I’ve been a part of a large number of collaborative groups. While the experience is rewarding, the creative process leaves me angry. To the point: no one listens to me.

Don’t misunderstand me: they may hear me, but they don’t take my input to heart. And when they don’t take my input to heart, I wonder why I’m even there. Am I there just so there’s another opinion that can be dismissed? Maybe.

The kicker is when the “leader” of the group – the one who talks the most and the loudest – eventually comes around with the whole “you were right – we should have listened to you”. Even if they never admit or realize that I was the one with the right direction, they do ultimately follow the path that I’d laid out.

So if you want me on your team, stop contradicting me. I’m right. I can’t prove it. And it’s not some high opinion of myself that leads me to say this but, I’m right. I just am.

In the meantime, the only one whose creative process matters to me right now is ME. I’ve gotta do my own thing.