Create, Cultivate, Do: Jaclyn Johnson
We're natural born creators and cultivators, which means we're always on the move. Doing what we love, doing what we need to get to that next step, and doing what we can to help others.
That's why when Sara Haile, creator of People Who Do reached out to collaborate on a series celebrating those "who do," we were totally game. And who better to kick off the Create, Cultivate, & Do series than our very own founder Jaclyn Johnson? Get some insight into her thought process and philosophies on life, work, and #createcultivate! —PC
People Who Do: Jaclyn Johnson
by Sara Haile
Name: Jaclyn Johnson
Occupations, affiliations, and projects:
Founder of (No Subject) and Creator of Create & Cultivate
People Who Do focuses on those who excel at moving forward throughout their passions in life, why is it important to you to “do”?:
I am big fan of starting by starting—I think way too many people get hung up on the details and psych themselves out of whatever it is they are looking to pursue. I say go, and do.
"...people get hung up on the details and psych themselves out of whatever they're looking to pursue. I say go, and do."
To date, what accomplishments (of any kind) are you most proud of?
Definitely being part of Forbes 30 under 30 Class of 2015. That has been amazing.
#1 motivating mantra to get through tough moments:
It’s all temporary. I can get really stressed over client work or a fire we need to put out but the reality is they're all temporary things that aren’t nearly as important as health, family, and friends.
What’s your favorite thing you’ve learned so far this year?
Hard work pays off.
What’s your favorite lesson you’ve ever learned, ever?
Definitely learned it the hard way, but: get it in writing.
What's your go-to song to put you in a better mood?
My music tastes are always changing but right now I have the new Jamie xx on repeat.
Favorite method for logging any kind of inspiration:
I absolutely love Pinterest! It’s a vault of visual inspiration.
You lead amazingly creative and forward-thinking projects that focus on the digital space. What’s the biggest thrill that you get from them?
Definitely seeing our clients succeed—we really put our heart and soul into campaigns so when they are successful it’s truly a thrill.
Top 5 people you would invite to a dinner party:
Joan Rivers
Hillary Clinton
Nicole Richie
Oprah
and Ryan Gosling because, why not?
3 words that you want to be remembered by:
Successful. Humble. Loved.
What’s the next goal?
We are really growing the Create & Cultivate brand this year so that is our focus and so far it’s been a real blast!
By "do-ing," you create your own unique legacy. How do you want your legacy to be remembered?
Of course with style and grace, but I hope people remember me as a connector and someone who brought people together, whether over a cool project or a beautiful dinner. I really enjoy bridging the gaps and bringing people closer.
"I hope people remember me as a connector, someone who brought people together."
What are some of the ways that you relieve stress?
Exercise—it’s truly my therapy! I always try to make room for a hike or a spin class.
What is one thing that is so satisfying in your career that you wouldn't be able to do if you had chosen another career path?
I get to make my vision come to life—it’s so satisfying to dream something up and then actually see in real life.
What advice would you give to someone who's trying to follow in your career path?
Ah! I would say foster your relationships. No one really teaches that to you in college, but your relationships are truly the key to success.
See more (and more of Jaclyn) at People Who Do. And stayed tuned for more from PWD on C+C in the coming weeks.
Creative since the 80s, Sara always saw the importance of pursuing creative ideas of any kind. People Who Do stems from an awareness of the importance to create and move forward and a deep appreciation for those show up, excel at their craft, all while creating infectious, creative energy to push others towards their goals as well. As a proponent of those who excel at their craft, someone who thrives off the passion of others, and a freelance photographer, People Who Do was just waiting to happen.