Austin Kleon

Keep Going by Austin Kleon: A Condensed Summary

 

Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad is a book written by Austin Kleon, a renowned artist and author. In this insightful guide, Kleon offers practical advice and encouragement to artists, creators, and anyone seeking to maintain their creative spark in the face of adversity. Through personal anecdotes, cultural references, and a wealth of examples, Kleon presents ten key principles to help individuals keep going, regardless of the circumstances they may face.

 

Key Points / Ideas

1. Show Up Every Day

Kleon emphasizes the importance of consistently showing up and putting in the work, regardless of one's motivation or inspiration levels. By establishing a regular routine and committing to daily practice, individuals can overcome creative blocks and build momentum. He cites the example of musician John Coltrane, who practiced diligently every day, even during periods of self-doubt or frustration.

 

2. Forget the Big Picture

Rather than being consumed by grandiose visions of success or dwelling on long-term goals, Kleon encourages focusing on the present moment. By breaking tasks down into small, manageable steps and concentrating on the process rather than the outcome, individuals can minimize overwhelm and maintain a steady pace towards progress.

 

3. Make Time for Rest and Recreation

Rest and recreation are essential for replenishing creativity and avoiding burnout. Kleon advocates for setting boundaries, protecting personal time, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. He shares the example of filmmaker Martin Scorsese, who maintains a strict schedule, ensuring he has time for hobbies and interests unrelated to his work.

 

4. Surround Yourself With Good Influences

To stay motivated and inspired, it is crucial to surround oneself with positive influences. Kleon suggests seeking out mentors, joining creative communities, and curating a diverse range of influences, both online and offline. He emphasizes the power of collaboration and learning from others who share similar interests or passions.

 

5. Take on Side Projects

Side projects provide an opportunity to explore new ideas, experiment with different mediums, and take creative risks without the pressure of expectations. Kleon cites notable examples such as filmmaker Stanley Kubrick's work on advertising campaigns, which allowed him to push boundaries and refine his artistic vision outside of his main film projects.

 

6. Embrace Constraints

Contrary to popular belief, constraints can foster creativity rather than hinder it. Kleon argues that limitations force individuals to think outside the box, find innovative solutions, and develop a unique voice. He illustrates this point by sharing examples of renowned artists who thrived within limited resources or challenging circumstances.

 

7. Seek Solitude

Finding moments of solitude and quiet reflection is essential for creative work and self-discovery. Kleon encourages individuals to disconnect from constant noise and distractions, making space for introspection, deep thinking, and exploring their own thoughts and ideas. He cites authors such as Henry David Thoreau and Agatha Christie, who valued solitude as vital to their creative process.

 

8. Pay Attention to the World

Being present and observant in everyday life can serve as a rich source of inspiration. Kleon urges individuals to pay attention to their surroundings, notice the small details, and find inspiration in unexpected places. He underscores the significance of curiosity and how being aware of the world around us can fuel our creativity.

 

9. Be Bored

Embracing boredom is an underrated tool for kickstarting creativity. Kleon argues that allowing ourselves to be bored can lead to daydreaming, problem-solving, and sparking new ideas. By resisting the urge to constantly distract ourselves with technology or busyness, we open up space for our minds to wander, rejuvenating our creative thinking.

 

10. Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude plays a vital role in maintaining a positive mindset and finding joy in the creative journey. Kleon advises reflecting on the small wins, expressing gratitude for the resources and opportunities available, and acknowledging the progress made along the way. He shares personal anecdotes and instances where gratitude propelled him forward in his own creative endeavors.

 

Conclusion

Austin Kleon's Keep Going is a refreshing and empowering guide for artists, creators, and anyone on a creative journey. Through his relatable storytelling and practical advice, Kleon emphasizes the importance of showing up consistently, embracing constraints, seeking inspiration, and finding joy in the process. By following his ten principles, readers can discover renewed motivation, maintain their creative momentum, and overcome obstacles with resilience. To fully grasp the wealth of wisdom Kleon presents, it is encouraged to read the book personally and explore further readings in the field of creativity, such as "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield and "Big Magic" by Elizabeth Gilbert.