In this reflective episode, I share my thoughts from the shores of the Adriatic Sea on the island of Brač, Croatia. Drawing from decades in learning and development, I explore how gaining perspective can reignite creativity—both in life and in work. In an age where AI can simplify and automate so much, I want to remind everyone that true creativity still comes from human experience, curiosity, and taking time to pause and observe the world around us.



Timestamps & Highlights



00:00 – Setting the Scene: Inspiration from the Adriatic SeaJonathan opens the episode from Croatia’s island of Brač, reflecting on the power of travel, change, and observation in fueling creativity.



00:30 – Rediscovering PerspectiveHe shares how walking through a new environment brought back memories of his early blogging days on JonathanSaar.com—when creativity came from curiosity, not routine.



00:55 – The Role of AI in Modern CreativityJonathan acknowledges the benefits of AI for productivity but challenges listeners to avoid overreliance. True innovation, he says, requires personal perspective and emotional connection.



01:20 – Stepping Away to Spark IdeasFrom years of leadership and learning experience, Jonathan emphasizes that sometimes the best way to create is to step away. A walk or a moment of reflection can open the mental space needed for new ideas.



01:53 – Protecting Your Creative EnergyHe closes with a powerful reminder: Don’t let anyone—or anything—steal your creativity. It’s an art form worth preserving, even in a digital world.