Hello 2008 – From Serendipity to Spatial Shift

Welcome to Spatial Shift. This is my first blog. My first public commitment to creating a conversation that will hopefully find some resonance with those who come in touch with my voice.

After 24 years in the advertising/media/internet business, I have developed a view that we live in a world that is filled with serendipity and is more spatial in nature.  I have been a right brain individual in a left brain resume.  I enjoy being a right brain, but need to be better at listening to that voice.

From a business point of view, I see the world evolving through the following recipe:

•  Storytelling

•  Conversation

•  Analytics

•  Design

•  Enabled by Technology

Each an ingredient onto itself, but when combined – a powerful new force that is changing how we live, communicate and grow as a global community.  I will explore all of these ingredients and their impact going forward.

From a personal point of view, I see the world shifting from materialism towards a more experential and emotional way of living.  A quest for meaning and harmony in a world fraught with conflict and change.

I was fortunate enough to travel to Southeast Asia during my break to witness a completely different perspective on life.   We visited Hong Kong, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand over the course of 21 days.  A true trip of a lifetime.  A learned experience that only travel can provide.  While on the trip, I was blown away by how “global village” the world truly is.  On one hand, extreme poverty.  On the other, high speed internet access everywhere.

The observation of “transparency” and education or lack there of had a profound impact on me and my family.  The people of Cambodia and Laos were gracious and friendly.  And without prompting, asked that the United States not forget them and help them to realize a better future.  I read headlines now that would never have caught my attention prior.

So, today, January 1, 2008.  I begin on my personal journey to add value to the world.  One blog post at a time.  I made a commitment after that trip that I was going to organize myself,  digitize myself and create serendipity through action, innovation and experimentation.   It is time to create a Spatial Shift.

I welcome your help, feedback, support and reality checks as this conversation progresses.

Tobin