Make More Art: Start Whatever is Next

Start Whatever Is Next

When you’re prolific you don’t end up putting all your eggs in one basket. You diversify risk. You recognize the value of a long tail. If your book doesn’t sell enough copies you write another one.

• If you didn’t sell enough albums, you go back to the studio and lay down tracks.
• If people hate your book, write another one.
• If nobody liked your latest film, land another role in a different one.

When Steven Pressfield defeated resistance for the first time and finished a book and went to his friend Paul Rink’s house. He said, “Congratulations! Now start the next one.” Ryan Holiday said the same thing to me.

I didn’t have another book deal. But I started the next book. I wrote an outline for one. I published The Scenic Route and started work on what you’re reading.

The best way to move on from events or circumstances from the past is to focus on the future. This is true for relationships, careers, and the art you make. When the work is done, shipped, and shared, your role in the process comes to an end.

You leave the reception up the Gods, Universe or whatever higher power you believe in. If it exceeds all your expectations, start the next one. If it fails to meet your expectations, start the next one. That’s your only job.

Close the door. Sit down. Put pen to paper, brush to canvas, hands to clay. Make More Art.

This is part of a series about how to become a more prolific creator. You can download the entire book for free here.