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Unlock creative potential with host Paul Dittus’s top 10 rules for creators on the TBM Show. Insights on progress, focus, and simplicity!
I’m working on making a planning system for creators. In the process of developing the underlying philosophy, I made a list of the top 10 rules for creators. I hope these 10 rules will help you in your creative journey. Drop a comment with your favorite rule!
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The 10 Rules For Creators
1. Progress, not perfection.
2. Less, but better.
3. Monofocus.
4. Celebrate the wins.
5. KISS it.
6. If it’s not on the calendar, it doesn’t exist.
7. Eliminate distractions.
8. Track what you want to improve.
9. Give more, to get more.
10. Play and think in long-term games.
11. Start messy.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 What Are The 10 Rules Of Creators
0:53 Progress, not perfection.
2:53 Less, but better.
4:23 Monofocus.
5:31 Celebrate the wins.
6:21 KISS it.
8:51 If it’s not on the calendar, it doesn’t exist.
10:14 Eliminate distractions.
12:34 Track what you want to improve.
13:50 Give more, to get more.
15:21 Play and think in long-term games.
20:23 Start messy.
22:15 Final Thoughts
Table of Contents
The 10 Rules of Creators: Embrace the Mess and Unlock Your Creative Potential
Discover the core principles to thrive as a creative entrepreneur with insights from Paul Dittus of the TBM Show.
Being a creative entrepreneur isn’t just about dreaming big; it’s about taking actionable steps every day to transform those dreams into reality. Let’s dive deeper into these principles and what they mean for you as a creator.
1. Progress, Not Perfection
The first rule is about prioritizing progress over perfection. Perfectionism often becomes a roadblock, leading to procrastination and stagnation. In creative fields, constant practice and producing a high volume of work can be more valuable than striving for perfection on a single project. For instance, studies in pottery and photography demonstrated that those who continually produced work outperformed those who sought to create a single perfect piece. The lesson here is simple: start creating and improving along the way.
2. Less but Better
Inspired by designer Dieter Rams and his influence on Apple’s design philosophy, this rule emphasizes the power of simplicity. Overloading your work with complicated features can dilute its core message. Strip away the excess and focus on creating something that is both simple and impactful. This principle applies not just to your art but also to your business practices.
3. Monofocus
Multitasking might seem productive, but it often leads to mistakes and a decline in the quality of work. Monofocus encourages you to dedicate your attention to one task at a time, making it easier to achieve high-quality results. Structured time blocks in your planner can help you zero in on what’s important, ensuring you make meaningful progress on your projects.
4. Celebrate the Wins
Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, reinforces positive behavior and keeps you motivated. Whether it’s publishing a new episode or hitting a personal milestone, celebrating these wins makes you more likely to seek and achieve future successes.
5. Keep It Stupidly Simple (K.I.S.S.)
This rule reminds us to simplify our tasks to make them more manageable. Often, overcomplicating things can hinder action. By breaking down your goals into baby steps and focusing on the minimum viable actions needed to make progress, you ensure consistent forward momentum.
6. If It’s Not on the Calendar, It Doesn’t Exist
Time management is essential for any creator. Scheduling and planning out your tasks ensure that nothing important slips through the cracks. Whether it’s work-related commitments or personal appointments, having everything documented in a calendar helps you avoid double-booking and stay organized.
7. Eliminate Distractions
Distractions is the opposite of focus. Whether it’s a cluttered workspace or frequent digital interruptions, removing these distractions is crucial for deep work. Clear your physical and digital spaces, set your phone on do-not-disturb mode, and create an environment that fosters concentration and focus.
8. Track What You Want to Improve
Metrics are essential for gauging progress. Setting measurable, actionable goals within your control—as opposed to lofty, ambiguous ones—helps you stay on the right path. For example, aim to create a certain number of pieces of content rather than focusing solely on gaining a specific number of followers.
9. Give More to Get More
Generosity often returns tenfold. Whether it’s offering help or producing valuable content without expecting immediate returns, the act of giving can open doors to new opportunities. This mindset fosters a sense of community and establishes you as a valuable and trusted contributor in your field.
10. Play and Think in Long-Term Games
Adopting a long-term perspective is critical for sustained success. This means making decisions that may not yield immediate rewards but will benefit you in the long run. Invest time and effort in developing skills and cultivating relationships that will pay off in the future.
Bonus Rule: Start Messy
In true creative spirit, I add an eleventh rule—start before you’re ready. Embrace the messiness and unpredictability of the creative process. Learn from your mistakes and iterate as you go. The journey of creation is filled with invaluable lessons that only come from taking that initial, imperfect step.
These 10 rules—and the bonus—form a robust framework for any creator looking to thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, incorporating these principles can help you navigate the intricacies of the creative journey, leading to both personal growth and professional success. What rules resonate with you the most? Share your thoughts and experiences, and let’s continue to learn and grow together.
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This is episode 85 of The Beautiful Mess Show podcast.
Hosted by Paul Dittus
