When I started out as a graphic designer almost 14 years ago, I focused way too much on abilities and strengths to achieve my goals. My thought was, “if I am going to be successful, I have to be a good artist, have the next great idea and be to go-to guy that management couldn’t live without.”

Assuming this made things more difficult for me as I started my career. I would try to do it all myself so I could confidentially receive the credit. After a few years working within this mindset; from late, late nights to not having any support- I was exhausted. I never realized how important support would be in achieving my goals

Support is a funny word; it always seemed to be a weak word to me, like you’re not able to do something so you need help. As I’ve matured and began to manage people, I realized I had to let go of this thought pattern. I started seeing how much more can be accomplished when we’re willing to be part of a team. I started feeling less stressed and my anxiety dissipating, all because I had that support that I desperately tried to avoid.

I remember the first award I won at Ad Club was for a logo I designed. I created it all by myself; it had my name on it in big letters, and that’s just what I wanted. Fast forward a few years, my company went on to win lots more awards, and for most of them- I had a very small role in the creative but it just means so much more now. I don’t know, maybe its maturity, maybe its submission to my role changing, but I think it’s the realization that support is how we succeed.

As I become the first President of the Capital Region Advertising Federation, I want to personally thank everyone who has contributed to the success of the Albany Ad Club these past 57 years. For a club to be around that long, it certainly can’t rely on one person. As we all know, it takes an army of creatives dedicated to educating, improving and growing connections here in the Capital Region.

Thank you for the SUPPORT.
Dan Allen