Routine kills creativity

My job description is unlike any other here at East Coast Radio.

As Kevlar Kev no two days are the same and I get some of the strangest briefs from our super-producer George. One day I’m told: “Please be at North Beach at midday dressed in a lion costume,” and the next day I’m told to oil myself up and get naked to copy the infamous Kim Kardashian photograph.

I often burst out laughing at the dinner table when I get my briefs for the next day, as we push the boundaries of radio further and further.

I am completely in love with my job. I cannot spend my work day in front of a computer or doing the same thing over and over again. That would destroy me, and destroy my creativity. When you do the same thing over and over again every day your mind shuts down and you become part of the machinery; just doing what is necessary to get through the day. 

I understand that not everybody can have a fun, crazy job, but there is no excuse for living a life of repetition. We live in the most beautiful place, here in KZN, with incredible weather and spectacular beaches, mountains, parks and such. If it is that you find yourself bored of your job or your surroundings, then make an effort to end your day off differently. After work head to the beach, go for a cycle, go for a walk, meet friends for a drink - anything to break your routine. For it is in doing things like this that you will be inspired and come up with new and exciting ways to do the things you have always done.

Inspiration does not come from routine. To be inspired, to be invigorated, to be refreshed and to live a life with purpose and voracious enthusiasm you simply have to step out of that place you know so well and open yourself up to new possibilities. Even if it just means changing your route to work regularly. See new things, be observant and drink it all in.

I’ve been fortunate to live in a few cities around the world but, truthfully, nothing has ever quite rocked my world like living in Durban. We are truly blessed with endless options of things to do and gorgeous places to explore, right here on our doorstep. My challenge for you in 2015 is to make this year unlike any other. Do the things you’ve always wanted to do, get out and explore the magic of KZN and meet its extravagant people. 

Live a life less ordinary and hopefully I’ll see you along the way.