In 2009, fueled by aspiration, I penned letters to luminaries at Pixar Animation Studios: Pete Docter, John Lasseter, and if memory serves, Ed Catmull and Andrew Stanton. To my astonishment, Pete Docter himself responded. While it wasn’t the Pixar job of my dreams, what I received was far more valuable – a genuinely thoughtful, handwritten letter. Holding it for the first time, the Pixar letterhead and the whimsical sketches adorning the back felt almost otherworldly, radiating inspiration.
Over the years, this letter from Pete Docter has become a cherished source of personal encouragement, consistently reigniting my optimism and broadening my perspective on career possibilities. At the time a director, Pete Docter has since ascended to even greater heights, winning Academy Awards and directing more beloved Pixar films. Notably, he now serves as the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar, guiding the studio’s creative vision. He projects an image of intelligence and kindness, and the aspiration to meet him remains. (Hello Pete!) This experience illuminated a crucial realization: the individuals behind these magical films are not mythical beings but approachable, dedicated professionals. They are disciplined, hardworking individuals deeply committed to their craft.
I’m sharing this letter now, preserving it from potential basement mishaps, hoping it resonates as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring writers and creatives. It continues to spark motivation and a sense of boundless potential within me. Pete Docter’s message is clear: begin writing, persist in writing, and above all, discover joy in your creative pursuits. That’s the spirit of “Up” – to infinity and beyond!
