What it means to turn pro

In "Turning Pro", author, Steven Pressfield takes "The War of Art" concepts to the next level, showing us what it means to be a professional in our craft. 

Turning pro is a complete mindset shift, a transformation in how we approach our work and lives. 

👉 The amateur fears failure…

→ the professional embraces it as part of the journey. 

👉 The amateur waits for inspiration…

→ the professional shows up and creates it. 

👉 The amateur compares themselves to others… 

→ the professional focuses on their own path. 

👉 The amateur blames circumstances…

→ the professional takes responsibility for their actions. 

👉 The amateur seeks validation…

→ the professional finds fulfillment in the work itself.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ 

Pressfield’s context for the “Turning Pro” shift is mostly related to pursuing passions, as he is a writer. 

However, this shift is extremely powerful for people in their careers, business, entrepreneurship, etc.  

Why? 

Because when you look at what you do and make that mental shift to “Turn pro” it flips your entire perspective and how you approach your work. 

The pro commits fully, shows up consistently, faces fears head-on, and does the work. 

"The professional concentrates on the work and allows rewards to come or not." Pressfield

When you turn pro, you prioritize your craft, deciding your dreams and aspirations are worthy of your time, energy, and focus. 

Here are choices you make when turning pro: 

1. Carve out non-negotiable work time, saying no to other commitments. 

2. Invest in your growth through courses, workshops, or mentorship. 

3. Surround yourself with professionals who share your dedication. 

4. Embrace failure as a necessary part of the journey, learning and growing. 

Turning pro is about consistency, persistence, and showing up to do the work, even when it's hard. 

Turning pro is laying that foundation daily until you've built something remarkable.