It’s happened twice this week; the reason I’m writing this blog.
Two individuals whom I’ve never met before walked down my office building hallway and
noticed my bookcases.
No! They aren’t falling over, covered in stacks of papers, or generally presenting a safety
hazard. They do, however, display scale models of Formula 1 racecars, made entirely from Lego
bricks. Each has well over 1,200 pieces. Unusual pieces. And generally speaking, each made up
of only one color. The Mercedes is black. The McClaren is papaya orange. And I don’t
have to tell you what color the Ferrari is painted.
I didn’t build them. My dad did. It was a labor of love. He also happens to be a civil engineer, so
he finds the process of taking miniscule shapes and putting them together to form something
special to be a highly relaxing and enjoyable experience. I do not. However, I do enjoy the
occasional comment which comes from someone who has never been in my office or viewed
the cars sitting in the background during a Teams call.
They are conversation starters. Racing. Or sports. Or the pitfalls of stepping on the plastic bits in
bare feet. I’ve even discussed architecture and design. With complete strangers.
As professionals, it’s easy to keep our eyes down, focused on our computer screens and the
work at hand. But sometimes, it’s a good idea to look up and around. Engaging with others
often leads to creative processes and projects which invite imagination, ingenuity, and
integration.
Just as the Lego pieces ultimately amalgamate into a unique structure, so can we as people.
Categories: Creativity