Disclaimer: This book was kindly gifted to me by Penguin Random House SA in exchange for an honest review.
Book Details
- Title: The Practice: Shipping Creative Work
- Author: Seth Godin
- Originally Published: November 2020
- Genre: Self-help Book
- Publisher: Penguin Random House SA
- Page Count: 261
My thoughts
The Practice is the process of embracing the process of creating in service of better. It is not the means to the output, the practice is the output, because the practice is all we can control.
This definition is what the entire book discusses in different situations. It goes into detail to how we have been looking at things from an output perspective instead of enjoying the process as the practice is the output. It made me look at things differently because I’ve been fixated in outputs rather than enjoying the practice.
Seth defines all the terms perfectly i.e. practice, shipping, creative and work. The entire book is well written, easy and straight to the point. The sections are subdivided into smaller bit size chapters (page at most) for easy consumption. Each topic is explained by the use of examples which makes it:
- Relatable and
- Easy to understand.
If you’ve been focusing more on the output and putting your ideas on the side because you feel they are not good enough, then I’d recommend you read this book. It would change your perspective and you will enjoy every process of everything you do because of the understanding that you are not doing it for anyone but yourself. The most important thing is immersing yourself in the practice and learning without focusing more on the output because that is external gratification and not internal.
The concepts in this book align perfectly with the following books:
- Happiness Is the Way: How to Reframe Your Thinking and Work with What You Already Have to Live the Life of Your Dreams by Wayne Dyer
- Yes to Life: In Spite of Everything by Viktor E. Frankl
I am glad I read this book now, it’s going to be my resolution for the new year, just to be present in every practice. If you haven’t already, check it out, it is fast-paced and suitable for everyone I highly recommend it.
Book Description
Creative work doesn’t come with a guarantee. But there is a pattern to who succeeds and who doesn’t. And engaging in the consistent practice of its pursuit is the best way forward. Based on the breakthrough Akimbo workshop pioneered by legendary author Seth Godin, The Practice will help you get unstuck and find the courage to make and share creative work. Godin insists that writer’s block is a myth, that consistency is far more important than authenticity, and that experiencing the imposter syndrome is a sign that you’re a well-adjusted human. Most of all, he shows you what it takes to turn your passion from a private distraction to a productive contribution, the one you’ve been seeking to share all along.
With this book as your guide, you’ll learn to dance with your fear. To take the risks worth taking. And to embrace the empathy required to make work that contributes with authenticity and joy.
Have you read it? Will you be adding this to your list? Leave us a comment in the comments section below.
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