Meet Nick Smith

We recently connected with Nick Smith and have shared our conversation below.

Nick, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

I retain my sense of wonder. I take note of a sunny morning, the color of the leaves in the trees, the shape of the moon in the sky. I overlap different projects, and they inform each other. I read voraciously and, above all, I take an interest in other people.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m the founder of Krygell Films and the author of 15 books. Right now, I’m working on a book called The Remote Producer’s Handbook, using the experience I’ve gained from 30 years of producing and directing. I also write mystery novels and teach at the State University of New York in Fredonia. Everything gels together – writing, filmmaking, and teaching.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

1. listening – it’s not all about me. By listening to others, I can learn from them and respond to them in a helpful way.
2. observing – I try to stay aware of the world around me, noticing the little details. Those details crop up in my novels, or they are captured on camera, adding to the richness of the worlds I create.
3. empathy – In my experience, empathy is not encouraged in men; I have had to cultivate this skill over time. It is an invaluable quality. By appreciating the feelings of others, I can work with them and be there for them.

These are three great areas to cultivate. They will propel your growth in whatever profession you pursue.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

I take a step back and remind myself that I have met every challenge I have set myself, no matter how daunting it seems at the time. My advice is to look at the bigger picture and never be afraid to ask for help.

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