Steven Pressfield identifies 'Resistance' as the internal force that sabotages creative and professional growth, manifesting as procrastination, fear, and perfectionism. He emphasizes adopting a professional mindset—showing up daily regardless of inspiration, detaching self-worth from outcomes, and persisting through doubt. Physical discipline, like his early-morning gym routine, mirrors the mental rigor needed for creative work. He advocates capturing fleeting ideas, embracing multiple drafts, and working in focused bursts rather than long sessions. Resistance intensifies with the significance of the project, often fueled by fear, societal norms, or loved ones’ projections. Pressfield highlights the importance of ritual, such as invoking the muse, to access inspiration beyond the ego. He warns against numbing behaviors and distractions like social media, which suppress vulnerability essential for creativity. Turning pro requires taking one’s work seriously, accepting personal sacrifice, and enduring criticism without attachment. Ultimately, sustained creative fulfillment comes not from external validation but from disciplined practice, inner commitment, and alignment with one’s calling.