Internationally best-selling author of Last of the Amazons, Gates of Fire and Tides of War, Steven Pressfield delivers a guide to inspire and support those who struggle to express their creativity. Pressfield believes that “resistance” is the greatest enemy, and he offers many unique and helpful ways to overcome it.
©2002 Steven Pressfield (P)2004 Recorded Books, LLC
"Trying to beat the Resistance."
When I am being overwhelmed by the resistance so I read/listen to the book again. Would that be considered yielding to the Resistance? Either way it is a great book. A must listen!!
"Good, Interesting, not amazing"
This book is broken into three parts, the first two are fantastic. He identifies and analyses what blocks an artist from accomplishing their work. It is something that everyone - artist or no - can relate to. The last part is a little too fuzzy and spiritual for my tastes - but at least he warns you about it first.
"Fighting through procrastination."
The book title seems to indicate that it's only for creative types -- I would disagree. Anyone who is passionate about their work, or is trying to find how/what to be passionate about in their life can take away some valuable lessons from this book. If you suffer from procrastination, or lack the passion to finish projects -- this book is the kick in the butt you may very well need. It's a short read/listen, but it's well worth it; I would recommend multiple reads to keep yourself inspired.
"Good for writers and procrastinators"
Interesting way to think of the creative process (or war). Probably the best quote "It was easier for Hitler to start WWII than to face the blank canvas."
"THIS MAN KNOWS WHAT HE'S TALKING ABOUT!"
YES! I'm a working artist, and its a hard road, but if feels good to hear someone GET IT! and talk form that place of knowing. first book ive ever gifted.
VERY interesting hearing about the muses
least favorite part of the book. part of the charm is the casual yet astute writing, this over dramatized read just doesnt match. but STILL i listened to it twice so ....
YES, and i did ... twice. and i will again.
there is something important about knowing some one understands your struggle. YES this topic has been covered but the concise simplicity and humor, just made this STICK for me, and several other artists i know ...
"Was expecting a bit more"
The book is fine as it is and very well written. I was just surprised on how short it was.
This book isn't for entertainment purposes. It's more of a self-help guide.
"I have given this book to at least 10 friends"
No - But common sense is not always common practice. It helps to listen to it again and again
Steven Covey's 7 habits is a good one because we all need to understand that we are the captain of our own ship.
Can't say that I had a favorite.
Let the magic of art flow through you.
"A must-have for anyone creative (or not)"
This book will acquaint you with Resistance in all it's cunning disguises, so you can face it down and get on with your Work. This book is not only for artists, writers, or other creative types. I think it would be helpful to anyone who can't seem to lose a bit of weight, kick the drinking habit, or commit to taking the actions toward whatever eludes them. It's probably Resistance, and this book will show you what to do about it.
"a little left brain, a little right brain"
Interesting riff on the creative path. Pressfield does a good job of opening the kimono on what it takes to start, to continue, to deal with rejection and to learn how to enjoy the journey.
"Great Book by a Decorated General in War of Art"
This book was a really helpful tool for me because for the first time, I actually heard someone put in to words a lot of the forms of resistance that I deal with on a daily basis.
Hearing someone else talk about my often unnamed demons reinforced the reality of my experience.
It was a fun book with lots of great ideas to help me push through some of my self-imposed limitations. I've definitely noticed an increase in personal productivity since starting this book. Will likely listen to it many more times.
I read one review that complained about the age of the narrator. Silly comment. It was written by a person who has lived a full life and accumulated lots of experience in his area of expertise. It would have sounded ridiculous being read by someone much younger sounding. It was just a reminder that so many people are so erroneously youth obsessed.
I highly recommend this book for anyone dealing with resistance in creative pursuits in the arts or even in starting a new business.
Good stuff!