Sharing My Journey to Expertise - Lessons from Austin Kleon

At the beginning of this year, I had a significant breakthrough during a clarity session with Josiah Hyacinth . It made me realize that I had been sitting on a treasure trove of ideas that were worth sharing, but I had been overly focused on perfection, hesitating to present my work to the world. Like many of you, I've encountered that common creative dilemma. But, this year has marked a turning point in my journey.

As I reflect on my experiences, I've come to understand that the path to expertise is a continuous journey. While I may not consider myself the ultimate authority on my subject matter, I've made a conscious choice to keep improving and share my ongoing journey towards expertise. It's not about achieving perfection; it's about a commitment to learning and growth.

One of the guiding lights on my journey has been Austin Kleon's insightful book, "Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered."

Inspired by his principles, I've learned that sharing your work at various stages is a powerful way to engage and connect with others. It's about embracing our status as creative novices, and not being afraid to share something every day, no matter how small.

Kleon's advice on building a community has truly resonated with me. I've found that support and feedback from like-minded individuals can be invaluable in our pursuit of expertise. Sharing my work online through platforms like LinkedIn has enabled me to connect with others who share my passion and provide valuable guidance and encouragement.

The concept of a "cabinet of curiosities" has enriched my creative process. By exploring a wide range of interests and sharing these influences, I've provided a unique insight into my journey and the knowledge that informs my expertise.

I've also recognized the power of storytelling, not just sharing the final product, but the process and the narrative behind it. Effective storytelling has made my work more relatable and engaging for my audience, and it has become a significant differentiator in my creative endeavors.

Teaching what I've learned has been an enriching part of my journey. Sharing my knowledge and skills through writing, speaking, and mentoring has not only clarified my own thoughts but has also deepened my expertise.

Criticism, too, has played an important role in my growth. Learning to handle critique gracefully and discerning constructive feedback has been crucial in refining my skills.

In conclusion, this year has marked a transformative journey in my pursuit of expertise. I've learned that sharing your work and embracing the continuous learning process are key to personal and professional growth. While I may not claim to be the ultimate expert, I've made the choice to keep getting better and share my journey towards expertise.

Now, let's revisit Austin Kleon's "10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered," and consider how these principles can influence our own journeys. Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments – I'd love to hear your perspectives!

Wishing you all continued growth and success on your own Journey to Expertise.

Until next time, Ciao!