The Practice: Shipping Creative Work

When I find myself in times of creative trouble, need some words of wisdom, and Mother Mary is a little preoccupied (see: date), I turn to my go-to books. The "Tao Te Ching" is always a good one. When I need the big guns — down with you, Resistance! — I call in Steven Pressfield's "The War of Art" and "Going Pro." And now, there is a new book that combines aspects of all three: "The Practice", by Seth Godin. A main thrust of the book is to dismantle myths about creative output. Creativity is not a special talent reserved for the elect; you don't have to wait for the muse; wherever you are now is fine. You just have to get started and, above all, establish a regular practice (hence the title). Sure, a lot of what you produce will be dreck. That's okay, because in that big pile of dreck, a small fraction will be great. But you won't get the hits without the dreck. Early in the book, Seth serves us this list of what it means to establish a practice: "We can adopt a practice. Here are the surprising truths that have been hidden by our desire for those perfect outcomes, the ones industrial recipes promise but never quite deliver: Skill is not the same as talent. A good process can lead to good outcomes, but it doesn’t guarantee them. Perfectionism has nothing to do with being perfect. Reassurance is futile. Hubris is the opposite of trust. Attitudes are skills. There’s no such thing as writer’s block. Professionals produce with intent. Creativity is an act of leadership. Leaders are imposters. All criticism is not the same. We become creative when we ship the work. Good taste is a skill." That's a lot of wisdom in the space of 109 words, much of it counterintuitive, which Seth then unpacks in 8 sections. What does it mean to trust yourself, and to be generous with your art? How do you go pro? How important is intent? Are creative constraints good or bad? One by one, Seth dismantles the excuses and blocks creators unwittingly make up for themselves, such that by the end of the book, you just might say, "Hey, I think can do this, too." Each chapter is a short, memorable little nugget with anecdotes that stay with you. I especially appreciated the quotes from other wise people and the stories from great artists like Joni Mitchell about their creative process. This book felt like a jolt of concentrated wisdom, like one of Seth's workshops in written form. He's been walking the path of creativity and entrepreneurship for 4 decades and taught thousands of individuals, so what he shares in "The Practice" rings true to me. If you'd like to light up a booster rocket under your butt and establish a prolific practice of creating work that matters, "The Practice" is your indispensable guide and companion. It's my new go-to book for years to come. May you let it be a catalyst to *your* greatness. -- Ali Binazir, M.D., M.Phil., Happiness Engineer, executive coach, and author of The Tao of Dating: The Smart Woman's Guide to Being Absolutely Irresistible , the highest-rated dating book on Amazon for 7 years, and Should I Go to Medical School?: An Irreverent Guide to the Pros and Cons of a Career in Medicine

A Professional Creator creates something and sells it to someone else. If you are a Professional Creator or aspire to be a Professional Creator, I definitely and highly recommend that you read, The Practice: Shipping Creative Work, by Seth Godin. Seth has spent more than 40 years being a Professional Creator and teaching others how to be a professional creator. In my opinion, this book is his magnum opus on how to be a professional creator. He provides tremendous breadth and depth on the life of being a Professional Creator. This book is like an organized stream of consciousness by a master who has been immersed in this topic his entire career. He provides his definition on words like art, practice, creativity, intention, generosity, and so much more. He does not lay out a step-by-step recipe, but rather a mindset. He talks passionately about the importance of trusting your self, your work, and your audience. He defies age-old myths like writer's block. This book zooms quickly and provides great depth on the key topics relevant to being a Professional Creator. I believe if you will dedicate yourself to this book for 3-4 hours you will work away with a new vision of your future, and a new belief in your ability to impact and change parts of the world.

Although I have only started this book, I think the content is going to be good, encouraging, and helpful. I purchased the hardback because it was on sale and I thought I would enjoy a hardback for a change. I was surprised at the small size and font. While it is 252 pages, the book itself is a 5x7 - VERY small for a hardback. If I would have caught the size, I much would have paid the higher price for the paperback (6x9). The size, in my opinion, detracts from the content, making it difficult to sink into the message. Additionally, the pages are cream, which gives a dated feel. I was excited about getting the book and I've, sadly, hardly picked it up because the physical appearance doesn't say "grab me and read me." If the topic is of interest to you, I would definitely steer you to purchase the paperback!

The Practice is a mindset reset. Seth argues that creative work isn’t about waiting for inspiration to strike...it’s about showing up, doing the work, and detaching from outcomes. He makes it clear: professionals don’t create because they feel inspired. They feel inspired because they create. The book's structure is a series of short, direct reflections. Each one reinforces the core message: make something every day, and don’t chase external validation...That’s the practice.

You sit in life wondering if you are enough! Can I actually make a difference? Why does it feel like I am an imposter, pretending? You feel like a fraud, wondering when you will be found out. You sit thinking, perhaps someday I can take “that” step.. you search.. you wonder… you seek…. Then somehow, the universe or God gives you a gift - this book - to read … and you find the answers you were always looking for. If you read this review and your heart starts racing a little faster .. it might be your time to start. To finally share with the world who you are and the change you wish to make.

*The Practice: Shipping Creative Work* is an inspiring and practical guide for anyone involved in creative endeavors—whether you're an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to bring their ideas to life. Seth Godin delivers a powerful message about the importance of showing up, doing the work, and shipping your creative projects, no matter how imperfect they may be. What sets this book apart is Godin’s focus on the process rather than the outcome. He emphasizes that creativity isn't about waiting for the perfect idea or the ideal circumstances; it’s about building the habit of creating and sharing your work consistently. His insights on overcoming fear, dealing with criticism, and pushing through the resistance are invaluable for anyone struggling with self-doubt or procrastination. The writing is straightforward, motivational, and filled with actionable advice. Godin doesn't sugarcoat the challenges of creative work but reminds us that the true reward comes from the act of creation itself, not the applause or success that may follow. The book is also filled with thought-provoking quotes and examples that make you rethink how you approach your own creative process. Overall, *The Practice* is a must-read for anyone looking to cultivate their creativity and make their work matter. It’s a perfect blend of inspiration and practical advice for turning your ideas into action. Highly recommended for creators, entrepreneurs, or anyone ready to ship their work into the world!

If you are a writer or creator, it's worth reading this book. I've highlighted it throughout and have gone through it multiple times. There are nuggets of gems scattered in this book.

Just awesome. Lifechanging philosophy of art and business. To be read again, and again. Inspiring piece of art. Just read it.

I love the book. I am a songwriter, and am killing it with my practice! Search for 'Lila Tace' lots of love to You reading this! I know Seth is not reading his reviews (yes I'm a nerd, and listen to his interviews, and read all of his books...) but this is my favorite yet, Seth! It speaks to me deeply, and I want to thank you for guiding me to gently learn to see, and understand what I do, and who I serve with my art in generosity - Lila Tace

Unfortunately, I've finished the book. I've read it slowly, a few pages per day, because I knew I would become sad when I finish it. I follow Seth's words almost daily. I recommend this book for all knowledge work professionals, especially freelancers and independent consultants. You'll find here words of wisdom, acknowledge that it's not your fault — it's the way things are —, and get more confident to ship your work.