I discuss Resistance as explained by Steven Pressfield in his book War of Art: Break Through The Blocks and Win Your Creative Battles in relation to the upcoming busy holidays. Painting by Luis Vazquez, 2006

“Resistance is the enemy within.” -Steven Pressfield, War of Art, pg. 8

I was catching up with a friend through email and she remarked that “Resistance was kicking my butt” and I chuckled because I’m more or less going through the same thing. I feel that making excuses to justify not doing the creative work you should be doing is a form of Resistance.

However, I think there are legitimate excuses, as long as you understand that Resistance is part of the problem. Things like school, work, and taking care of kids are legitimate excuses to allow Resistance get the best of you in the short term.

As artists we shouldn’t be too hard on ourselves during this time of year. There is a lot going on, and the last thing you need is to make yourself feel bad for not being on top of creative endeavors. 

I know this flies in the face of Pressfield’s point about beating Resistance, but we’re only human. Just understand that when the chaos dies down, you get yourself back on track.