Consistently putting creative work out into the world helps overcome fear of imperfection and bad writing.
Seeking reassurance can become a trap in the creative process, hindering growth and innovation.
Impostor syndrome can indicate taking risks and doing good work, and consistently showing up leads to improvement and growth.
Deep dives
The Practice of Creativity
The podcast episode explores the practice of creativity and the process of doing creative work. It emphasizes the importance of overcoming the fear of bad writing or creating something imperfect by embracing the practice of consistently putting work out into the world. The speaker discusses the concept of trust and learning to trust oneself as a crucial aspect of creativity. The episode also highlights the significance of honing skills, developing the right attitude, and being persistent in the creative process. It encourages individuals to focus on the practice itself, rather than solely chasing after external validation or outcomes.
The Role of Reassurance and Shipping Creative Work
The episode delves into the detrimental effects of seeking reassurance in the creative process. It argues that reassurance can become a trap, hindering creative growth and stifling innovation. Instead, the focus should be on shipping creative work, meaning putting it out into the world, regardless of the fear or uncertainty surrounding it. The podcast emphasizes the importance of embracing the practice of consistently producing and sharing creative work, acknowledging that not every piece will be successful or well-received. It underscores the need to trust oneself and one's abilities as a creative, rather than relying on external validation.
Overcoming Impostor Syndrome and Embracing Action
The episode addresses the issue of impostor syndrome, the feeling of being a fraud or not deserving of success. The speaker shares personal experiences of still occasionally experiencing impostor syndrome and highlights the importance of reframing it. It suggests that feeling like an impostor can actually be an indicator of doing good work and taking risks. The podcast encourages embracing action and moving past the fear of not being good enough. It emphasizes that action precedes the feeling of competence or confidence, and that consistently showing up and doing the work leads to improvement and growth.
The Importance of Showing Your Portfolio to the Right People
When sharing your creative work, it is crucial to be mindful of who you show your portfolio to. Many people, even those who care about you, may not understand or appreciate your work, possibly discouraging you from pursuing it. Therefore, it is essential to seek feedback from individuals who have knowledge and experience in your field and can provide constructive criticism. Surround yourself with people who are enrolled in the same creative journey as you and can offer valuable insights to help you grow and improve.
The Significance of Authenticity in Creative Work
Seth Godin emphasizes the importance of being intentional and purposeful in your creative work. Being a 'hack' refers to mindlessly catering to what the audience wants without considering your own point of view or artistic integrity. It is essential to understand that there is a difference between providing what the audience desires and pushing boundaries to create something unique and meaningful. Authenticity should not be confused with being reckless or stubbornly adhering to one's artistic vision. It is about consistently delivering work that aligns with your reputation and the promises you make to your audience.
In his third Design Matters interview, writer Seth Godin riffs on his 20th book—“The Practice”—a milestone text exploring creativity and the sheer power of doing the work and putting it out into the world.
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