Finding Sustaining Work: Embrace Your Creative Journey
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The Essence of Sustaining Work
Engaging in work that sustains you is a transformative mindset shift for writers, and it's simpler than you might expect.
I have great admiration for Cal Newport and his insightful commentary on productivity, especially in his appearances on Tim Ferriss' podcast. He delves into effective strategies for bringing ambitious projects to fruition. This aligns with the core themes in Newport's writings, particularly in his book Deep Work, which posits that true productivity stems from a commitment to your craft. He advocates for disconnecting from distractions—like notifications and smartphones—while engaging in creative endeavors. After adopting this approach myself, I found that not having my phone nearby has significantly improved my writing. It allows me to immerse myself deeper into my work and maintain a productive flow. If you haven't tried it, consider placing your phone in another room the next time you write.
However, the main focus here is to reflect on the SIGNIFICANCE OF YOUR WORK. Newport emphasizes a profound concept: the importance of engaging in work that nourishes your soul. This isn't just any work; it's about finding what truly matters to you beyond mere productivity. Even in the realm of longform writing, there’s a distinction between tasks that pay the bills and those that fulfill your deeper purpose. Newport's discussions urge us to prioritize what truly matters—the work that feeds our spirit.
To embark on this journey is challenging, particularly in a society where productivity is often equated with the number of tasks completed in a day or week. Newport's Deep Work addresses this concern, exploring how to achieve your best work amidst the chaos of daily distractions. Yet, the work that sustains you is often a slow process, not aligned with our culture's obsession with immediate achievements. Both Newport and I encourage you to look beyond short-term productivity. Instead, consider your aspirations over the course of years—think about the meaningful work you genuinely wish to pursue.
This long-term perspective can redefine your ambitions, leading you to contemplate the work that truly resonates with you. The next step is figuring out how to integrate this meaningful work into your daily routine. Your existing commitments won't vanish, so you must carve out time for your passions.
Finding Your Creative Rhythm
Identify the time of day when you feel most energized for your most ambitious tasks. Personally, I thrive in the mornings, which is why I dedicate my early hours to writing. Start small; if you're also a morning person aspiring to write a novel, set aside just thirty minutes tomorrow morning. Gradually increase this time as you build a consistent habit.
As you progress, you may encounter a daunting thought: What if this effort doesn’t yield results?
To navigate this concern, shift your focus away from immediate returns. While it's true that your novel may not sell, consider the joy and knowledge you gain from the process, even amid challenges. You're not just writing a novel; you're acquiring skills that could save you a significant investment in formal education. And with each novel you write, you're equipping yourself to create more.
Drawing from my upbringing on a farm in Iowa, I liken the work that sustains me to the cycles of harvest. There will be periods of dormancy, yet always a time to reap the rewards of your labor. Initially, your harvest may consist of newfound confidence and the education you gain through pursuing your passion. Ultimately, you'll reach a point where you can share your cultivated work with the world, inviting others to experience the fruits of your dedication.
The Essence of Your Calling
The work that sustains you transcends mere labor; it is your calling. Personally, I find immense fulfillment in writing books, a process that spans years. The current book I am crafting features a civil rights activist who profoundly contemplated the concept of work. He organized pivotal protests and once stated that honoring your calling requires courage. Neglecting this calling, he argued, not only diminishes your potential but also disrespects a greater purpose.
Even if you don't subscribe to a religious framework, there is truth in this notion. Meaningful work has the potential to touch something beyond ourselves.
You can start your journey by envisioning what you want to accomplish over the next three to five years.
In this insightful video, "What rhythms and routines sustain you in your life and work?", Cal Newport shares valuable insights on creating a structure that supports your creative endeavors.
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