Last night, I saw The xx. Have you seen them live? They were awesome. And ok, yes, like Louis CK says, that word is overused. But I will use it again. The xx was AWESOME. The music, the pacing, the set list, great choices. I was transported – and that’s kinda what I expect from a live show. The trio were moody and dark and alive. Alive. And I was ALIVE there with them. The xx totally gets that in this fast-paced world, people won’t remember you if you come out and play the songs from your album and leave. The energy of a live show (usually) isn’t enough (with the possible exception of the Jon Spencer Blues EXPLOSION – who I’m seeing tomorrow night). The xx used awesome (there it is again) lighting to punctuate every song. Flash. Bam. Pow. It was almost too much. As the lights overwhelmed every sense, I said a little prayer that no one in the audience had a seizure. It was a lot. My senses were exhilarated. That’s good because I expect exhilaration for my time and $35 investment. And I got it. Good job, The xx!
This might be a stretch, but stay with me… it made me think about the workplace. And how the workplace needs to become more experiential. Ok, maybe we don’t need a disco ball (um, but… maybe) or nonstop flashing lights but a creative space needs something memorable to experience (dare I say, exhilarating!?). Creativity thrives on experiencing something new and unexpected. Why aren’t more workplaces designed with this in mind? Everything is so safe and functional. The art (if there is any) looks drab – maybe a few earth-toned circles beside each other. Or worse, those terrible inspirational word posters “Courage: Against the Odds”. The colors are safe (mostly shades of light and dark taupe). Workspaces need sparkle. People need bright colors to make their brain feel excited. Give them a sense of whimsy.
Just like people will pay to see a band because the EXPERIENCE warrants the cost of the ticket, people will bring their talent to a place that gives them the EXPERIENCE they seek in which to be creative and productive.
So do yourself a favor and look for a place that feels right when you step inside your potential workplace. Does the space feel conducive to being productive and creative — or are you already telling yourself that you can look beyond the taupe carpeting as long as they meet your asking price?
Every experience has its price.
betsyrowbottom 
Leave a comment