Ignore Everybody (And 39 Other Keys To Creativity)
October 18th, 2009
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I just read Hugh McLeod’s book Ignore Everybody: and 39 Other Keys to Creativity
I don’t remember how different that post is from the book, but they’re probably very similar. The main difference may be that a way-too-long post works better as a bit-too-short book. Anyway, the book retains his wisdom, his cynicism, and most importantly, his cartoons drawn on the backs of business cards.
And by turning it into a book, Hugh gives us yet one more key to creativity: if you can’t think of what to write a book about, first write a blog post that a million people want to read. You now have a best seller just waiting to be published.
October 18th, 2009 at 5:13 pm
Hey Hunter.
There are a couple of good points you bring up here. Ignoring everyone is how I have done some of my best material. It is hard to do great work when you’re thinking about how ten people might perceive it or you after seeing it. It is very limiting. I remember that the same person who discourages you from doing something is the same person who will cheer for you when you do it regardless of their hindrance.
The other point about turning a post into a book is a cool translation from the site-writing world to book format. It is nice to see that occurring.
Thanks for the message and book to take a look at.
October 19th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
That looks like a good book. I think I’ll put it on my wish list.
I love “Never compare your inside with somebody else’s outside”
October 19th, 2009 at 9:10 pm
@ Armen, yeah, you can really go crazy if you’re always worried about how people will react to everything you do.
@ Tracy, I like that too. And it sounds so obvious when he says it like that!