We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Desmond Ikegwuonu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Desmond, 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?
Thank you for having me. Here is list of ways that I keep my creativity alive. These are the core virtues that anchor my creative imagination:
1. I am continually learning the art of listening and attentiveness.
2. I am learning to value and exercise the gift of intentionality.
3. I am continually learning to embrace the creative awakening that comes through collaboration.
4. I also understand that my “artistic expression” and “the process” are actively connected to each other.
5. Never lose sight of patience and solitude for creative flourishing.
6. I am always reminded that discipline and freedom are notes in the same chord.
7. I also continually remind myself that my artistic evolution is an inevitable gift and a way in which I steward my calling and service faithfully.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am the Associate Professor of music and Director of Worship Arts at Cornerstone University. Aside from serving in high education, I am the Artistic Director PFC Worship – a multiethnic group comprised of artists, musicians, producers, singers, songwriters, collaborators, and creatives from many nations. PFC Worship just released a new album titled Sessions Vol. 1 and it is available on all streaming platforms. PFC Worship is a global ministry arm of Praise Fellowship Church. I am also a composer, producer, and performer embracing the richness of what could be described as an eclectic creative output that is beyond the borders of a single genre.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
This is a very good question. Although it could be challenging to list just three qualities, I can summarize the essential attributes that have impacted my journey as:
1. Childlike trust and openness
2. Diligence and consistency
3. A heart for service
Without openness and childlike trust, we ultimately miss all the opportunities to truly become vessels awakened for the common good. Childlike trust also means that we never lose our sense of wonder. When our hearts are awakened through openness, we can truly serve humanity with our gifts in a way that is enriching and life giving. All these qualities inspire me to discover ways to continually serve others in my journey.
What has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
I have learned to constantly surround myself with people who make me better. I am continually reminded that I do not need to have all the answers to every question but as a team leader I must intentionally cultivate an environment in which team members are able to thrive and flourish. I am also learning that an environment in which people feel valued is inspiring, enriching, and fruitful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.desmondikegwuonu.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desmondikegwuonu/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Drikegwuonu
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desmond-ikegwuonu-8bb095122/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCPrl35DAkjmPgXsMECXaOg
Image Credits
Cole Hammontree, Ryan Photography and Frazier Photography
