Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad by Austin Kleon is a book that offers inspiration and practical advice to help individuals stay creative, motivated, and productive, especially during challenging times. Here are the key ideas from the book:
Creativity as a Lifelong Pursuit
Kleon emphasizes that creativity is not a destination but a lifelong journey. It's about the process of making and staying committed to creative work.
The Importance of Routine
The book explores the benefits of establishing and maintaining a creative routine. Having a regular schedule can help you overcome resistance and build momentum in your creative projects.
Stay Playful
Kleon encourages readers to maintain a sense of playfulness and curiosity in their creative pursuits. Play is a powerful source of inspiration and can lead to new ideas.
Embrace Constraints
Constraints, whether they're limitations in time, resources, or skills, can actually enhance creativity. Kleon discusses how constraints can lead to innovative solutions.
Creativity vs. Productivity
Kleon makes a distinction between creativity and productivity. He suggests that the focus should be on the creative process and exploration rather than solely on output and results.
Seek Inspiration Everywhere
The book encourages readers to seek inspiration from a wide range of sources, including books, art, nature, and everyday life. Inspiration can come from unexpected places.
Make Time for Solitude
Kleon discusses the value of solitude and how it can foster creativity and self-reflection. He advocates for carving out quiet, undistracted time.
Share Your Work
Sharing your creative work with others, even if it's not perfect, is important. Kleon explains how sharing can lead to feedback, collaboration, and a sense of connection with others.
Focus on the Process, Not the Product
Instead of fixating on the end result, Kleon encourages focusing on the creative process itself. The journey is as important, if not more so, than the destination.
Stay Inspired by Others
Kleon suggests keeping a list of your favorite artists, writers, and creators. These individuals can serve as sources of inspiration and motivation.
Stay Informed, but Don't Get Overwhelmed
Staying informed about the world is important, but it's easy to become overwhelmed by news and information. Kleon advises finding a balance between staying informed and preserving your mental well-being.
Keep Going Through Tough Time
The book acknowledges that creativity can be challenging, especially during difficult times. Kleon provides strategies for persevering and continuing to create even in the face of adversity.
The Importance of Rest
Rest and downtime are essential for creativity. Kleon discusses the role of rest in rejuvenating the mind and preventing burnout.

"Keep Going" by Austin Kleon serves as a source of encouragement and guidance for anyone seeking to maintain and nourish their creative spirit. It provides practical tips and reminders that creativity is a process, and it offers strategies for staying motivated, inspired, and resilient, even when faced with challenges.