The War of Art

Well, I think this book is one of those you don’t want to read at first sight, but when it becomes recommended many times, you end up reading it and finally enjoying it. The main idea of this book is Resistance and how it stops us from doing things that matter the most to us.

My Impressions

I was skeptical about this book before reading it. Generally, I’m not a fan of self-help books, I prefer a podcast, but that’s not the subject here.

The book tackles the challenge of trying to create art. It breaks down the idea of the “Creative Block” — The Resistance we face when trying to create art and instructs us on overcoming it.

I have to say, I found it helpful because it allowed me to put words to a feeling that prevented me from creating or producing something.

Who Should Read It?

Suppose you’re someone who’s ever tried to “pursue a calling in the arts, launch an innovative enterprise, or evolve to a higher station morally, ethically, or spiritually”.

In that case, you’ll know what the Resistance feels like. As Steven Pressfield said in his book, Resistance is “the voice that tells you anything to keep you from doing your work”.

So if you’re a creator or a learner and if you’ve faced this, you should consider reading it. But, If you don’t have time, feel free to read my notes below.

My favourite quote

When we sit down each day and do our work, power concentrates around us… we become like a magnetized rod that attracts iron filings. Ideas come. Insights accrete.

Highlights and Notes

‎The Daily Stoic : Resistance: Defining the Enemy - An Excerpt from Steven Pressfield’s “The War Of Art” sur Apple Podcasts

‎Afficher The Daily Stoic, ép Resistance: Defining the Enemy - An Excerpt from Steven Pressfield’s “The War Of Art” - 27 août 2022

Apple Podcasts

The book focuses on a somewhat motivational aspect, as it presents in a rather obvious way the disorders and obstacles that each of us encounters daily. ↓

You’re not alone
The most important thing to remember for me is that you’re not alone. We, as humans, all face Resistance. The book talks about many manifestations — procrastination, rationalization, life drama, victimhood, etc.

However, the author is on point by saying that you’ll have no choice but to accept that Resistance is universal.

Do the Work

• Show up every day and do the work.
• Show up no matter what.
• Stay on the Job all day.
• Master the technique of your Job.
• Act in the face of fear.
• Do not take failure personally
• Recognize your limitations

All the keys described above are all that define you as a Professional.

Last but not least, When we sit down daily and keep grinding, something mysterious happens. A process is set into motion by which, inevitably and infallibly, heaven comes to our aid. Unseen forces enlist in our cause, and serendipity reinforces our purpose.

Process over outcome
Be patient. Don’t focus on external validation or outcomes. Instead, rely on self-validation from showing up every day and doing the work.