In today's world, where the pressure to be productive, successful, and creative never seems to relent, it can be challenging to find the motivation to keep creating.
But how do artists, writers, and creators stay inspired and motivated to keep going and break through creative barriers?
Fear not because Austin Kleon has the answers!
With a unique blend of energy and wit, Austin has become an icon for the modern artist; from writing New York Times bestsellers, like Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work, to going viral with his speeches on the secrets of success, he has a lot to offer and now is your time to soak up every bit of knowledge.
Enter his book, Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad.
In this blog article, we'll delve into the impact his book had on the artistic community, exploring the ways in which its themes and messages have influenced the creative world.
Additionally, we'll take a look at how Keep Going has helped creators and artists of different fields approach the process of creating and expressing their own work.
In a world that often feels like it's spinning out of control, his book Keep Going has been a beacon of hope for creatives everywhere.
If you're ready for a free creative life with maximum artistic freedom, then this book is for you!
So, sit back, grab your favorite painting smock or your worn-out guitar pick, and let's dive into how this book has impacted the arts and crafts world and its creators.
Get ready because these life-changing tips from Kleon will recharge your creative muscle and help you shine brighter than ever before!
Staying Creative No Matter What Life Dishes Out
Keep Going by Austin Kleon is more than just a book; it's a survival guide for the creative soul to living a more creative, fulfilled, meaningful, and productive life.
Already having great success with his previous books Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work, this book has been described as an inspiring magic tonic, a practical how-to, and a manual for happy living.
Published in 2019, Keep Going is a breakthrough mashup of illustrations, quotes, and essays that speaks directly to artistic souls everywhere.
Truly prolific artists like yourself will appreciate the fact that this book is designed to motivate in any situation, no matter how bad it gets.
Austin Kleon gave readers a new starting point that is structured around ten principles designed to help creators stay creative, focused, and true to themselves.
These principles include ideas like "Every day is Groundhog Day," "Build a bliss station," and "Forget the noun, do the verb."
They encourage readers to find joy in repetition, create spaces for uninterrupted thinking, and focus more on the process rather than the end product.
Offering a range of inspirational ideas and tips, such as how airplane mode is not just a setting on your phone and how routine establishes good habits, this guide helps you find the courage to keep going, no matter how hard life gets.
The creative person and their creative work are the focus of Keep Going, as Kleon emphasizes how essential it is for creators to keep creating even when life throws curve balls.
The book has been well received for its style, tone, and content, which are similar to Kleon's previous works but updated to feel extremely relevant in today's world.
It has been praised for its insightful commentary on using social media as a tool for accountability, while also acknowledging when it's okay to step away.
Every Day is Groundhog Day
This is one of his most popular principles, which encourages readers to embrace the mundane and find joy in repetition.
By finding satisfaction in the small things, you're able to stay creative and motivated even on days when it seems like nothing is going your way.
Kleon uses this principle to create a powerful reminder: even on the days when it feels like you're going nowhere, you can still find joy in each little accomplishment.
Build a Bliss Station
Another one of Kleon's key principles, this tip encourages readers to create an environment that allows for creative thinking and reflection.
It could be anything from a cozy nook in your bedroom to a dedicated workspace, but it should be an area that allows you to stay focused and free of distractions.
Kleon believes that having a designated space to work helps to boost creativity, productivity, and allows for more mindful moments of self-reflection.
Forget the Noun, Do the Verb
The last principle in Keep Going is all about action and doing—not just thinking about the things you want to do.
Kleon encourages readers to forget the nouns and focus on doing the verbs, or the action steps.
He argues that action is much more important than just thinking about what you want to do; instead, you must take the necessary steps to make it happen.
Make Gifts
Kleon believes in the power of giving, as there can't be true art without the intent to give back; receiving compensation is great, but creating art shouldn't be all about the money.
He believes that giving back can be an incredibly fulfilling way to stay creative and express yourself.
It doesn't have to be a tangible gift; it could be a kind gesture, a meaningful note, or even just your time.
The Ordinary + Extra Attention = The Extraordinary
This is one of Kleon's key messages throughout the book, and it serves as a reminder to be constantly mindful in your creative process.
He encourages readers to pay extra attention to the everyday moments and objects in their lives.
By doing this, they can cultivate a deeper appreciation for them and unlock new creative ideas.
Kleon believes that this approach can help to transform the mundane into something extraordinary, so it's worth taking the time to slow down and take notice.
Slay the Art Monsters
Another tip is about slaying the "monsters" that plague you.
This means overcoming any doubts, fears, or anxieties that may be stopping you from pursuing your dreams.
Kleon encourages readers to take a step back and recognize that these "monsters" are just thoughts, not facts.
By recognizing the power of these thoughts, it becomes easier to overcome them and stay true to your creative goals.
You are Allowed to Change Your Mind
It's vital to be open to change and embracing new ideas.
Kleon encourages readers to stay flexible, try new things, and be comfortable with changing their minds as they go along.
He believes that this is how the creative process works—it's a constant work in progress and it should be embraced.
While having a set practice can help when making art, don't let your own routine trap you in a box.
Allow yourself to find joy in new ideas and experiment with different techniques; you never know where it'll take you!
When in Doubt, Tidy Up
Kleon understands how daunting the creative process can be, and he encourages readers to take a break and tidy up their physical or digital workspaces.
He argues that even if it doesn't seem like you're being productive, tidying up can help to clear your head and give your creative process a much-needed refresh.
Encouraging to keep your tools tidy and materials messy, Kleon notes that interesting juxtapositions happen when you let the creative energy flow freely; new ideas are formed when things are out of place, so don't be afraid to experiment.
Demons Hate Fresh Air
The inner demons that lurk inside the mind can end up ruining anyone's life and creative practice.
Kleon reminds readers to get out of their own heads and find respite in nature.
Don't let your inner demons take over and control your creative life; instead, take a break from your work and go outside.
Kleon believes that fresh air and being surrounded by nature can help
He believes that getting outside and breathing in some fresh air can be a great way to recharge and come back with new ideas.
He encourages readers to spend some time in nature and reconnect with the bigger picture.
Plant Your Garden
This is a metaphor for cultivating the things that matter most in life.
Kleon encourages readers to plant their own gardens, or invest in the things—creative or otherwise—that they're passionate about.
He believes that having a passion project to work on can help cultivate creativity and lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
These life-changing tips and ten simple rules from author Austin Kleon are just a few of the many inspiring messages in his work to help creators live an extraordinary life.
Keep Going has had a major impact on the creative community, offering practical advice to help creatives find inspiration, stay motivated, and tap into their own creative wells.
It has revolutionized the creative world with its inspiring and empowering message, making it a must-read for anyone looking to recharge their creative powers.
Through this book, Austin Kleon has provided the ultimate pick-me-up to get creators everywhere back on their feet and doing what they do best!
Navigating Creativity Amidst Chaos and Good Times
Keep Going is all about staying creative, focused, and true to yourself, especially during challenging times.
The beauty of the book lies in its simplicity, but don't be fooled — this little gem is packed with wisdom.
From the struggling writer battling with writer's block to the painter trying to find their unique style amidst a sea of trends, Kleon's words resonate with all.
Kleon's Keep Going offers compelling insights and practical advice for all artists seeking to create in the midst of a dreary world.
A testament to designing a fulfilling and uplifting artistic lifestyle, the book promotes the creation of work without waiting for inspiration to strike and provides tools for balancing creativity with a healthy and sustainable work rhythm.
One of the ways in which Keep Going has impacted the art world is by fostering a heightened sense of individuality and authenticity among creators.
The book entreats artists to reject the notion of imitation or copying and encourages them to look within their own experiences and ideas to stimulate their creative imaginations.
Moreover, Keep Going has helped creatives of all stripes approach the ever-evolving process of creating and expressing their work.
Its humorous approach and use of illustrations make the topic of creativity more accessible by reducing it to a more manageable, bite-sized endeavor for creative novices.
Kleon's approach to creativity is refreshingly relatable.
He emphasizes that extraordinary art can come from ordinary circumstances and materials.
The resonance of this idea has encouraged artists to embrace their surroundings and personal experiences as a source of inspiration rather than chasing the illusion of "perfect" conditions for creativity.
One of the most impactful aspects of Keep Going is its focus on sustaining creativity through both good and bad times.
Kleon's ten tips to stay creative have been a lifeline for many who found their creative spark flickering amidst personal or professional turmoil.
Understanding this concept has helped artists ride their creative waves more effectively, leading to a more fulfilling and less stressful artistic journey.
Influencing Classrooms and Creators
Keep Going's popularity among educators, artists, and writers alike in recent years is a testament to the compelling advice contained within its pages.
The book has become a staple in writing and creative classrooms across the country, used as a reference or inspiration for both novice and seasoned creatives.
The book has influenced creators with a focus on promoting self-discovery and emotional resilience; the themes resonate with creators and encourage them to take on creative challenges with a new perspective.
The main strength of Keep Going is its ability to teach readers how to stay productive and creative during both good times and bad.
Kleon takes readers through the journey of how to navigate through periods of burnout, self-doubt, and external pressures.
One of the key takeaways from the book is that creativity is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous process that requires daily commitment.
Austin Kleon emphasizes that the key to staying creative is not about waiting for inspiration to strike, but about creating a daily routine that fosters creativity.
Overall, Keep Going is a delightful read packed with enough wisdom to inspire anyone, regardless of where they are on their creative journey and help them become more decent human beings in their everyday life.
Whether you're an artist struggling with a creative block, or someone just looking to inject more creativity into your daily life, Austin Kleon's Keep Going is a book that can guide you towards a more creative and fulfilling life.
So long as people are creating, there will always be a need for books like Keep Going, which inspire and remind us to never give up on our artistic passions.
Inspiring A More Resilient Creative Community
Since its release, Keep Going has had a profound impact and major inspiration to the art world and its creators.
New York Times bestselling author Austin Klein has done it again, as Keep Going is an inspiring read that will leave readers feeling empowered to take action and make their dreams a reality.
Such books remind us that the path to artistic fulfillment is not always a smooth and easy one, but with a little perseverance and the right mindset, we can all make our creative aspirations a reality.
The book's ten key principles are designed to help readers stay creative, focused, and true to themselves; Kleon's words of wisdom have been essential for those seeking to cultivate a more resilient and creative life.
It has fostered a more resilient creative community, one that learns to adapt and thrive, irrespective of the circumstances.
Keep Going isn't just a book; it's a movement; it's a call-to-action for every artist to embrace their creativity, push through their struggles, and never stop creating.
This inspiring guide will be a companion to readers as they embark on their creative journeys and explore the world of possibilities that awaits them.
For anyone looking for a reminder to stay creative and never give up, Keep Going is the perfect book, and thanks to Austin Kleon's timeless wisdom, we can all keep going.
So, if you're struggling to stay motivated, pick up your copy of Keep Going and start exploring the ways in which you can keep going and unlock your creative potential.
Keep creating, and most of all, keep going!
Your creative soul will thank you for it!
Keep Going
Eager to learn more about this inspirational book? Check out Productivity Guy's video!
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