…definitely not to be confused with the “Art of War” this book by Stephen Pressfield has to be a “must read” for anyone thinking of stepping into the dizzy realms of creativity or even starting one’s own entrepreneurial venture. I bought it because several well respected photographers recommended it and I’m very glad I did.
The book is divided into several sections and admittedly I’ve only read the first so far but I like what I’ve seen. Yes, this is a “self help” book and nothing at all to do with the arts but to paraphrase the prologue, as I read each section I can see myself staring right back at me.
Pressfield describes the primary reason for why most people fail to start something as a universal force he calls “Resistance.” This is all encompassing and the biggest barrier to success that we all face. Furthermore, he describes it as increasing in strength the closer one gets to realising one’s own dreams. From the first 60 or so pages I read on the train this morning it reminded me of a phrase my father used to tell when I was younger: “there but for me go I.” Or to put it another way, the biggest barrier to my own success is myself. This may manifest as a failure to start a project, the fear of taking that next step or a hesitation that prevents one from making further progress.
Verdict so far: great book that I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone thinking of striking out on their own. Be warned though, it makes one reflect on oneself which is itself a form of Pressfield’s Resistance. Languish in self reflection at your peril because if you do you’re your own worst enemy.
Arriving at your Rubicon is one thing. Crossing it is an entirely different matter.
