Overcoming Resistance and Embracing Professionalism

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This chapter explores the inherent resistance and self-doubt faced when pursuing significant creative dreams, framing these challenges as indicators of the importance of one's goals. It emphasizes the transition from amateur to professional mindsets, highlighting resilience, dedication, and the necessity of hard work and self-editing for long-term success. Personal anecdotes illustrate the emotional complexities of a creative career, including the struggles with rejection and distractions along the journey.

Steven Pressfield was 52 years old when he published his first hit novel, The Legend of Bagger Vance. Prior to that, he wrote tirelessly for decades in obscurity, supporting himself with odd jobs along the way.

After writing several more novels and movie scripts, he distilled all of his wisdom into The War of Art, his now-famous treatise on the grinding process of creativity.

Now in his 80s, Steven looks back on his work and life with a clear-eyed view of what it truly means to make it as a creative professional. In this episode, he explains why he persisted writing for decades with little to show for it, how he compensated for his own lack of talent, why creating great art is actually a grueling war fought within the artist’s own mind, and much, much more.

Enjoy.

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