Zen Habits Podcast

S1 Bonus - Craig Maloney on Embracing the Creative Journey

Nov 1, 2023

43:39

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Craig Maloney discusses his personal journey in game development and creativity, overcoming resistance and self-doubt, balancing health issues and creative pursuits, the transformative power of integrating fear and resistance into the creative process, and striving to create meaningful and joyful experiences.

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Quick takeaways

Overcoming resistance and self-doubt is crucial in starting and sustaining creative work, allowing creators to find fulfillment in the journey of creation.

Connecting with the desired experience of joy or authenticity infuses the creative process with those qualities, helping creators stay connected to their work and provide meaningful experiences.

Deep dives

Overcoming Resistance and Fear in Meaningful Work

In this podcast episode, Leo Babauta and his guest Craig Maloney discuss navigating uncertainty and fear in the pursuit of meaningful work. Craig shares his personal experience with stage four rectal cancer and the challenges it presents to his energy levels and ability to focus. Despite these obstacles, Craig continues to work on a role-playing game based on the webcomic Pepper and Carrot. He expresses the desire to create an experience of joy for players, inspired by the joy he finds in the comic. However, Craig often faces mental resistance and fears that his project may not make a meaningful impact or receive harsh judgment. Leo encourages Craig to remember his original inspiration and to focus on being present in the creative process, acknowledging that not every day will be filled with joy but that practicing can lead to more joyful experiences.

Focusing on Being Present and Satisfied with Completion

01:20

Focus on the present and take one step at a time

01:26

Empathy and Shared Experiences in Health Challenges

01:42

Introduction

2min

Creative Endeavors and Cancer Diagnosis

7min

The Power of Group Interactions and the Contrast between On Stage and Backstage

2min

Challenges of Pursuing Full-Time Game Design

18min

Overcoming Fear and Hesitation

7min

Embracing Joy in the Creative Journey

3min

Embracing the Joyful Experience in the Creative Journey

4min

How can we navigate creative projects when faced with major challenges, resistance, and fear of failure?

In this bonus episode, Leo is joined by Fearless Living Academy member Craig Maloney for an inspiring conversation on how to overcome obstacles in creative endeavors, and the importance of tapping into joy as a driving force to craft meaningful experiences.

Topics Covered

Craig's personal journey in game development and creativity
Overcoming resistance and self-doubt when starting and sustaining creative work
Balancing health issues and creative pursuits
The psychological barriers and doubts that creators often encounter
The transformative power of integrating fear and resistance into the creative process
Striving to create meaningful and joyful experiences for oneself and others
The significance of embracing discomfort and pushing beyond comfort zones
Balancing multiple passions and focusing on one at a time
The importance of remembering the original inspiration and purpose behind projects
The practice of self-reflection and journaling in self-improvement