Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon is a book that encourages creatives to share their work and processes with the world. The idea behind the book is that by sharing our work, we can inspire others, learn from others, and build a community of like-minded individuals. The book is divided into ten chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of sharing our work.
The first chapter of the book focuses on the idea that creativity is a mix of influence and contribution. Kleon encourages readers to steal ideas from others and make them their own. He also emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and allowing ourselves time to recharge.
Chapter 2: Share Your Work
In the second chapter, Kleon discusses the benefits of sharing our work. He explains that by sharing our work, we can get feedback, build a reputation, and find inspiration. He also emphasizes the importance of sharing our work in progress, rather than waiting until it is perfect.
Chapter 3: Open Up, Look Around
The third chapter focuses on the idea that creativity is all around us. Kleon encourages readers to be observant and to take inspiration from the world around them. He also emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and allowing ourselves time to recharge.
Chapter 4: Put Your Own Stamp on ItThe fourth chapter of the book focuses on the idea that creativity is a mix of influence and contribution. Kleon encourages readers to take inspiration from others and make it their own. He also emphasizes the importance of being true to ourselves and not copying others blindly.
Chapter 5: Don’t Wait for Inspiration
The fifth chapter of the book focuses on the idea that creativity is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly. Kleon encourages readers to set aside time to create, even when they don’t feel inspired. He also emphasizes the importance of keeping a journal or sketchbook to document ideas and inspiration.
Chapter 6: You Don’t Have to Be a Genius
The sixth chapter of the book focuses on the idea that creativity is for everyone. Kleon emphasizes that anyone can be creative, and that it is often the everyday activities that lead to the most meaningful creations. He also emphasizes the importance of sharing our work and processes with others.
Chapter 7: The Process is the Product
The seventh chapter of the book focuses on the idea that the process of creating is just as important as the finished product. Kleon emphasizes the importance of documenting the process and sharing it with others. He also emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and allowing ourselves time to recharge.
Chapter 8: The Importance of Being Bored
The eighth chapter of the book focuses on the idea that boredom can be a catalyst for creativity. Kleon encourages readers to embrace boredom and use it as a jumping off point for creativity. He also emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and allowing ourselves time to recharge.
Chapter 9: The Power of the Personal
The ninth chapter of the book focuses on the idea that personal stories and experiences can be a powerful source of inspiration. Kleon emphasizes the importance of sharing our personal stories and experiences with others. He also emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and allowing ourselves time to recharge.
Chapter 10: The Importance of Being a Beginner
The final chapter of the book focuses on the idea that beginners mind is a powerful tool for creativity. Kleon encourages readers to embrace the beginner’s mindset and to be open to learning and growing. He also emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and allowing ourselves time to recharge.
Overall, Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon is a book that encourages creatives to share their work and processes with the world. Throughout the book, Kleon emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and allowing ourselves time to recharge. He also emphasizes the importance of being true to ourselves and not copying others blindly. The book is a great resource for anyone looking to improve their creativity and share their work with the world.
Interested in reading the whole book?
Buy the book “Show Your Work!” on Amazon
