Instead of striving for perfection, the key to overcoming creative blocks is to allow yourself to create subpar work. Acknowledging that 80-90% of an initial draft will be discarded lowers the stakes and makes it easier to begin the creative process.
Contrary to the belief that banning a book increases its sales (the Streisand effect), the current wave of book bans is successfully creating a chilling effect. This leads to decreased sales and access for authors, particularly those from marginalized groups.
The creative process is like calling out "Marco" in isolation for a long time. The reward comes when the audience responds with "Polo," signifying a connection. This metaphor also highlights the creator's responsibility to listen for the "Marco" calls of others needing help.
When asked to defend humanity, author John Green wouldn't show art or technology, but a graph. The 60% decline in child mortality since 1995 proves humanity's capacity for collective action, compassion, and prioritizing the vulnerable, demonstrating our potential for good.
To build a sustainable career, creatives can't rely solely on external validation like sales or praise. Motivation must come from the intrinsic value found in the act of "making the thing." This internal focus is the only way to avoid an insatiable and unfulfilling need for approval.
While reading great literature is essential, analyzing poorly written books can be a more effective learning tool for writers. The flaws in craft are more visible, allowing an aspiring writer to deconstruct the mechanics of storytelling and see how a narrative works (or doesn't).
Green first attempts to resolve issues with corporations like pharma companies through private channels. He finds this less confrontational and often effective. Public campaigns are a last resort when private conversations fail to produce change, a tactic other advocates can model.