Ever felt like you need to finish something perfectly before anyone sees it? Worried about judgment, criticism, or just not being "good enough" yet? If so, Austin Kleon's brilliant little book, Show Your Work!, is a breath of fresh air you desperately need.

In a world obsessed with finished products and polished presentations, Kleon makes a powerful argument for the opposite: share your creative process, not just the masterpiece.


The Myth of the Lone Genius

We often envision creators as lone geniuses toiling in secret, only to emerge with a fully formed, revolutionary work. Kleon dismantles this myth. True creativity, innovation, and connection often happen when we open up our process to others.

He argues that showing your work isn't about bragging; it's about:

  • Connecting with a potential audience: People are drawn to authenticity and process. They want to see how things are made.
  • Getting valuable feedback: Early input can help you refine your ideas and avoid pitfalls.
  • Finding your collaborators: Sharing your interests and experiments can attract like-minded individuals.
  • Building a body of work: Every sketch, every draft, every experiment is part of your journey and contributes to your overall output.

"The minute you learn something, turn around and teach it to others," Kleon advises. This act of sharing solidifies your own learning and creates value for others.


How to "Show Your Work!"

It doesn't mean revealing every single messy detail, but it does mean being generous with your process.

  • Think Process, Not Just Product: What are the steps you take? What materials do you use? What challenges do you face? Share these glimpses.
  • Document Everything: Take photos, jot down notes, record videos. Even seemingly insignificant scraps can tell a compelling story later.
  • Share Your Influences: What inspires you? What books are you reading? What art are you looking at? Sharing your sources gives context and invites connection.
  • Tell Stories: People love narratives. Frame your work in progress with little stories about its origins, struggles, and triumphs.
  • Embrace the "So-So": Don't wait for perfection. Share your early drafts, your experiments, your less-than-perfect attempts. This makes your journey relatable and human.
  • Don't Be a Hoarder: Your ideas aren't precious jewels to be hidden away. The more you share, the more you attract, and the more your work evolves.


Be a Part of the Conversation

Show Your Work! isn't just about showing off; it's about participating. It's about being a node in a network of creative individuals, learning, growing, and contributing. By sharing your journey, you not only enrich your own work but also inspire others to do the same.

Stop agonizing over perfection. Start sharing your process. The world is waiting to see what you're up to!