The pursuit of lifelong learning is not only about acquiring new knowledge and skills but also about cultivating a mindset and way of being in the world. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin is a powerful exploration of how to live as an artist and cultivate a creative way of perceiving and interacting with the world. Here are ten notes and quotes the emerged from my reading of the book:

1. Creativity is a way of being in the world
   According to Rubin, creativity is not simply a talent or ability; it is a way of living and perceiving the world around us. To live as an artist is to embrace a way of being that is curious, open-minded, and engaged with the world around us.
2. Perception is everything
   Rubin stresses the importance of perception and how we choose to see the world. By shifting our perspective and looking at things in a different way, we can unlock new ideas and possibilities that were previously hidden.
3. Pay attention
   One of the key elements of living a creative life is paying attention. By being fully present in the moment, we can tune into our surroundings and notice the subtle details that are often overlooked. This practice of mindfulness can help us to be more present and engaged in all aspects of our lives.
4. Refine your sensitivity
   Rubin encourages us to refine our sensitivity and become attuned to the more subtle nuances of the world around us. By honing our senses and tuning into our intuition, we can develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world.
5. Look for what draws you in
   When pursuing a creative endeavor, it’s important to look for what draws you in and excites you. By focusing on what sparks our interest and curiosity, we can tap into our unique passions and strengths.
6. Notice what pushes you away
   Just as it’s important to notice what draws us in, it’s also important to pay attention to what pushes us away. By identifying our fears and limitations, we can work to overcome them and unleash our full potential.
7. Embrace the process
   Creativity is not a linear process, and there will be setbacks and challenges along the way. Rubin encourages us to embrace the process and stay committed to our vision, even when it feels difficult or uncertain.
8. Take risks
   Living a creative life requires taking risks and stepping outside of our comfort zones. By pushing ourselves to try new things and take calculated risks, we can discover new possibilities and unlock our full potential.
9. Cultivate a creative community
   Surrounding ourselves with other creative individuals can be a powerful source of inspiration and support. By connecting with others who share our passions and interests, we can learn from each other and grow together.
10. Trust the journey
    Finally, Rubin reminds us to trust the journey and have faith in our own abilities and potential. By staying true to ourselves and staying committed to our vision, we can achieve our goals and live a fulfilling and creative life.

The Creative Act: A Way of Being is a powerful guide for anyone seeking to cultivate a creative way of perceiving and being in the world. By embracing these ten lifelong learning lessons, we might just unlock new possibilities and live a life that is rich in creativity, passion, and purpose.