The Big Thing
Summary:
Whether it’s the Great American Novel or a groundbreaking new app, many people want to create a Big Thing, but finding the motivation to get started, let alone complete the work, can be daunting. In The Big Thing, New York Times business writer and editor Phyllis Korkki combines real life stories, science, and insights from her own experience to illuminate the factors that drive people to complete big creative projects—and the obstacles that threaten to derail success.
In the course of creating her own Big Thing, this book, Korkki explores the individual and collaborative projects of others: from memoirs, art installations, and musical works to theater productions, small businesses and charities. She identifies the main aspects of a Big Thing, including meaningful goals; focus and effort; the difficulties posed by the demands of everyday life; and the high risk of failure and disappointment. Korkki also breaks down components of the creative process and the characteristics that define it, and offers her thoughts on avoiding procrastination, on staying motivated, scheduling a routine, and overcoming self-doubt and the restrictions of a day job. Filled with inspiring stories, practical advice, and a refreshing dose of honesty, “The Big Thing”doesn’t minimize the negative side of such pursuits—including the fact that big projects are hard to complete and raise difficult questions about one’s self-worth.
Inspiring, wise, humorous and good-natured, “The Big Thing” is a meditation on the importance of self-expression and purpose. (Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)
Please note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review courtesy of TLC Book Tours.
Review:
This book was very Meta (self-acknowledged), which had me hesitating at a few moments, but the book really came through for me! Since the book wasn’t simply a description of the trials and challenges the author was working through in her own journey, it really kept me interested. I loved that Korkki was willing to give anything a shot and worked with a variety of experts to get their perspectives as well.
Though I think this book would be fantastic for many people, part of me kept wanting to say “JUST START!” Starting is definitely the hardest thing when it comes to a dream, but once started it’s also the easiest thing to improve as you find out what mistakes you’re making! Personal opinion aside, the book was definitely inspiring to give yourself a real shot at your dream and to stop putting it off until tomorrow.
Rating: 4 stars!
Who should read it? Folks with a lingering dream that is unfulfilled!