from starving artist to thriving artist

We’ve all heard the term “starving artist”. But why is this a commonly held stereotype for artists?

As someone with one foot in the world of artistry and one foot in the world of science I’ve noticed something.

The artist often seem to avoid structure and systems. They rely heavily on how they feel instead.

Meanwhile the scientist have the exact opposite problem. They have effective systems but lack that imaginative and creative spark to give rise to innovate ideas.

I believe both fields have something to learn from each other, but in this newsletter I will focus on the artist.

So what’s the problem?

In short: Most artists and creative types suck at getting shit done.

The good news is that there is an easy fix to this.

The bad news… you won’t like the solution (trigger warning).

Feels vs Logic

The artist is in tune with the beauty in the world. They pick up on small things around them that make us feel something. They express that which can’t be fully verbalised.

The scientist on the other hand does the opposite. They want to give you an objective picture of reality devoid of emotional nuances and subjectivity. They use rigorous systems to test theories and come to clear conclusions.

The artist often gets lost in their own world and is content with exploring and seeing where their curiosity leads them.

While this is a great trait the artist possess it often leads the artist to never actualising anything. They leave a trail of half-finished projects as they keep following their curiosities.

So what’s the solution?

If you study all the successful artists throughout history you will notice a pattern.

And what’s that one thing you ask?

Creativity 2.0

Systems.

The artist need a system through which they can channel their creations.

I know most artist would cringe at this idea.

The most common objection is that this would squeeze the soul out their art. It would compromise its quality.

But this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Limiting yourself with a system actually does the opposite. It encourages creativity.

Limitations forces you to get creative.

Neil Gaiman is an example of a successful write that has a solid system in place.

He ALWAYS write a first draft by hand in his notebook before moving on to his second draft. He also write every single day and make sure to finish all projects he starts.

This is a great example where he has found a system that works for him.

A System to Create a System

Still with me? Good.

Now you might wonder how you set up your own system.

This is where you need to use your creativity and create your own system. There is unfortunately no one size fits all system.

Some people do their best work in the morning.

Some in the evening.

Some might prefer to do their work after physical exercise.

Some might prefer to do their work before exercise.

You will need to experiment and find what works for you.

The important thing is that you reflect on what worked and what didn’t worked after trying out your system.

That way you will be able to optimise it over time.

You won’t get it right the first time around. And that’s ok.

Keep experimenting and iterating. Eventually you will find what works for you.

There are no rules for creating a system. Look at other successful creatives to and see what they are doing.

Try out their systems and see what you like. Discard the rest.

How serious are you?

A solid system is what makes the difference between a starving artist and a thriving artist.

The question then becomes, how bad do you want to succeed?

Are you willing to embrace the discomfort of trying out a systematic approach? Showing up when you don’t feel like it? Failing and trying again and again?

Success takes time. It requires long periods of persistent effort. A system is the vehicle that will take you to your destination.

Until next time, stay creative (and systematic).

Nic