The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield is amazing. If you deal with creativity in your work or personal life, I can’t make a better recommendation.

I don’t know why I went so long without reading this book.

I had heard friends mention it in passing, but honestly hadn’t paid much attention to it.

Last year, I finally picked up the War of Art and finished it over Christmas break. I loved it.

Pressfield’s The War of Art is a must-read for any writer or artist.

This manifesto for creatives is essential for anyone longing to overcome “The Resistance” (the name of the force that prevents each of us from accomplishing our dreams.)

It is both inspiring and challenging. (And maybe a little controversial.)

Pressfield talks about God and uses four-letter words to motivate you into action. He cusses. He gets angry.

He wants you to get angry, too — to get upset so that you will actually do something with the gift you’ve been given.

The War of Art combines both the art and science involved in every artistic endeavor, especially writing. He describes creating as a mystical and mathematical process.

It requires you to do your part, but not all of the pressure to produce is just on you. There is a Muse, a source of inspiration, a fount of creativity. And this is where great art comes from.

The War of Art is a “quick read” that presents the reality of the creative process, which is contingent on both inspiration and perspiration.

Reader: beware. Pressfield will kick you in the butt with this gem.

For more on how to be creative and productive, check out the website: The 99 Percent. It’s a great source of inspiration and motivation for me.

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