Tools of the Trade is a new 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 Ryan Glick, CEO and founder of CNC Agency (Coffee ‘n Clothes).
Ryan Glick practicing mindfulness in the middle of the street.
What is one tool you use all the time at work, and how does it inspire your work?
Practicing mindfulness and the art of being present. In this fast-paced world of creative and agency life, it can be challenging to live in the present moment. We’re always thinking about the past or planning the future, and most of us are missing out on what’s right in front of us.
I have a quote on my desk that reads: “Nothing is more important than what I’m doing now.” This ethos guides my approach to work and life—whether I am deep in work planning for an event, or spending time with my one-year-old daughter.
I think all of us can be victims of being addicted to thinking which removes us from the present moment. It’s what the human brain is wired to do. Being able to recognize that I’m not my thoughts and remove myself from those conversations and to just be present is the most powerful tool.
It also inspires my work and helps me stay creative. When I’m not working, I’m able to take time off and clear my mind, focusing on whatever is in front of me. Then, when I’m back at the desk, I can think more clearly and it’s where some of my best work comes from.
Why is it your favorite?
Mindfulness provides a sanctuary of focus in a world where everyone is trying to grab your attention, products are being designed to distract you and algometrics feed you with information. The scarcest resource in life is our attention. The power it takes to have the ability to filter this out is what makes it my favorite. I integrate mindfulness into my daily routine, regardless of my location, ensuring I maintain clarity and creativity in my work.
How did you acquire your tool or hear about it for the first time?
As an entrepreneur—especially one that accidentally started a successful brand experience agency stemming from a viral Instagram page in 2014—it’s safe to say thoughts about work began to flood my mind. Pretty quickly I was able to reflect on my thoughts and focus my attention on things not tied to thinking.
Now, years later, it’s hard to believe there was a time when I didn’t have this tool and I let my mind run with no guardrails.
How does it help you be successful?
It’s my most important tool for success. It’s the reason why I am here and why CNC Agency and Coffee ‘n Clothes is what it is today. When things get tough, or there are highs and lows in business, it’s important to never get too excited or never get too down. It’s the path on which we enjoy the journey (and are present for), not just the destination.
Does it have sentimental value?
Absolutely. It definitely helps me stay present and enjoy time with my daughter. When I am older, I want to look back and know that my time was well spent. When I wasn’t working, I was enjoying my time and being present. And when I was working, I gave it my all.
Do you think your tool could go TikTok viral? Why or why not?
I know there are so many TikToks and inspiration videos out there now—so yes. But then again it probably requires not being on your phone in order to be fully present.
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.