Summary:

Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon is a refreshing guidebook that challenges conventional notions of creativity and offers practical advice for anyone looking to tap into their creative potential. Through a series of ten simple and insightful principles, Kleon encourages readers to embrace their influences, find their own voice, and create work that is authentic and meaningful. With a mix of personal anecdotes, inspiring quotes, and practical exercises, Steal Like an Artist is a must-read for anyone seeking to unleash their creative genius.

Embrace Your Influences

Kleon begins by dispelling the myth of originality and encourages readers to embrace their influences. He argues that all creative work is built on what came before, and that by studying the work of others, we can learn valuable lessons and find inspiration. Rather than copying, Kleon suggests stealing ideas and transforming them into something new and unique. He emphasizes the importance of building a creative family tree and surrounding ourselves with a diverse range of influences.

Find Your Voice

In the second part of the book, Kleon explores the concept of finding one’s own voice. He encourages readers to experiment, take risks, and create work that reflects their true selves. Kleon emphasizes the importance of authenticity and staying true to one’s own interests and passions. He advises against trying to please everyone and instead encourages readers to create for themselves first and foremost.

Do the Work

The final section of the book focuses on the importance of taking action and doing the work. Kleon emphasizes that creativity is not just about ideas, but about putting those ideas into action. He encourages readers to establish a daily creative routine, set goals, and overcome the fear of failure. Kleon also highlights the value of sharing one’s work with others and the importance of building a supportive community.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace your influences: Don’t be afraid to steal ideas and transform them into something new.
• Find your voice: Create work that reflects your true self and interests.
• Do the work: Take action, establish a routine, and overcome the fear of failure.

“You are, in fact, a mashup of what you choose to let into your life.” – Austin Kleon

In Steal Like an Artist, Austin Kleon challenges the notion of originality and encourages readers to embrace their influences, find their own voice, and take action. Through practical advice and inspiring anecdotes, Kleon empowers readers to tap into their creative potential and create work that is authentic and meaningful. Whether you’re an artist, writer, musician, or simply someone looking to inject more creativity into your life, this book offers valuable insights and actionable steps to help you unleash your creative genius. So go ahead, steal like an artist, and let your creativity soar.