HOW TO LIVE

Finding Wisdom in Life’s Absurdities

Picture a man, perhaps mid-thirties and a little rumpled, standing on a bustling street corner in London, clutching a cup of coffee, while rain drizzles down around him. As he watches commuters rush past, lost in their own worlds, he can't help but chuckle at the absurdity of it all. This quiet moment reflects the essence of Scott Berkun's new book How to Live, a guide that challenges readers to embrace the unpredictability of life with open arms—and a healthy dose of humour.

Embracing Acceptance and Action

Berkun emphasizes that acceptance is not just about resigning oneself to fate but rather a proactive approach to engaging with life's quirks and uncertainties. The essence of taking action despite overwhelming odds resonates strongly with indie authors who often face loneliness and self-doubt in their creative journeys.

As freelance writers and self-publishers, many grapple daily with the fear of judgment, the looming spectre of failure that casts a shadow over every blank page. Yet as Berkun suggests, it’s precisely in these moments of absurdity and uncertainty that true creativity emerges. For authors, the key is not to shy away from potential pitfalls but to embrace them as part and parcel of the creative process.

Humour as a Lifeline

The author advocates for the use of humour as a tool for survival and growth. In the publishing world, where rejection letters and critical reviews often pile up, finding joy in the unpredictability of the journey can be a big step forward. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, Berkun encourages transforming them into opportunities for humour and learning.

This perspective can be liberating for indie authors. Consider an illustrative example: a writer whose manuscript was turned down multiple times by traditional publishers. Instead of spiralling into despair, this writer decided to embrace the situation, crafting a blog post full of wit about their journey through rejection—ultimately gaining a following and a publishing deal, independent of the conventional channels.

Cultivating Authentic Expression

Authenticity is at the heart of Berkun's philosophy. He posits that genuine creative expression often flourishes when we stop trying to conform to external expectations. This is particularly relevant for self-published authors who have the unique freedom to define their voices without the constraints of traditional publishing norms.

This sentiment aligns with the growing movement towards self-publishing, where writers can explore their unique styles, themes, and narratives without gatekeepers telling them what's marketable or suitable. Berkun's insights encourage authors to own their stories, quirks, and all—infusing their work with the genuine essence of their lived experiences.

Understanding Failure as Part of Growth

Failure is an inevitable component of any creative journey. Berkun reminds us that learning to accept and even celebrate failure can foster resilience. For indie authors, accepting failure doesn't mean accepting mediocrity; rather, it opens doors to creative exploration. This viewpoint is crucial when faced with critical reviews or slow sales.

A vivid example involves an author who received a critical review on their debut novel. Instead of allowing it to define their self-worth or stifle their creativity, they used the feedback as a springboard. They took action—reflecting on their writing style and embracing constructive criticism—ultimately leading to the creation of an even more compelling second book, which garnered praise.

What This Means for Authors

Berkun's How to Live extends beyond mere life advice; it serves as a vital handbook for indie authors. By adopting his principles of acceptance, humour, and proactive engagement, writers can cultivate a more resilient creative practice. They are reminded that their journeys are distinctive, that absurdities can enrich their storytelling, and that authenticity leads to deeper connections with readers.

As you navigate your writing journey, remember to embrace each absurd turn and allow your authentic self to shine through in your work. Your unique voice is your greatest asset.

Your next step: this week, reflect on a recent setback in your writing or publishing journey. How can you infuse humour or acceptance into the experience? Challenge yourself to write about it, embrace it, and see where it takes your creativity.