How do we navigate the balance between starting, sustaining, and stopping creative or personal endeavors?

The conversation examines the tension between perfectionism and the courage to share unfinished work.

It’s such a shame to have all these [things] on the shelves in the back of our minds or folders in our computers, all these things that we’ve kept back because they’re not perfect, or because we think they might not be right— We never know who will be changed by the things we make.

~ Robbie Swale (22:35)

The discussion covers challenges in managing creative processes and personal goals, focusing on a mission to appear on 100 podcasts. The complexities of handling output from such a challenge and the importance of deciding when to stop or persist are examined. This is tied to the broader question of balancing effort with strategic decisions in any endeavor.

Another key topic is overcoming perfectionism and fear of sharing creative work. Using quotes from poets and authors, the conversation emphasizes the importance of releasing work even if it feels incomplete. The necessity of starting projects and creating habits that reduce resistance to action is also highlighted. Tools like activation energy adjustments and reminders are presented as practical aids for staying focused and intentional.

Takeaways

Importance of starting — Even the hardest creative projects begin with the first step.

Navigating perfectionism — Releasing work imperfectly can still provide value to others.

Concept of “above or below the line” — A framework for self-awareness and decision-making.

Activation energy — Raising or lowering activation energy to influence habits effectively.

Sharing work — Withholding creativity can deprive others of valuable insights.

Practical tools for reflection — Using reminders and notifications to stay mindful.

The value of abandoning over-polishing — Deciding when a project is “good enough” to share.

Resources

The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership — by Jim Detmer, Diana Chapman, and Kaley Klemp; A guide to living with intentionality and focus.

The Practice — by Seth Godin; A book emphasizing the value of creativity and shipping work.

David Gemmell’s posthumously released books — Novels that captivated audiences even after the author’s passing.

The Quitting Quadrant — by Sara Wheeler; A tool to evaluate decisions about quitting.

Lead, Learn, Change Podcast — by David Reynolds; A podcast about education and leadership.

“Remind Me” and “Mind Jogger” — Apps for creating random notifications for mindfulness and presence.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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