When I first started doing ads, I would do my job like a 10-year old. Magic markers and construction paper. One time I went into a conference room to show the ideas I had for Hanes. I brought in a boom box and played the Kiss song, I Love It Loud. The chorus goes “Heeeeeeeeeey, yeah.” And I thought it would be cool if Hanes made a version going “Haaaaaaaaaaanes.” My creative director threw an empty Diet Coke can at me upon hearing this idea. That was the punishment for having a sucky idea—no big whoop. I’m not saying I always came up with great ideas, but they were pretty fresh. But ,with more money, more awards and bigger brands, I lost the 10-year old.

Ok, so maybe there weren’t that many awards.

But, after I was laid off for the first time a year and a half ago, the 10-year old came back. I guess the real trick is keeping your inner 10-year old while pretending to act your age.

- John Huggins