Finding the motivation to match the prolific work of some of history’s greatest artists can be intimidating, but studying their daily routines can be liberating. The best artists usually have ample time in their days to relax and live their whole lives. Short bursts of intense productivity are standard, as is the emphasis on daily relaxation.
There are other similarities. From the quiet hum of Beethoven’s dawn compositions to Maya Angelou’s disciplined writing sessions in a sparse hotel room, the daily routines of history’s most prolific artists reveal one shared secret: the power of structure. Building low-stakes, positive habits to be practised daily(ish) can hold the key to a robust work profile.
