How To Be Creative and Unique With Today's Rules

One of the most important books I've ever read is by Austin Kleon:

"STEAL LIKE AN ARTIST"

10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative

This bestselling book is inspiring and informational. If you are a creative individual in need of a creative outlet for work or whatever reason, I highly recommend this read.

There are 10 important rules everyone will take away from this book on your creative journey. Although I am commenting on them here, I firmly believe that anyone with a creative passion should pick up this book.

1. "Steal Like An Artist"

Admit it, nothing is original anymore. "The writer Jonathan Lethem has said that when people call something 'original', nine out of ten times they just don't know the references or the original sources involved," (Kleon 7). Everything comes from somewhere because nothing is completely original. A "new" idea is merely a mashup of other ideas. A good artist will recognize that. 

2. "Don't Wait Until You Know Who You Are To Get Started"

This point I absolutely agree with. I began writing novels when I was 18 and had zero idea of who I was or where I was going in life. Now those stories will all be thrown out because let's face it, as you get older, the better you are with your creative. The stories I have now are much better than the ones I first wrote.

But that's exactly the point. You grow with your craft. Start when you think you're not ready. Start when you're scared it won't work. Start when you think it isn't the right time. Start now.

Or you may never.

3. "Write The Book You Want To Read"

If you're writing something you wouldn't pick up at a book store, why would your audience want it? Put yourself in their position and think about your favourite stories. What makes them your favourite? Zero in on what inspires you. That's where you will find authenticity.

4. "Use Your Hands"

What happened to using a good old pen and paper? That connection will strum more creative chords than you realize. It may even shed light on emotions you want to express. Personally, I use pen and paper to doodle and sometimes - although I don't usually admit it - journal. Discovering more about yourself will only better your craft.

5. "Side Projects And Hobbies Are Important"

Don't live through one single passion. You need to live in the real world to drive inspiration and develop ideas. And you're allowed to have more than one passion. Don't throw others away to solely focus on one. 

They are all a part of you.

6. "Do Good Work and Share With People"

Give away your secrets. You know how to make amazing food, then share it with the world. You may find that the world wants to buy what you're making because it is that incredible. Don't do it for the money or the fame. Focus on making something GOOD. Something you WANT to share with others because they will benefit from it.

7. "Geography Is No Longer Our Master"

Surround yourself with things and people that inspire you. You can find them online or in your house. You don't need to live somewhere new to find creativity. However, if your mind gets stuck in the same patterns and routines, it can bring your creative side to a lull. Step outside your comfort zone to overcome this issue. Leave your house. Go for a walk without any electronics. Get back to nature. Listen to conversation. Watch interactions. Something will resonate with you.

8. "Be Nice"

Make friends. I've learned to go online and see how talented other people are. There's beautiful photography, interesting ideas and thoughts that inspire and so much more! Recognize that you might not be the most talented person in the room. Instead of being upset by that, go stand next to them and lend them a helping hand. The world is smaller than you realize, so channel anger and pain into something beautiful. 
You can say anything you want with your creativity.

9. "Be Boring"

Unfortunately, this one is definitely true. It is the only way to get anything done. Work that nine to five job until you can sufficiently live off an income doing what you truly love. Save money where you can. Design a routine that works for you. Balance between socializing, working full-time, and writing or painting or whatever it is that you're passionate about. It may feel like you're living two lives, but you'll discover that a job will keep you on track with your passion.

10. "Creativity is Subtraction"

Choose what you want to include and subtract what doesn't work. We live in an age where there is an abundance of information... everywhere. It can be overwhelming. Simplistic is ideal. My favourite author, Ellen Hopkins, has mastered this. Sometimes using less words is harder, but it can be even more impactful.

Since Kleon says it best,

"creativity isn't just the things we choose to put in, it's the things we choose to leave out."

Make something authentic by giving it a new voice, a new representation or a new perception. 

Change and mashup what's out there. Make it your own.

If you have not read this book, please pick it up. You will not regret it.