Years ago, a big ad exec called me into his office along with a handful of other creatives. We were selected to work on a new campaign launch. The exec told us to create something that will get him to Cannes. Then almost as an afterthought, he offered to take us with him.

After several late nights, we came up with a campaign that the clients liked and it was fairly well-received after the launch. In other words, it wasn't Cannes-worthy. The exec still went to France of course. He goes every year, regardless of an entry.

So like the majority of us, I hope you've been following the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity this week as it wraps up (Sunday). I've been watching online and by app (download here).

I'm not going to list my favorites. I probably won't say anything you haven't read already. But I would love to hear what you felt was inspiring. What I encourage you to do is check out the jury interviews and see what it took to win. Use it as a checklist for your work. And I hope your clients will back your brave thinking.

Also, if you get to Cannes before I do, send me a postcard – a real one with French postage and everything.