volunteers and donations to help mitigate their suffering. The organization helps them get back to where they were before their disaster struck. Since its inception in 2017, Ag Community Relief has raised more than $750,000 in cash and valued supplies — including hay, feed, fencing, veterinary supplies, etc. — to help farms throughout the country.

You can hear Matt’s thoughts on his award in this recent interview with Michigan Ag Today.

Martina Leforce — Community Service

Five years ago, Martina established the summer feeding program Berea Kids Eat located in Berea, Kentucky. It has since been her mission to grow the program so that food is made available to children throughout the Appalachia region. Through established partnerships, Berea Kids Eat now feeds 22 local sites. Martina also helped organize community gardens and a junior farmers market program, growing the intergenerational bonds between volunteers, farmers, and Berea’s youth.

Read more about Martina and her award here.

As we look ahead to this new year and new decade, we hope the spirit of giving continues to grow and inspire you.

Could you be our 2020 Rural Spirit Award winner?

“All I want for Christmas is……”

Are you stuck with how to finish that famous Christmas lyric? Do not fear, the OBP Holiday Gift Guide — for the ag and rural-spirit — is here! In this guide, you’ll find a variety of gifts hand-selected for those in the rural sphere. Ideas for everyone on your list, and you may just find a thing or two to put on your own.

With an industry close to our hearts all-year-round, we hope you find inspiration this Christmas season!

1. The “no muss no fuss” fire pit

The perks of a fire pit without the fuss! The stainless steel design minimizes smoke and makes for a clean, efficient fire.

Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit

Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit | REI Co-op

2. For the sentimental cook

Preserve your special recipes on something sturdier than a paper card. Submit a scanned image of your recipe card, and the exact directions are etched in your loved one’s handwriting.

Personalized Family Recipe Board

Personalized Family Recipe Board | cooking gifts, sentimental gifts, cutting board, unique kitchen gifts

3. For the lunch-packer with durability needs

Keep your lunch cool and protected with this cooler bag. Insulated on the inside, water-repellant on the outside, this one is made to last.

Carhartt Cooler Bag

Vertical Lunch Cooler with Water Bottle

4. The “mountains are calling” whiskey glasses

Featuring a raised topographic impression of some of the greatest, most majestic peaks in the world. These glasses are meant for sippin’ “on the rocks”.

Whiskey Peaks American Mountains

American Mountains - Set of 4

5. For your cute, but warm, needs

Wave hello and so long in-style and warmth with these mittens. Added bonus, the fingertips are designed with your smartphone in mind.

Hi Y’all Bye Y’all Mittens

Hi Y'all Bye Y'all Mittens

6. For the functional gardener and wine lover

Why toss that empty bottle of wine when you can continue the party? With this wine bottle garden kit, the fun never has to end.

Bottle Stopper Garden Kit

Bottle Stopper Garden Kit | Indoor Garden Kit, Gifts for Foodies

7. The house-shoes you’ll forget you have on

Velvet suede exterior, Australian lambswool interior — these are the slippers you’ve dreamt of. Plus, their shearling covered full foam insole will feel like walking on a cloud.

Women’s Wicked Good Slippers, Squam Lake

Women's Slippers

8. For the doggy mom’s and dad’s

Quench your pup’s thirst and reduce spillage with this two-in-one water bowl bottle. Just squeeze the bottle to fill the bowl to give your pup a drink.

Dog Travel Water Bowl Bottle

Aqua Dog Travel Water Bowl Bottle in Aqua

Happy Holidays from OBP!

Tis the season for gift-giving and receiving — and therefore, shopping. What to give your aunt Lisa who travels year-round for her international job? How do you begin shopping for your cousin Franklin that doesn’t stay in one place for long? Where do you find the items in the travel and leisure-sphere? To sum it up, what do you give your loved one with a travel bug?

Whether it’s for business or pleasure, travelers are tourists alike— here at OBP, we may know a thing or two about these people and industry. That is why we’ve gathered a list of some of the must-have items in travel this year.

1. For the organized traveler

A place for everything and everything in its place. This smartly set-up travel system features a set of four packing cubes and a water-resistant pouch for wet/dry storage.

Calpak: 5-Piece Packing Cube Set

2. For the on-the-go beauty guru

Don’t settle for the limiting travel-sized skincare options at the drugstore. Discover Perricone MD’s best-selling products in travel-size with a convenient travel bag.

Perricone MD: The Jet Set

Perricone MD 7-Pc. The Jet Set & Reviews - Beauty Gift Sets - Beauty - Macy's

3. For the fashionable and practical

Warm, windproof, water-resistant and compressible. The perfect jacket to tuck away in your carry-on.

Patagonia Nano Puff® Jacket

Patagonia Men's Nano Puff® Jacket

4. For the carry-on connoisseur

Made (and guaranteed) to last a lifetime, designed to fit in the overhead bin of most major airlines. Bonus, it comes with a battery that can charge your phone 4x.

Away: The Bigger Carry-On

5. For the beer cap collector

This state-shaped display board offers cap collectors an alternative to throwing them in a cup on the dresser or in a drawer.

Beer Cap States

Beer Cap States | bottle caps

6. For the green and travel-friendly shoe lover

The shoe made almost entirely of recycled plastic bottles, are comfortable, stylish and washable. Perfect for packing or wearing on the plane, you won’t take them off.

Rothy’s Loafer

7. For the backpack > purse people

The backpack can be your go-to everyday bag or a travel accessory — or should we say necessity. Plus, this purchase continues to grow the number of women artisans being employed + empowered worldwide.

Magnolia Traveler Backpack

Magnolia Traveler Backpack

8. For the home-owners

The gift that keeps on giving. Come home after a long business trip to a spotless house — or come home after a day’s work to your chores checked off.

Amazon Home Services: Deep Cleaning

Happy Holidays from OBP!

For most farmers, fall races by with long days focused on getting the crop in. The immediate struggle of harvest barely leaves room to eat, let alone consider the impacts of intense stress.

Most farmers readily acknowledge rural life in the ag industry can be stressful, but they often just see it as the farmer’s way of life. Many farmers are beginning to raise awareness of the impact intense stress can have on the mental health of farmers. In the past, farmers may have dismissed these issues, but mental health concerns — including addiction — are becoming an epidemic for rural communities. Because these small communities hold tight to a culture of caring for your neighbors, they want to rise to the challenge of addressing the complicated issues of mental health.

As rewarding as farming is, agriculture by its nature includes many pressures the farmer cannot control. The list alone is exhausting:

• Economic pressures — interest rates, trade concerns, regulatory requirements, consumer trends, self-employment, lack of mental health insurance.
• Environmental pressures — extreme weather events, pests, seasonal weather patterns, diseases.
• Family pressures — business partnerships with extending family, raising children, caring for an older family member, unexpected illness or injury.

Beyond these concerns, farmers experience additional pressures that come with rural life, such as limited access to health services and broadband connectivity. A trip to town may take 20 minutes, but a visit to the nearest medical provider may be more than an hour roundtrip. And if broadband connectivity is weak or spotty, access to telemedicine services becomes a challenge. There is a lot of windshield time in-between times with people.

Of course, farmers are down at the diner, talking shop over coffee, but they’re unlikely to process their feelings over that cup of joe. So, farmers need different tools to cope with the difficulties of farming and support that understands the love and agony of agricultural life.

One of the most basic supports is awareness and understanding that multiple life stressors lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. These experiences are common and a natural response to a pile of challenges all at once. When those feelings begin to negatively impact daily life for more than a few days, it’s time to get help.

Here are some warning signs:

If you or a neighbor has multiple symptoms, it might be time to take some action.

If someone comes to talk with you, listen and try to understand why they feel this way. Resist passing judgment. If you notice these signs in a neighbor or loved one, ask questions about your observations rather than jump to accusations. It’s important for the community to check in on neighbors and fellow farmers and encourage them to find resources to help.

If you see too many of these in yourself, talk to someone. Family, friends, clergy and your doctor are all good connections to tell what’s going on. Another great person to talk with is a counselor or mental health provider.

Dealing with the effects of intense stress doesn’t always mean you have chronic mental illness. When too much pressure comes to bear on an ankle, it can sprain or fracture. You wrap it up or cast it so it can heal. Mental health can be the same. Talking with someone can be that ankle wrap, helping cope with the intense and varied pressures of farming.

Addressing mental health issues must be a community effort. It’s important for the community to check in on neighbors and fellow farmers and encourage them to find resources to help.

Save these numbers in your phone so you have them on hand to use or share with others.

National Suicide Hotline: 1–800–273–8255

Farm Aid: 1–800-FARM-AID

Farm and Rural Stress Line: 1–800–691–4336

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Local Resources: Call or text 211

U.S. soybeans are a hot topic these days. Between discovering new uses in oil, meal and sustainability, there’s always buzz circulating about U.S. soy. Not to mention, soybean yields are improving every year and innovations to enhance the crop’s quality are at the forefront of the researcher’s minds. The buzz on U.S. soy draws attention from those within the industry excited to share new advancements.

If you want a glimpse at happenings in the soybean world, or just curious what the crops look like in a different part of the country, social media is a great way to stay connected. There are numerous farmers out there sharing their stories while keeping their followers updated on coffee shop talk or an issue they had with their combine.

We found a few soybean farmers across the U.S., with a strong presence on social media, sharing their stories. Follow them and stay connected with the soybean world through a different lens!

Zack Johnson (Millennial Farmer)

Johnson is a 5th generation farmer from west-central Minnesota with a strong social media presence on YouTube (381K subscribers), Instagram (130K followers), Twitter (12.7K followers) and Facebook (180K followers). Johnson also has a website and a podcast called Off The Husk. Throughout these channels, Johnson shares his day-to-day farming experiences and opinions.

Randy Uhrmacher

Uhrmacher has a strong Twitter follower base at 15.2K. He is based out of Nebraska and is a corn and soybean farmer. Uhrmacher’s Twitter gives you a day in the life of a farmer in Nebraska by combining informational tweets with his fun personality. You can find Uhrmacher on Twitter and his YouTube channel.

Randy Uhrmacher

Brian Brown

Brown, a farmer from southern Ohio, has a strong presence on YouTube with 55.2K subscribers and almost 10 million views! His YouTube channel showcases his farming operations and acts as a farming vlog. He’s also popular on Facebook and Instagram. Brown’s social media presence is easy to relate to, as he gives an honest but humorous point of view.

Erin Holbert

Holbert was born and raised on a farm in Indiana, and it’s where she works today. Her Instagram and Twitter provide relatable content about working on a farm, especially what it’s like to spend most days in a tractor during the busy season. Check out her new clothing store:

Heart of the Midwest

Mark Rohrich

The first thing you notice when visiting Rohrich’s Twitter is his passion for sunflowers. He’s not only a soybean farmer but also a sunflower farmer in North Dakota! Rohrich is active on Instagram and Twitter, utilizing his strong follower-base to spread ag facts and fun.

Doug Adams

Adams is a corn and soybean farmer from north-central Iowa. He is an active presence on Twitter and his tweets are a mix of information about farming, ethanol, food and sustainability. His pictures showcase aspects of life on the farm.

Doug Adams

One of the easiest ways to stay up to date with what’s happening in the agriculture and soybean world is by following those in the industry on social platforms. The ones who are active can give you a good sense of what’s going on in real-time around their area! Happy following!

Announcing the Second Annual Rural Spirit Awards! OBP is proud to continue celebrating the Rural Spirit and the men and women that grow and develop rural America. Since 1988, OBP has made rural America a priority and a passion. With roots deep in agriculture, it’s a natural fit to be so passionate.

We are the Champions of the Rural Spirit.

To continue celebrating the Rural Spirit, we are looking for our next champions. What do these individuals look like? Check out the 2018 Rural Spirit Award Winners.

2018 Rural Spirit Award Winners

Community Service Rural Spirit Award

Dustin Row, the founder of Songs4Soldiers is our 2018 Community Service Rural Spirit Award Winner. Dustin, being a veteran himself, began Songs4Soldiers with the goal to serve combat veterans. In 2013 he put together a concert with all proceeds being donated to a local charity to help combat veterans. See how Songs4Soldiers has grown with the help of Dustin’s heart for veterans and their families.

Next Gen Rural Spirit Award

The Normal FFA Chapter is our 2018 Next Gen Rural Spirit Award Winner. These passionate future leaders started the #10GallonChallenge off of a desire to provide nutritious milk to the community and support local dairy farmers. Their challenge went viral and ag-supporters across the U.S. followed their lead. Check out their story below.

Economic Development Rural Spirit Award

Brent Comstock, the founder and CEO of BCom Solutions is our 2018 Economic Development Rural Spirit Award Winner. BCom is an action-oriented digital company that works with campaigns, causes and advocacy issues with a heavy emphasis on building rural communities online. His goal is to encourage the diversity of thought, mind and race in a community with only a few people. See how Brent impacts rural communities through his business.

This November, we will be celebrating three new Champions of the Rural Spirit in the following categories.

Rural Spirit Awards Categories

1. Community Service

An individual who exhibits the rural spirit through exceptional service in the name of community growth. Any potential Community Service Award recipient should demonstrate a willingness to go above and beyond — selflessly donating their time and support in an effort to positively influence their local community.

2. Rural Advocacy

An individual who proudly embodies the heart of rural America. Any potential Rural Advocacy Award recipient should be an integral part of their community — working hard to spur economic development, create jobs and advocate for growth.

3. Next Gen

An individual from an up-and-coming generation (21 years of age or under) that’s demonstrated uncommon leadership through community service effort or innovative thinking throughout their rural community.

Know a person or two that fit these categories? Nominate them today. The 2019 Rural Spirit Awards Winners will receive $2,000 to donate to a non-profit organization of their choice, made in their name.

Help us tell the story of rural America by celebrating the faces that keep them thriving. Go to Rural Spirit Awards to find out more and follow OBP on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter for all things Rural Spirit Awards.

By: Zach Bateman

The start of something new is always a bit terrifying. Anticipation mixes with the unknown to create that special blend of excitement and anxiety that always tends to get the best of me. On July 15th, that was no different.

I was starting a new internship and I had no clue what to expect. I had the usual pre-job jitters, but this time it felt like there was more at stake. Having just escaped that strange state of post-graduation limbo I was glad to have a new opportunity to learn and I was ready to work — anxious, but ready.

Turns out, starting a summer internship in the middle of July can be a pretty interesting experience.

My first day came around and before I knew it, I was off. Washed away in a tidal wave of information, just trying to absorb as much of it as possible while still keeping my head above the water. At the center of it all, like the eye of the storm, was the intern project spinning out deliverable deadlines, meetings and presentation dates left and right. Only a few hours of my first day had passed and already my to-do list was loaded — but before I could get started on anything I really needed to figure out where my desk was.

Being thrown into any project late can be tough, especially when you have to adapt to a new working environment, but it also presents you with some pretty unique learning opportunities.

For me, I was joining a team of 8 interns who had been hard at work for weeks. A dynamic had already been established and it was up to me to discover where to fit in and how to contribute to the work without disrupting the workflow. I couldn’t be scared to ask questions or share my ideas and opinions, but I needed to respect the hard work that had already been done. Joining any team is a balancing act, flexibility and adaptability are crucial. However, never dismiss the importance of a positive attitude and a willingness to help, those two things can go a long way.

As the newly minted writer on the intern project, for me, communication was essential — I had to be on the same page as everyone else. However, the same was true for the team as a whole. We needed to present a consistent, cohesive and creative message throughout the entirety of the project. If we were off at all, the project would feel disjointed and pieced together, an open line of dialogue was a must. From school to internships to the so-called “real world”, effective communication is the lynchpin of any successful team, but that doesn’t mean it always comes easy. However, with a little bit of work, a willingness to listen and a whole lot of patience you’ll be there in no time.

Learning never stops and in my short time as part of the intern team here at OBP I’ve truly learned a lot. While some of these takeaways may seem obvious in hindsight, it’s within my limited experience that the obvious things in life are the ones that tend to be overlooked the most.

Based on my experience here are some insights for anyone gearing up to join an already established team:

1. Discover your place in the process
2. Don’t be afraid to challenge ideas
3. Always be respectful of the work that’s been done before you
4. Be flexible and willing to help
5. Positivity, Positivity, Positivity
6. Work extra hard to establish communication with the team
7. Have patience!

By: Bailey Crouch

Far too often do brilliant people utter the words “I’m not creative at all.” Creativity is often equated to being artistic but in reality, everyone has the potential to generate new ideas and put them to action. Creativity is not just about making art; it’s how originality is cultivated. You can and should be creative in any role. Often times, it’s necessary to channel creativity for everyday problem-solving.

The creative process can be frustrating and tedious but in the end, very rewarding. However, staying inspired is not always an easy task. Why wait around for a spark when you can kick start the process? Here are nine ways to do just that!

1. Journal: Write down your spontaneous thoughts. Doodle. Don’t restrict yourself, you never know when a brilliant idea will hit.
2. Take a walk: Physically step away from where you feel stuck. Observe the world around you and return to your workspace feeling refreshed.
3. Meditate: Meditation is one of the most effective ways to clear your mind. Try a guided meditation — focus on your breath and worry about nothing for a few moments.
4. Listen to music: Put on your favorite band or something you’ve never listened to before and channel the creativity of these artists.
5. Research: Look at visual inspiration, read articles and statistics. Be inspired by other’s work and strive to create your own.
6. Collaborate: There’s no doubt more minds can bring more ideas. Ask someone with a different perspective of what they think.
7. Get feedback: Feedback can help you see something you never did before. Another pair of eyes is extremely valuable.
8. Practice gratitude: When you feel stuck, don’t beat yourself up. Understand that frustration is part of the process, just focus on the positive of the situation.
9. Let go: Sometimes the best way to regain your spark is to temporarily abandon the problem and not think about it for a while. Relax a little and do something else (or nothing) for the time being.

Creativity is more of a skill than a talent. It can be learned and developed. Creativity is the backbone of how our world evolves. Without new ideas and innovations, we would become stagnant. The world is ever-changing and the only way to keep up is through transformation spurred by creativity.

Let’s get creative!

By: Majo Aparicio, Jonah Holland and Margaret Shaul

You know them. You love them. You’ve likely stumbled upon them at some point in your life. We tend to classify these individuals as “creatives” because of what they do, but many don’t understand who they are on a deeper level. Follow along as we describe some of these incredible types of people and examine how they operate.

The Caffeinated Creator

You’ve seen them hanging out in coffee shops. In fact, they may also work in that coffee shop, if they’re super into French roast. Common visual signs include flannel, a hat (maybe a beanie), some form of glasses, and — for men — typically facial hair. They’re most creative from midnight until the time they go to bed. Typography is their thing and don’t get them started on embossing and debossing — they dream about it regularly. A new logo? Package design? A tasteful wine label? They can do it all.

The Jukebox Hero

What’s that? Say that again? Sorry, they need to take off their noise-canceling headphones. This type knows how to get in their creative zone: turn on one of their 47 playlists and crank up the volume. If you’re looking for them, they’re probably the one with a laptop covered in artsy stickers. It may take a few tries to get their attention — they were in the middle of their favorite song. Do you need a concert poster? Logo for your band? Promo-stickers? Out-of-this-world cover art? You know who to go to.

The Business Brain

This type knows how to meet a tight deadline as if their job depends on it (usually, it does). They like being in a fast-paced work environment, but it has to be organized. Some people say they’re Type-A, but they prefer the term “well prepared.” Sticky notes are their lifeline and they love making charts. Charts, charts, charts. They might not have experience painting 20-foot murals, but they’re one of the few creatives that enjoy working in Excel. Color-coding is their love language. If you can’t find them, check the conference room — they’re typically the first one there. Do you need an investment deck by tomorrow? Say no more.

The Ball of Fire

You are imagining it, we know. The title may say it all. This type of creative is always hyper, and it’s not just because they drink a lot of coffee (but coffee does help). They have a lot of both physical and mental energy. They start their day by exercising in order to gain inspiration and motivation for the work to come. Their best way of channeling all of that energy? Once they get to the office, they plug their headphones in and funnel the energy into the days’ work. You may find them in the zone but look for a foot tap and head bop, it’s a sure sign of all that energy.

The Spirited Soul

Creatives often are passionate about their work, but this creative type takes that passion to a new level. They have thoughts flowing through their mind every minute of the day. Be it when driving, working, exercising, watching tv… all the time thinking about a project and trying to find other ways to make it better. They’re passionate but are also willing to listen to critiques about their work. Their passion doesn’t cloud their judgment, and they know that other’s feedback will improve their work. This creative type combines passion and reasoning, to create their spirited soul.

The Inspired Eye

An everyday surrounding can be mundane or boring to the average Joe, however, this creative type takes it all in and finds inspiration from it. Often seeing life through their own lens leads to a lovely transition to the lens of a camera. Capturing their perspective is often more appealing for them, as opposed to creating their vision from scratch. Filmmaking and Photography are avenues this type is born to venture through.

The Meaning Seeker

Meaningful projects are what drives this type. They find inspiration when the task at hand has a purpose and brings value to the lives of others. Making art for art’s sake doesn’t excite them and won’t scratch their creative itch. The first question they ask is “Why” rather than “How”. The product of their creativity is dependent on the greater context of where their product will go and how their audience can be affected by it.

Creatives may not be the same, but they have a lot in common. These common factors can act as ways to create strong connections with one another. Now with your newfound knowledge, go forth and find your creative type to make the best use of your creativity!