Keep Going by Austin Kleon: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad
Book Info
- Book name: Keep Going
- Author: Austin Kleon
- Genre: Self-Help & Personal Development, Arts & Culture
- Published Year: 2019
- Publisher: Workman Publishing
- Language: English
Audio Summary
Synopsis
In “Keep Going,” Austin Kleon offers a lifeline to creatives struggling with inspiration and motivation. Through ten practical and engaging chapters, Kleon shares wisdom on establishing routines, disconnecting from distractions, and rediscovering the joy in creative work. Drawing from personal experiences and the lives of famous artists, this book provides a roadmap for navigating the ups and downs of a creative life, encouraging readers to persist in their artistic pursuits regardless of external circumstances.
Key Takeaways
- Establish a daily routine to show up for your creative work consistently
- Disconnect from intrusions and create a “bliss station” for focused creativity
- Embrace the power of lists, tidying, and naps to support your creative process
- Focus on doing creative things rather than being a “creative person”
- Find inspiration in ordinary life and pay attention to your surroundings
My Summary
Embracing the Creative Journey: A Deep Dive into “Keep Going”
As a long-time admirer of Austin Kleon’s work, I was thrilled to dive into “Keep Going,” his latest offering in the realm of creativity and personal development. Having weathered my fair share of creative storms, I found this book to be a beacon of hope and practical wisdom for anyone engaged in creative pursuits.
The Power of Showing Up
One of the most impactful lessons from “Keep Going” is the importance of establishing a routine. Kleon emphasizes that creativity isn’t about waiting for inspiration to strike; it’s about showing up day after day, regardless of how you feel. This resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the times I’ve pushed through writer’s block simply by sticking to my writing schedule.
Kleon shares examples of famous creatives and their routines, from Sylvia Plath’s early morning writing sessions to John Steinbeck’s pencil-sharpening ritual. These anecdotes not only inspire but also demystify the creative process, showing that even the greats relied on simple, consistent habits.
Creating Your Bliss Station
In our hyper-connected world, Kleon’s concept of a “bliss station” – a time and place free from distractions – feels revolutionary yet essential. As someone who often struggles with the lure of social media and constant notifications, I found his advice on disconnecting particularly valuable.
The author suggests practical steps like embracing “airplane mode” as a state of being and limiting news consumption, especially in the morning. These ideas challenged me to reassess my own habits and create more space for uninterrupted creative work.
The Art of Productive Procrastination
One of the most intriguing sections of the book discusses the unexpected benefits of activities we might typically view as procrastination. Kleon argues that making lists, tidying up, and even taking naps can all support our creative endeavors.
I was particularly struck by the idea of using list-making as a creative tool. Kleon mentions artist David Shrigley’s list of things to draw, which serves as a well of ideas to tap into. This inspired me to start my own list of article ideas, which has since become an invaluable resource when I’m feeling stuck.
Reframing Creativity: Verbs Over Nouns
A transformative concept in “Keep Going” is the shift from focusing on being a creative person to doing creative things. Kleon argues that obsessing over titles like “writer” or “artist” can be limiting and even paralyzing. Instead, he encourages readers to concentrate on the act of creating itself.
This perspective shift was liberating for me. It reminded me that the joy is in the doing, not in achieving some arbitrary status. It’s a reminder I now keep close whenever I start to feel overwhelmed by expectations or comparisons.
Finding Inspiration in the Ordinary
One of the most beautiful aspects of “Keep Going” is Kleon’s insistence that extraordinary creativity can emerge from ordinary lives. He challenges the notion that we need exciting circumstances to produce meaningful work, citing examples like comic book writer Harvey Pekar, who drew inspiration from his job as a file clerk.
This section encouraged me to look at my surroundings with fresh eyes. I’ve since started a habit of daily observation walks, which have not only provided new ideas for my writing but have also increased my overall sense of well-being and connection to the world around me.
The Ethics of Creativity
Kleon takes a refreshing stance on the myth of the tortured artist, arguing that creative work should ultimately make our lives better, not worse. He emphasizes the importance of taking care of ourselves and those around us, even if it means stepping away from our work at times.
This perspective feels particularly relevant in our hustle culture, where burnout is often glorified. It’s a reminder that creativity should serve our lives, not the other way around – a message I find both comforting and empowering.
Practical Applications for Daily Life
Throughout “Keep Going,” Kleon offers numerous practical suggestions that readers can immediately incorporate into their lives. Here are a few that I’ve found particularly helpful:
- Creating a morning routine that prioritizes creativity before engaging with the outside world
- Setting up a dedicated workspace, even if it’s just a corner of a room
- Practicing the art of gifting – creating something solely to give away
- Using physical activity, like walking, to stimulate creative thinking
- Embracing play and experimentation without concern for the final product
Comparative Analysis
While “Keep Going” shares themes with other creativity books like Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Big Magic” or Julia Cameron’s “The Artist’s Way,” Kleon’s approach feels uniquely accessible and pragmatic. Unlike some works that focus heavily on mindset or spiritual aspects of creativity, Kleon offers concrete, actionable advice that can be implemented immediately.
However, readers looking for in-depth psychological analysis or extensive exercises might find “Keep Going” a bit light. Its strength lies in its concise, easily digestible format, which makes it perfect for frequent re-reading and reference.
Open-Ended Questions for Reflection
As I reflected on “Keep Going,” several questions emerged that might be worth considering:
- How can we balance the need for routine with the spontaneity often associated with creativity?
- In what ways might our definition of “success” in creative work be limiting our enjoyment of the process?
- How can we cultivate a supportive community that encourages persistence in creative endeavors?
A Call to Keep Creating
In conclusion, “Keep Going” is more than just a guide to creativity; it’s a compassionate friend cheering you on through the ups and downs of the creative life. Kleon’s words serve as a reminder that the journey itself is the reward, and that every small act of creation matters.
As we navigate our own creative paths, let’s take Kleon’s advice to heart: show up, pay attention, and above all, keep going. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone just beginning to explore your creative side, this book offers valuable insights and encouragement.
I’d love to hear how “Keep Going” has impacted your creative journey. Have you implemented any of Kleon’s suggestions? What challenges have you faced in maintaining your creative practice? Let’s continue this conversation and support each other in our creative endeavors.
