Creative Confidence, Trusting Your Gut and Navigating the Thin Line Between Inspiration and Imitation With Michael Schultz

Margo is joined by friend and former guest, Michael Schultz. Michael is the co-owner and creative eye of Cursive New York, which operates 2 stores in New York City. Cursive is a tightly focused concept with the simple mission of cultivating joy. Michael, along with his husband, Douglas Duncan, have established Cursive as a strong and forward voice in the industry where they offer gift, stationery, home and lifestyle products and is constantly evolving. Cursive operated in New York City's iconic Grand Central Terminal for 11 years and within ABC Carpet & Home for 15 years, until the Covid-19 pandemic upended those long runs. Making lemonade out of lemons, Schultz and Duncan doubled down on New York and opened 2 shops in New York's West Village neighborhood, 4 blocks apart. One shop is true to the original Cursive vision, while Cursive Home is the brand's extension into home goods.   Margo and Michael discuss: Going all in on yourself, trusting your gut and having confidence in your creativity The thin line between inspiration and imitation within the digital landscape The risks of looking too closely at others' work and what it can lead to The importance of developing a unique point of view The patience and vulnerability required to pave your own path in the creative industry Maintaining confidence in one's original work even if it isn't immediately recognized  Strategies that artists and designers can use to cultivate their own original ideas Setting yourself apart as a leader and visionary by thinking two steps ahead   Connect with Michael: www.instagram.com/cursivenewyork www.instagram.com/curisvenyhome   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill