The Cult of Done
“You have to finish things — that’s what you learn from, you learn by finishing things.”
James Clear • 3-2-1: How to stick to a new habit, how to handle criticism, and 4 types of wealth
Finishing any creative project is like simultaneously defying Zeno’s Paradox and the myth of Sisyphus—the idea that you cross a distance halfway and then halfway again, and again, and you never actually reach the other side, except that at some point you just round up, and the project gets pushed over the finish line.
Amy Whitaker • Art Thinking: How to Carve Out Creative Space in a World of Schedules, Budgets, and Bosses
Another thing we explained to Deb is the saying that “art is never done, it’s only abandoned.” The point is that being perfect is literally impossible. All you can do is the very best job you can right now, and then put it out to help your audience, and you’re done.
Zach Obront • The Scribe Method: The Best Way to Write and Publish Your Non-Fiction Book
When it comes to your best work, not doing it comes with two major costs: (1) you won’t be able to thrive, and (2) you’ll be stricken with creative constipation.