Creativity

The War of Art: 6 key ideas

by Steven Pressfield

The core ideas of The War of Art, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 6

   Resistance

   An inner force opposes any meaningful work.

   It shows up as procrastination, distraction, self-doubt and sudden urgent chores. The more important the work is to you, the stronger the Resistance.

2. IDEA 2 OF 6

   Turn pro

   Amateurs wait for inspiration; professionals show up every day, mood or no mood.

   Treat your creative work like a job with fixed hours and you'll beat Resistance more often than not.

3. IDEA 3 OF 6

   Fear is a compass

   The project that scares you most is usually the one you most need to do.

   Fear rises with what's at stake, so use it as a pointer rather than a stop sign.

4. IDEA 4 OF 6

   Don't wait for permission

   No one is going to anoint you.

   Waiting for approval, credentials or the perfect moment is Resistance in disguise. Start the work.

5. IDEA 5 OF 6

   Spot the rationalisation

   Resistance rarely says "don't".

   It offers sensible reasons: you need more research, the timing is wrong. Treat convenient excuses with suspicion.

6. IDEA 6 OF 6

   Inspiration follows effort

   The muse tends to show up when you're already at the desk.

   Sit down and work first; the ideas come more readily once you've begun.