The War of Art

1. Resistance is the enemy of creativity and personal growth

Resistance is the most toxic force on the planet. It is the root of more unhappiness than poverty, disease, and erectile dysfunction.

Resistance defined: Resistance is an invisible, internal force that opposes creative and personal growth endeavors. It manifests as:

• Procrastination
• Self-doubt
• Fear
• Rationalization
• Addiction
• Self-sabotage

Overcoming Resistance: To combat Resistance:

• Recognize it as a universal force, not a personal failing
• Understand that the more important a project is, the stronger Resistance will be
• Commit to showing up and doing the work every day, regardless of feelings
• Focus on the process, not the outcome

2. Turning pro is the key to overcoming Resistance

The moment an artist turns pro is as epochal as the birth of his first child. With one stroke, everything changes.

Characteristics of a professional:

• Shows up every day, no matter what
• Commits for the long haul
• Accepts payment for labor
• Does not overidentify with the work
• Masters the techniques of the craft
• Has a sense of humor about the work

Amateur vs. Professional: Amateurs allow Resistance to defeat them, while professionals push through it. Professionals understand that fear and self-doubt are part of the process, not reasons to quit. They focus on consistent action rather than waiting for inspiration or perfect conditions.

3. Fear is a sign of what's important and must be faced

Are you paralyzed with fear? That's a good sign. Fear is good. Like self-doubt, fear is an indicator. Fear tells us what we have to do.

Understanding fear: Fear often indicates:

• The importance of a project or goal
• An opportunity for growth and learning
• The potential for significant change or impact

Facing fear: To overcome fear:

• Recognize it as a natural part of the creative process
• Use it as a compass to guide you towards important work
• Take action despite feeling afraid
• Understand that courage is not the absence of fear, but action in the face of it

4. Professionalism requires discipline, commitment, and patience

The professional has learned better. He respects Resistance. He knows if he caves in today, no matter how plausible the pretext, he'll be twice as likely to cave in tomorrow.

Developing professionalism:

• Establish a consistent work routine
• Set clear boundaries between work and personal life
• Focus on long-term goals rather than short-term gratification
• Cultivate patience and persistence
• Continuously improve skills and knowledge

Benefits of professionalism:

• Increased productivity
• Greater resilience in the face of setbacks
• Improved quality of work
• Enhanced reputation and credibility

5. The authentic self is our true calling and destiny

Our job in this lifetime is not to shape ourselves into some ideal we imagine we ought to be, but to find out who we already are and become it.

Discovering the authentic self:

• Reflect on childhood interests and natural inclinations
• Pay attention to activities that bring joy and flow
• Consider what you'd do if money were no object
• Identify core values and beliefs

Living authentically:

• Align career and life choices with your true self
• Resist societal pressure to conform to others' expectations
• Embrace your unique talents and perspective
• Continuously refine and express your authentic voice

6. Inspiration comes from a higher realm or unconscious mind

When we sit down each day and do our work, power concentrates around us. The Muse takes note of our dedication. She approves. We have earned favor in her sight.

Sources of inspiration:

• The unconscious mind
• A higher spiritual realm
• Collective human consciousness
• Personal experiences and memories

Cultivating inspiration:

• Establish a consistent creative practice
• Create space for solitude and reflection
• Expose yourself to diverse ideas and experiences
• Trust in the creative process, even when inspiration seems elusive

7. The Self, not the Ego, is the source of creativity and growth

The Self wishes to create, to evolve. The Ego likes things just the way they are.

The Self vs. The Ego:

• The Self: Connected to the divine, seeks growth and evolution
• The Ego: Focused on material existence, resists change

Accessing the Self:

• Practice meditation or mindfulness
• Engage in creative activities
• Seek experiences that expand consciousness
• Cultivate self-awareness and introspection

8. Success often means leaving comfort zones and tribal inclusions

We fear discovering that we are more than we think we are. More than our parents/children/teachers think we are. We fear that we actually possess the talent that our still, small voice tells us.

Embracing growth:

• Recognize that personal evolution may alienate some people
• Be willing to outgrow old identities and relationships
• Seek new communities that support your growth
• Trust that authentic connections will replace those lost

Overcoming fear of success:

• Acknowledge the fear of leaving familiar territory
• Recognize that growth often requires discomfort
• Focus on the potential benefits of success
• Develop a support system that encourages your evolution

9. Artists must focus on their craft and demystify the creative process

The professional views her work as craft, not art. Not because she believes art is devoid of a mystical dimension. On the contrary. She understands that all creative endeavor is holy, but she doesn't dwell on it.

Demystifying creativity:

• Focus on developing technical skills
• Establish a consistent work routine
• Break projects into manageable tasks
• Study the techniques of successful artists in your field

Balancing craft and inspiration:

• Respect the mysterious aspects of creativity
• Allow space for both disciplined work and spontaneous inspiration
• Recognize that mastery of craft enhances creative freedom
• Trust that consistent effort will lead to breakthroughs

10. Invoking the Muse can aid in creative endeavors

Have you ever spent time in Santa Fe? There's a subculture of "healing" there. The idea is that there's something therapeutic in the atmosphere. A safe place to go and get yourself together.

The concept of the Muse:

• A personification of inspiration and creativity
• A connection to a higher realm or collective unconscious
• A way to externalize and respect the creative process

Invoking the Muse:

• Develop a personal ritual to begin creative work
• Create a dedicated space for your art
• Use meditation or visualization to connect with inspiration
• Cultivate an attitude of openness and receptivity to ideas

Last updated: July 23, 2024