Sam Parr

Sam Parr's Anti-MBA Learning Machine

Generate Your Own Plan

Learning Plan: I'm not creative but I want to be

Alright, let's dive into the Sam Parr no-BS method for "I'm not creative but I want to be":

1. The Essence

You're not born creative; creativity is a muscle you can build. Think of it like getting ripped—start with small weights and pump them up over time.

2. Game-Changing Frameworks

  1. Incubation and Iteration: Just like how you need to rest muscles after a workout, your brain needs time away from a problem to come up with innovative solutions. Write down your ideas, then walk away to incubate—come back later to iterate.
  2. The 5 Whys: Ask yourself "why" five times to drill down to the root of a problem. This framework helps you think outside the box and find unique solutions.
  3. The 10% Rule: Aim to improve whatever you're working on by 10% each time. It's a small step that leads to significant change over time.

3. Non-Negotiables

  1. Consistency: Creativity thrives on routine. Set aside dedicated time each day to brainstorm or work on a project.
  2. Curiosity: Stay curious and keep learning. Read books, attend workshops, and explore new interests.
  3. Feedback: Seek feedback from others and be open to criticism. It's the best way to refine your ideas.

4. Knowledge Fuel

  1. "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield: This book is a battle plan for overcoming resistance and staying creative. It's like having a personal coach in your corner.
  2. "Steal Like an Artist" by Austin Kleon: Kleon's book teaches you how to borrow from the best and make it your own. It's the ultimate guide to creative theft.

5. Level-Up Tasks

  1. Freewriting: Spend 10 minutes each day writing whatever comes to mind without stopping or editing. It's like a daily warm-up for your brain.
  2. Copywork: Write out passages from your favorite authors by hand. It's a way to internalize their style and structure.

6. Mastery Project

Create a daily blog or vlog where you share your thoughts, experiences, and insights. It's like a public journal that forces you to think creatively every day.

7. Rapid-Fire Check

  1. Can you describe your creative process in under a minute?
  2. List three books that have inspired you to think differently.
  3. What's one unique idea you've come up with recently?

8. Danger Zones

  1. Perfectionism: Don't wait for the perfect idea. Start with something imperfect and improve it over time.
  2. Fear of Failure: Remember that failure is a stepping stone to success. Every failed attempt brings you closer to your creative goals.

Now, go out there and crush it Remember, creativity is a muscle you can build with practice.

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