Brian Munroe's Key Ideas from The Creative Act
by Rick Rubin

Early in life, I always considered myself creative through my oil painting and art. Over time, my creativity shifted to training development and delivery, where I found new ways to express myself. Now, it’s showing up in writing and podcasting, continuing to evolve as I explore new ways to share ideas and connect with others.

Creativity is not a rare ability.

It is not difficult to access.

Creativity is a fundamental aspect of being human.

It involves bringing something new into existence that wasn't there before. Could be art, a conversation, a solution to a problem, or a new way of thinking.

Creativity is about perceiving, filtering, and curating experiences for ourselves and our audience.

Though artists generally aren't aware of it, the end work is a by product of a greater desire.

Our creations allow us to share a glimpse of the unseen, an inner landscape that is beyond what we could image.

Watch for moments that take your breath away, whether a beautiful sunset, the sounds of amazing music, or a design that captivates your attention.

Harnessing this energy can be useful in your own creative pursuits.

A practice is the embodiment of an approach to a concept.

An approach to living in a state of openness.

Requires setting up daily rituals and constantly refreshing awareness to maintain the state.

• A daily walk.
• Savoring our meals by eating slower and with intention.

One day you realize you are always in a state of awareness at all times.

We are all different. We are all imperfect.

Imperfections are what makes each of us and our work interesting.

If a creator is afraid of judgement, they will never move forward in their creations.

The desire to share the work needs to be greater than the fear of judgement.

It is in our imperfections that some of our best work shows up.

When it comes to art, rules are different.

The laws and rules of math and science are different than the laws and rules of art.

Artists follow assumptions, not absolutes.

Rules direct us to average and our goal is not to fit in.

Value your own approach. 

Holding every rule as breakable is a healthy way to live as an artist.

There are no shortcuts.

Patience is required for crafting a work that resonates and contains all that we have to offer.

If there is a rule to creativity that is less breakable than the others, it's that the need for patience is ever present.

Experience life slowing. Taking in the experiences it presents.

Re-image your ideas.  

And now do it again.

Inspiration involves creating space for insight.

Practice meditation and contemplation as a method of quieting the mind to achieve inspiration.

It's about both our quality and quantity of download.

One can never be sure when this spark of insight originates.

An artist's life cannot be solely based on waiting for inspiration.

In its absence, we may work on other areas of our work that does not require the power of "awe."

Part 2 of this book will come next week.

Would love to have you follow me❗️

Hope you all enjoy my content and remember each entry in Deepstash turns into a podcast:

www.brianmunroe.tv