One Idea That Changed My Life

After hearing Ali Abdaal recommend it several times, I finally picked up "Steal Like an Artist" by Austin Kleon. One idea from the book that truly changed my life was that every good artist takes inspiration from existing works to inspire and create their own.

Before this, I always thought creativity meant creating something completely original. This belief often left me feeling stuck and frustrated. But Kleon’s idea opened my eyes. I realized it’s okay to draw inspiration from the world around me.

By studying and appreciating the work of others, I found new ways to express my ideas. I started to see connections between different pieces of art, literature, and music, and it helped me grow as a creative writer. Now, instead of stressing over being 100% original, I focus on blending inspirations into something uniquely mine. It’s a freeing and empowering approach that has made my creative process more enjoyable and productive.

One of the first things I did was create an “inspiration board.” I filled it with quotes, images, and snippets from my favourite works. Whenever I felt stuck, I’d look at the board, and it never failed to spark new ideas. It was like having a well of creativity that I could dip into whenever I needed it.

I also started to keep a journal of ideas. Whenever something caught my attention, I’d jot it down. Over time, this journal became a treasure trove of inspiration. Sometimes, I’d combine two or three ideas from different entries, leading to something completely unexpected and exciting.

Another thing that changed was how I viewed collaboration. Before, I saw my work as a solitary endeavour. But Kleon’s book showed me the value of working with others. By sharing ideas and getting feedback, I was able to improve and refine my work in ways I hadn’t imagined. The collaboration brought a fresh perspective that enriched my creative journey.

Lastly, I learned the importance of embracing my influences. Instead of shying away from the artists and writers I admired, I began to study their techniques more closely. I’d ask myself what I loved about their work and how I could incorporate similar elements into my own. This practice not only improved my skills but also helped me develop my unique voice.

In the end, “Steal Like an Artist” taught me that creativity is about connection. It’s about finding the threads that link different ideas and weaving them into something new. This realization has made my creative process more vibrant and enjoyable, and I’m grateful for the inspiration that both Austin Kleon and Ali Abdaal provided