Turning Pro

Turning Pro:  

Tap Your Inner Power and Create Your Life's Work

Turning Pro is one of Steven Pressfield's key non-fiction works, focusing on the transformative journey from being an amateur to becoming a professional in one's creative and personal pursuits. This book serves as a sequel and complement to his earlier work, "The War of Art," where he introduces the concept of Resistance as the primary obstacle to creative expression and personal achievement.

In "Turning Pro," Pressfield delves deeper into the mindset and behavioral changes required to overcome Resistance and achieve one's full potential. He distinguishes between the amateur and the professional, not through their level of success or the quality of their output, but through their approach, discipline, and dedication to their craft. The transition to "turning pro" is depicted as a pivotal moment in an individual's life, marking a shift from hobbyist or dilettante to someone who commits fully to their calling, regardless of the external rewards.

Pressfield outlines the characteristics of a professional, including showing up every day, staying on the job all day, and being committed over the long haul. He emphasizes that becoming a professional is a mental and spiritual decision, one that involves facing one's fears, embracing discipline, and dedicating oneself entirely to the work at hand. The professional, according to Pressfield, operates from a deeper place of self-awareness and purpose, driven by an inner need to express and contribute, rather than by the desire for fame or external validation.

"Turning Pro" is both a call to action and a psychological guide, offering insights into the internal barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential and providing strategies to overcome these obstacles. Pressfield's work is inspirational, urging readers to confront their Resistance, make the decision to turn pro, and pursue their true calling with the seriousness and dedication it deserves. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to make a significant change in their creative life, work ethic, and personal development journey.

Steven Pressfield
ARIA - Acceptance 
OCD Challenge - Acceptance