Broken down into three parts, Real Artist Don't Starve takes you on a journey of transformation. What does the life a successful (“Thriving”) artist look like? Are you born with special gifts, talents, advantages? If not, can you still make it as an artist? What traits must you possess to make a living in the 21st century?
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Make a living or make a life. Get by or find your calling. This book delves into the deeper questions of vocation, and challenges traditional mindsets surrounding work, play, and what makes a life.
I've read all of Jeff's books. I order them before seeing what they are about because I know they will be good. But when I first started reading this one, I had an uncertain feeling. It wasn't what I expected. I found myself not fully on board with some of the stories he chose as he shared his take on what it means to understand a calling, how to discover and pursue it.
About midway through the book was the writing I've come to know and respect from Jeff. It was targeted toward the creative, artistic type person who needs to see work as more than a means to make money, yet find an ultimate balance with your passion and your family.
I single out "artists" with caution, because I believe everyone is called to a higher purpose than earning a paycheck all their life. I say "artist" types because they've already come to that realization, but aren't certain where or how to go with it. This book lays out a set of ideas they can use for a roadmap in pursuing the art of work.
Overall, I'd love every artist I know to read this book. It will challenge long held beliefs about vocation, and address the opportunities and pitfalls we find in the modern world.
For everyone, I highly recommend Jeff's books, "Wrecked," "You are a Writer," and most especially, "The In-Between."
Work truly is an art and I salute Jeff's fine work.
My copy of Jeff Goins's new book arrived this past week, and I finally started on it. The idea of those in-between moments inspired my own memories of the little times in life that make up, well, life.
It was just a few hours after the funeral. The grandfather of my best friend, Jessica, had passed away suddenly on my nineteenth birthday.
The house was full of people, visiting, reconnecting, dealing with the grief in their own way.
Jess and I went outside to the driveway in the quiet small town neighborhood. Teenagers, we climbed onto the trunk of her grandparents' aging Chevy Impala and leaned against the back windshield. We stared at the white clouds outlined by blue sky. We didn't say anything. Didn't need to. Just spent time in quiet communication, understanding the lack of need for chatter to fill the air.
The screen door banged and voices bubbled out. Jess's brother and two friends tromped across the drive. His girlfriend paused.
"What are y'all doing?"
I wasn't quite sure how to answer. My friend and I mumbled in agreement. "Um, just relaxing."
"Oh. Well, we're bored. Going to wash my car. Y'all want to come?"
"Uh, that's okay. Thanks."
She shrugged and the three climbed into her Volkswagen Bug, still laughing and chattering.
Quietness reigned again between us. Then we broke out in a spontaneous giggle.
Then quiet again like before, watching the clouds and letting the moment heal our bruised hearts.
***
Jeff Goins's book is already having an impact on my life. You can order a copy on Amazon: The In-Between: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing [A Spiritual Memoir]
I made this video for Jeff Goins' contest to declare yourself a writer. I am. Here's my public declaration, with the help of some of the greatest all time writers:
I am a writer, home business owner, daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, friend, and child of the King. What are you? Declare it in the comments!
Update: Here are the contest winners. This little video received an Honorable Mention: http://goinswriter.com/contest-winner/
