The Secret of Success in Creative Work

Ira Glass on Storytelling from David Shiyang Liu on Vimeo.

 
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The Struggle of Creative Work: Bridging the Gap Between Taste and Skill

In a video that has resonated deeply with creative individuals, Ira Glass, the host of “This American Life,” opens up about a very common yet often unspoken aspect of the creative work—the gap between one’s taste and their current abilities. He discusses an experience that nearly all artists, writers, designers, and creators encounter at some point in their careers. It is that uncomfortable phase where the vision in your mind, your standards of what you know is good, simply do not match the actual quality of the work you are producing. Glass highlights how this discrepancy can lead to a deep sense of frustration, as creative individuals feel that the work they’re creating doesn’t live up to their own high expectations. This internal struggle, according to Glass, is a crucial and inevitable part of growth as an artist.

The Discomfort of Creative Work: Why the Gap Exists

At the core of his message is the idea that developing creative talent requires time, effort, and a willingness to endure discomfort. The mismatch between one’s refined taste and current abilities often catches people off guard. Many creatives enter their fields because they have good taste and aspire to produce high-quality work, but early on, their skills haven’t yet caught up with their vision. This gap can be disheartening, leading to feelings of inadequacy and often causing people to give up when their work falls short of their aspirations

How Perseverance Can Elevate Your Creative Work

Glass doesn’t sugarcoat this struggle; instead, he emphasizes perseverance. The only way to bridge the gap is through sheer output—creating a large volume of work. By consistently showing up and producing, even when the work feels subpar, progress is made. Doing a “huge volume of work” allows creators to grow and reach the quality they aspire to. Practice, repetition, and relentless effort gradually refine skills, and the key is to keep going, keep making, and keep creating

Producing a Large Volume of Creative Work as a Growth Strategy

Glass’s message is a reminder that even the most successful creatives have faced this difficult phase. It’s not a unique flaw but a universal experience. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t often comes down to persistence. Many give up when faced with the gap between their taste and abilities, but those who push forward eventually close it. The key, as Glass notes, is not creating a masterpiece overnight but steadily accumulating experience and improvement.

Overcoming Self-Criticism in Creative Work

Glass also emphasizes being kind to oneself during this stage. It’s easy to become hypercritical, but understanding that this phase is part of the journey can alleviate pressure. By acknowledging the gap without letting it paralyze us, we stay motivated. Glass advises that early attempts won’t be perfect—they may be far from it—but they are crucial stepping stones toward mastery.

Creative Work Requires Patience: Embrace the Process, Not the Product

The idea of embracing imperfection and focusing on the process rather than the outcome applies beyond creative work; it benefits anyone striving for improvement. Whether learning a language, playing an instrument, or mastering a sport, there’s always a gap between aspiration and ability. Frustration is natural, but consistent practice and pushing through discomfort is key. In a world focused on instant results, Glass’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that true growth is a slow, steady process requiring patience and commitment.

Applying the Lessons of Creative Work Beyond Art

Ira Glass’s words encourage those struggling with the gap between their taste and abilities. He reminds us that everyone starts somewhere, and no one creates flawless work from the beginning. This initial struggle is not a lack of talent but part of the journey to mastery. By persisting and pushing through discomfort, creatives can eventually align their abilities with their ambitions. The journey requires persistence, resilience, and the courage to keep creating. With time and effort, the gap will close, and our work will reflect the quality we envision.