Painting Pebbles: Why Creativity Still Beats Any Digital Tool
Sometimes the most profound business lessons come from the most unexpected places.
I often get the urge to dig out the paints and make beautiful creations, one of my favourite pastimes is painting pebbles, I don't even need my kids around me for an excuse to do this, I'll happily do this myself. We've spent years collecting and transforming simple stones into colourful works of art, it struck me: in our rush to embrace digital tools and automation, we sometimes forget that our most powerful asset is our own creativity. Kids are even getting trapped by tech too.
The Magic in Simple Things
Each pebble started the same - smooth, grey, ordinary. But with imagination, paint, and the freedom to experiment, they became anything we wanted them to be. Some turned into tiny ocean scenes, others into abstract patterns, and a few became what my daughter used to call "rainbow explosions."
Just like these pebbles, every business starts as a blank canvas. While tools and technology can help shape it, the real magic comes from the creative vision we bring to it.
Finding Inspiration in Connection
As we have painted over the years, we've had other people or kids and grown-ups around the table, sharing ideas, and joining our impromptu art session. What begins as a simple activity becomes a moment of community, reminding me of something crucial about business: in our increasingly digital world, human connection matters more than ever.
The Power of Creative Community
This is why I believe in surrounding yourself with people who:
- Spark your imagination
- Challenge your thinking
- Support your growth
- Share their experiences
- Celebrate your wins
Just like our painting sessions, business growth happens best when we:
- Start with imagination
- Add tools that support our vision
- Share with others
- Learn from feedback
- Keep experimenting
Technology as a Creative Partner
Yes, I run a digital business. Yes, I love technology and its potential to transform how we work. But technology should enhance our creativity, not replace it. It should be:
- A brush to paint with, not the artist
- A tool to build with, not the architect
- A platform to connect through, not the relationship
Looking Forward: Introducing Our Monthly Newsletter
This brings me to an exciting announcement. Starting next month, we're launching "Skimming Stones" - our monthly newsletter dedicated to making technology simple and approachable for everyone.
What to expect:
- Clear, jargon-free tech advice
- Real stories from real business owners
- Simple solutions to common challenges
- A judgment-free space to learn and grow
Because here's the truth: everyone starts somewhere. Whether you're still figuring out file storage or ready to automate your entire business, there's no such thing as a "silly question" in our community.
Your Invitation to Join Us in our online Community too
If you've ever:
- Felt overwhelmed by technology
- Been embarrassed to ask "basic" questions
- Wished someone would explain things clearly
- Wanted to find your digital confidence
Then this space is for you: Sign up to
Follow the Pebbles
here
What's Coming Up
In our first edition, we'll be tackling something many of us struggle with: password management and digital security. We'll break it down into simple, actionable steps, share real experiences, and provide clear guidance on keeping your digital world safe.
Remember: Just like painted pebbles from a beach, every business is unique. Our role is to help you find the right tools to express your vision, connect with your audience, and build something truly yours.
Looking forward to you following our path, with this pebble in your pocket...
See you next month for more, thanks for reading,
Vix
Founder of PebbleCo
Want a bit more access or know-how?
Soon we'll be launching our Founding Pebbles membership and our Virtual Bootcamp for:
- Monthly tech guidance in plain English
- Step-by-step tutorials / online learning
- Community support
- Access to resources and templates
- A space where every question is welcome
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