Keep Going | Austin Kleon | Cliff Note Books
“Keep Going” is a collection of 10 rules that provide a roadmap for navigating creative life, especially when it seems tough or overwhelming.
Every day is Groundhog Day: This chapter emphasizes the importance of routine and daily work. The idea is that by doing something every day, you can achieve a lot over time.
Build a Bliss Station: Austin Kleon advocates for creating a space (mental or physical) where you can get away from the world and its distractions, and instead focus on your work.
Forget the noun, do the verb: This means focusing on the process, rather than the result. Instead of trying to “be” a noun (like a writer, painter, etc.), you should “do” the verb (write, paint, etc.).
Make Gifts: The author encourages creating as if you’re making a gift for someone else. This can help to maintain the joy and passion in your work.
The Ordinary + Extra Attention = The Extraordinary: This rule suggests that paying extra attention to ordinary things can lead to extraordinary creative results.
Slay the Art Monsters: This chapter warns against letting your creative ambition turn you into an ‘art monster’, i.e., someone who neglects all other aspects of life in pursuit of their art.
You Are Allowed to Change Your Mind: Austin Kleon encourages flexibility and openness to change, both in life and in creative pursuits.
When in Doubt, Tidy Up: This rule is about creating order to gain clarity when feeling stuck or overwhelmed.
Demons Hate Fresh Air: It recommends physical activity and time spent outdoors as a way to fight creative block and maintain mental health.
Plant Your Garden: The final rule encourages patience and taking a long-term view of your creative work, comparing it to planting a garden that will grow and evolve over time.
Each rule in the book is illustrated with drawings, quotes, and anecdotes from the author’s own life, making it an engaging and practical read for anyone pursuing a creative path.
AUTHOR
Austin Kleon is a New York Times bestselling author known for his works focusing on creativity in the digital age. He was born in 1983 in Circleville, Ohio. He graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, in 2005, where he studied English and Religion.
Kleon’s work is centered around a unique blend of creativity, artistry, and digital culture. His first book, “Newspaper Blackout,” was published in 2010 and features a collection of poetry made by redacting words from newspaper articles with a permanent marker. This book was influential in popularizing blackout poetry.
Kleon’s second book, “Steal Like An Artist,” published in 2012, is perhaps his most well-known work. It argues that nothing is original, so aspiring artists should embrace influence instead of running away from it. The book became a New York Times bestseller and has been translated into over 20 languages.
In 2014, Kleon followed up with “Show Your Work!,” a guide to sharing creativity and getting discovered in the digital age. His most recent book, “Keep Going,” was published in 2019 and provides ten rules for staying creative, focused, and true to oneself.
In addition to his books, Austin Kleon has given talks on creativity at organizations such as Pixar, Google, and TEDx. He also maintains a popular blog and newsletter where he shares thoughts on creativity and the artist’s life.
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Austin Kleon continues to write and speak about creativity, sharing his insights with a global audience.
CRITICISMS
While “Keep Going” by Austin Kleon has been widely praised for its accessible advice and practical wisdom, no book is without its critics. Here are a few criticisms that some readers might have:
Lack of Depth: Some readers might find the book’s advice to be too simplistic or surface-level. Each of the ten rules is discussed relatively briefly, and some readers might wish for more depth or detail.
Repetition: If you have read Austin Kleon’s other books, especially “Steal Like an Artist” and “Show Your Work!”, you might find some of the ideas in “Keep Going” repetitive or familiar.
Subjectivity of Advice: Like any book offering advice, what works for one person might not work for another. Some readers might find certain rules or suggestions less applicable or helpful depending on their personal circumstances or creative practices.
Style: The book’s visual style, which includes lots of illustrations, handwritten notes, and quotes, might not appeal to everyone. Some readers might prefer a more traditional or text-heavy format.
Idealistic: Some may find Kleon’s advice to be overly idealistic or optimistic, not fully accounting for the various obstacles, both practical and emotional, that can hinder creativity.
Remember, these criticisms don’t necessarily detract from the overall value of the book. Different readers will have different reactions, and many have found “Keep Going” to be a valuable resource for maintaining and nurturing their creativity.
SUMMARIES
“Every day is Groundhog Day” is the first rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. This rule is based on the 1993 film “Groundhog Day,” in which the main character is forced to relive the same day over and over again until he learns to become a better person.
In the context of creativity and personal growth, this rule encourages the practice of daily work, repetition, and routine. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
The idea is that by doing something related to your creative work every day, no matter how small, you can achieve a lot over time. This could be writing a single paragraph, sketching a quick drawing, or practicing an instrument for a few minutes.
This approach is about consistency and discipline. Even if you’re not in the mood or don’t feel inspired, doing a little bit every day keeps your project moving forward. Over time, these small increments add up.
Moreover, having a daily routine helps to make your creative work a normal part of your life, rather than something you only do when inspiration strikes. This can be particularly useful during challenging times when motivation might be low.
The rule “Every day is Groundhog Day” is ultimately about understanding the power of habits and routines in fostering creativity and productivity. It suggests that the secret to accomplishing big things is to focus on small, manageable tasks that can be done consistently.
“Build a Bliss Station” is the second rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. The concept is about creating a space or environment, either physical or mental, where you can disconnect from the distractions of the world and focus on your creative work. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Physical Space: Having a dedicated physical space for your creative work can be incredibly beneficial. This could be a specific room in your house, a corner of a room, or even just a desk. The key is that this space is associated in your mind with creativity and productivity. It’s a place where you can go to think, create, and work without being interrupted.
Mental Space: A Bliss Station can also be a mental state that you cultivate. This could be a specific time of day when you disconnect from the internet, turn off your phone, and focus solely on your work. It could also be a mental routine or ritual you go through to get into a creative mindset.
Disconnect to Connect: The Bliss Station is also about disconnecting from the world’s distractions. This includes not only physical interruptions but also the constant stream of digital information that we’re all exposed to. By disconnecting, you give yourself the space and time to connect with your own thoughts and ideas, and to delve deeply into your creative work.
Consistent Use: The power of the Bliss Station comes from using it consistently. Just as with the rule “Every day is Groundhog Day,” the idea is to make going to your Bliss Station a regular part of your routine.
“Build a Bliss Station” is a rule about creating the conditions for deep, focused work. It’s about recognizing that to do your best creative work, you need to carve out space and time in your life that’s free from distraction and interruption.
“Forget the noun, do the verb” is the third rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. It’s an encouragement to focus more on the process of creating rather than the end product or the identity that comes with it. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Action over Identity: This rule advises against getting too caught up in the idea of being a ‘writer,’ ‘artist,’ or ‘musician,’ or any other creative label. Instead, Kleon suggests focusing on the action associated with these identities: writing, painting, playing music, etc. The emphasis is on the doing, the process, rather than the being, the end state.
Process over Product: By focusing on the verb, you’re prioritizing the process over the final product. This can be beneficial because it allows you to enjoy the journey of creation, which can be more fulfilling and less stressful than being solely fixated on the end result.
Mitigating Pressure: Often, the pressure of living up to a particular label or identity can be paralyzing. If you think of yourself as a ‘writer,’ for instance, you might feel immense pressure to produce a masterpiece every time you sit down to write. On the other hand, if you just focus on ‘writing,’ the process itself, it can alleviate some of that pressure, making it easier to get started and keep going.
Continuous Learning and Improvement: Focusing on the verb, the action, encourages an attitude of continuous learning and improvement. It promotes a mindset where every action is an opportunity to learn, grow, and get better, rather than a high-stakes test of your identity.
“Forget the noun, do the verb” is a rule about shifting your mindset to value the process of creating over the product or the identity associated with it. It’s a reminder to enjoy the journey of creation and to see every action as an opportunity for growth and learning.
“Make Gifts” is the fourth rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. This rule encourages creating as if you’re making a gift for someone else. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Creating for Others: When you make a gift, you’re thinking about someone else. You consider their likes, dislikes, and what would bring them joy. Transferring this attitude to your creative work encourages empathy and thoughtfulness, and can often lead to more heartfelt and genuine creations.
Removing Pressure: When creating a gift, there’s often less pressure to be perfect. You’re not creating for a grade, a boss, or a critic. This can help remove anxiety and allow for more freedom and enjoyment in the creative process.
Inspiring Joy: The process of gift-giving can be joyful, both for the giver and the receiver. When you create as if you’re making a gift, you can cultivate this sense of joy and excitement in your work, making the process more enjoyable and rewarding.
Building Relationships: Gifts often serve to strengthen relationships. If you view your creative work as a gift, it can help foster a sense of connection and community, as you’re sharing a part of yourself with others.
Encouraging Generosity: Finally, the act of making a gift is an act of generosity. By viewing your creative work in this way, you can cultivate a more generous spirit, which can be beneficial in all areas of life.
“Make Gifts” is about changing your perspective on why and how you create. It’s a reminder to create with others in mind, to find joy in the process, and to share generously with the world.
“The Ordinary + Extra Attention = The Extraordinary” is the fifth rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. This rule emphasizes the potential of ordinary things to become extraordinary when given extra attention. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Observation and Attention: The central idea of this rule is that the mundane or ordinary aspects of life can become fascinating and extraordinary when observed closely or given extra attention. It’s about learning to see the magic and potential in everyday things.
Creativity in the Mundane: This rule encourages us to find inspiration in the world around us. Often, we think we need to look for inspiration in grand or exotic places, but there’s plenty to be found in our everyday surroundings. This can lead to a more sustainable and accessible form of creativity.
Detail Oriented: By paying extra attention to the ordinary, we start noticing details that others might overlook. These details can provide rich material for creative work. It’s about developing a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the commonplace.
Grounded Art: Art or creative work that comes from observing the ordinary can often be more relatable and grounded. It can resonate with people because it reflects the shared experiences of daily life.
Mindfulness: This rule also ties into the practice of mindfulness, which involves paying full attention to the present moment and the world around you. This heightened state of awareness can often lead to deeper insights and a richer experience of life.
“The Ordinary + Extra Attention = The Extraordinary” is a rule about changing your perspective and learning to see the potential in the everyday. It’s about cultivating observation, attention to detail, and a deep appreciation for the world around us.
“Slay the Art Monsters” is the sixth rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. The rule warns against becoming so absorbed in your art or creative pursuit that you neglect other aspects of your life. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Balance in Life: Austin Kleon uses the term “Art Monsters” to refer to people who are so consumed by their art that they disregard their responsibilities and relationships. While it’s important to be dedicated and committed to your craft, this rule advises against letting it become the only thing in your life.
Protect Relationships: Personal relationships and social connections are important for a balanced life. Neglecting these can lead to isolation and other negative consequences. This rule encourages creatives to take care of their relationships and not let their art come at the expense of their loved ones.
Self-care: “Slay the Art Monsters” also emphasizes the importance of self-care. It’s essential for creatives to take care of their physical, mental, and emotional health. This can not only improve the quality of their life but also their creativity.
Sustainable Creativity: In the long run, a balanced life supports sustainable creativity. Burnout can occur if you’re constantly pushing yourself without taking time to rest and replenish. By maintaining a balanced life, you’re more likely to sustain your creativity over the long term.
“Slay the Art Monsters” is a rule about maintaining balance in life. It’s a reminder that while art is important, it should not come at the cost of personal health and relationships. It encourages a more holistic approach to creativity that values all aspects of life.
“You Are Allowed to Change Your Mind” is the seventh rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. This rule encourages flexibility and openness to change, both in life and in creative pursuits. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Flexibility: Change is a natural part of life and growth. This rule emphasizes that it’s okay to change your mind, to alter your path, or to shift your perspective. In the context of creative work, this could mean changing the direction of a project, exploring new styles or mediums, or reassessing your creative goals.
Learning and Growth: Changing your mind often comes as a result of learning, reflection, and growth. It’s a sign that you’re not static, but are evolving in response to new experiences and insights. This is something to be embraced rather than feared.
Reducing Pressure: This rule can also help reduce pressure and stress. Sometimes, we can feel trapped by our past decisions or commitments, feeling as if we have to stick with them even if they’re no longer serving us. Recognizing that it’s okay to change your mind can alleviate this pressure and open up new possibilities.
Reinvention: On a broader level, this rule is about the power and possibility of personal reinvention. Whether it’s in your creative work or your life more generally, you have the capacity to change, to try new things, and to redefine who you are and what you do.
“You Are Allowed to Change Your Mind” is a rule about embracing flexibility, learning, and growth. It’s a reminder that change is a natural part of life and creativity, and that it’s okay to change your mind when circumstances, insights, or feelings shift.
“When in Doubt, Tidy Up” is the eighth rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. This rule suggests that tidying up or organizing your workspace can often help in clearing your mind and sparking creativity. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Physical Order, Mental Order: Kleon proposes that there’s a connection between the state of your physical environment and your mental state. A cluttered, messy workspace can make it harder to focus and can even contribute to feelings of stress or overwhelm. By tidying up, you can create a sense of order and calm, which can help clear your mind and improve focus.
Space for New Ideas: When you tidy up, you’re not just creating physical space, but also mental space for new ideas to grow. It’s a way of clearing out the old to make room for the new.
Mindful Activity: Tidying up can also be a kind of mindful activity, giving you a break from intense thinking or creating. This can be a time for reflection, or for letting your mind wander, which can often lead to unexpected insights or bursts of creativity.
Revisiting and Organizing Ideas: Tidying isn’t just about throwing things away. It’s also about organizing and categorizing. This can be a chance to revisit old ideas, to see patterns or connections, or to rediscover resources you’d forgotten about.
“When in Doubt, Tidy Up” is a rule about using physical order to promote mental clarity and creativity. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best thing you can do for your creative work is to step back, tidy up, and create a clean slate for new ideas to emerge.
“Demons Hate Fresh Air” is the ninth rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. The rule suggests that getting outside, moving your body, and connecting with nature can often help in managing self-doubt, fear, and other “demons” that can hamper creativity. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Physical Activity: Exercise is well-known to have benefits for mental health, including reducing anxiety and improving mood. Going for a walk, a run, or simply moving your body can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and even boost creativity.
Connecting with Nature: Spending time in nature can have a calming effect, providing a break from the distractions of modern life and offering a chance for reflection and inspiration. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or just sitting in your garden, connecting with the natural world can provide a mental and emotional boost.
Change of Environment: A change of scenery can stimulate new ideas and perspectives. It can break the monotony and provide new stimuli that can spark creativity.
Perspective: Stepping outside and experiencing the vastness of nature can provide a helpful perspective on your problems and worries, making them seem smaller and more manageable.
Fresh Air and Sunshine: There’s also something to be said for the simple benefits of fresh air and sunshine. Both can have a positive impact on your mood and energy levels.
“Demons Hate Fresh Air” is a rule about the importance of stepping outside, moving your body, and connecting with the natural world for mental well-being and creativity. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to combat creative blocks and self-doubt is to get out and move.
“Plant Your Garden” is the tenth and final rule in Austin Kleon’s book “Keep Going”. This metaphorical rule implies that you should focus on cultivating and nurturing your own ideas, passions, and creative projects, just as you would tend to a garden. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Nurture Your Ideas: Just like plants in a garden, ideas need care and attention to grow. This means giving time, energy, and thought to your ideas, and being patient as they develop and mature.
Create a Favorable Environment: Just as a garden needs the right soil, light, and temperature, your creative projects need a suitable environment. This could include a physical workspace, but it also means creating the right mental and emotional conditions for creativity to flourish.
Tend to it Regularly: A garden requires regular care, and so does your creative work. This means regularly dedicating time to your projects, consistently nurturing your ideas, and persisting even when things get tough.
Expect Weeds and Pests: Just as gardens can be invaded by weeds or pests, you’ll inevitably face challenges, distractions, and setbacks in your creative journey. The key is to deal with these promptly and not let them overrun your “garden”.
Enjoy the Harvest but Keep Planting: Finally, while it’s important to enjoy the fruits of your labor, you should also keep planting new seeds. In other words, don’t rest on your laurels. Keep exploring new ideas and starting new projects.
“Plant Your Garden” is a rule about the importance of nurturing your ideas and your creative work. It’s a reminder of the care, time, and persistence required in the creative process, and the inevitable challenges you’ll face along the way. It’s also a call to keep pushing forward, to keep planting new seeds, even as you reap the rewards of your labor.