How do you stay creative in a world that’s constantly changing and full of distractions?
Keep Going by Austin Kleon offers a practical guide for anyone looking to maintain their creativity, even when life gets tough. Kleon, known for his straightforward and relatable advice, provides ten simple yet powerful strategies to help you keep your creative spark alive. This book isn’t just for artists or writers; it’s for anyone who wants to bring more creativity into their everyday life. Whether you’re facing a creative block, feeling burned out, or just looking for a way to inject more inspiration into your routine, Keep Going offers timeless wisdom to help you stay motivated and productive.
Chapter 1: Every Day is Groundhog Day
Kleon begins by addressing the importance of routine in maintaining creativity. He argues that the key to staying creative is to show up every day, no matter what. By treating each day as a fresh start, much like the movie Groundhog Day, you give yourself the chance to make progress incrementally, one step at a time. Kleon emphasizes that creativity isn’t about waiting for inspiration to strike; it’s about cultivating habits that allow you to keep moving forward, even on the days when you don’t feel particularly inspired.
The chapter also touches on the importance of disconnecting from the constant noise of the world. Kleon suggests setting aside specific times each day to focus solely on your creative work, free from distractions like social media or news. This regular practice of showing up and doing the work, even when it feels monotonous, builds a foundation for sustained creativity.
Key Insights:
- Creativity thrives on routine; show up every day, no matter what.
- Treat each day as a fresh start to make incremental progress.
- Creativity is about habits, not just waiting for inspiration.
- Disconnect from distractions to focus on your creative work.
- Consistency is the foundation for sustained creativity.
Chapter 2: Build a Bliss Station
Kleon introduces the concept of a “bliss station,” a sacred space where you can escape the world and focus on your creative work. He argues that everyone needs a place—physical or mental—where they can disconnect from the outside world and immerse themselves in their craft. This space is not just about physical surroundings; it’s about creating an environment that nurtures your creativity.
The chapter discusses how to build your own bliss station, whether it’s a corner of a room, a particular time of day, or a mental space where you can retreat. Kleon emphasizes the importance of making this space free from distractions and dedicated solely to your creative pursuits. The bliss station is where you can experiment, play, and explore ideas without the pressures of the outside world.
Kleon also touches on the importance of solitude in the creative process. He suggests that carving out time to be alone with your thoughts is essential for deep, meaningful work. The bliss station becomes a sanctuary where you can reconnect with your inner self and find the focus needed to keep your creativity flowing.
Key Insights:
- A bliss station is a sacred space for focused, distraction-free creative work.
- It can be a physical space, a time of day, or a mental retreat.
- The bliss station allows for experimentation and exploration without outside pressures.
- Solitude is crucial for deep, meaningful creative work.
- Building a bliss station helps you reconnect with your inner self and maintain focus.
Chapter 3: Forget the Noun, Do the Verb
In this chapter, Kleon encourages readers to focus on the act of creating rather than worrying about labels or titles. He argues that many people get stuck trying to define themselves—whether as writers, artists, or entrepreneurs—rather than simply doing the work. By shifting the focus from identity to action, you free yourself from the constraints of labels and open up more space for creativity.
Kleon suggests that instead of getting caught up in what you want to be, concentrate on what you want to do. The act of doing—writing, painting, coding—leads to progress and growth, while the obsession with titles can lead to stagnation. This chapter is a call to action: stop worrying about what you are, and start doing what you love.
The chapter also discusses the importance of embracing the process rather than fixating on the end result. Kleon emphasizes that creativity is a journey, not a destination. By focusing on the daily practice of your craft, you build momentum and discover new ideas along the way.
Key Insights:
- Focus on the act of creating rather than worrying about labels or titles.
- Shifting the focus from identity to action frees up space for creativity.
- Concentrate on what you want to do, not what you want to be.
- Embrace the process of creativity rather than fixating on the end result.
- Creativity is a journey, and daily practice builds momentum and leads to new ideas.
Chapter 4: Make Gifts
Kleon explores the idea of creativity as a gift to others, rather than a commodity to be sold. He argues that the most fulfilling creative work is often done for the joy of giving, not for profit or recognition. This perspective shifts the focus from what you can get from your creative work to what you can give, making the process more rewarding and less stressful.
The chapter discusses how sharing your work freely with others can lead to unexpected opportunities and connections. By treating your creative output as a gift, you engage with your audience in a more genuine and meaningful way. Kleon encourages readers to think about how their work can benefit others, whether it’s through inspiration, education, or simply bringing joy.
Kleon also touches on the importance of generosity in the creative process. He suggests that when you give freely, without expecting anything in return, you create a positive feedback loop that fuels your creativity. This generosity not only enriches your own life but also helps build a community around your work.
Key Insights:
- Creativity can be a gift to others, not just a commodity to be sold.
- Focus on what you can give through your creative work, rather than what you can get.
- Sharing your work freely can lead to unexpected opportunities and connections.
- Engaging with your audience in a genuine way makes the creative process more rewarding.
- Generosity in creativity creates a positive feedback loop that fuels your work and builds community.
Chapter 5: The Ordinary + Extra Attention = The Extraordinary
Kleon emphasizes the value of paying close attention to the ordinary moments in life, arguing that creativity often emerges from the seemingly mundane. He suggests that by observing the world around you with heightened awareness, you can discover inspiration in the everyday. This chapter is about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary and using it as a foundation for creative work.
The chapter discusses how to cultivate a mindset of curiosity and attentiveness. Kleon encourages readers to slow down and take notice of the details that others might overlook. He argues that creativity isn’t about seeking out the spectacular; it’s about recognizing the potential for wonder in the simple and familiar.
Kleon also explores the idea that creativity is more about perception than production. By changing the way you see the world, you can transform ordinary experiences into extraordinary ones. This shift in perspective not only enhances your creative output but also enriches your overall life experience.
Key Insights:
- Creativity often emerges from paying close attention to the ordinary moments in life.
- Observing the world with heightened awareness can reveal inspiration in the everyday.
- Creativity is about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.
- Cultivating curiosity and attentiveness helps discover overlooked details.
- Creativity is more about perception than production; changing how you see the world transforms experiences.
Chapter 6: Slay the Art Monsters
In this chapter, Kleon tackles the notion of the “art monster”—a term he uses to describe the stereotypical image of the tortured, self-obsessed artist who is consumed by their work to the detriment of themselves and others. Kleon argues that this image is not only unhealthy but also counterproductive to creativity. Instead of striving to be an “art monster,” he encourages readers to focus on being a good person who makes good art.
Kleon discusses how the myth of the suffering artist can be damaging, leading people to believe that they must sacrifice their well-being or personal relationships to create meaningful work. He challenges this idea, suggesting that a balanced, well-rounded life is actually more conducive to sustained creativity. By prioritizing health, relationships, and happiness, artists can maintain the energy and inspiration needed to continue producing work over the long term.
The chapter also emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in the creative process. Kleon encourages readers to connect with others, share their work, and seek out support, rather than isolating themselves in pursuit of their art. By doing so, they can avoid becoming “art monsters” and instead become creators who contribute positively to the world around them.
Key Insights:
- The image of the tortured, self-obsessed artist is unhealthy and counterproductive.
- Strive to be a good person who makes good art, rather than an “art monster.”
- A balanced, well-rounded life is more conducive to sustained creativity.
- Prioritizing health, relationships, and happiness supports long-term creative work.
- Community and collaboration are essential to avoid isolation and maintain a positive creative process.
Chapter 7: You Are Allowed to Change Your Mind
Kleon reminds readers that it’s okay to change direction, whether in their creative work or in life. He argues that flexibility and adaptability are crucial for maintaining creativity over time. This chapter encourages embracing the idea that growth often requires change, and that holding on to old ideas or projects out of a sense of obligation can be limiting.
The chapter discusses how the fear of changing one’s mind can stem from a desire for consistency or fear of judgment. Kleon suggests that creativity thrives when you allow yourself to evolve and pivot as needed. Whether it’s abandoning a project that no longer serves you or shifting your focus to something new, the freedom to change your mind is a powerful tool in the creative process.
Kleon also touches on the importance of forgiving yourself for past mistakes or missteps. He argues that creativity is an ongoing process of trial and error, and that being too rigid in your thinking can stifle innovation. By giving yourself permission to change your mind, you open up new possibilities and keep your creative energy flowing.
Key Insights:
- Flexibility and adaptability are crucial for maintaining creativity over time.
- It’s okay to change direction in your creative work or life.
- Creativity thrives when you allow yourself to evolve and pivot as needed.
- Letting go of old ideas or projects can open up new possibilities.
- Forgiving yourself for past mistakes or missteps keeps your creative energy flowing.
Chapter 8: When in Doubt, Tidy Up
Kleon introduces the idea that physical clutter can lead to mental clutter, and that tidying up your space can have a positive impact on your creativity. He argues that organizing your environment can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and create a more conducive space for creative work. This chapter emphasizes the connection between a tidy space and a tidy mind.
The chapter discusses how cleaning and organizing can be a form of creative procrastination that actually leads to more productivity. By taking the time to tidy up, you create a sense of order that can make it easier to focus on your work. Kleon suggests that when you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, a little bit of cleaning can be just the thing to help you reset and get back on track.
Kleon also explores the idea that tidying up isn’t just about physical spaces—it’s about mental and emotional spaces as well. He encourages readers to declutter their minds by letting go of negative thoughts, unnecessary worries, and anything else that might be holding them back. By creating a clean and organized mental space, you can make room for new ideas and fresh inspiration.
Key Insights:
- Physical clutter can lead to mental clutter; tidying up your space can improve creativity.
- Organizing your environment helps clear your mind, reduce stress, and create a conducive space for work.
- Cleaning and organizing can be a productive form of creative procrastination.
- Tidying up can help reset your focus and get back on track when you’re feeling stuck.
- Decluttering your mind by letting go of negative thoughts and worries creates space for new ideas.
Chapter 9: Demons Hate Fresh Air
Kleon discusses the importance of getting outside and moving your body as a way to combat creative blocks and negative thoughts. He argues that spending time in nature and getting fresh air can have a powerful impact on your mental and emotional well-being, making it easier to stay creative and inspired. This chapter is about the restorative power of the outdoors.
The chapter explores how regular physical activity, whether it’s going for a walk, running, or simply sitting outside, can help clear your mind and boost your creativity. Kleon suggests that when you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, stepping away from your work and getting some fresh air can be one of the best ways to regain your focus and motivation.
Kleon also touches on the idea that movement and fresh air can help dispel negative thoughts and emotions—what he calls “demons.” By changing your environment and getting your body moving, you can break free from the negative patterns that often accompany creative struggles. The chapter encourages readers to make outdoor time a regular part of their creative routine.
Key Insights:
- Spending time in nature and getting fresh air can boost creativity and mental well-being.
- Regular physical activity helps clear your mind and combat creative blocks.
- Stepping away from your work and getting fresh air can help regain focus and motivation.
- Movement and fresh air can help dispel negative thoughts and emotions.
- Make outdoor time a regular part of your creative routine to stay inspired and productive.
Chapter 10: Plant Your Garden
Kleon concludes the book with a metaphor about planting a garden, encouraging readers to cultivate their creativity like a gardener tends to their plants. He argues that creativity, like a garden, requires patience, care, and consistent effort. This chapter is about nurturing your creative practice over time and allowing it to grow and flourish.
The chapter discusses how creativity isn’t something that happens overnight—it’s a slow and steady process that requires dedication and persistence. Kleon suggests that by treating your creative work like a garden, you can focus on the long-term growth rather than immediate results. This perspective helps to alleviate the pressure of producing something great every day and instead encourages steady, incremental progress.
Kleon also emphasizes the importance of resilience in the creative process. Just as a garden goes through seasons of growth and dormancy, your creativity will have its ups and downs. The key is to keep tending to it, even when it seems like nothing is happening. Over time, with care and attention, your creative garden will bloom.
Key Insights:
- Creativity, like a garden, requires patience, care, and consistent effort.
- Treat your creative work like a garden, focusing on long-term growth rather than immediate results.
- Creativity is a slow and steady process that requires dedication and persistence.
- Resilience is crucial in the creative process; keep tending to your creativity even during down periods.
- With care and attention, your creativity will bloom over time.
Conclusion: Cultivate Your Creativity with Care
Keep Going by Austin Kleon is a powerful reminder that creativity isn’t about grand gestures or bursts of inspiration—it’s about the small, daily acts of nurturing your creative spirit. Kleon’s ten principles offer a practical, grounded approach to maintaining your creativity through life’s ups and downs. The message is clear: creativity is a garden that needs regular tending. It requires patience, care, and the willingness to show up every day, no matter what.
In my view, this book is an essential read for anyone who wants to keep their creative flame burning, especially in challenging times. Kleon’s advice is simple yet profound: build routines, find your bliss station, embrace the ordinary, and above all, keep going. Creativity is a lifelong journey, not a destination, and with the right mindset and habits, you can navigate it with resilience and joy. So, take a deep breath, step into your creative space, and keep planting those seeds—they’ll bloom in their own time.
