Chapter 1: The Struggles of Creativity

Creating can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, especially when the results don't meet our expectations. It's common to feel defeated when the work we produce falls short of our standards or when we experience setbacks. In those moments, giving up seems like the easiest option.

Giving up can feel like a relief when the frustration outweighs the joy. We often convince ourselves that there’s no point in continuing with something we don't enjoy. But what if the key to success lies in embracing those uncomfortable moments?

For over a decade in my creative journey, I have learned one crucial lesson: you must be willing to produce work that you may not love. Accepting discomfort, frustration, and even anger is part of the creative process. Choosing to be an artist means acknowledging that the road will be filled with creations that you, and possibly others, might not appreciate. This is okay because it is only through generating a volume of work, including the less favorable, that you can discover your unique voice and style.

How many times have you abandoned your commitments in pursuit of something more fulfilling? It can be tempting to view creativity as an endless source of joy and inspiration. While it can certainly be that, there is also a price to pay—often involving feelings of inadequacy and frustration. The reality is, much of the creative journey is challenging, and the administrative and marketing tasks can add to that burden.

However, recognizing this reality and finding humor in the struggle can help you nurture your passion, let go of negativity, and continue moving forward. It’s essential to brace yourself for the tough moments while also encouraging yourself to create more. Avoiding the temptation to spiral into negativity when your work doesn’t meet your expectations is crucial.

You must cultivate a sense of "playful urgency." This urgency fuels your motivation and helps you endure the difficulties inherent in the creative process. If you can't accept that a significant portion of your creations may not resonate, you risk stagnation or jumping from one project to another without fully realizing your potential.

Persistence is key. Start working even when you feel unmotivated; open that draft even when you would rather discard it. Most people won't push through those challenges—be the exception. To find success, you may have to sift through a lot of mediocre work first. My own experience reflects this: I created hundreds of subpar illustrations before clients began to notice my abilities, and I wrote numerous disappointing articles before receiving positive feedback.

When you learn to be at peace with creating work that doesn't meet your standards, you create space for growth. Motion leads to exploration, and with exploration comes discovery—your unique spark will emerge. Those who appreciate your work will eventually take notice.

This video, titled "IMPROVE Your LIFE and Get 1% Better Every Day w/ James Clear," dives into practical strategies for enhancing your daily life and productivity. James Clear emphasizes the importance of incremental improvements and how they can lead to significant changes over time.

Chapter 2: Small Changes, Big Impact

In the pursuit of a fulfilling life, making small, consistent changes can lead to profound results.

The video "How to Create the Life You Want, One Small Change at a Time" highlights the power of gradual transformation. It encourages viewers to focus on manageable adjustments that can accumulate and create a significant positive impact in their lives.