Maurice Bouchard Athens grew up in Watkinsville, Georgia, where curiosity and creativity shaped his early years. He played clarinet through school, earning All-State recognition, and spent afternoons on the soccer field. When he wasn’t outdoors, he was deep in worlds of imagination—reading One Piece, playing StarCraft and Morrowind, or watching Star Trek and Stargate SG-1. Those stories sparked a lifelong fascination with detail, storytelling, and connection.
After graduating from Oconee County High School in 2008, he attended the University of Georgia, earning his bachelor’s degree and recognition as a Charter Scholar. His early career included roles in caregiving—working in memory care—where he learned patience and empathy. Those experiences continue to influence his life and art today.
Now a stay-at-home dad and artist in Athens, Maurice spends his days painting watercolours, 3D-printing designs, and playing guitar. His love for Warhammer 40K and miniature painting connects him to creative communities that share his passion for imagination and craftsmanship.
Faith plays a central role in his outlook. For him, both art and Christianity are ways of seeing beyond the surface. Maurice believes creativity builds resilience, empathy, and leadership in everyday life. His journey reminds us that artistry and purpose can come from small, steady acts of creation—and that inspiration often grows from the ordinary moments we live each day.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My days begin early, usually before sunrise. I make breakfast for my family and enjoy a quiet moment with coffee before my kids wake up. I’ve learned that structure gives creativity room to breathe. Mornings are for family and routine. Afternoons are for art—painting, 3D-printing, or working on new miniature designs. I keep my phone away during that time. Productivity for me isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing with purpose.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I start by sketching loosely on paper. Even a quick idea—like the texture of armour or a light pattern—gets a note. Once I have the shape, I test it through 3D design software or watercolour. I believe in starting messy and refining over time. The process is what gives the final piece its soul.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The rise of hobby-based communities online. There’s real leadership happening there—people learning together, mentoring each other, and sharing art. It’s a quiet kind of collaboration that I find inspiring.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I set daily creative goals, even small ones. Paint for 20 minutes. Finish one sketch. Little habits compound into big results.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t rush. Everything meaningful takes time—art, learning, faith, family. Be patient with the process.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I think video games and wrestling are modern philosophy in disguise. They teach about strategy, resilience, and storytelling—just in unconventional ways.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Step outside every day. Even five minutes of fresh air resets my focus. It’s also when I get my best ideas.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I pick up my guitar or start painting. Art has a way of quieting the noise in my mind. If I can’t create, I pray or take a walk.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Consistency. Whether it was caregiving or art, I’ve learned that showing up matters more than motivation. You don’t need to feel inspired every day—you just need to stay committed.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early in caregiving, I tried to do everything myself. I burned out quickly. I learned that asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Collaboration and rest make you stronger.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
Create a local “Creative Exchange”—a space where artists, hobbyists, and makers trade skills instead of money. It builds community and opportunity without big budgets.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
I use Blender for 3D design. It helps me bring sketches into physical form through printing. It’s both technical and creative, which keeps my brain balanced.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. It reminds me that resistance is normal. Every creator fights it, but finishing is what separates ideas from impact.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. It’s about leadership, faith, and morality. It still feels relevant because it shows that doing the right thing isn’t always straight forward.
Key learnings
- Creativity grows through structure and routine, not chaos.
- Consistency and patience matter more than motivation or speed.
- Leadership often begins in community, not in titles or positions.
- Artistic expression can double as mindfulness and emotional balance.
- Inspiration often comes from simple, everyday acts of creation.