✍️ My Top 3 Quotes :
- “If you ever find that you’re the most talented person in the room, you need to find another room.”
- “Draw the art you want to see, start the business you want to run, play the music you want to hear, write the books you want to read, build the products you want to use – do the work you want to see done.”
- “You are, in fact, a mashup of what you choose to let into your life.”
Book Summary:
‘Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative’ is a best-selling book written by Austin Kleon. In this book, Kleon explores the concept of creativity and highlights ten ways to boost your creative success.
Key Takeaways:
1. Nothing is Completely Original
Kleon emphasizes that in the creative process, everything is inspired by something else. Artists and creators are constantly building on the ideas of others, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Borrowing ideas and remixing them is an essential part of the creative journey.
2. Steal like an Artist
Rather than copy completely, Kleon encourages aspiring creators to absorb influences from a variety of sources and combine them in unique ways. Individuals can develop their creative identity by embracing influence and inspiration.
3. Make Connections
Kleon emphasizes the importance of building relationships and surrounding yourself with a diverse community of creators. Collaboration and sharing ideas can lead to new insights and opportunities for growth.
4. Share Your Work
According to Kleon, it is important for creators to put their work out into the world, even if it seems unfinished or incomplete. Sharing work not only allows for feedback and improvement but also creates opportunities for collaboration and discovery.
5. Teach Others
Kleon suggests that teaching what you know can be a powerful way to deepen your own understanding and learn from others. Sharing knowledge and helping others can lead to personal and professional growth.
6. Embrace Constraints
Kleon argues that limitations and constraints can actually foster creativity. Working with limited resources or within a specific framework can force artists to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions.
7. Forget About the Originality Trap
Rather than striving for complete originality, Kleon advises creators to focus on authenticity. Being true to yourself and expressing personal experiences and perspectives can lead to unique and compelling work.
8. Steal from Your Heroes
Kleon encourages creators to study the work of people they admire and identify the elements they find most inspiring. By understanding and incorporating these influences, individuals can develop their own sound and style.
9. Practice Self-Care
Kleon emphasizes the importance of taking care of yourself physically, mentally and emotionally. Prioritizing rest, relaxation, and self-reflection is essential to maintaining creativity and avoiding burnout.
10. Keep Exploring
Kleon urges creators to keep looking for new inspirations, explore different mediums, and constantly learn. Curiosity and the willingness to experiment are key elements of continued creative growth.
This book offers practical insights and advice for anyone wishing to harness their creative potential. By embracing influence, sharing work, and fostering a creative community, individuals can develop their unique voice and make meaningful contributions to their chosen field.
