“You are the ‘1’ that makes life work. Every good thing—family, friends, and work—adds a ‘0,’ creating abundance. But without the ‘1,’ the ‘0s’ mean nothing. Take care of yourself first.”
~ Ngoc Phung Lam, as told to me by my mum
This wisdom, passed down from my mother, reflects a deep understanding of balance and self-care. It resonates not only with personal well-being but also provides a guiding principle for business and life. By sharing this and the other tales in Tales My Mum Told Me, I am honoring her legacy and inspiring others to integrate these insights into their own journeys.
As we embark on the journey into 2025, an elegant metaphor about life’s value system offers profound insights for creative professionals. The concept is beautifully simple was told by my mother my mentor:
“You are the ‘1’ that makes life work. Every good thing—family, friends, and work—adds a ‘0,’ creating abundance. But without the ‘1,’ the ‘0s’ mean nothing. Take care of yourself first.”
Understanding Your Core Value
For creative professionals, this principle carries special significance. In an industry that often glorifies hustle culture and constant productivity, remembering that you are the foundation of your creative enterprise is crucial. Your creativity, vision, and ability to innovate all stem from your mental and physical wellbeing.
Building Your Zeros While Maintaining Your One
1. Family Support (First Zero) The presence of a supportive family can multiply your creative potential exponentially. They provide:
- Emotional stability during creative blocks, understanding during irregular work hours.
- Safe space for vulnerability and experimentation.
- Practical support during busy periods.
2. Professional Networks (Second Zero)
Strong professional relationships add another layer of value:
- Collaboration opportunities.
- Knowledge sharing.
- Industry insights.
- Career advancement possibilities.
3. Meaningful Work (Third Zero)
Work that aligns with your values and passions:
- Enhances motivation.
- Increases productivity.
- Leads to better creative output.
- Creates sustainable career satisfaction.
4. Supportive Community (Fourth Zero)
A broader community provides:
- Diverse perspectives.
- Cultural enrichment.
- Marketing opportunities.
- Social support system.
Strengthening Your “One” in the Creative Industry
1. Physical Wellbeing
- Establish a consistent sleep schedule, even during intense creative periods.
- Create an ergonomic workspace.
- Take regular breaks to prevent burnout.
- Incorporate movement into your daily routine.
- Maintain proper nutrition to fuel creativity.
Mental Health
- Practice mindfulness or meditation.
- Set boundaries between work and personal life.
- Engage in regular creative exercises without pressure.
- Seek professional support when needed.
- Document your creative journey and achievements.
Professional Development
- Invest in skill enhancement.
- Stay updated with industry trends.
- Develop multiple revenue streams.
- Build a strong personal brand.
- Create systems for sustainable growth.
Creative Sustainability
- Develop rituals that spark creativity.
- Create dedicated spaces for different types of work.
- Build a resource library for inspiration.
- Establish creative partnerships.
- Maintain creative boundaries.
Practical Tips for Creative Professionals in 2025
1. Time Management
- Use the 52/17 rule: 52 minutes of focused work, 17 minutes of rest.
- Block schedule creative versus administrative tasks.
- Implement “no-meeting” days for deep creative work.
- Use time-tracking tools to understand your productivity patterns.
2. Digital Wellness
- Create designated offline periods.
- Curate your social media feeds for inspiration not comparison.
- Use technology intentionally, not habitually.
- Implement digital boundaries with clients.
3. Financial Health
- Diversify income streams.
- Build an emergency fund.
- Invest in quality tools and equipment.
- Create passive income through digital products.
- Maintain clear financial records.
4. Client Relations
- Establish clear communication channels.
- Create comprehensive onboarding processes.
- Set realistic expectations and boundaries.
- Build long-term relationships.
- Regularly seek and incorporate feedback.
5. Creative Practice
- Maintain a personal creative project.
- Experiment with new techniques regularly.
- Collaborate with other creatives.
- Document your process.
- Share your journey with others.
Future-Proofing Your Creative Career
1. Adaptability
- Stay open to new technologies.
- Embrace changing market demands.
- Develop multiple skill sets.
- Build resilience through diversity.
2. Sustainability
- Create environmentally conscious practices.
- Build sustainable business models.
- Develop long-term client relationships.
- Create systems for passive income
3. Community Building
- Mentor emerging creatives.
- Share knowledge and resources.
- Build supportive networks.
- Contribute to industry growth.
As we progress through 2025, remember that maintaining your “1” is not selfish – it’s essential. When you nurture your foundation, you’re better equipped to add and maintain those valuable zeros in your life and career. This strength allows you to:
- Produce better creative work.
- Build stronger relationships.
- Make clearer decisions.
- Create lasting impact.
- Enjoy sustainable success.
The creative industry constantly evolves, but your well-being remains the cornerstone of success. By focusing on strengthening your core while mindfully building your zeros, you create not just a successful career, but a fulfilling life.
Remember: Without a strong “1,” the zeros lose their value. Make 2025 the year you prioritize your foundation while building meaningful connections, work, and community around it. When you’re strong at your core, everything else naturally multiplies in value.
- Find out more
- Launch Pad + Accelerator Expressions of Interest
- Selling and Licensing Your Art & Designs Around the World with ArtSHINE.
- Looking for exciting new Art and Designs to license.
We’re here to help you to take action, just like we’ve helped thousands of other entrepreneurs, business owners, and creative professionals all around the globe.
Now is the time to let your passion SHINE.
Now is the time to Make Tomorrow Today!
To your success, Vinh Van Lam and Stuart Horrex Cofounders ArtSHINE.com
- Find out more
- Launch Pad + Accelerator Expressions of Interest
- Selling and Licensing Your Art & Designs Around the World with ArtSHINE.
- Looking for exciting new Art and Designs to license.
We’re here to help you to take action, just like we’ve helped thousands of other entrepreneurs, business owners, and creative professionals all around the globe.
Now is the time to let your passion SHINE.
Now is the time to Make Tomorrow Today!
To your success, Vinh Van Lam and Stuart Horrex Cofounders ArtSHINE.com
