121. A Lifetime Finding Ways to Say YES to Creativity
Sarah Daniels
Sarah Daniels joined RealArcade in 2005 sourcing and producing video games. Ten years later, with dozens of titles as producer, designer and creative director, she works with international studios making games for the whole family. In January 2015, she left Seattle in a renovated “Skoolie” bus. Her mission: to unplug, reconnect, and challenge her status quo.
How Did You Start Using Your Talents?
“By saying YES to life. I know life will come to an end sooner or later, so I just say, ‘What have I got to lose?’” As part of that YES, Sarah went alone on African safari at 25, wandered solo around Tokyo for two weeks, and moved to Seattle, sight unseen.
The Most Impactful Turning Point?
“I saw a posting for a video game position 10 years ago and took a risk. I was adopted by this small group of brilliant guys, with no pretense, no condescension and an unabashed love of the craft. People ask how I got into games. I tell them, ‘By saying YES!’”
The Most Powerful Lessons Learned?
n a life filled with rich, diverse experiences, Sarah has honed a guiding pragmatism: “For earning a living, I make the mercenary’s choice—I want to do what I love, and have it pay my bills. The key is to get clear on what it means to be creative.”
On Her Bookshelf
So You Want To Be a Producer, by Lawrence Turman
So You Want to Be a Game Designer!, by Merjin de Boer
Penny Arcade, Videogaming-related online strip by Mike Krahulik and Jerry Holkins
[During the interview, this site was referred to as Penny Expo; the correct name is Penny Arcade.]
Connecting With Sarah Daniels
Email: sarah@soyoused.com
Website: www.soyoused.com
Facebook: soyoused
Twitter: @soyoused
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/pub/sarah-daniels/1/b8b/2a4
