Keep Going

Bainbridge Island, WA

Burnout

A few months back I finally picked up the invigorating and inspiring books by Austin Kleon, a blogger and author from Austin, Texas. The books he’s likely most known for are these three:

Steal Like An Artist, 2012

Show Your Work, 2014

Keep Going, 2019

They were very helpful reads to reinvigorate your artistic self and keep you moving forward to create and conquer fears and remove the problematic self doubts, second-guessings, and imposter syndromes.

After skimming the books (rather quickly) I’m starting to think that an updated approach would be a great addition to the set.
I do feel like ‘Keep Going’ is the most relevant for creative artists and makers in 2025, especially given the …lifeless churn and breakdown of corporate scrolling engines and aspertame-laced dopamine injectors… the juggernaut sites that are keeping us from redirecting our energies into real active and work that builds our skills and experience. …redirecting our attention to the tried-and-true approach of actual printing, painting, playing instruments (such as: https://nazhamid.com/journal/bring-that-beat-back/
), writing poetry with a pen, sending letters to loved ones, meeting people in person, and anything that gets you away from the fragile and mystical world of “propped-up digitally-ideal-selves” …seams like time well spent.

I suggest you read all three of his books, for starters, and I recommend that you come up with your version of a creative strategy. Build upon all of the advice that you’ve received over the years from your colleagues, friends, and your heroes (such as: https://scottboms.com/documenting/beauty-in-the-future
), and get back on the path to expressing yourself in rewarding ways.

It’s not too late. But that imaginary thing called time does keep on ticking.

I gave up on the big billionaire sites for sharing my art and design a few years ago. I miss many of my digital friends. But my dopamine levels and perceptions of reality are more normal now.

Mr. Kleon does great work. I am glad these books were heavily recommended to me.