The War Of Art – A Review Of Steven Pressfield’s Classic Books On The Creative (And Entrepreneurial) Life

There is a tremendous difference between the amateur and the professional in any endeavor.  You can tell immediately when you go to a website or talk to someone about their business.  Is this how that individual is making a living, or is this a side hobby?

Steven Pressfield’s two books Turning Pro and The War of Art outline what a true professional looks and how to make the transition from flailing amateur to steady pro.

The War of Art – The Three Core Ideas I Took Away From Pressfield’s Delightful (And Humorous) Work

• First and foremost, the professional shows up for work every day, rain or shine, in sickness and in health.  If you aren’t putting in the hard yards, don’t kid yourself that success and the life of a pro is around the corner.

• Secondly, the pro cares more about the work and what is being created than the accolades that may or may not come from the work.  The focus is on the work.  Everything else fades into the background.

• Thirdly, be aware of “Resistance,” a force in life that will attempt to keep you from achieving your dreams.  The Resistance will sabotage all your efforts.  Indeed, “The War of Art,” represents your personal war with Resistance.  (And, yes, the Resistance is internally generated.)

Transitioning from Amateur to Pro

If you find you are closer to an amateur than a professional in your projects, don’t lose heart.  Perhaps your venture really is just a hobby.  In that case, it does not make sense to devote the tremendous energy and focus required to turn pro.

If your aim is to make the endeavor your career, livelihood, and passion, remember–it takes time to transition from amateur to professional.  It is the drip, drip, drip of consistent, daily work.  You slowly make the change.  You will know it when you get there.

I suggest you pick up a copy of Turning Pro or The War of Art from your library.  May you never be the same again.