Forget the Label: Why Doing the Creative Verb Beats Being an Artist

How often do we define ourselves by what we are—a writer, a painter, a musician—rather than by what we do? Austin Kleon’s 'Keep Going' invites us to shift our focus from the noun to the verb. Creativity is not a static identity but an ongoing action.

Think of children at play. Their joy comes from the act of making, not from the quality of the finished piece. This playful approach is a powerful lesson for adults caught in the trap of perfectionism and fear of judgment.

One liberating technique is to make intentionally bad art. This practice frees your mind from the pressure to be perfect and opens pathways for experimentation and discovery. By embracing the process—the verb—you invite growth and evolution into your creative life.

Labels can become cages, limiting you to certain mediums or styles. But creativity thrives in openness and movement. Forgetting the noun and embracing the verb allows you to explore new forms, take risks, and find joy in making.

Remember, creativity is a journey, not a destination. It’s about showing up, playing, experimenting, and allowing yourself to be surprised.

So, let go of the need to 'be' something and instead commit to 'doing'—the heart of all creative work.

Sources: GrowthHabit summary, Dan Silvestre notes, Austin Kleon podcast discussions 4 1 3