Fouling one off at #phxdw

Some think it’s the trying that’s important. Others believe that stepping up to the plate is a success in itself.

Not me.

It doesn’t count unless you get a hit. Unless you make an impression. Unless you inspire.

Wanting wasn’t enough this morning. Questioning wasn’t enough this morning. Doing wasn’t enough this morning.

My panel, “Where is Phoenix Going,” was conceived as a rallying cry to the creative class. Developed by me as a solution to the lack of camaraderie and collaboration we have in the Valley, I had hoped it to be more than a discussion about economic development, more than a discussion about infill and more than a discussion about what the Valley’s problems are.

But I wasn’t ready. I wasn’t prepared for the onslaught of issues we as a Valley face.

The creatives in those town aren’t ready. They are talented, they are driven and they are successful, but they aren’t ready to compete on a national stage. They’re still waiting to be told what to do, how to affect change and what that change actually means.

Is it too late for us? Are we destined to solidify our reputation as a gay-hating, intellectually-inferior, immigrant-unfriendly megalopolis? I don’t think so, but it’s time we stop waiting for conferences before we get together.

It’s time we make mistakes. It’s time to lay down the bullshit. It’s time we stop taking things personally and debate ideas, not people.

We owe it to ourselves to be the best we can be in all facets of life. So, what are YOU going to do?

Posted via email from Tyler says…

Arkayne recommends

Startup Tip: One Successful Client. (Aaron Post)
The FruitGuys – Changing the World One Apple at a Time (Tomas Carrillo)
Decide On Your Brand and Move Forward (The Chris Voss Show)

{ 8 comments }

Zack Newsome October 24, 2009 at 6:30 pm: Really good post man. I wasn’t able to make the panel this morning, but I love to hear/read both the passion and the disappointment. It’s this ownership and responsibility for creating the future we long for in PHX that will make it a reality. So thanks and count me in on the conspiracy to change this place.
Joan Koerber-Walker October 25, 2009 at 12:28 pm: Tyler – one at bat does not make a game. You need to keep stepping up to the plate, training, preparing, building a greatteam, and swinging for the fences. THAT’s how games are won.
Tyler Hurst October 25, 2009 at 12:32 pm: I agree, but it’s also time to stop relying on the wisdom of crowds.
Tyler Hurst October 25, 2009 at 12:32 pm: If nothing else, #phxdw will spur the right people into action.
Matthew Petro October 25, 2009 at 8:44 pm: While I agree the creative community in Phoenix (and the valley as a whole) still has a lot of growing up to do, I don’t think we’re in a bad situation. The community is where it needs to be…maturing and learning as it goes. The fact that Phoenix Design Week happened and was a success is a testament to the fact that a lot of growth has happened.
jeremie lederman October 28, 2009 at 5:34 pm: i guess i’ll continue to work with my national clients and randomly post on local blogs
Tyler Hurst October 28, 2009 at 5:56 pm: Great, thanks. So glad you found the time.
Anonymous October 28, 2009 at 5:59 pm: i do what I can bro