The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast

What It Really Takes to Accomplish Your Dreams (ft. Steven Pressfield)

Aug 28, 2024

01:01:37

Snipd AI

Steven Pressfield, an accomplished author famous for his book 'The War of Art,' shares his journey of creativity and resilience. At 52, he achieved his first success after years of struggle, revealing the relentless nature of 'resistance' that stifles creativity. He delves into the transition from amateur to professional mindset, emphasizing the importance of persistence and overcoming self-doubt. Pressfield also discusses the relationship between life experiences and creativity, challenging the myth of the 'suffering artist' while encouraging a nurturing approach to artistic endeavors.

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Quick takeaways

Persistence in creative endeavors is essential, as true success often emerges after enduring years of struggle and dedication.

Resistance serves as a self-sabotaging force that inhibits creative progress, manifesting through self-doubt, procrastination, and fear of change.

Adopting a professional mindset by embracing challenges and maintaining consistency significantly enhances one's chances of achieving artistic success.

Deep dives

The Journey of Persistence

Steven Pressfield's journey highlights the significance of persistence in the creative process, demonstrating that true success often comes after years of struggle. He spent nearly three decades honing his craft before achieving recognition with his first novel, 'The Legend of Bagger Vance,' at the age of 50. Throughout this time, he faced numerous setbacks, yet his unwavering commitment to writing acted as his lifeline. The drive to create fulfilled a deep-seated need within him, illustrating that passion can fuel perseverance even during the toughest periods.

Turning Pro: What Differentiates a Professional From an Amateur

01:58

Resilience and Focus are Key to Success

01:39

Embrace Each Day as a Battle

01:39

Inspiration Springs from Creative Theft

01:09

Intro

2min

The Art of Persistence in Writing

17min

Navigating Creative Struggles and Finding Resilience

4min

Overcoming Resistance and Embracing Professionalism

15min

Overcoming Resistance: The Hidden Challenges of Talent

3min

The Creative Struggle: Life and Imagination

6min

The Nurturing Power of Creativity

3min

Embracing the Muses of Creativity

7min

Engaging an Audience and the Journey of Creation

4min

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.

Steven’s new book, The Daily Pressfield

All of Steven Pressfield's Books

Get up to 43% off your order of MUD/WTR at mudwtr.com/idgaf

Use code IDGAF to get 10% Marek Health services at marekhealth.com/idgaf

Get 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/idgaf

Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: markmanson.net/breakthrough

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