Turning Pro

Overview

"Turning Pro: Tap Your Inner Power and Create Your Life's Work" by Steven Pressfield, published in 2012, is a follow-up to his acclaimed book "The War of Art." It focuses on the transition from being an amateur to becoming a professional in one's creative or entrepreneurial pursuits.

Central Thesis

The central thesis of "Turning Pro" is that the key to overcoming resistance and achieving success in one's calling is to adopt a professional mindset. Pressfield argues that this shift is a conscious decision that fundamentally changes how one approaches their work and life.

Key Strengths

1. Motivational Content: Offers inspiration for those struggling to pursue their passions.

2. Practical Insights: Provides concrete differences between amateur and professional mindsets.

3. Personal Anecdotes: Pressfield shares his own experiences, making the concepts relatable.

4. Concise Format: The book is brief and to the point, making it easy to digest and revisit.

Structure of the Book

The book is divided into three main sections:

1. The Amateur Life

2. The Professional Mindset

3. The Professional Life

Key Concepts and Practical Insights

• Shadow Careers: The idea that people often pursue careers that are close to, but not quite, their true calling. Identify if you're in a shadow career and consider pivoting to your true passion.

• Habits of Professionals: Outlines specific behaviours that distinguish professionals from amateurs. Develop consistent work habits and show up every day, regardless of mood.

• Overcoming Resistance: Strategies for pushing through internal barriers to creativity and productivity. Recognize resistance as a sign that you're on the right path and push through it.

• The Professional Mindset: Emphasises the importance of treating your craft as a job, not a hobby. Set regular working hours and stick to them, even when you don't feel inspired.

Memorable Quotes

• "The amateur believes he must first overcome his fear; then he can do his work. The professional knows that fear can never be overcome."

• "The professional has learned that success, like happiness, comes as a by-product of work."

• "The amateur tweets. The pro works."

Critique

While the book is praised for its motivational content, some critics argue that it lacks depth in certain areas and may oversimplify the complexities of creative and professional pursuits. Additionally, the repetitive nature of some concepts may not appeal to all readers.

Target Audience

"Turning Pro" is particularly valuable for artists, writers, entrepreneurs, and anyone struggling to transition from dabbling in their passion to pursuing it seriously. It's also useful for those seeking motivation to overcome creative blocks or professional stagnation.

Conclusion

"Turning Pro" offers a powerful perspective on the mindset shift required to move from amateur to professional in any creative or entrepreneurial endeavour. Steven Pressfield's direct and motivational style, combined with practical insights, makes this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to take their craft or career to the next level. While it may not provide a comprehensive roadmap, it serves as an excellent catalyst for personal and professional growth.