Why Advertising...

The age old question "What do you want to be when you grow up?" is something we all are asked. How we answer is the difference between you and I. Whether it be a somewhat fictional answer of an astronaut (Buzz, Neil - kudos), or the more realistic answer of a fireman or police officer. All are achievable depending on the qualities one aggregates throughout their early years.


So what did I want to be? I had no idea; so I rephrased the question, what didn't I want to be. I knew I didn't want to be, an IBM drone - depicted in Apple's epic 1984 commercial. I didn't want to come and go, with no impression; no footprint (reputation not carbon). I didn't want to be stuck.


I wanted to work for great brands, on great projects with great people. So what better industry, than advertising. Do I know anything about advertising? Not really. Does anyone? Not entirely.


Here's what I do know. Advertising is one of the most lusted after industry. It's not always sexy; it's rarely glamorous; however, it's defining. Which makes it lust worthy. Although, only the strong survive. I am trying to become one of the strong ones. I read articles, follow agencies on Twitter, read blogs...do everything possible to give me an edge on my competition. I care, but is that enough? I believe it will be.


So back to the question of "What I want to be when I grow up" The short answer is sleep deprived, underpaid (to start) and overworked. I can say with confidence and a coy smile, that is exactly what I want.


How many people would answer that...