Big Magic had been on my Amazon Wish List for what felt like forever. When it first popped up in my life, I truly did not understand what it was about. I read the description many, many times, and for some reason, I could not wrap my head around it. I now realize that this is because my soul wasn't in the place to take it in and benefit from it.
To give full credit where it is due, it was during the process of reading this book that I was hit by the inspiration/motivation to create a website with book reviews.
I have funny feelings about this book, even though its "catalyst for change" rating, in my mind, is very high. I didn't love the experience of reading it, but I absolutely adored the ideas inside. Which is a little weird. Elizabeth Gilbert's perspective on creativity and how to embrace it is something that all artists of all varieties should take in to enhance, stretch, and question their own perspective. It brings all sorts of great reminders to the table. It is important to note that there were moments when I had to reread sections because I found myself distracted and not fully paying attention to her writing (that could be my very human struggle with attention span, depending on the day). With that in mind, the ideas are big, and lend themselves to awesome brainstorming. Sometimes, though, I don't care about what she is saying.
I would love to LOVE my entire experience in reading this book, since I feel like it really is motivating and inspiring. Something I do love, though, is that Elizabeth Gilbert will not care either way about my opinion of this book (uhhh, not that she would even read this) as her perspective includes truly enjoying the process, not the outcome, which is a totally badass reminder in life. Whether you are looking to make changes in any way - creating art, writing, "getting healthy", or creating anything, her message in this book is about not getting caught up in the end result, but focusing on your experience in the process. Which I adore.
Catalyst for Change Rating: 5/5
Reading Enjoyment Rating: 3.5/5
Read this Book Rating: 4.5/5
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