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Get It Done
“Organized” and “artist” don't usually go together. Creative types are more often seen as sensitive, melodramatic, eccentric, misunderstood, and the like. To those who have been labeled in this way, Sam Bennett says, “Congratulations! You're an artist.” And through the Organized Artist Company, she has coached hundreds of artists to overcome procrastination, lack of focus, and time-sucking habits so that they can get their art done and out into the world. Bennett explains why “procrastination is genius in disguise” and then prescribes dozens of wonderfully revelatory exercises — such as making a “My Heroes” list and “could-do” lists (because Bennett finds to-do lists too dictatorial) — each of which requires only a fifteen-minute commitment. She gives readers practical, real-world tips, such as how to recognize who they should not talk to about their projects and when research has created Analysis Paralysis. Each of the tools she offers shifts the reader's thinking and prompts the kind of insights that have the power to turn underperforming geniuses into accomplished artists.
217 pages, Hardcover
First published January 15, 2014
178 people are currently reading
829 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 8, 2016
I hope to use the techniques in this book, especially the 15 minute exercise in my daily routine. As tired as I am, unleashing my perfectionism would do me a world of a difference with respect to my anxiety.
The author's voice was calm to listen and easy to follow when I felt sleepy. I hope to implement this book in every aspect of my life to hopefully see a light at the end of the tunnel and motivate myself further. I can't write the good, long review right now, but I think the words above explain the impact she had on me when she was reading. It definitely introduced me to boosted self confidence and new perspectives.
The author's voice was calm to listen and easy to follow when I felt sleepy. I hope to implement this book in every aspect of my life to hopefully see a light at the end of the tunnel and motivate myself further. I can't write the good, long review right now, but I think the words above explain the impact she had on me when she was reading. It definitely introduced me to boosted self confidence and new perspectives.
March 22, 2014
This is an example of the perfect book showing up at the perfect time. I loved this book so much -- I wish I could give it forty-eleven stars. I started to put sticky notes on the parts that were particularly meaningful, until I realized I was tagging almost every paragraph. This is a book that I'll read many times, whenever I need a friendly reminder, a get-out-there nudge, or a little bit of sympathetic hand-holding.
May 19, 2014
There's such enthusiasm in Sam Bennett's book, Get It Done, that I was happy to keep reading and following her suggestions. As my intent for this year is to finish projects already started I welcomed her advice and practical solutions.
One of her "short hand" tips is to pick the project that's closest to being done. As with a credit card you're planning to pay off "pick the one that has the highest 'interest' rate and finish that one."
Bennett offers five quick questions pertaining to one of the many projects you're procrastinating on. You can repeat this exercise with five possible projects that matter to you.
The Pure Preference exercise helps you figure out "the project you would choose if money and time were no object, if your results were guaranteed, and if you knew for sure no one's feelings would be hurt in the process."
I definitely had fun listing my projects and going through the exercise. There wasn't an absolutely clear winner and Bennett has five questions to answer in that case.
Each chapter ends with an "Action Step", and right from the beginning the suggestions have to do with "playing around with your favorite project" for fifteen minutes. That's before checking your email.
I've come to follow that practice and it's very wise advice. You connect to your own work first before attending to the demands of others. And as Bennett points out that because you've plunged "into your day knowing that you've already made even a little bit of progress on the work that is dearest to your heart will improve your whole world."
Sam Bennett deals with all the issues that can get in the way of creativity including procrastination, perfectionism and the question: "Who are you to do this anyway?"
Budget is dealt with and as Bennett says: "Knowing exactly what you need allows you to find exactly what you need. Staying vague is staying stuck."
I followed the suggested exercise and wrote down all the ways a sum of money could come into my life. I came up with inventive ideas as well as acknowledged the many ways I'm putting my work into the world right now.
Dealing with time is another challenge and Bennett tackles it by having readers consider what they do now and to put an asterisk beside the tasks only they can do; the other tasks could be assigned to other people. The goal: remove one thing from your schedule, permanently.
Sam Bennett makes anything sound possible if you just give it fifteen minutes a day. There's humor in the book and lots of useful exercises and inspiring examples. Even though we may not know her personally it's reassuring to know Sam Bennett is cheering us on.
by Mary Ann Moore
for Story Circle Book Reviews
reviewing books by, for, and about women
One of her "short hand" tips is to pick the project that's closest to being done. As with a credit card you're planning to pay off "pick the one that has the highest 'interest' rate and finish that one."
Bennett offers five quick questions pertaining to one of the many projects you're procrastinating on. You can repeat this exercise with five possible projects that matter to you.
The Pure Preference exercise helps you figure out "the project you would choose if money and time were no object, if your results were guaranteed, and if you knew for sure no one's feelings would be hurt in the process."
I definitely had fun listing my projects and going through the exercise. There wasn't an absolutely clear winner and Bennett has five questions to answer in that case.
Each chapter ends with an "Action Step", and right from the beginning the suggestions have to do with "playing around with your favorite project" for fifteen minutes. That's before checking your email.
I've come to follow that practice and it's very wise advice. You connect to your own work first before attending to the demands of others. And as Bennett points out that because you've plunged "into your day knowing that you've already made even a little bit of progress on the work that is dearest to your heart will improve your whole world."
Sam Bennett deals with all the issues that can get in the way of creativity including procrastination, perfectionism and the question: "Who are you to do this anyway?"
Budget is dealt with and as Bennett says: "Knowing exactly what you need allows you to find exactly what you need. Staying vague is staying stuck."
I followed the suggested exercise and wrote down all the ways a sum of money could come into my life. I came up with inventive ideas as well as acknowledged the many ways I'm putting my work into the world right now.
Dealing with time is another challenge and Bennett tackles it by having readers consider what they do now and to put an asterisk beside the tasks only they can do; the other tasks could be assigned to other people. The goal: remove one thing from your schedule, permanently.
Sam Bennett makes anything sound possible if you just give it fifteen minutes a day. There's humor in the book and lots of useful exercises and inspiring examples. Even though we may not know her personally it's reassuring to know Sam Bennett is cheering us on.
by Mary Ann Moore
for Story Circle Book Reviews
reviewing books by, for, and about women
April 16, 2017
Not for me. A very chipper, enthusiastic voice that grated a little. Very much about boosting your self-confidence to let you know YOU CAN DO THE THING through activities like;
*listing your heroic qualities and then reading them out loud
*drawing a picture of yourself as a hero defeating your dragon of procrastination using a sword of special talents
*writing down all the compliments you receive
The practical strategies in the book are ones you've no doubt heard before: learn to say no, commit a non-negotiable 15 mins per day to your project, remove one thing from your schedule by outsourcing or letting it go, organize your space, declutter, set up systems for bill paying etc.
1.5 stars.
*listing your heroic qualities and then reading them out loud
*drawing a picture of yourself as a hero defeating your dragon of procrastination using a sword of special talents
*writing down all the compliments you receive
The practical strategies in the book are ones you've no doubt heard before: learn to say no, commit a non-negotiable 15 mins per day to your project, remove one thing from your schedule by outsourcing or letting it go, organize your space, declutter, set up systems for bill paying etc.
1.5 stars.
February 14, 2014
Creative people are wired differently and see the world a bit differently--but the one thing they have in common with every other person is a lack of time to work on projects that are due, projects that sound like fun, and projects that need to be explored.
Sam Bennett created the Organized Artist Company and she wrote a book that is part coaching, part time management, and part kick in the butt. "Get It Done, from Procrastination to Creative Genius in 15 Minutes a Day" is a book with suggestions, how-to's, and clever ideas to help anyone (but especially artists) choose their work, get their work done in a time frame (by working 15 concentrated minutes a day), and complete their work.
Here's are some chapter titles:
Procrastination is Genius in Disguise
Which of Your 37 Projects to Tackle First
Overcoming Perfectionism
How to Do Your Could-Do List
Where Will You Find the Time?
Organizing Your Space
Why Is It So Awful When Everyone Thinks You are So Wonderful?
Do You Quit When You're Almost Done?
When you read Bennett's book, you know she is an artist, has been in your shoes, and can teach you how to dance in them--backwards--to success. Her worksheets are realistic, her steps doable and her process powerful.
The book is a fast read but one you will want to concentrate on to overcome perfectionism and the destructive procrastination that goes hand-in-hand with it. She's knows art is important to culture, supports the necessity for excellent work, but won't let you ruin your success with senselessly chasing perfection.
It's 204 pages that are packed with good advice, success stories, and real help.
You can read the full review and participate in the giveaway (till February 16, 2014) here:
http://wp.me/p2H1i-3mw
Sam Bennett created the Organized Artist Company and she wrote a book that is part coaching, part time management, and part kick in the butt. "Get It Done, from Procrastination to Creative Genius in 15 Minutes a Day" is a book with suggestions, how-to's, and clever ideas to help anyone (but especially artists) choose their work, get their work done in a time frame (by working 15 concentrated minutes a day), and complete their work.
Here's are some chapter titles:
Procrastination is Genius in Disguise
Which of Your 37 Projects to Tackle First
Overcoming Perfectionism
How to Do Your Could-Do List
Where Will You Find the Time?
Organizing Your Space
Why Is It So Awful When Everyone Thinks You are So Wonderful?
Do You Quit When You're Almost Done?
When you read Bennett's book, you know she is an artist, has been in your shoes, and can teach you how to dance in them--backwards--to success. Her worksheets are realistic, her steps doable and her process powerful.
The book is a fast read but one you will want to concentrate on to overcome perfectionism and the destructive procrastination that goes hand-in-hand with it. She's knows art is important to culture, supports the necessity for excellent work, but won't let you ruin your success with senselessly chasing perfection.
It's 204 pages that are packed with good advice, success stories, and real help.
You can read the full review and participate in the giveaway (till February 16, 2014) here:
http://wp.me/p2H1i-3mw
March 3, 2014
Sam Bennett's Get it Done has transformed my writing life, which had been a bit challenging of late. Get it Done has been instrumental in my developing a consistent writing practice. I'm writing 5 days a week at the same time and sometimes just for 15 minutes. Perhaps the awesomest part is I am writing from my VOICE and not just blah blah blah which i had been doing for a while. Thank you Sam for writing this fabulous book. I've already begun to recommend it to others and bought several copies to give as gifts!
June 17, 2025
List your Heroes' heroic qualities [people you admire: your key values - creative exercise]:
- Your own field:
- Literature/writing:
- Business:
- Fashion:
- TV character:
- Film character:
- Cartoon character:
- Music:
- Politics:
- Cooking/food:
- Ancient History:
- Modern HIstory:
- Myth[ology]:
- Sports:
Creative exercises for focusing on what matters are presented by a warm, humanistic observer of people. Listen to the audiobook. A few of the more straightforward but insightful exercises:
Identify which creative projects truly matter to you:
1) Do you think you will learn from and enjoy working on this project?
2) Will completing this project make a difference in your life?
3) Will completing this project make a difference in the world?
4) Does your soul ache to work on it?
5) Ten years from now will it matter whether you done it?
Rename Your Project to reflect your values and desires. Typical names are discouraging or uninspiring. Use fun, silly or sexy names that make you smile, challenge you, or have a mysterious appeal.
Three Daily Habits:
1) Spend the first 15 minutes of each day working on your project - before you check email or the Internet. A timer may help.
2) Use an idea catcher (e.g., index cards, small notebook, voice memo app, journal/datebook, notetaking app, voicemail to yourself, post-its, coupon carrier, tap wrist/forehead/sterum while you repeat the idea out loud).
3) Spend 15 minutes each day doing deliberate daydreaming. A simple repetitive action/task (without language) keeps the left brain busy, while the right brain does intuitive, creative work. Help your brain avoid the negative mental chatter.
► Learn Like a Pro by Barbara Oakley – learning, motivation, writing
► Learn to Concentrate: For Business People, Students and Sports Performers by Aidan P. Moran – attention, reading, procrastination
► Fast Asleep: How to Get a Really Good Night's Rest by Michael Mosley – insomnia, diet, health conditions
► Conquering Chronic Disorganization by Judith Kolberg – personal & emotional organizing, creative
► Death Stake by Andrew Mayne – memory, learning
- Your own field:
- Literature/writing:
- Business:
- Fashion:
- TV character:
- Film character:
- Cartoon character:
- Music:
- Politics:
- Cooking/food:
- Ancient History:
- Modern HIstory:
- Myth[ology]:
- Sports:
Creative exercises for focusing on what matters are presented by a warm, humanistic observer of people. Listen to the audiobook. A few of the more straightforward but insightful exercises:
Identify which creative projects truly matter to you:
1) Do you think you will learn from and enjoy working on this project?
2) Will completing this project make a difference in your life?
3) Will completing this project make a difference in the world?
4) Does your soul ache to work on it?
5) Ten years from now will it matter whether you done it?
Rename Your Project to reflect your values and desires. Typical names are discouraging or uninspiring. Use fun, silly or sexy names that make you smile, challenge you, or have a mysterious appeal.
Three Daily Habits:
1) Spend the first 15 minutes of each day working on your project - before you check email or the Internet. A timer may help.
2) Use an idea catcher (e.g., index cards, small notebook, voice memo app, journal/datebook, notetaking app, voicemail to yourself, post-its, coupon carrier, tap wrist/forehead/sterum while you repeat the idea out loud).
3) Spend 15 minutes each day doing deliberate daydreaming. A simple repetitive action/task (without language) keeps the left brain busy, while the right brain does intuitive, creative work. Help your brain avoid the negative mental chatter.
► Learn Like a Pro by Barbara Oakley – learning, motivation, writing
► Learn to Concentrate: For Business People, Students and Sports Performers by Aidan P. Moran – attention, reading, procrastination
► Fast Asleep: How to Get a Really Good Night's Rest by Michael Mosley – insomnia, diet, health conditions
► Conquering Chronic Disorganization by Judith Kolberg – personal & emotional organizing, creative
► Death Stake by Andrew Mayne – memory, learning
May 14, 2016
I really enjoyed listening to this book. There was lots of practical advice to get over the barriers that prevent you from working on a project. It reminded me of Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic that I thoroughly enjoyed, but there was a little too much god talk for my taste or interest which is why it only got 4 stars instead of 5.
March 19, 2015
I always enjoy a good self-help book and Get It Done... by Sam Bennett was definitely enjoyable. It's full of fun anecdotes, practical exercises and positive tips on getting things done. It's a perfect guide, especially for those who like a step-by-step approach to overcoming procrastination.
February 26, 2019
This was hands down the best book I've ever read on getting my sh*t together.
No lies.
It's written for those of you out there who are creative (in whatever particular pursuit you do) and it is bang on the money. I play on implementing her techniques into my life because I'm sooooo tired at not ever getting to play with all the stuff I love, but never let myself do.
Get this book if you are frustrated with never setting aside time to do that creative outlet or pursue those dreams. It will be the best money you could ever spend!
Watch out world!
No lies.
It's written for those of you out there who are creative (in whatever particular pursuit you do) and it is bang on the money. I play on implementing her techniques into my life because I'm sooooo tired at not ever getting to play with all the stuff I love, but never let myself do.
Get this book if you are frustrated with never setting aside time to do that creative outlet or pursue those dreams. It will be the best money you could ever spend!
Watch out world!
September 13, 2020
I'm fairly sure I keep reading self-help books out of some bizarre masochistic tendency that is constantly at war with my sense of hope.
I've been changed by fiction--found more truth in fiction--than I ever have in self-help.
This too suffers from the "Take Away the Anecdotes and There's No Real Content" Syndrome that afflicts the genre.
I've been changed by fiction--found more truth in fiction--than I ever have in self-help.
This too suffers from the "Take Away the Anecdotes and There's No Real Content" Syndrome that afflicts the genre.
April 8, 2016
oh man, just what i needed when i was having a creative rut. i've never really ventured into self-help books before, but i was in a giant creative block and i was struggling to be productive in producing any artistic content (was trying to attempt the pen again). this was a productivity book geared towards the artists - the writers, the designers, the musicians, songwriters, the innovators, the ones that see life in technicolour with infinite possibilities - the ones that want to make things but are held back by some forces (sometimes, themselves). the writer, sam bennett, had great strategies and examples of how creative people can move past their inhibitions, take their goals from whimsical dreams into concrete realities, and produce. loved this book because it felt like a dialogue and it was practical - not to mention impossibly witty and well-written. really would recommend! :)
July 7, 2014
Very good book on getting organized from both the personal and professional with great tips and visualizations. So many quick ahhs - my favorite was "Get a C" referring to doing something that is ok (C) on time instead of overthinking to get to outstanding but late "A".
I really appreciated that this had so many tips I could use and here I thought I was a productivity guru!
Short on time? Read the gray boxes - often these are nuggets that will stick with you. Lots of worksheets are included, too. You can get it done.
I really appreciated that this had so many tips I could use and here I thought I was a productivity guru!
Short on time? Read the gray boxes - often these are nuggets that will stick with you. Lots of worksheets are included, too. You can get it done.
April 6, 2014
A time management book for folks who like to act, paint, write, etc. filling an under served niche in the business and productivity arena. With a number of practical exercises and insights to help get you off your duff and begin doing the work you want so desperately to create, Sam leads you along the path to greater success with a gentle good humor that makes the book extremely accessible and an easy read. Highly recommended.
May 3, 2014
This is a different kind of productivity book. It is much more subjective, with plenty of exercises. Although I am not an artist as such, I did enjoy the book and it gave me lots of ideas. My take away was to not be a perfectionist. Sometimes you just have to say what you have done is enough and send it off.
January 4, 2015
Show up. Do the work. Even if you only do a little at a time. It's Ok to be afraid, but it's not OK to not do the work. This book aims to bust through your excuses and give you the confidence to make whatever art it is you want to make and to get it out there in the world, 15 minutes at a time.
December 17, 2015
I got it done.
...yeah I couldn't resist. It was an enjoyable read, lots of great exercises & tips, and I can see myself re-reading in the future if I need a kick in the pants.
...yeah I couldn't resist. It was an enjoyable read, lots of great exercises & tips, and I can see myself re-reading in the future if I need a kick in the pants.
December 7, 2015
Do it.
December 26, 2016
Such a good book! ( now if only I can do as she recommends...)
June 19, 2023
Maybe this is helpful to folks who've never read other books on getting organized and tackling projects. I found it to be very basic advice you can get anywhere (Eisenhower matrix! Set aside time every day! Break down tasks into smaller tasks!) mixed with a lot of sassy "you got this" positive talk. It's not BAD, but I won't be recommending this one.
February 16, 2018
I don't give five stars so you know this book was something. You can't be all things to all people and she doesn't try. Instead, she speaks directly to the creative, artist professional and boy does Sam Bennett nail it with this one.
I felt like she had looked into my mind and was speaking directly to me.
Every issue, every insecurity that I have about being a creative professional, she addresses and brooks no argument. Packed with easy and fun exercises I found this book to be inspirational, motivating, and enlightening. It's definitely something I would read again and again. I guess the true merits of the book will be determined by what I get done.
I felt like she had looked into my mind and was speaking directly to me.
Every issue, every insecurity that I have about being a creative professional, she addresses and brooks no argument. Packed with easy and fun exercises I found this book to be inspirational, motivating, and enlightening. It's definitely something I would read again and again. I guess the true merits of the book will be determined by what I get done.
April 1, 2014
The author has a tendency to use other people's words without attribution. I recognize then because they are some of my favorite quotes.
There is some stuff that doesn't seem to belong in a book about procrastination. Get your finances together? Organize your kitchen? Good advice, I'm just not sure why it's in this book.
Also a lot of you're a precious snowflake type things. I don't mind that to certain extent but she did go over the top. Sometimes I need someone to say I'm special even if it's not true. My favorite exercise? The hero one.
There is some stuff that doesn't seem to belong in a book about procrastination. Get your finances together? Organize your kitchen? Good advice, I'm just not sure why it's in this book.
Also a lot of you're a precious snowflake type things. I don't mind that to certain extent but she did go over the top. Sometimes I need someone to say I'm special even if it's not true. My favorite exercise? The hero one.
June 10, 2014
Bennett writes with humor and optimism. She has inspired me to reignite my photo and digital projects and 'get them done' with lots of joy and have fun doing it.
July 7, 2014
Great book, fun to read and full of terrific ideas and advice. I love Sam's energy and personality. Recommend if you need a kick in the ass!
August 24, 2014
I came away with alot of tools from this book; but honestly do not know if I am disciplined enough to implement them.
October 16, 2014
Excellent. Read it. Do it.
November 13, 2017
Flew through this one! I got it from the library, but 'll probably end up buying it so I can have it around for reminders, etc.
December 31, 2025
04-APR-2017
Audiobook: Read by the author, a clear, female voice, medium tone. Suitable for x2 speed.
A good, thought-provoking, inspirational read. Lots of advice but it isn't overwhelming. Speaks to your inner creative genius, who may feel a little trapped sometimes. Would recommend it to other procrastinators out there.
03-APR-2025
Listened to the 6-hour audiobook, which is narrated by the author (female American accent) and suitable for 1.5x speed. Really gets you in the gut at first, if you make a connection with what she talks about. Some great advice throughout, but honestly it’s just a nice narrative overall and will get you thinking about things in the right order.
Favourite Quotes (First Reading):
"If you find yourself procrastinating, your project is too big."
"You cannot chase two bunnies."
"The fact of the matter is, right now, you're trying to get some work done and you're stuck. The trick is to give your logical linear left brain something interesting to do while your right brain gets to do its impulsive elliptical intuitive work. You want your hands to be busy so your mind can wander."
"In fishing: The reward isn't the fish."
"Elegant systems have beauty, simplicity, and grace. They are easy to explain and easy to use. They bring peace and, perhaps surprisingly, create space for increased spontaneity and joy."
"No one will appreciate the hard work and courage that it takes for you to get your work out there because everyone thinks that you know how talented you are. It won't seem remarkable to them at all. In fact, they'll probably wonder what took you so long."
Favourite Quotes (Second Reading):
Overview of the book
"Discover which of your projects matters most to you. Rename that project. Spend 15 minutes a day on that project, every single day. Get help and support from people who are genuinely helpful and supportive. Replace your fear and anxiety with cheerful curiosity. Track your progress. Celebrate your success."
"Procrastination is genius in disguise."
"Have you ever noticed that procrastination causes you pain? If procrastination didn’t hurt, then you could just put stuff off and then just lah-di-dah around, all care-free and happy… The pain caused by procrastination reminds you that your projects are important to you."
"Procrastination is persistent desire. It’s a sign your project truly is part of your life’s calling."
Got stuck?
1- you genuinely don’t care about it - shadow goal. (Good goals have energy.)
2- it just hasn’t been the right time
3- you’re a little bit scared, or a lot scared
I know what I need to do. I just can’t do it.
Displacement activity: third activity that makes no sense. Deflect energy. Equally strong conflicting ideas causes you to shut down. Recognize it, walk through it. My fear does not get to make decisions for me. Set a kitchen timer for 15 minutes and play around with the idea in a light fun beta-testing way and then see what happens.
"If you find yourself procrastinating, your project is too big."
"You cannot chase two bunnies."
Top three nearly miraculous daily habits that will support you in becoming a fully expressed productive creative genius.
1- Allot 15mins a day to your project. Use a timer.
2- Find an idea catcher.
3- Allow 15mins a day for deliberate daydreaming. Keep your hands busy to free your mind.
"Cleanly move through each task with clarity, concentration, and grace."
"Paying attention to your creativity causes increases creativity."
"Everything needs the right sized home."
"There is a meditative aspect to painting by numbers that is unmatchable. Give it a try! If anybody catches you at it, say you’re engaging in a post-ironic commentary on the commercialization of colour and the homogenization of form in a consumer-based society."
"Just get up and turn around. Change your perspective."
"Every field must lay fallow."
"Notice how tracking your weekly wins starts to affect your drive, your confidence, and your productivity."
"My fears don’t get to make my decisions."
"Stay on the sharp edge of possible."
"Perfectionism would be so great if only it worked."
"Go a little nuts for your art."
"Goodism - good is often good enough, it knows when to stop"
"Who talks you out of working?"
Lots of projects
"The nice thing about making a list is that I get the to-do chatter out of my head and onto a piece of paper, but there’s no way to prioritize: there’s no indication of how important anything is, relative to anything else, how much time each task might take, and the order in which I ought to attack the list. Of course, some people number their lists, but the order in which things occur to you does not necessarily reflect their order of importance and while some people naturally prioritize, others have every item swimming in their brain in a hazy interrelated cloud so the list comes out all willy-nilly."
"People who like to focus on one thing should focus on one thing, and those of us who like to have lots of things going on should have lots of things going on." (Perhaps 3-5 at a time is a good goal?)
"In times of stress, we revert to our level of preparation." ~ Stephen Ramsey
"This exercise will help you draw up a budget that is fun and intuitive and that gets the attention of your inner self. Get out a calculator, a piece of paper, and some coloured markers, because you know this will be more fun for you if it feels like an art project."
"The work that only you can do, you must do. The work that anyone can do, someone else must do."
"Your creative life is never going to take precedence over your everyday life unless you make it happen."
"When you want to do something, it’s done. You don’t hesitate, you just do it, and usually in record time. When you don’t want to do something, you equivocate."
"More than once in my life I had waited to hear the big “no” buzzer go off inside of me. Turns out, I don’t have a big “no” buzzer."
Equivocating - that kind of waffling is my version of “no”. So now I listen to myself very carefully… if I am equivocating at all, that means no. After all, just because a person can make something work, doesn’t mean she should.
"It’s never too late to educate people on how to treat you… you must be firm and consistent. You must reward good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour."
"You have the strength to bend in the wind."
"Tools are fun; clutter is not. When in doubt, choose fun."
"Find it where it’s supposed to be."
"Organization is the key to creativity."
"If I put vegetables in that drawer, I guarantee I will forget that they are there and they will go bad. If I put the vegetables right in the middle where I see them every time I open the door, I will remember that they are there and I will cook them for dinner. Yum!"
"Honour your past but do not allow it to inhibit your present."
"The proper response to the inevitable is relaxation." ~ Rabbi Brian Zachary Mayer
"There is no shortage of success in the world. They didn’t get your success, they got their success."
"If the universe is friendly, we can assume that it has all been somehow correct."
"Remember, the world needs your art."
Audiobook: Read by the author, a clear, female voice, medium tone. Suitable for x2 speed.
A good, thought-provoking, inspirational read. Lots of advice but it isn't overwhelming. Speaks to your inner creative genius, who may feel a little trapped sometimes. Would recommend it to other procrastinators out there.
03-APR-2025
Listened to the 6-hour audiobook, which is narrated by the author (female American accent) and suitable for 1.5x speed. Really gets you in the gut at first, if you make a connection with what she talks about. Some great advice throughout, but honestly it’s just a nice narrative overall and will get you thinking about things in the right order.
Favourite Quotes (First Reading):
"If you find yourself procrastinating, your project is too big."
"You cannot chase two bunnies."
"The fact of the matter is, right now, you're trying to get some work done and you're stuck. The trick is to give your logical linear left brain something interesting to do while your right brain gets to do its impulsive elliptical intuitive work. You want your hands to be busy so your mind can wander."
"In fishing: The reward isn't the fish."
"Elegant systems have beauty, simplicity, and grace. They are easy to explain and easy to use. They bring peace and, perhaps surprisingly, create space for increased spontaneity and joy."
"No one will appreciate the hard work and courage that it takes for you to get your work out there because everyone thinks that you know how talented you are. It won't seem remarkable to them at all. In fact, they'll probably wonder what took you so long."
Favourite Quotes (Second Reading):
Overview of the book
"Discover which of your projects matters most to you. Rename that project. Spend 15 minutes a day on that project, every single day. Get help and support from people who are genuinely helpful and supportive. Replace your fear and anxiety with cheerful curiosity. Track your progress. Celebrate your success."
"Procrastination is genius in disguise."
"Have you ever noticed that procrastination causes you pain? If procrastination didn’t hurt, then you could just put stuff off and then just lah-di-dah around, all care-free and happy… The pain caused by procrastination reminds you that your projects are important to you."
"Procrastination is persistent desire. It’s a sign your project truly is part of your life’s calling."
Got stuck?
1- you genuinely don’t care about it - shadow goal. (Good goals have energy.)
2- it just hasn’t been the right time
3- you’re a little bit scared, or a lot scared
I know what I need to do. I just can’t do it.
Displacement activity: third activity that makes no sense. Deflect energy. Equally strong conflicting ideas causes you to shut down. Recognize it, walk through it. My fear does not get to make decisions for me. Set a kitchen timer for 15 minutes and play around with the idea in a light fun beta-testing way and then see what happens.
"If you find yourself procrastinating, your project is too big."
"You cannot chase two bunnies."
Top three nearly miraculous daily habits that will support you in becoming a fully expressed productive creative genius.
1- Allot 15mins a day to your project. Use a timer.
2- Find an idea catcher.
3- Allow 15mins a day for deliberate daydreaming. Keep your hands busy to free your mind.
"Cleanly move through each task with clarity, concentration, and grace."
"Paying attention to your creativity causes increases creativity."
"Everything needs the right sized home."
"There is a meditative aspect to painting by numbers that is unmatchable. Give it a try! If anybody catches you at it, say you’re engaging in a post-ironic commentary on the commercialization of colour and the homogenization of form in a consumer-based society."
"Just get up and turn around. Change your perspective."
"Every field must lay fallow."
"Notice how tracking your weekly wins starts to affect your drive, your confidence, and your productivity."
"My fears don’t get to make my decisions."
"Stay on the sharp edge of possible."
"Perfectionism would be so great if only it worked."
"Go a little nuts for your art."
"Goodism - good is often good enough, it knows when to stop"
"Who talks you out of working?"
Lots of projects
"The nice thing about making a list is that I get the to-do chatter out of my head and onto a piece of paper, but there’s no way to prioritize: there’s no indication of how important anything is, relative to anything else, how much time each task might take, and the order in which I ought to attack the list. Of course, some people number their lists, but the order in which things occur to you does not necessarily reflect their order of importance and while some people naturally prioritize, others have every item swimming in their brain in a hazy interrelated cloud so the list comes out all willy-nilly."
"People who like to focus on one thing should focus on one thing, and those of us who like to have lots of things going on should have lots of things going on." (Perhaps 3-5 at a time is a good goal?)
"In times of stress, we revert to our level of preparation." ~ Stephen Ramsey
"This exercise will help you draw up a budget that is fun and intuitive and that gets the attention of your inner self. Get out a calculator, a piece of paper, and some coloured markers, because you know this will be more fun for you if it feels like an art project."
"The work that only you can do, you must do. The work that anyone can do, someone else must do."
"Your creative life is never going to take precedence over your everyday life unless you make it happen."
"When you want to do something, it’s done. You don’t hesitate, you just do it, and usually in record time. When you don’t want to do something, you equivocate."
"More than once in my life I had waited to hear the big “no” buzzer go off inside of me. Turns out, I don’t have a big “no” buzzer."
Equivocating - that kind of waffling is my version of “no”. So now I listen to myself very carefully… if I am equivocating at all, that means no. After all, just because a person can make something work, doesn’t mean she should.
"It’s never too late to educate people on how to treat you… you must be firm and consistent. You must reward good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour."
"You have the strength to bend in the wind."
"Tools are fun; clutter is not. When in doubt, choose fun."
"Find it where it’s supposed to be."
"Organization is the key to creativity."
"If I put vegetables in that drawer, I guarantee I will forget that they are there and they will go bad. If I put the vegetables right in the middle where I see them every time I open the door, I will remember that they are there and I will cook them for dinner. Yum!"
"Honour your past but do not allow it to inhibit your present."
"The proper response to the inevitable is relaxation." ~ Rabbi Brian Zachary Mayer
"There is no shortage of success in the world. They didn’t get your success, they got their success."
"If the universe is friendly, we can assume that it has all been somehow correct."
"Remember, the world needs your art."
September 1, 2018
I think this is a book that could have been much shorter. I loved the first half of the book but then found myself skimming over parts I felt didn’t apply to me.
Things I want more of in self-improvement books:
More of the personal journey of the author. I feel like understanding the authentic path the author took to where they are helps legitimize the advice they’re giving and not enough Sam in this book for my liking.
In that autobiography I always want the author to acknowledge their advantages and their privilege. Everyone has challenges, but if family money or a wealthy working spouse allows you to pursue your dreams acknowledge it. There’s nothing wrong with having advantages. Life isn’t fair that way, but it always strikes me as disingenuous when an author skips over their obvious advantages over their potential audience.
That said, Sam Bennett has some great advice for creatives, and the book is broken up into manageable sections and I appreciate the workbook format and the idea that you can make some progress with just 15 minutes a Day.
Great quotes sprinkled throughout and plenty to go back and reread. I have a tendency to hate self-help books, so I was pleasantly surprised with this one.
Things I want more of in self-improvement books:
More of the personal journey of the author. I feel like understanding the authentic path the author took to where they are helps legitimize the advice they’re giving and not enough Sam in this book for my liking.
In that autobiography I always want the author to acknowledge their advantages and their privilege. Everyone has challenges, but if family money or a wealthy working spouse allows you to pursue your dreams acknowledge it. There’s nothing wrong with having advantages. Life isn’t fair that way, but it always strikes me as disingenuous when an author skips over their obvious advantages over their potential audience.
That said, Sam Bennett has some great advice for creatives, and the book is broken up into manageable sections and I appreciate the workbook format and the idea that you can make some progress with just 15 minutes a Day.
Great quotes sprinkled throughout and plenty to go back and reread. I have a tendency to hate self-help books, so I was pleasantly surprised with this one.
May 27, 2018
This book is aimed at people with an artistic nature. While that is not me in particular, I did find a couple of useful tips in this book. I think the most important thing I took away is that you can make small changes in your daily schedule to accomplish tasks important to you. You may only be able to carve out 15 minutes from your day, but you will find that time if the task is important enough to you. The author gives examples of people completing novels or other works of art by working on them for 15 minutes each day, in spite of having a job and kids. Also, the author has a good example of and reasoning for suggesting that some tasks need to be done, but not necessarily done "extremely well". For some tasks, maybe a C effort is all that is needed.
I feel that there are other books out there that are better at helping people like myself become more productive, but there were a couple of good tips/insights in this book. If you are more of an artist or artistic type of person, then this book might have some approaches that speak better to you.
I feel that there are other books out there that are better at helping people like myself become more productive, but there were a couple of good tips/insights in this book. If you are more of an artist or artistic type of person, then this book might have some approaches that speak better to you.
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