5 Things I Learned as a Creative from “Show Your Work” by Austin Kleon

1. You’re Not a Genius—and That’s Okay

You don’t have to be a solo genius to succeed. Many of the greatest ideas come from collaboration. A second opinion or a fresh perspective can be the difference between a good idea and a great one. In my experience, teamwork has always been the backbone of successful creative projects. Someone shares an idea, another spots potential challenges, and the team collectively refines it. This synergy creates what I like to call a “Shenk-proof” idea—solid and ready to thrive.

2. You Can’t Find Your Voice If You Don’t Use It

To discover what truly drives you, start talking about the things you love. The more you share your passions, the deeper you dive into them. This opens up a world of exploration and growth, helping you hone your expertise and cultivate your unique creative voice.

3. Focus on the Process, Not Just the Product

Creativity isn’t just about the final outcome—it’s about the journey. Document your process and share it. Whether through a work journal, a scrapbook, or capturing videos and photos of your work in progress, turn the invisible into the visible. Show others how you create, and you’ll deepen your connection to your craft.

4. Be Curious, Be Open, Be Honest

Curiosity fuels creativity. Don’t be afraid to explore new ideas and share what genuinely excites you. Being open about your passions not only deepens your work but also attracts others who share your interests, building a network of like-minded creators.

5. Learn to Take a Punch

Embrace criticism, even when it comes from the most unexpected (and sometimes difficult) clients. It’s easy to dismiss feedback from clients who don’t seem to understand your vision, but those challenging comments often push you to rethink, improve, and refine your work in ways you didn’t anticipate. Even the most outrageous feedback can lead to breakthroughs.

There’s so much more to unpack in Austin Kleon’s “Show Your Work.” It offers a refreshingly honest perspective on the creative life, and I highly recommend it to anyone in the industry.