Tools of the Trade is an AgencySpy feature to help highlight the many tools that help make advertising and marketing folks successful. The tools can be anything that helps people perform at their top form, from a favorite drafting table to the best software program to a lucky pen, a vintage typewriter or a pair of headphones.
Next up is Aaron Gaeir, CEO and founder at experiential marketing company GDX Studios in San Diego.
Aaron Gaeir of GDX Studios says a positive mindset can do wonders for a career.
What is one tool you use all the time at work, and how does it inspire your work?
Mindset. While it’s not a physical tool in the traditional sense, maintaining an optimistic mindset is my most valuable tool when it comes to work, and in life. To have the most powerful mindset, it’s important to maintain a work-life balance and take care of my physical and mental well-being.
Why is it your favorite?
Maintaining an optimistic mindset has a profound impact on my work and personal life. I use it every day, consciously cultivating positivity and optimism in my thoughts, attitudes and actions. It takes hard work in this world to stay positive, but if you focus on finding ways in seeing the positive in everything, you will lead a much happier, healthier life. I tell my employees to always start with the word “Yes” and to always start a relationship with “Trust.” You may find out later not to trust someone or the thing you said “yes” to may be too difficult, but you will find far more success and happiness if you start with these two things.
This tool is not bound by physical constraints, as I can carry it with me wherever I go—it’s my guiding force.
How did you acquire your tool or hear about it for the first time?
At a young age, I learned to try and emulate successful people. I learned that those with the best mindset were the ones who paid attention to their body. A fit body = a fit mind. I work out a minimum of four hours a week, not so much for a fit body but 90% for a clear mind. Recognizing that many entrepreneurs experience high levels of anxiety, I discovered that when harnessed properly, anxiety can serve as a secret power, acting as a potent motivator. Programming yourself to wake up thinking positively will shape your whole day.
How does it help you be successful?
Maintaining an optimistic mindset allows me to see the best in people. This trait, while beneficial, also has its drawbacks as it can lead me to trust others too easily.
You will find that every person’s best trait is also their worst, but every very successful entrepreneur will attribute their success not on what they are good at, but their ability to recognize what they are bad at is the secret to their success.
Does it have sentimental value?
Yes, seeing people’s best traits and having a good mindset to uncover people’s best traits will lead you into being a more compassionate person.
Do you think your tool could go TikTok viral?
Yes, from what I hear there are lots of TikToks on mindset and positivity.
We want to know what tools you use to make you successful. If you’d like to contribute or know someone who would want to be featured in Tools of the Trade, contact kyle.obrien@adweek.com and fill out our survey.