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The War of Art

summary ofThe War of ArtBook by Steven Pressfield

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You’ll learn

  • Why fear signals your true calling
  • To turn resistance into strength
  • The master’s path to victory
  • How to embrace your creative space

first KEY POINT

A psychological power called resistance restricts our undertakings and influences us

Have you at any point had an aspiring dream, however, failed to follow up on it? Maybe you needed to compose a fantastic song or start a new business venture, yet a specific feeling kept you down? That feeling is called resistance — the force that shields us from accomplishing our fantasies and achieving what we are intended to do.It is natural for our bodies to resist anything new in our routines. Resistance is negative and generally opposes change or anything new. For instance, if you want to apply for a graduate course, resistance will be the voice that urges you to stick with your current degree and not go out on a limb on an undertaking that you might not complete. If you want to start going to the gym, resistance will be the voice that lets you know it is not necessary to go to a gym; you will just do squats at home when you feel like it.

The feeling of resistance is expected. It's indifferent and universal, and it affects all of us.

Resistance additionally doesn't specify interests — you'll feel resistance if you want to accomplish something for yourself, like starting a new business or something to help other people, like volunteering. You must acknowledge that resistance is natural, so quit feeling that it is targeting only you.Resistance even influences individuals who are experienced at what they do. For example, Singer Lorde often gets severe stage fright before her shows. Being a famous singer doesn't prevent her from becoming overwhelmed by feelings each time she performs.

Resistance can pop up in several ways, for example, the fear of disappointment, procrastination, and self-doubt. In the following sections of this summary, you will discover how to overcome resistance by staying true to your specialty and refocusing your fantasies. You will also learn to accept resistance as a standard and vital part of your journey.

second KEY POINT

Resistance prevents us from becoming who we are intended to be, but we should learn to use it to our advantage

Is there something in life you believe you were intended to do? Maybe you want to sculpt animals or do interior decoration? That is your reason for living: the most incredible passion that fulfills your spirit's yearning.

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first KEY POINT

You need to be a professional to battle resistance

second KEY POINT

Knowing yourself and your trade makes you an expert

third KEY POINT

A competent person overcomes resistance by being persistent, organized, and boldly confronting misfortune

fourth KEY POINT

Experts fight against hierarchies to accomplish their objectives

fifth KEY POINT

Competent individuals concede to a specific territory where they work to accomplish their objective

sixth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Steven Pressfield is a celebrated author and speaker known for his insights on creativity and overcoming resistance. His work is popular among artists and entrepreneurs alike who use creativity as a resource.

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Frequently asked questions

What is The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles about?

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles is a motivational book by Steven Pressfield that explores the concept of resistance as the primary obstacle to creativity. It offers insights on overcoming creative blocks and encourages readers to tackle their inner fears and self-doubt to pursue their artistic passions.

What are the key takeaways from The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles?

Key takeaways include recognizing the nature of resistance, the importance of discipline in creative work, and understanding that all artists face challenges. Pressfield emphasizes that overcoming these hurdles is essential for achieving success and fulfilling one's creative potential.

Is The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles worth reading?

Yes, The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles is highly regarded for its practical advice and motivational insights. It's particularly beneficial for anyone struggling with creative procrastination or seeking to reignite their artistic drive.

How many pages is The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles and when was it published?

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles is approximately 165 pages long and was published in 2002. This concise format delivers powerful insights without overwhelming readers.

Who is the author of The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles?

The author of The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles is Steven Pressfield, a celebrated novelist and non-fiction writer known for his insights into creativity and the writing process. His expertise in the field makes this book a trusted resource for artists across various disciplines.