Austin Kleon Series

These are some notes I found in an old notebook. I am typing these up on 6/1/23 (last day of Junior year!)

Steal Like an Artist - Austin Kleon

Finished 10/1/22

Great ideas are "stolen" from others

• Don't copy, but instead, add interesting twists
• Nothing is "original"
• Take ideas from people you like/inspire you

Start now, and limit yourself

• Too many possibilities can be bad. Pick useful things
• Don't make excuses, no "holidays". Stay consistent and the work WILL get done

Filter out bad ideas and people

• There are so many yideas, but you need to filter out the bad ones
• Surround yourself with smart people and hang out with them. If you're the smartest in a room, change rooms.
• Your salary is close to the average of your 5 closest friends. Choose wisely

Keep Going - Austin Kleon

Finished 10/2/22

When you feel unmotivated, make a gift for someone else

• You'll feel more excited about making something for someone other than yourself

Forget "being a coder", do coding now

• Stop watching Youtube videos on how to be the best coder. Start coding, and start it now

Keep a consistent schedule. Life is like groundhogs day

• Worry about today
• Plan ahead and make todo lists

Keep your tools nearby, but your work can be scattered and all over the place

• Make sure you can find the tools you need. Keep them organized
• Work can be messy. Don't slow down

Go for a walk, it clears your head

• Naps are also good
• Drink caffeine and then nap. When it kicks in, get back to work

Be the change you want to see

• Write the book you want to read

Isolate from the world sometimes

• "Bliss Stations"

Show Your Work

I have this book but I have not read it yet. I will update this section once I am finished.