Why Every Artist (and Everyone Who’s Ever Faced Resistance) Needs to Read This Book
If you’ve ever tried to create something, whether it’s music, a painting, a novel, or even a business, you’ve probably felt it—that invisible force pushing back, making it feel almost impossible to get started or keep going. Steven Pressfield calls this “Resistance,” and in The War of Art, he breaks down exactly what it is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to overcome it.
I’ve been in this game a long time. I’ve toured, recorded albums, faced deadlines, and dealt with all the ups and downs of being a working artist. But reading The War of Art was like a reminder and a revelation all at once. Pressfield’s words hit home, and I think every musician, artist, or anyone trying to push beyond the ordinary needs to read this book. Here’s why.
Resistance: The Enemy of Creativity
One of the most powerful concepts in the book is Resistance. Pressfield describes it as this universal force that shows up whenever we’re about to do something important or transformative. And let me tell you, I felt that Resistance many times. Whether it’s before I step on stage, sit down to write, or hit the studio, there’s always that voice in the back of my head telling me to slow down, to take it easy, to maybe not push so hard.
This book doesn’t sugarcoat it. Pressfield calls Resistance out for what it is—the enemy. He gives it a name, gives it shape, and by doing that, makes it something you can fight against. As a musician, that’s empowering. It’s like knowing your opponent in a boxing ring. Once you recognize Resistance for what it is, you can prepare for it, outsmart it, and most importantly, push through it.
The Professional vs. The Amateur
Another concept Pressfield dives into is the idea of approaching your art as a professional rather than an amateur. That resonated with me on a deep level. A pro shows up no matter what. A pro works through the discomfort, the doubt, the obstacles. A pro knows that creating isn’t always fun or glamorous—it’s work. But it’s the kind of work that feeds the soul.
For any musicians or artists out there, this is something we all need to remember. There are days when inspiration hits, and the music flows like magic. But there are just as many days when you sit there struggling to find the notes, the rhythm, the words. Being a professional means showing up on both kinds of days. The War of Art reminds us that the real magic often happens on those days when you push through, even when it’s tough.
Turning Pro and Taking Your Craft Seriously
I love that Pressfield doesn’t just talk about Resistance and the struggle—he gives you a path forward. He talks about “turning pro,” which doesn’t mean just making money from your art. It means taking your craft seriously, respecting it, showing up even when it’s hard. It’s about treating your art as your job, whether anyone’s watching or not, whether anyone’s paying or not. That’s how you keep growing, how you stay inspired, and how you create work that means something.
Why You Should Read The War of Art
The War of Art isn’t just a book for people starting out in their creative journey. It’s for anyone who’s been at it for years but still faces that same daily battle to show up and do the work. Pressfield’s words are like a wake-up call, a reminder that the struggle is normal and part of the process. And that struggle doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re on the right path.
If you’re a musician, artist, or anyone trying to bring something meaningful into the world, this book will give you a new way of looking at the challenges you face. It’ll remind you that Resistance is part of the journey, but it doesn’t have to be what holds you back.
So, if you haven’t picked up The War of Art yet, do yourself a favor. Grab a copy, take it in, and keep it close. I can tell you that even after all these years, Pressfield’s words still light a fire in me to keep pushing, to keep creating, and to keep fighting that good fight. This book is a must-read for anyone who’s serious about their craft.
-Jackiem
