Embrace Each Day as a Battle

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Viewing life through a militaristic lens can enhance one's approach to creativity. Each day presents a struggle against resistance, which manifests the moment one awakens. This battle against inertia and distractions becomes central to productivity, emphasizing the importance of action over contemplation. Like a tactical maneuver, confronting the 'enemy' of procrastination and finding motivation to rise and engage is essential for overcoming daily challenges and fostering creativity.

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

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