Have you ever felt completely out of your depth—like everyone around you had it all figured out, and you were just trying to keep your head above water? That’s exactly how I felt when I started in television.

Thrown into a top-ten market as an on-air promotions manager, I was expected to compete with the best in the business. Deadlines loomed, and the pressure to produce was relentless. My only choice? Learn fast or sink.

Here’s how I learned to thrive in the deep end of the creative pool—and how you can too.

1. Curiosity: Never Stop Asking Questions

When I didn’t understand something on set, I asked questions. Why did the cameraman use that angle? How did the editor create that effect? What made the sound team choose a particular mic placement?

One day, I stood in the back of the studio, watching the crew set up an elaborate lighting rig. I didn’t know why it was needed, but after the shoot, I asked the director about it. His answer opened my eyes to how lighting shapes emotion in storytelling.

Why did I spend hours observing and asking questions? Because I had to understand the how before I could grasp the why.

Curiosity became my greatest tool, and the more I learned, the more confident I became in my own creative decisions.

2. Collaboration: Value Every Voice

One of the most valuable lessons I learned is that the best ideas don’t always come from the top. They come from collaboration.

On one shoot, a grip suggested using a gimbal for a tracking shot instead of a dolly. At first, I hesitated—was it worth the adjustment? But when we tried it, the shot was smooth, dynamic, and exactly what the project needed.

Another time, I shared my vision for a promo with the team and opened the floor for ideas. The editor suggested a split-screen effect, and the sound designer layered in subtle atmospheric audio. Their contributions took the concept to a level I hadn’t imagined.

That experience taught me to listen to my team. Today, I book crew members who know more than I do and always ask for their input. Why? Because the best idea in the room wins—no matter who has it.

When people feel their opinions are valued, they pour their heart into their work. Collaboration turns a collection of individuals into a team invested in a shared vision.

3. Continuous Learning: Build on Experience

When I started, I learned by studying the competition. I analyzed their promos, broke down their copy, and created templates to guide my work. It was my DIY crash course in creative production.

But over time, I realized that true growth comes from learning directly from industry veterans. Experienced professionals don’t just teach you technical skills—they teach you how to think creatively and solve problems in ways that tutorials can’t.

Within a year of embracing these principles, I wasn’t just keeping up—I was leading the way, producing promos that earned recognition in our market and setting the standard for our station.

4. Creativity Comes From Everywhere

Some of the most memorable solutions I’ve seen on set didn’t come from directors or producers—they came from grips, PAs, or sound technicians who offered an outside-the-box idea.

That’s why I encourage every team member to share their perspective. Whether it’s adjusting a camera angle, recommending a prop, or suggesting a shot sequence, those small contributions often lead to extraordinary results.

5. Encouragement Builds Better Teams

Creativity thrives in an environment of trust and encouragement. When your team feels their ideas are respected, they’re willing to take risks and push boundaries.

I make it a point to recognize contributions—no matter how small. A single compliment can boost morale and inspire someone to give their best effort. When people feel seen and valued, it transforms the entire production dynamic.

Key Takeaways

If you want to thrive in the creative deep end, here’s your recipe for success:

• Curiosity: Always ask questions and stay hungry to learn.
• Collaboration: Value every voice on your team. The best idea in the room wins.
• Continuous Learning: Seek out opportunities to learn from experienced professionals—they’ll take you further than YouTube ever could.
• Creativity From Everywhere: Encourage input from every corner of your team—it’s often where the best ideas emerge.
• Encouragement: Build trust, value contributions, and create an environment where creativity can thrive.

Ready to Elevate Your Career?

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you’re just starting or looking to level up, growth starts with curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to learn.

Take the next step in your creative journey:

• Ask better questions.
• Collaborate with your team.
• Seek out guidance from experienced professionals.

Your breakthrough could be just one idea—or one conversation—away. Visit paulstevenforrest.com to access free resources, expert advice, and coaching opportunities to help you thrive in your creative career. Don’t wait for success to find you—go create it.