3 Mantras to Construct the Life of Your Dreams
“Don’t get a job, create one.”
~Josh Steimle
In the realms of creativity and personal development, certain principles stand as timeless truths, guiding us toward fulfillment and success. As I recently listened to Nathan Barry, the founder of ConvertKit, on a podcast, he shared three such principles that have not only shaped his $40m enterprise but have also resonated deeply with my journey. These three mantras are:
Create every day.
Teach everything you know.
Work in public.
Let's explore the profound impact of these mantras and how they can help shape your path.
Create Every Day
The act of creation is not just an activity; it's a state of being. Reflecting on my past, from constructing intricate Lego structures to engaging in Beyblade battles in my garage-made plexiglass arenas, I've always been drawn to creation. My teenage years were marked by an affinity for technology and design, from constructing battle robots, semi-restoring a Datsun 260z, or 3D printing eco-friendly products.
Today, my canvas has shifted to media - videos, designs, and 3D animations. Collaborating with brands to bring their visions to life is a part of my daily to do list. But beyond commercial work, I've committed to a personal challenge: to create something, anything, each day. This practice has transcended mere habit to become an integral part of my identity. It's not contingent on mood or circumstance; it's a pursuit that fuels a profound sense of fulfillment and flow, a state where time dissolves and transformation occurs.
Creating daily is a conduit to what many philosophers and psychologists deem the pinnacle of human experience. On a practical level, it serves as a repository of conversation starters, a platform for skill enhancement, and a canvas for self-expression.
My commitment to creating something daily has transcended mere habit. It's become a ritual, a part of my identity. This constant practice has enabled me to reach a state of flow, where time and distractions fade away, leaving room for pure focus and creativity. This daily engagement isn't just about the end product; it's about the transformative journey that each project embodies.
Teach Everything You Know
The act of teaching is a powerful catalyst for growth, both for the teacher and the student. The misconception that only experts can teach limits the vast potential of shared knowledge. In truth, teaching requires just a small lead in understanding over your audience. What's obvious to a seasoned professional might be a revelation to a novice. This approach has been a cornerstone of my YouTube tutorials, where I break down complex projects into digestible lessons. The process of teaching not only reinforces my understanding but also establishes credibility and connection with my audience.
My journey as a creative has been filled with diverse experiences. From explaining the nuances of 3D animation to sharing insights on effective design, every tutorial has been a step in reinforcing my expertise. But beyond the technical aspects, teaching has been about sharing stories, struggles, and successes. It's about connecting with an audience that's eager to learn and grow.
The digital age has revolutionized the way we access and share knowledge. It's no longer confined to formal settings or limited by geographical boundaries. This era, rich in accessible information, has democratized learning.
The internet has unlocked doors once guarded by gatekeepers.
Now, young talents can leapfrog traditional barriers, exemplified by teenagers shooting commercials for prestigious brands. This shift raises the bar for everyone, challenging us to evolve and excel. The result is a dynamic landscape of learning and competition, pushing everyone to continuously improve and innovate.
Work in Public
The concept of working in public can initially seem daunting, yet its rewards are profound. My own journey towards this realization was influenced by my proximity to Hollywood, a hub of public exposure and media influence. I initially shied away from sharing my work and life online, preferring the solitude and privacy that came with my creative experiments. With time, however, I recognized that sharing your work is not about seeking external validation, but rather creating opportunities to connect with other people, inspire others, and showcase your passion and skills.
My Instagram account, fivespeed.home, is a recent example of this philosophy in action. What started as a private portrait photography portfolio, has transformed into a public journal where I share insights into my creative process. This Instagram page not only displays my photographs, but also serves as a public timestamp, capturing my travels, experiences, and the evolution of my projects. I try my best to accompany each posts with a personal reflection or quote that has influenced me. This creates a tapestry of my creative journey.
The benefits of working in public extend far beyond personal satisfaction. It serves as a beacon, attracting like-minded individuals, potential collaborators, and clients. By publicly chronicling my journey, I've opened the door to opportunities that would have otherwise remained hidden. Connections made through public platforms have led to significant projects and collaborations, proving that visibility in the digital age is a powerful tool for professional growth.
Moreover, working in public creates a sense of accountability and motivation. Knowing that your work will be seen by an audience pushes you to maintain high standards and continuously strive for improvement. It also invites feedback and dialogue, fostering a dynamic environment where ideas can be exchanged and refined.
Additionally, the practice of working in public acts as a living portfolio, a testament to one's growth and evolution as a creator. It's not just about showcasing finished products but also about revealing the process, the challenges overcome, and the learning curves navigated. This transparency builds trust and authenticity, qualities that are invaluable in today's digital landscape.
Final Thoughts
The mantras of creating every day, teaching everything you know, and working in public are not just principles; they are the pillars upon which a fulfilling and impactful life can be built. These practices, when adopted consistently and mindfully, can lead to unexpected opportunities, personal growth, and a closer alignment with your aspirations.
Incorporating these mantras into your daily life transforms them from mere actions to integral components of your identity. It's a journey that requires perseverance and passion, but the rewards are immeasurable. As you embrace these principles, watch as the path to your dream life not only becomes clearer but also more attainable with each passing day.
As always, keep creating.
-P
If you’d like a more in-depth explanation on to how you can apply this as an artist, take a look at this video I created below: