I've always been fascinated by the idea of creativity and how it can spark joy and meaning in our lives. As an adult, I've found myself struggling with a sense of stagnation and predictability, and I've been wondering if there's a way to reignite that spark. So, when I came across Austin Kleon's book, Don't Call It Art, I was intrigued. Kleon, a renowned author and creativity guru, offers a unique perspective on how to tap into our inner child and rediscover the joy of making things.
Kleon's journey to finding his spark began with a slump. He felt uninspired and lost touch with his motivation, which is a relatable experience for many of us. But, as he says, 'That's what kids are really good at: they show you what it's like to be a person that's completely new to the world, and completely new to making things.' This insight led him to write Don't Call It Art, a book that encourages readers to embrace their inner child and rediscover the joy of creativity.
One of Kleon's key messages is the importance of becoming a beginner again. He argues that as we age, we tend to exploit our expertise and knowledge, rather than exploring new possibilities. This can lead to a sense of stagnation and boredom. By embracing our inner beginner, we can tap into a state of curiosity and playfulness that is essential for creativity.
Kleon also emphasizes the importance of making time for play. He suggests setting aside dedicated 'playtime' each day, free from digital distractions and equipped with pens, paper, and craft supplies. This simple act of creating space for play can help us break free from the cycle of predictability and routine.
Another powerful message from Kleon is the importance of making something with our hands. He encourages readers to bypass the blank page and start with something tangible, like a newspaper or a piece of paper. This low-stakes approach to creativity can help us overcome the fear of failure and embrace the joy of the process.
Kleon's advice on finding what we really, really like is also insightful. He suggests attuning to our individual tastes and interests, and investing in our passions. This can help us rediscover the joy and meaning that comes from pursuing our passions.
Overall, Kleon's book offers a refreshing perspective on creativity and how to reignite the spark in our lives. By embracing our inner child, becoming beginners again, making time for play, and pursuing our passions, we can tap into a state of creativity and joy that is essential for a fulfilling life.
