Category: BOOK REVIEWS

12/19/2023

BOOK REVIEW: SHOW YOUR WORK

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Austin Kleon's "Show Your Work" is a insightful guide that inspires creatives (and myself) to embrace transparency and share their creative process with the world. Kleon, known for his unique blend of wit and wisdom, provides practical advice for navigating the ever-changing landscape of the creative world. The book not only emphasizes the importance of sharing one's work but also offers actionable steps to do so effectively.
Key Takeaways:

Embrace Vulnerability and Share Incrementally: Kleon emphasizes the importance of sharing your work in progress rather than waiting until it's perfect. By allowing others to witness your journey, you invite them into your creative process. This fosters a sense of connection and engagement. Instead of fearing judgment, embrace vulnerability, and share your imperfect but authentic creations. This was extremely eye opening for me. I usually like to unveil the final work.
Build a Network of Creativity: Austin stresses the significance of building a network of like-minded individuals who share similar interests. Engaging with other creatives not only provides valuable feedback but also opens up opportunities for collaboration. Kleon suggests using social media platforms strategically to connect with a wider audience and find your creative tribe. I've never felt like I had a tribe, so this is tough, but I know I can do this.
Teach What You Know: Sharing your knowledge not only establishes you as an authority in your field but also contributes to the growth of your community. Kleon encourages creatives to become teachers by documenting and sharing their expertise. Whether through blog posts, tutorials, or workshops, imparting knowledge enhances your own understanding and establishes a reciprocal relationship with your audience.

Three Action Items:

Create a Shareable Process Journal: Start a visual or written journal documenting your creative process. Share snippets, sketches, or thoughts regularly on social media or a personal blog. This allows your audience to follow your journey and engage with your work as it unfolds.
Engage with Your Creative Community: Actively seek out and engage with other creatives in your field. Comment on their work, participate in forums, and attend events. Building relationships within your community not only provides support but also opens doors to collaboration and shared opportunities.
Host a Learning Session: Identify a skill or aspect of your creative process that you excel at. Host a small workshop, write a blog post, or create a tutorial sharing your knowledge. Teaching what you know not only reinforces your understanding but also establishes you as a valuable resource in your creative community.

Recommendation: A (Must-Read)
"Show Your Work" is a must-read for anyone navigating the creative landscape. Austin Kleon's practical advice, coupled with real-world examples, makes it an invaluable resource for artists, writers, and creators of all kinds. The book challenges the traditional notion of keeping one's work under wraps and provides a roadmap for building a vibrant and supportive creative community. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting on your creative journey, "Show Your Work" offers timeless insights that will resonate with creatives at every stage of their careers.

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BOOK REVIEW: SHOW YOUR WORK

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