As homeschooling parents, one of our primary goals is to help our children discover and cultivate their unique talents, passions, and creative potential. We want to empower them to courageously pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to the world. In his groundbreaking book, The War of Art, Steven Pressfield offers invaluable insights into the nature of creativity, the obstacles that stand in the way of its expression, and the mindset and habits necessary to overcome those obstacles. By incorporating his teachings into our homeschooling approach, we can help our children develop the resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment necessary to bring their creative visions to life.

At the core of Pressfield’s philosophy is the idea that creativity is not a selfish act or a bid for attention, but rather a sacred calling and a gift to the world. As he poignantly states, “Creative work is not a selfish act or a bid for attention on the part of the actor. It’s a gift to the world and every being in it. Don’t cheat us of your contribution. Give us what you got.” By helping our children understand the profound importance of their unique talents and contributions, we empower them to approach their creative pursuits with a sense of purpose, reverence, and responsibility.

Our philosophy of “Question More, Action Knowledge” aligns perfectly with Pressfield’s emphasis on courageous action in the face of fear and uncertainty. Encourage your child to embrace their creative calling with a spirit of curiosity, experimentation, and bold determination. Help them understand that fear is a natural part of the creative process, and that the key to overcoming it lies not in its elimination, but in the willingness to take action in spite of it.

One powerful insight Pressfield offers is the idea that the greatest obstacle to creative expression is what he calls “Resistance,” or the inner force that seeks to sabotage our efforts and keep us stuck in our comfort zones. He explains, “Resistance is the most toxic force on the planet. It is the root of more unhappiness than poverty, disease, and erectile dysfunction. To yield to Resistance deforms our spirit. It stunts us and makes us less than we are and were born to be.”

By teaching our children to recognize and confront Resistance in all its forms, we help them develop the self-awareness and mental strength necessary to persevere in the face of doubt, procrastination, and self-sabotage. Encourage them to view Resistance as a sign that they are on the right track, and to use its presence as a fuel for their creative efforts.

Pressfield also stresses the importance of turning pro, or approaching one’s creative pursuits with the discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of a skilled craftsman. He advises, “The amateur plays part-time, the professional full-time. The amateur is a weekend warrior. The professional is there seven days a week.” By teaching our children to show up consistently for their creative work, to prioritize it as a non-negotiable part of their daily lives, and to continue putting in the effort even when they don’t feel inspired, we help them develop the habits and mindset necessary for long-term success.

Incorporate this principle into your homeschooling journey by encouraging your child to establish a regular creative practice, whether it be writing, painting, music, or any other form of self-expression. Help them carve out dedicated time and space for their work, and celebrate their commitment to showing up day after day, regardless of the immediate results.

By nurturing your child’s creative potential and empowering them to approach their pursuits with courage, discipline, and a sense of sacred responsibility, you set the stage for a lifetime of meaningful self-expression and contribution. In our next article, we’ll explore practical strategies for helping your child overcome Resistance, turn pro, and bring their unique gifts to the world.