I just finished reading Ignore Everybody and 39 Other Keys to Creativity by Hugh McLeod on Monday night. At roughly 160 pages and 40 chapters, you’d think it would be a tough read. Admittedly, it did take me a month to work through it.
But not because of bad writing.
Or because it was too thick or too detailed or too analytical.
It took me a long time to get through it because after every short chapter, I had to stop and think it through.
It’s one of those books that has the power to change they way you live and the way you conduct your business. It’s subtlety makes for a powerful approach that is likely to catch you off guard.
First, Here’s What It’s Not
I basically bought Ignore Everybody on a whim. I do that from time to time – you know, walk around Barnes & Noble until something catches my eye. On this particular occasion, I had a long road trip ahead of me, and I thought it might be interesting to see what people were writing about creativity.
Plus, Seth Godin endorsed it, and I like Seth Godin a lot.
As you might imagine, I was quite surprised to learn that Ignore Everybody is not really about creativity. Sure, the guy who wrote is creative. He draws quirky, clever cartoons on business cards and sells them. But this book will not help you be more creative.
Something Different
Instead of being your typical book on creativity (i.e., how to brainstorm more effectively), Ignore Everybody is a different kind of book. Much in the same way that Hugh McLeod is a different kind of artist.
Ignore Everybody is essentially a manifesto on how not to be a starving artist and how to not to get lost in the oblivion of undiscovered artists. Ignore Everybody will tell you to make something of your craft, to be a smart business person, to be realistic, to be ready for things to be hard, and to rock on anyway.
This book is full of smart business advice, and smart creative advice. It’s a book I’ll keep on my shelf for years to come, and you should, too.
The good news for you is that I’m giving away a copy in celebration in celebration of Creative Perch’s first anniversary. Go post the best creative business advice you’ve received for your chance to win!
Related posts:
- Why Creativity Matters
- Book Review: Purple Cow
- Art is Everywhere. This Week: Cartoons by Hugh MacLeod
- Reader Poll & Top Secret Anniversary Giveaway
- Anniversary Giveaway Winner!
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