Big Magic
5.0
12 min

Big Magic

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Brief Summary

In “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear”, Elizabeth Gilbert encourages readers to unlock their creative potential. She argues that fear and insecurity often hold people back from realizing their dreams, but being creative doesn't mean sacrificing everything or seeking unattainable perfection. Gilbert emphasizes that creativity should be enjoyable and provides examples to support her point.

Key points

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Key idea 1 of 7

In our world, a tremendous number of people never realize their potential. Why is this? It's because the world is full of mistrust and skepticism, making the development of one's creativity seem truly daunting.

People are often told that getting a "good education" or a "serious job" is crucial for a fulfilling life. Many have experienced failure in their attempts to create art. However, living creatively doesn't necessarily require dedicating your mind, body, and soul to your work. Instead, we can let our curiosity, not our anxiety, guide us.

Moreover, creativity cannot be measured quantitatively, and being creative can make you more daring and take you beyond what others consider sane. Whether you're creating paintings or poetry, cooking, or exploring mountaintops, what counts is your eagerness to do it.

Do you have ideas about what you would like to do, but you are still hesitating? Your fears may be holding you back. Fear of being untalented, too old or poor, or not being taken seriously can discourage you from pursuing your goals. Don't let your brain stop you from doing what you want.

But are there ways to overcome fear? The best thing to do in this situation is to learn to be comfortable with your fears since it is not always possible to simply let go of them. Remember, it's part of human nature!

In our creative lives, we often combine both fear and passion. Along your journey, it's common to experience fears. However, you must not allow them to throw you off track by pushing you to the sidelines or grabbing the wheel with madness. They're just polite backseat passengers who can make reasonable remarks.

01
We only live once. That's why we should allow ourselves to live this life creatively!
02
If an idea knocks at the door, open it.
03
Even if you greatly fear failure, let yourself create.
04
The graduation gown won't make you more creative, but life experience will.
05
Don't turn your art into a hen that lays golden eggs.
06
When you create, you are a trickster, not a martyr.
07
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