Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008 171 Comments
Training in horseback archery in Nikko, Japan. (Photo: David West)
2008 has been one of the most exciting years of my life. I did more dealmaking and met more people than in the last 5 years combined. This produced many surprise insights about business and human nature, especially as I uncovered tons of my own false assumptions.
Here are some of the things I learned and loved in 2008. I’ve linked to posts that I wrote when exploring some of the concepts in more detail…
Favorite reads of 2008: Zorba the Greek and Seneca: Letters from a Stoic. These are two of the most readable books of practical philosophies I’ve ever had the fortune to encounter. If you have to choose one, get Zorba, but Lucius Seneca will take you further. Both are fast reads of 2-3 evenings.
Don’t accept large or costly favors from strangers. This karmic debt will come back to haunt you. If you can’t pass it up, immediately return to karmic neutrality with a gift of your choosing. Repay it before they set the terms for you. Exceptions: ubersuccessful mentors who are making introductions and not laboring on your behalf.
You don’t have to recoup losses the same way you lose them. I own a home in San Jose but moved almost 12 months ago. It’s been empty since, and I’m paying a large mortgage each month. The best part? I don’t care. But this wasn’t always the case. For many months, I felt demoralized as others pressured me to rent it, emphasizing how I was just flushing money away otherwise. Then I realized: you don’t have to make $ back the same way you lose it. If you lose $1,000 at the blackjack table, should you try and recoup it there? Of course not. I don’t want to deal with renters, even with a property management company. The solution: leave the house alone, use it on occasion, and just create incoming revenue elsewhere that would cover the cost of the mortgage through consulting, publishing, etc.
One of the most universal causes of self-doubt and depression: trying to impress people you don’t like. Stressing to impress is fine, but do it for the right people — those whom you want to emulate.
Slow meals = life. From Daniel Gilbert of Harvard to Martin Seligman of Princeton, the “happiness” (self-reported well-being) researchers seem to agree on one thing: meal time with friends and loved ones is a direct predictor of happiness. Have at least one 2-3-hour dinner and/or drinks per week — yes, 2-3 hours — with those who make you smile and feel good. I find the afterglow effect to be greatest and longest with groups of 5 or more. Two times that are conducive to this: Thursday dinners or after-dinner drinks and Sunday brunches.
The two blog posts whose principles I’ve practiced the most in 2008: The Art of Letting Bad Things Happen (from 2007)
; The Choice-Minimal Lifestyle: 6 Formulas for More Output and Less Overwhelm (from 2008)
Adversity doesn’t build character; it reveals it.
(Suggested reading: How to Test-Drive Friends)
Related: Money doesn’t change you; it reveals who you are when you no longer have to be nice.
Total Immersion swimming
(Suggested reading: How I Learned to Swim Effortlessly in 10 Days)
It doesn’t matter how many people don’t get it. What matters is how many people do. If you have a strong informed opinion, don’t keep it to yourself. Try and help people and make the world a better place. If you strive to do anything remotely interesting, just expect a small percentage of the population to always find a way to take it personally. F*ck ‘em. There are no statues erected to critics.
Related: You’re never as bad as they say you are. My agent used to send me every blog or media hit for The 4-Hour Workweek. Eight weeks after publication, I asked him to only forward me positive mentions in major media or factual inaccuracies I needed to respond to. An important correlate: you’re never as good as they say you are, either.
It’s not helpful get a big head or get depressed. The former makes you careless and the latter makes you lethargic. I wanted to have untainted optimism but remain hungry. Speaking of hungry…
Eat a high-protein breakfast within 30 minutes of waking and go for a 10-20-minute walk outside afterward, ideally bouncing a handball or tennis ball. This one habit is better than a handful of Prozac in the morning.
(Suggested reading: The 3-Minute Slow-Carb Breakfast, How to “Peel” Hardboiled Eggs without Peeling)
I dislike losing money about 50x more than I like making it. Why 50x? Logging time as an experiment, I concluded that I often spend at least 50x more time to prevent a hypothetical unit of $100 from being lost vs. earned. The hysterical part is that, even after becoming aware of this bias, it’s hard to prevent the latter response. Therefore, I manipulate the environmental causes of poor responses instead of depending on error-prone self-discipline:
I should not invest in public stocks where I cannot influence outcomes. Once realizing that almost no one can predict risk tolerance and response to losses, I moved all of my investments into fixed-income and cash-like instruments in July 2008 for this reason, setting aside 10% of pre-tax income for angel investments where I can contribute significant UI/design, PR, and corporate partnership help.
(Suggested reading: Rethinking Investing – Part 1, Rethinking Investing – Part 2)
A good question to revisit whenever overwhelmed: Are you having a break-down or a breakthrough?
Rehearse poverty regularly — restrict even moderate expenses for 1-2 weeks and give away 20%+ of minimally-used clothing — so you can think big and take “risks” without fear. (Seneca)
A mindset of scarcity (which breeds jealousy and unethical behavior) is due to a disdain for those things easily obtained. (Seneca)
A small cup of black Kenyan AA coffee with cinnamon on top, no milk or sweeteners.
It’s usually better to keep old resolutions than to make new ones.
Chloe Sevigny. ‘Nuff said.
To bring in a wonderful 2009, I’d like to quote from an email I received today from a mentor of more than a decade:
While many are wringing their hands, I recall the 1970s when we were suffering from an oil shock causing long lines at gas stations, rationing, and 55 MPH speed limits on Federal highways, a recession, very little venture capital ($50 million per year into VC firms), and, what President Jimmy Carter (wearing a sweater while addressing the Nation on TV because he had turned down the heat in the White House) called a “malaise”. It was during those times that two kids without any real college education, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, started companies that did pretty well. Opportunities abound in bad times as well as good times. In fact, the opportunities are often greater when the conventional wisdom is that everything is going into the toilet.
Well…we’re nearing the end of another great year, and, despite what we read about the outlook for 2009, we can look forward to a New Year filled with opportunities as well as stimulating challenges.
Happy New Year everyone!
Goofing around at a maid cafe in Akihabara, Tokyo. (Photo: David West)
Posted on December 31st, 2008
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171 Responses to “Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008”
December 31st, 2008
8:34 pm
Thanks for all your motivation and inspiration to press on………
December 31st, 2008
8:34 pm
Hey Tim,
Loved this post. I’ll incorporate the walking while bouncing a tennis ball into my routine tomorrow.
2008 was full of crazy things I never thought I’d do. I went fully freelance and, thanks to your book, have some pretty massive things going for 2009.
I’m beginning to lose weight (11lbs in 2 weeks) and tracking it on my blog, hoping to perhaps help anyone who might come along.
Anyway, thanks for your book and if I could get a chance to talk with you through email I’d appreciate it. Not expecting it but thought I might try.
Have a great New Year and I’m looking forward to your next book. And also, I’m kind of curious about the education system research you talked about in the video in your last post. (I’m an avid hater of public education).
Thanks man!
Derek
December 31st, 2008
8:47 pm
Thank you Tim, Happy New Year!
December 31st, 2008
8:51 pm
Karmic debt… I know this blog isn’t about spirituality but sometimes I wonder if all those torrents I’ve downloaded will come back to haunt me in some way.
December 31st, 2008
8:51 pm
Great list to the end of the year….and beginning of a new one. Thanks, Tim.
December 31st, 2008
8:59 pm
I really enjoyed this post, Tim.
I’ve been telling fellow directors, actors, producers & writers about 4HWW since it was released. You have many fans in Los Angeles.
Hope to work/play with you in some capacity, soon.
All the best,
Ken
December 31st, 2008
9:11 pm
karmic neutrality? haha good one Tim. If that is really true, then how come Kim Jong Ill has not died of excessive karmic debt, yet?
December 31st, 2008
9:15 pm
Why bounce a handball/tennis ball during the walk? Perhaps it is because the act is a simple one, but it takes just enough concentration to stimulate brain activity, thus allowing your mind to wander. At least that’s my hypothesis. Tim?
December 31st, 2008
9:22 pm
Tim,
you are the man.
happy new year.
thanks for the insights.
that is all.
December 31st, 2008
9:32 pm
Tim, this may be your best blog post of the year, in my opinion.
I love this:
“…If you strive to do anything remotely interesting, just expect a small percentage of the population to always find a way to take it personally. F*ck ‘em. There are no statues erected to critics.”
Happy New Year Tim!
December 31st, 2008
10:07 pm
Hi Tim,
Thanks so much for all your efforts this past year, they have inspired and moved me. I only wish that I had 1/10th the creative juice that you had, but your ideas have helped me personally.
I love the statues to critics idea.
Best wishes for a fantastic 09.
December 31st, 2008
10:25 pm
Happy New Year! Thanks so much for everything you do and who you are, blessings to you and yours! :) ~Marcie
December 31st, 2008
10:26 pm
I love the practice poverty line. Ryan Holiday has a great post on that.
http://www.ryanholiday.net/archives/perspective.phtml
‘Tis all about perspective.
December 31st, 2008
10:52 pm
Happy New Year,
I’m just amazed how you continue to love Japan — I thought my home country went out of fashion more than 10 years ago . . .
Very good read — I especially like the slow meal and “What matters is how many people do” part.
December 31st, 2008
11:28 pm
so much of what you said resonated with me. it came at a perfect time in my career and life…
so many changes to be made, it is good i know have a better understanding of who i care to impress and what i am really striving for in my life.
January 1st, 2009
12:05 am
Brilliant advice.
January 1st, 2009
12:59 am
Hi Tim,
Wishing you and all family members a great trip round the sun in 2009.
:-)
January 1st, 2009
1:16 am
Awesome post
thanks for all the great posts in 2008
Happy New Year!
January 1st, 2009
2:37 am
Great article.
Probably one of the best.
All the information is great.
Keep up the great work and cant wait to see more things from you.
Only moving ahead in 2009.
Good luck.
January 1st, 2009
2:47 am
Thanks so much for commenting, all!
To Bryan — why bounce a tennis ball or handball? — because it’s fun and makes you smile! It’s just enough to make you present-focused and pull you out of your preoccupied head for nice walk.
Happy 2009! It’s going to be a great year :)
G’night y pura vida a todos,
Tim
January 1st, 2009
2:58 am
Hi Tim,
This was an awesome post. I wished I had spent some time doing what you did – recap the lessons I learnt last year. I especially like the point about not having to recoup your losses the way you made them. It applies to aspects of life other than finances too, I believe.
Thanks for writing this. I’m going to sit down today or tomorrow and journal my personal lessons learnt. Great post!
January 1st, 2009
3:04 am
Happy New Years!!!!! Tim, you bring a smile to me when times are not that great!!! I really want to say THANKS AGAIN for inspiring hope : )
Jose
January 1st, 2009
3:38 am
@Tim
Well… for me, one of the biggest highlights of 2008 has been getting hold of your book – 4HWW. And it is wonderful for all of us to be in touch with you – its an enriching experience :)
Happy New Year to you too.
Take care
January 1st, 2009
4:08 am
Tim,
thanks for the book and all the cool ideas. It looks like it fits my situation really well.
I’ll try the kenyan coffee and walk thing next.
January 1st, 2009
6:03 am
thanks for sharing these Tim!
I had a pretty good year and one of my top 5 “magic moments” this year was reading your book and being so so so inspired by it
I wish you well in 2009 my friend
p.s. thanks for the Book recs. I’m always looking for good books to read. =)
January 1st, 2009
6:34 am
Tim thankyou so much for everything you have inspired us with this passed year.
2009 looks to be one of my best yet- my fiance and I are going on our first mini retirement, to Chile for 4 months for snowboarding then on to Costa Rica/ Nicaragua to learn to surf for 2 months.
Thankyou thankyou thankyou and we wish you all the best for 2009
January 1st, 2009
6:51 am
Tim,
Words can not possibly express the profound impact your book, blog, and other ventures have had on my life. For Christmas I gave out over 30 copies of your book, and most of the recipients have already read the entire thing and have had the same “eureka moments” I experienced.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom and being so open in embracing your readers (the live video chat was awesome). I’m only 20 minutes from Princeton, so next time you are in the area giving a presentation I’d love to check out.
Thanks again Tim, and Happy New Year!
January 1st, 2009
6:51 am
With this new I have two words for you Tim: Thank you.
You’ve changed my life, the way I look at the world.
Greetings from Buenos Aires che!
Ar
January 1st, 2009
7:15 am
Thank YOU,
KIm and I just wanted to say thank YOU (from Rio de Janeiro). Without your passion and commitment for creating a muse we wouldn’t have been inspired to create ours. We spent the last night of 2008 with 2 million people on Copacabana beach watching the fireworks (while are muse was ticking away)!
From the beaches of Rio,
Happy New Year
Rob and Kim
January 1st, 2009
8:32 am
Hey Tim,
That was really well structured. I think I’m going to head over to my blog and do the same for 2008. It sure was a fabulous read. I was just reading your entry in “You’ve Got to Read This Book” (co. Canfield,). It’s great summing up your life in terms of the book that’s influenced you the most.
Keep up the amazing work on the blog! And keep the stories coming in. They’re great reads.
January 1st, 2009
8:38 am
Tim,
Happy New Year– Great post. I would just like to say that I have always had an instinctive “the glass is 1/2 full mentallity”. Probably from my competitive athletic 27 year career. But you have really prodded me this year to take my life to the next level by taking more risk.
I agree with you on a lot of things; namely that the amount of opportunity that is around us is at an all time high. I can tell you that after I read your book in June of 08 (and pulled my head out of my _ss) I accomplished more with my fitness business’s in Dec. (normally a slow time cause everyone is running around for X-mas like chickens with their heads cut off) then in the 11 months prior.
Also reading your book has allowed me to think outside the box.
As I was raised by a blue collar worker (great work ethic but little creativity and risk taking power) and being a truck driver myself for 18 years with the same mindset now find myself truly living a dream life. The main reason why is I started following people like you. And you know the old saying, “You turn into who you hang around”.
So thanks so much for inspiring us all, keep up the great work. I am very much looking forward to your next book. If I can help you out in any way, please, let me know.
I have learned a lot about fitness & health since I have been passionately studying the affects of intense athletic competition since 1979 as a drug free athlet.
I also have had the luxury of being “arguably” the busiest professional fitness trainer in the world; as I have sold and serviced over 1.8 Million $$$$
of one hour work-outs to a wide variety of clients.
Professional athletes, stay at home house moms, CEO’s of big companies and small companies, mail-men, pastors, busy double income couples, to sick, diseased, and physically challenged individuals.
Through the experience of passionatelly studying what works and does not work for fitness, fatloss, muscle gain, athleticism, stress reduction, energy management, and longevity; in over 18,000 work-outs with clients, and over 8,000 personal work-outs I have learned alot.
Among one of the biggest things I have learned is that it is common knowledge what to eat, and how to train, but what is considerably more important than that is “how to think”. How to reframe situations and how to empower ones self with “looking at things from a different perspective”. This is the area that I am most passionate about and believe I have leaned the most. In fact; I have had several clients reverse diseases and physical limitations by focusing on some unique mental strategies that I have developed.
In fact, as fast paced as today’s society is our attitude can take us up to new heights or down low to a deep dark place with in hours. So we need to stand guard over our thoughts, words, attitudes, and actions daily. I found out that a fellow worker and person that I held dear for 10 years took his own life.
But on the other hand I had a client save his life and basically reverse a disease with his thoughts.
If you would like to check out a 3 minute video of his experience go to;
[website and full information available at URL through Darin's name. Sorry Darin -- comment policy!]
So any way Tim, I would love to help you in any way that I can; cause I know that like my buddy Tom Venuto’s new book “The Fatloss Solution”, your upcoming book has the potential to impact and save many, many lives.
And I am also very interested in your mission to over haul the school system.
I believe that guys like us, and the likes of Tony Robbins could do it.
Let’s keep rocking baby in 09.
Darin (The Chicago Kid)
January 1st, 2009
8:42 am
You the man!
January 1st, 2009
8:43 am
Rob and Kim:
Glad you enjoyed New Year in Rio. Fireworks at Copa are magnific.
Tim:
Thanks for sharing. I had read Zorba, but nothing from Seneca. Added to my Amazon wishlist. =)
¡Feliz año, y saludos desde Buenos Aires! (Oh, and thanks for ruining my life, too. Man, this La Viruta thing is more than addictive!)
January 1st, 2009
8:49 am
Excellent stuff – and an especially good throwback to two key blog posts (The Art of Letting Bad Things Happen and The Choice-Minimal Lifestyle: 6 Formulas for More Output and Less Overwhelm).
The concept of “routine enables innovation where it’s most valuable” has been a life-changer.
Many Thanks!
January 1st, 2009
8:59 am
[...] to me. It’s really brilliant stuff. Here’s a snippet I really liked from his “Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008” [...]
January 1st, 2009
9:09 am
Congratulations of a great year, Tim. Good luck with 2009.
~Gennaro
January 1st, 2009
9:14 am
Tim
How do you reconcile rehearsing poverty regularly relative to the avoiding scarcity mindset?
January 1st, 2009
9:39 am
great wrapup for the year. thanks for the new reading recos. have a great 2009.
AL
January 1st, 2009
9:58 am
As always, great information and a tidbit to make us want more! As in, who do you owe the Karmic debt to? :)
Thank you for starting off 2009 by giving me a workable lesson plan. I agree, while the major media report obstacles to growth and an economy gone south, all I see are opportunities. :)
January 1st, 2009
10:00 am
Tim and all-
I anxiously await posts to this blog because its always entertaining, useful, and inspirational. I wish you all the best.
Tim- A special thanks…You’re book has caused me to change my life and the way I look at it. I picked it up having no real idea what to expect while on a trip. I’ve read it over and over and given it to several friends and family members as a gift.
Best,
Paul C.
January 1st, 2009
10:13 am
Thanks Tim for a marvelous post and a great blog. All the best to you in 2009! …and please keep up the great work.
January 1st, 2009
10:39 am
2008 was a tough year for me. Fortunately much of it was tough because of change that I brought on.
January 1st, 2009
10:54 am
What a great reflection on the past – it is one of the ways we can better look into the future. Everyone should be taking some time out over the next few days to complete similar lists of their own.
One thing I’m going to do is assess my previous year’s dreamline – and establish my next one. It’s going to be bigger and better of course.
It’s been almost one year since reading 4HWW (first time). Since then I’ve left a stagnant corporate job, visited family and friends across the US, have plans to climb Mt Hood soon and leave for China and a wanderlust across SE Asia in one month.
I’ve also set aside time to begin writing and helping others through tutoring and an exciting Birthday Challenge fundraiser for my local homeless shelter – it’s called Adrian’s Birthday Challenge and I recommend everyone to set up their own Birthday Challenge.
Much love and respect to Tim and everyone else who sees this,
Adrian Reif
January 1st, 2009
10:58 am
Hi Andre!
I was at La Viruta on Monday night! It was great fun, even though I had to remain on the sidelines due to a complete lack of Tango training. Feliz Ano Nuevo!
Ciao
Dan
January 1st, 2009
11:05 am
Your insights and policies are excellent. I wanted to add a comment about your non investment in public stocks because of the manipulation and putting your money into cash and fixed income securities.
I agree 100% with your investment conclusions. Put your money in safe places and invest in areas that you know really well and have control of the outcome.
You might want to consider getting out of the US Dollar. Even if you’re making 5% from fixed income, but the dollar’s value is dropping 10% a year, you’re losing 5% a year in “purchasing power.” Which is what ultimately everyone is after. As the US Dollar goes down, almost every aspect of our life in the US will get more expensive.
A great book to read is Peter Schiff’s “Crash Proof.” He predicted the whole financial crisis we’re in now and gives very sound and conservative advice on where to put your money (fixed income assets outside the US Dollar).
His site is http://www.europac.net
Happy New Year
January 1st, 2009
11:13 am
great blog and I hope every one has a great 2009, I know I am working very hard at making mine the best ever.
January 1st, 2009
11:38 am
Hi Tim,
Your best post this year. Thanks.
January 1st, 2009
11:49 am
You’ve made ‘08′ very interesting. Many Blessings to you!!
January 1st, 2009
12:19 pm
Tim,
2008 started with me reading your book, but learning that there is more to you than just the book. You are an inspiring individual. I reference your philosophies on life often. Thanks for this post. Great read on the first day of the new year.
Kevin
January 1st, 2009
12:38 pm
Hey Tim,
First of all, thank you for a wonderful book and an informative blog. Hope you keep sharing your thoughts with all of us.
Second. Thanks to people like you, I finally started my media company and it’s going through a growth fase right now and soon i’ll be putting it all on auto pilot.
Furthermore for this year; I want to help others acheive financial independance, start a private pilot licence, finish my last year of college and being abroad at least 4 months of the year. Is it easy? No, but it ain’t hard either.
Greets and pura vida para ti tambien desde Holanda.
January 1st, 2009
12:53 pm
[...] food = life. (Slow Food movement link) This is one from Tim Ferris, author of the 4 hour work week. “From Daniel Gilbert of Harvard to Martin Seligman of [...]
January 1st, 2009
1:03 pm
any exciting goals for 2009 that you wish to share Tim? if so, we’d all love to hear about them :)
January 1st, 2009
1:22 pm
I made a map of this post.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/for_dprefect/3156539131/sizes/o/
January 1st, 2009
1:37 pm
[...] sharing your lessons learned in my 2008 lessons learned blog post. I also recommend reading Tim Ferriss’ (his are very specific), Chris Brogan’s, Colleen Wainright’s, and… Please do share [...]
January 1st, 2009
1:40 pm
Tim,
We don’t know each other yet, but after reading your book + blog for the past year, you’ve become one of my top role models.
Thanks for the high value you contribute to those of us who are serious when we say that we want to live life to its fullest.
Wishing you a year full of excitement and inspiration…
Jesse
January 1st, 2009
2:17 pm
I like your point on recouping losses elsewhere.
While it’s an expensive hobby to keep a spare house around, and it’s bad for business, I like the fact you trade-off between being a landlord vs. playing the game where your strengths and passions are. That’s good for business!
January 1st, 2009
2:53 pm
Thanks Tim … great post
Keep it up in 2009, really enjoy your posts !!
January 1st, 2009
3:30 pm
Tim, wanted to share my New Year’s tradition with you:
I spent the day creating the new year by mapping out my dreams for 2009. This helps me to visualize the year ahead and all its possibilities (not to mention helps breaks down the action steps needed to achieve them).
Here’s wishing you even more adventures and success in 2009!
January 1st, 2009
3:56 pm
Happy New Year Tim and that was a very nice post.
Rens
January 1st, 2009
5:22 pm
Great post..its always good to learn from the mistakes and victories of someone that has inspired you…I hope to glean your wisdom and apply it practically to my life….is there any news on the continuation of the “Trail by Fire” Show?
January 1st, 2009
5:26 pm
Tim
Thanks for the great words of wisdom and book nods. For the first time in a long time I am actually looking forward to the New Year due to things I have put into action…many thoughts, views, and methods crystalized after reading 4HWW.
Let me add my own saying that I came up with recently that helps me…
“The road is littered with those who have given up in the face of adversity, but it is paved by those that persevere.”
Thanks and Happy New Year everyone!
Spencer Hope Davis
Raleigh NC
January 1st, 2009
5:27 pm
Tim’s linked comments about deliberating too much reducing one’s effectiveness reminds me of a quote from a column in the March, 2005 ESQUIRE: “”Winners have about a third the number of thoughts in a day as losers.”
Also ZORBA THE GREEK is a great novel, and I know Tim didn’t read any fiction for a number of years, so I’m glad he’s learned that those who avoid fiction often don’t appreciate the special form of communication it is. Even Albert Einsten said, “”Dostoevsky gives me more than any scientist, more than Gauss.” (Carl Friedrich Gauss was a renowned German scientist and mathematician.)
January 1st, 2009
5:46 pm
Tim, loved the high protein and walking tip but most importantly the comments from your mentor put everything from the media in perspective. Everyone should slow done and take stock of their lives.
Thanks Tim ! You really inspire me !
January 1st, 2009
6:39 pm
[...] to think about from Tim Ferris’ blog: “While many are wringing their hands, I recall the 1970s when we were suffering from an oil [...]
January 1st, 2009
8:47 pm
[...] You can find this and more related info and readings at Tim’s blog. [...]
January 1st, 2009
10:37 pm
Thanks for sharing! So many good links & tips in here!
The photo of you w/ the maids is amazing. Your photos are so diverse and wild, they almost seem unreal at times.
January 1st, 2009
11:15 pm
WOW, Tim — you really put a lot of thought into that! Thanks for wrapping it all up in a neat little package for our convenience :D Following your lead, Amigo, and still looking forward to our rendezvous with destiny on the tango floor when I finally get to gaze into your blue eyes and ask for that number in person ;-)
Here’s my wrap-up for the year following up on our Five-Year Cyber-Party inspired by our friend & mentor, Jack Canfield:
January 1st, 2009
11:44 pm
Whoops! Should have put the link to my blog in the Website space (click my username to view “UPDATE 2009: HAPPY NEW YOU!!!”)
Oh, and btw, Neuro-training rocks! (e.g., walking with tennis balls, etc. — check out the vid of our crew on a backwards walkabout the neighborhood in the “Naturally F1T Family” group on our freeschool network (see link above/”NFF Schedule” thread.) My son, Keith, was experimenting with special effects and such that week. Add a little excitement to your daily stroll and shift into reverse! LOL HAND-pda :o)
Cheers ~
Penne & the CanDo! Crew :o)
Still hangin’ out here in sunny central Florida
Where the Orange & Palm trees sway… just like in LA!
January 1st, 2009
11:49 pm
That picture of you and the maids cracks me up!
2009 will be a great year for all of us!!
January 2nd, 2009
12:04 am
[...] – Tim Ferris [...]
January 2nd, 2009
12:16 am
Hola Tim,
Life is meant to be awe-inspiring and I enjoy your pizzazz. I admire your insights and when you uncover false assumptions. Your level of output is vastly determined by the size of your questions and I benefit from your zest for life, no- nonsense approach (this is a gorgeous quality) and your skills to think big, act bold and live a larger life (with purpose) each time you face adversity or success. So, continue doing your best, think bigger and aim higher.
By the way, I just requested your 2008 favorite reads from the public library (4hwk made it to the Los Angeles Public Library’s most requested Non-fiction titles- congrats).
Aside from those two books, I also added Radical Honesty to my reading list and will do a 21-day no-compliant experiment to start off the New Year…can’t wait.
January 2nd, 2009
12:22 am
Correction: I meant to say that I will join in and do a 21-day no-complaint experiment, though a no-compliant experiment would be fun too.
January 2nd, 2009
4:48 am
[...] Zitat, dass ich bei Tim Ferriss gefunden habe, muss zitiert werden: While many are wringing their hands, I recall the 1970s when we [...]
January 2nd, 2009
5:07 am
Happy New Year !
January 2nd, 2009
6:10 am
Great post Tim. Thanks and have a Happy New Year!
January 2nd, 2009
6:56 am
Hey Tim, great advice, I especially like the thoughts on recouping losses. As someone who rents out an investment property dealing with tenants can be a costly and time consuming nightmare if you get the wrong people which has happened to me in the past. It’s a bit of Russian roulette. Anyway it might even be a profit if you have it long enough!
January 2nd, 2009
7:58 am
[...] Ferris, of 4-Hour-Week fame, received an email from a long-time mentor and quoted parts of it in his blog: While many are wringing their hands, I [...]
January 2nd, 2009
8:15 am
Yet another great post! I especially like the part about ‘You don’t have to recoup losses the same way you lose them.’. That’s a great point and I think people stress too much about money. For example owners of a home should worry less about their investment and enjoy the fact that they have a place to live. Same with renters, stop feeling guilt that your ‘blowing’ away your money.
Hope you have a great 09 Tim!
January 2nd, 2009
9:38 am
….and the show has just begun! ;)
January 2nd, 2009
10:11 am
I loved the post. Especially the mention of Zorba as a practical philosophy read. I have been advocating the same book to all my friends for years and when i find myself in unpleasant situations, i ask “what would zorba do?”
cheers
January 2nd, 2009
10:20 am
I have bookmarked this post and also added a few quotes from it to an inspiration file that I have for when I need a few pick me ups. There are a few parts that I would like to have made into wall decals, especially the part about having a break-down or a breakthrough.
Thank you for inspiring me in 2008 and I wish much success to you and to everyone in 2009.
January 2nd, 2009
10:20 am
Muchas Gracias Tim. Thanks for the insights from your life and thanks for living large enough to keep us interested.
January 2nd, 2009
12:14 pm
“One of the most universal causes of self-doubt and depression: trying to impress people you don’t like”.
This is a great point. Trying to impress the wrong people means you are constantly thinking about the people you don’t like, and bringing yourself down. Great advice to try to impress the people that you want to emulate.
January 2nd, 2009
1:41 pm
Need a book reco from Tim or others in the comments section.
Looking for a book to help jumpstart the changes I’m implementing for the next twelve months. Something to keep the focus.
Thanks
January 2nd, 2009
4:15 pm
Your house will sell when it’s priced right! Renters are no big deal when you get the right ones. If you can write a book, you can rent a house. I rent 100’s annually, there’s nothing to it.
January 2nd, 2009
5:44 pm
Thanks for the whack up side the head with this post! Just what I needed to realign my brain and it’ll make a great cribsheet…
Pura Vida!
January 2nd, 2009
6:02 pm
Hi Tim,
First of all I want to wish you a very happy new year as well and thank you for your compliment about my English here on your blog. (I’m the Dutch guy, remember?).
Second, your book was the most inspiring I read last year. Not just because it is well written, but you do what you teach and this is very important. It motivates me to motivate other people as well. And because I always preach to people around me that nothing is impossible if you are focused enough, I have this ‘outlandish plan’ this year: becoming a corpse on one of the CSI shows.
I choose this goal when I was thinking about this question in your book: ‘What would excite me?’
When I make it, I have the proof for others that they can achieve their goals also.
Thank you so much for all and keep up your good work!
Mario
January 2nd, 2009
7:06 pm
Maybe I’m missing something. Communication is to write to you at Twitter, but since you are following ZERO people, how are we to answer your question about The Chair?
I think The Chair looks really uncomfortable. Go for comfort, Tim.
KH
January 2nd, 2009
7:15 pm
Tim, you look like a wood nymph in that first photo. Otherwise, you rock! Happy 2009!
January 2nd, 2009
9:20 pm
I find your brilliance so very sexy.
January 2nd, 2009
9:44 pm
Tim,
In 2008, I read your book for the first time. Things have never been the same. Thanks for the constant inspiration and introspection.
-Jim
January 2nd, 2009
11:11 pm
Thanks for a great book!
January 3rd, 2009
7:37 am
Tim, over the New Years holiday I was discussing your “trial by fire” theory of learning new skills with my father; that is, streamlining the learning process to the core learning points and pretty much dispensing with everything else. Neither of us had seen the show. History Channel chose not to broadcast it in Canada :( .
My father insisted that there’s no possible way that one can become as adept at a new skill in such a short time – say, learning a new language – as someone who’s studied for years. The conversation actually got quite heated.
I got to wondering if it’s a generational thing. Have you found that young people are more willing to accept the possibility that the traditional style of learning isn’t all it’s cracked up to be? My theory, based on my own very limited experience, is that those over 40 generally tend to view traditional learning as the tried and true method, the one and only way, that actually works, while younger people tend to be more open to the possibility of new and different learning formats.
I think it might be because those over 40 are generally finished with their formal education, and there may be this element of, “If I had to do it, then everyone else has to do it too!” going on. When they find out there’s a viable short-cut, they may feel somewhat cheated.
(For the record, I’m 48 but tend to be a bit of an iconoclast, especially when it comes to learning.)
Just curious to see if your experience mirrors mine.
Happy New Year, Tim!
January 3rd, 2009
8:37 am
Tim,
Even though we’ve never met, I consider you a mentor. You’ve inspired me to set goals and take on challenges in 2008 that I thought were too big to rise above. Now that I’ve conquered those I am looking forward to bigger challenges in 2009.
See you around.
Jeff
January 3rd, 2009
9:26 am
Great blog, as usual. I gave my brother a copy of your book for Christmas and, as expected, it’s totally changed his life, like it did mine.
2009 is starting out great, despite what the nay-sayers in the media are blathering on about.
Thanks Tim!
January 3rd, 2009
4:09 pm
Hi All!
Thank you so much for continuing the dialogue with great comments! Thank you also for the kind words about the book and blog. Just remember, though: when you get results, it’s you who does it, so you should give yourselves a big pat on the back. I just write the words :)
@Marvin – regarding generational differences to learning. First a quote from you:
“My father insisted that there’s no possible way that one can become as adept at a new skill in such a short time – say, learning a new language – as someone who’s studied for years. The conversation actually got quite heated.
I got to wondering if it’s a generational thing.”
Tim: I think there are a number of potential causes for this:
1) As you pointed out, there can be an “I’ve paid my dues and so should you” emotional response. If I spent 10 years busting my ass reciting grammar tables, I certainly don’t want to hear that I wasted 9.5 of those years.
2) Older generations, since the beginning of time it seems, have proudly considered younger generations lazy. I don’t think they are totally to blame, though, as this could be partially because…
3) Many of the tools and options we have now in a flat digital world simply didn’t exist 20 years ago. The online zeitgeist also — for better and worse — has a uniform lack of respect for conventional methods, so it’s easier to find successful cases of experimentalists doing things faster, cheaper, and smarter.
Hope that helps!
Pura vida,
Tim
January 3rd, 2009
4:17 pm
[...] I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, but I like how Tim Ferris says it on his blog. [...]
January 3rd, 2009
7:24 pm
I like the idea of the walk bouncing the ball – but for a different reason…
It make me think of the original rocky movie –
and then I think about Tony Robbins talking about how Rocky came to be –
it doesn’t get much more inspirational than that – I still can’t believe Sly had to sell his dog…
best of luck in 09 Tim
See you on the mat someday -
January 3rd, 2009
8:51 pm
Having just finished billionaire Richard Branson’s new book BUSINESS STRIPPED BARE, it’s clear that an anti-learning-things-quickly attitude is certainly not an age thing, because Branson (who was born in 1950) says in the book that one thing that drives business commentators CRAZY is how he has succeeded in so many different businesses and how he has mastered them so quickly. Here’s a quote Branson gave to “Forbes” in their February 24, 1997 issue: “If you can run one company, you can run any company. You can learn the nuances of a particular industry IN TWO MONTHS.” Branson said that in 1997 and he said it again (in his new book) in 2008, so he must be on to something.
January 3rd, 2009
11:29 pm
Your last comment cant be read…. it is slipping off the page. BTW
Jose
January 4th, 2009
1:58 am
Thanks for your great book!
Happy new year!
January 4th, 2009
3:12 am
Your concise articles are making more impact every time I read them. And having read your book I know it’s a flaw not having implemented more of your very workable and practical strategies.
January 4th, 2009
6:00 am
Thats an interesting thought. Most people carry too much karmic debt that we cant seem to get lose from our situation.
Its one thing to live our own lives but its a whole different ballgame to carry others into our lives, especially unknowingly.
Great Idea’s. Keep up the good work.
January 4th, 2009
7:25 am
Hey Tim,
Great post. there are a number of things id like to agree with from my personal experience over the last year as well, especially the scarcity thing. My business partner broke our partnership in an unethical way, because of his scarcity mindset (this deal is so valuable that I can break the partnership and profit more). Also, he had the cash leverage (i had the unique business plan), and therefore you are right again. Having money shows who people are when people stop having to be nice. Luckily, partnership law was made to protect business people against unethical behavior of their partners. Also, he was my best friend.
Timquote: “I should not invest in public stocks where I cannot influence outcomes.”
Precisely. Investing in a mostly efficient market, where you are investing based on widely held information about the value of any asset, gives you no way to buy under the value that the general market sets for the asset.
The way buffet invests, is that he is proficient at gaining information that is not widely held (through intense scrutiny of the business-as well as his advanced knowledge of his ’specialty’ industries), and therefore is able to buy under value instead of depending on value appreciation.
The only way to consistently get ahead is to buy under value (investing), not predict future value (gambling). Investing vs gambling has 100% to do with the quality of information that you possess. Quality of information has 100% to do with the degree to which people know something about the true value of an asset that most others do not.
Therefore, directly participating in a business gives you not only control, which can be good or bad depending on a persons talent, but market insight as to the true value of the asset that outsiders cannot possibly attain. This is information leverage effect should be magnified greatly the more outsiders participate in the investment in the business.
Im almost done with my 4hour project tim, its taken me 8 months so far, but I have a 400 page book to show for it. Thanks Tim!
Chris
January 4th, 2009
9:46 am
Awesome! I always feel energized and supercharged after reading your comments and blog with this profound sense of “Yea, that’s right! F…that bullsh.. crap that society has shoved down my throat all these years. I can and we can all live life on our terms all the time! You Rock Tim!
January 4th, 2009
3:38 pm
Thank you for insightful lessons and willingness to share your experiences with everyone. I really appreciate that.
Your out-of-the-box thinking always amazes me. It must have taken painstaking hours for you to think over all the accepted standards in our society.
I always feel appreciation for those who go against the accepted standards and traditions as that’s the only way we can progress.
Thank you for your amazing book. I bought an audio version which is always with me in my mp3. Some of the sections of the book makes me laugh even after listening several times to the same bit:)
I think your book should be read (or listened to) not only for the wise words inside, but also for the humour.
I hope 2009 wil bring you even better experiences and realisation!
All the best,
Simona Rich
January 4th, 2009
4:49 pm
Tim – would love to see an article by you on deconstructing music. I’ve written lyrics, decent ones methinks, but haven’t a clue on accompanying notes.
Another option is how to contact recording artists who may be interested in creating their own music for my lyrics.
I’m also looking to build a working castle in CT via corporate partnerships, a project well beyond anything I’ve accomplished to date. Thanks for the indirect encouragement there, btw. Any tips on either?
Back to 4HWW.
Much obliged,
Kristina
January 5th, 2009
3:35 am
Tim – another amazing post as usual. Thanks for the insights and wisdom shared, and best of luck this year to us all!
January 5th, 2009
10:41 am
“Have at least one 2-3-hour dinner and/or drinks per week”
With lots of drinks.
- MPM
January 5th, 2009
5:46 pm
Amazing article Tim,
I’ve ordered the books at your recommendation-
I completely enjoy your posts, specifically the ones on nutrition and exercise- I am so excited to see my end results of 2 experiments I have started after reading your posts. Keep it up- you are a true inspiration. Hope to cross paths on a project someday.
Sean
January 5th, 2009
6:39 pm
Hi tim my name is cathy and I really want to loose weight and I have tried everything I’m to the point where I feel so unhappy about myself I happened to go into google search for weight lost and I got ur site and I started to read it and it really got my attention. Tim I’m going to give it a try. I have a few question about what to eat asfar as is it ok for me to eat cheese, tuna,tomatoes,steak, basically what should I eat for breakfast,lunch,dinner. Tim I really need help I’m so depressed with this weight gain. Please help.
January 5th, 2009
9:32 pm
Tim did you do the Landmark Forum? What an adventure!
January 6th, 2009
2:36 am
@Gonzalo,
I have never done the Landmark Forum — an interesting group, to be sure.
All the best!
Tim
January 6th, 2009
2:37 am
Hi,
If I take the book back to the bookshop I purchased it in, do you think I can get a refund? If no, is there another way to get a refund?
Thanks,
Ian
January 6th, 2009
3:52 am
Tim,
You are an inspiration.
Keep up the good work – I just reduced my working hours at the office from 5 days to 3 just days and took only 11 % pay cut – all because of your advice from your book.
Thanks again.
Tino
January 6th, 2009
8:12 am
Tim,
New follower.
Its going to be an amazing year. Thanks for the insights and motivational presentations/materials.
Dave
January 6th, 2009
8:50 am
Tim,
Excellent post. And the quote from your mentor was just what I needed. Really inspiring.
[Sorry, URL removed per comment policy!]
Thanks for the continued high quality posts and info!
:)
January 6th, 2009
9:45 am
[...] by blog posts from some people I’ve been reading lately and look up to like Nate Green, Tim Feriss, and Vince DelMonte. In no particular [...]
January 6th, 2009
1:00 pm
I winder if that is the same restaurant that I went to in Japan… it was quite an experience :)
January 6th, 2009
1:17 pm
Tim,
A million thank you’s for your inspiration.
Gratefully,
Jason
January 6th, 2009
4:39 pm
“A good question to revisit whenever overwhelmed: Are you having a break-down or a breakthrough?”
Love that.
January 6th, 2009
4:52 pm
@cathy
I am a weight loss and health coach and have helped hundreds of people lose unwanted weight and keep it off. Shoot me an email if you’d like to talk further.
Aaron
aaronb05@sbcglobal.net
January 6th, 2009
4:55 pm
Tim, why not dive deep into direct asset allocation? Owning private companies, oil wells, etc. This way you have much more control and influence on investing. I have been studying with Loral Langemeier who specializes in this direct asset allocation stragety to investing. She has little money in stocks because she hates the idea of having no control. She calls this the “park and pray” method. With your business smarts, owning a piece of a privately held company would make sense.
Aaron
January 6th, 2009
6:05 pm
Hi Tim,
Just read your post again, and on what you say about critics I can’t resist to post a quote by Paul McKenna:
‘Try to reinterpret negative things that others may say about you. See their criticism as a cry for help as they wish they where as amazing as you.’
January 6th, 2009
7:20 pm
Happy New Year Tim and thank you so much for your book!
A freelance photographer I met while reviewing a gig recommended it to me when I was explaining how I run my freelance writing business. I was telling him that hours available to spend with my family and friends and on leisure activities increased my sense of wealth in a way that far outweighed any dollar value I could earn in that time.
Using your principles I hope that 2009 will be an even better year for freelancewriterbrisbane.com and me!
I am writing an article at the moment about remote working and escaping the 9-5 and would love your input and to mention your book if possible. Can I mail you?
Lisa
January 6th, 2009
7:26 pm
Very well done summary Tim. Thanks for teaching us so much over the past year. I can only imagine what’s to come.
I will definitely have to add Seneca to my reading list.
To a great year!
Scott
January 6th, 2009
7:31 pm
Tim,
After my son passed away in Aug. 07′ I was so lost on so many levels. I found your book and website last March. Since then, my wife and I have moved to BsAs. We are learning to live again. We take Spanish and Tango. I’m learning to play polo and she takes art classes. After Jack died, I had no reason to get out of bed other than to make money to pay the bills. Now every day brings something new and exciting. Of course we will always mourn our son, but at least we are living again.
Thank you,
Ray
January 7th, 2009
1:15 am
@Ray,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt comment. My sincerest condolences, and — also — my sincerest congratulations on embracing life again. Buenos Aires is a great environment for this, and I wish you and yours nothing but the best.
Thank you again and un abrazo gordo desde SF :)
Tim
January 6th, 2009
8:55 pm
Interesting, thought-provoking post Tim, I have 3 comments:
1. I think trying to impress people is bad in general, regardless of whether or not you like them… speaking from the heart and telling it like it is, being authentic, trying to get to know the other side, and being a better person period are all probably more using than trying give out some sort of an “impression.”
2. Character can be built, maybe adversity reveals that I am indeed a cowardly loser, but if this revelation embarrasses me, then I certainly have the choice to change course, we all have a choice. Not everyone is born with great characters or raised by parents who have instilled in them great values, but we can always learn and growth ourselves.
3. I think a breakthrough is almost always preceded by a breakdown, at least that’s the case for me. I rarely ever experience a breakthrough without first experiencing a breakdown, when I realize I have nothing to lose.
January 7th, 2009
4:07 am
I’m really glad I read this post! Great job, Tim. And Seneca is great; many of the smartest things I’ve ever read come from him.
January 7th, 2009
5:42 am
Tim,
Gary Vaynerchuck’s video on “How to get your wine palate trained “is comical. His spring wine cruise looks very entertaining, I’m interested.
Anyhow, found an Aerial Art school in LA which offers an indoor aerial arts training and performance facility, I’m eager to learn Aerial Tissue for recreational purposes.
I have yoga, kickboxing, salsa and belly dancing classes in full swing until next month. On Friday’s, I check my email once, leave early to surf at Venice Beach and enjoy the rest of my weekend.
Just the other day, I made Gluten Free Pancakes, substituted the egg for a banana, added no oil but did add soy milk and stevia into the mix= absolutely delicious! Try it.
FYI: I make some remarkable homemade black beans and a tasty tofu dish.
Anyway, Life is good. I use to be on the fast track as a workaholic and a big part of me faded away, I just worked to fill the void. Now, my experiences are so different- thinking big and doing big things brings so many rewards (the shift is a big eye opener). It’s so cool when you find someone (people in general) who shares the same values. That’s why I am grateful for this blog.
Also, I’ve read a few (not all) of the books you recommend (I understand your perspectives a lot more). One of the books I’m reading is The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham- I praise it.
You know, sometimes the thought of “information overload” makes me sick to my stomach, it’s way too much, I appreciate how well you work to help us cope.
Can’t wait for another “blog group” event for 09’… SF is a hot spot.
Will chat later,
January 7th, 2009
11:26 am
Hi Tim
And Happy New Year!
I just popped in to find out what you’re up to and check that you’re still having a ball despite the doom and gloom thats being peddled aroud at the moment ;-o And I’m delighted to find that you’re still out there, doing what you do, and inspiring others too! Loved the book when I read it earlier this year and am now inspired to take another look ;-) Here’s to a fantastic 2009! Afterall, life is what you make it. Have fun, be happy Dx
January 7th, 2009
11:30 am
PS I’ve been promoting your book on my blog too ;-)
January 7th, 2009
11:39 am
Tim, “Trial by Fire” is exactly something I’ve thought would be awesome for years! Congrats. I propose this: with my consulting, become a Magician or Mentalist in one week. I was just voted 2008 Trick of the Year and have been a top rated magician as a full time pro for most my career with lots of magic products on the market. I’d love to be involved.
January 8th, 2009
3:11 pm
Hay Tim- Sorry if you already answered this, I think I did a pretty good scan of the comments though and didn’t find it:
Are you willing to divulge the name of the mentor you quoted? I’d like to quote him and re-post in an electronic newsletter.
Happy New Year & Thanks for continuing to inspire people.
January 9th, 2009
12:04 am
The bread you store up belongs to the hungry; the cloak that lies in your chest belongs to the naked; the gold you have hidden in the ground belongs to the poor.
——–St. Basil the Great
January 9th, 2009
5:54 pm
[...] Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008 by Tim Ferris (author of the book “4 hour work week“). [...]
January 10th, 2009
11:05 am
Hi Tim,
I agree 100% with what you said about investments. I never liked the stock market. I always thought of it somewhat like gambling in Vegas, there were just too many things out of my control that could happen. I did get a little Starbucks stock for Christmas from my boyfriend (who used to be a stockbroker). It never actually made money on the stock. The one good thing is since I live in Seattle, I got invited to all the Shareholder meetings. I
enjoyed listening Howard Shulz speak (plus they give you free coffee and other starbucks swag). There were some great surprise performances at the meeting such as Tony Bennett and K.D. Lang which alone made worth it.
I always loved Real Estate (although that is not my day job), so I did really well at investing, renting, and fixing it up. What I love about it is that it is tangible and if I do my research on pricing and negotiate well, I can influence how much money I make. There is alway opprotunity in a good or bad market. I will never be a big stock investor because it is not as much fun for me. I always ask myself in any investment “How will you feel if you don’t make money at this or even worse, lose money”? I have passed up alot of good investment opprotunities because I just was not interested in them enough to persue them.
So about your house in San Jose (I am not sure if it is still on the market). I remember you mentioning having a contest to see who could raise the most money for a education charity and had contestant create web pages. What about a contest for your house?
Either A- you offer the house as a prize in a contest and find a way for your accountant to write it off based on the appraised value.
Or B- Have a contest to sell your house and offer a prize (commission) to the winner. I am sure you have many fans that are up for the challenge.
I sold my condo on Craigslist not too long ago without a real estate agent- I just had to pay an attorney $500 to do the paperwork. It took 2 weeks to sell it (with a nice profit).
January 10th, 2009
11:28 am
Hi Tim,
Thanks for a great summation of your learnings & lovings this year. Not only a resource for me, but also a reminder to reflect on the what worked over the past year, as well as what I can improve on. So easy (for me) to focus on the faults.
Couple of responses to commenters…
@Alvin, Re: Karmic Debt for downloads… If you’re an info-marketer, expect to be treated in kind! :)
@Joan Atin, Re: Karmic Neutrality… I have often wondered the same thing and read an interesting article by Robert Ringer on this subject in Early to Rise (http://www.earlytorise.com/2009/01/08/when-bad-guys-get-what-they-deserve.html). He shows some interesting examples of how it can actually be compounding, but also points out that we can’t know what the experience of their lives are like… there is a quote on the above link from Elbert Hubbard that puts it quite nicely… “Men are not punished for their sins, but by them.”
@Joshua Blank, Re: Renting TIm’s House… I think Tim “CAN” rent his house… and probably could find great tenants if he wanted to. But that’s the point – he doesn’t want to! Let’s all drop our preconceptions (me included, and at the top of the list!) about what others “should” or “should not” do.
@Dave, Re: Book Recommendations… I highly recommend Paulo Coelho’s (http://www.paulocoelho.com.br/engl/) first book, The Pilgrimage, which is Paulo’s account of his own pilgrimage and lessons learned through the Pyrenees. He also wrote The Alchemist, which is also good. Any Coelho book will teach you something if you read with an open heart & mind. :) (Note: I am actually not a “religious” fellow, although Paulo’s book all have very spiritual overtones and he self-identifies as a Christian.)
@Tim & @All, Re: Something I Have Loved… There is a poem/prose called The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer that I very much love and use to reconnect me back to what is truly important in my life. It has been distributed widely on the internet and Oriah herself has published it in its entirety on her website here: http://www.oriahmountaindreamer.com.
Enjoy!
Paul
January 10th, 2009
11:03 pm
Tim,
I have listened to your book 20+ times, each time letting the paradigm shift inside of me, finding new methods in my life all around me. Thank you.
There is one thing about happiness I’d like to add to your NR community. At first I was in opposition to your definition of “happiness = excitement.” I’m a spiritual man, and the truest happiness in my decade of energy work has been the revelation that happiness is who we are at the deepest levels. When the wounds, bad paradigms, and bad energy is healed, we get to who we really are, which is just unconditionally happy. Keep healing and happiness springs to life.
What “excites us” can open a window into who we really are…kind of, but it is fleeting because who we are not, will keep rising up and we get bored, or irritated, or whatever, and we have to do something else. We will run from those wounds for the rest of our lives unless they are healed.
Sure this can lead to a fantastically complex and refined life of many talents and experiences which is better than mediocrity. But if you can heal first, and find your true self (which I’ve seen is unconditional happiness) as the reward, you will find that you can be excited by just breathing. The moment itself is so full and rich that the mere thought of chasing something that excites you is so very funny. It is all exciting!
I’m not dogging the book or the idea…just trying to add to it. This leads to a strong debate though:
Should one…
Go for the healing first and find happiness and excitement in everything? or…
Go for the excitement, find yourself in it, and hope that you eventually heal and don’t just have to keep on the excitement treadmill your entire life? Which I will add is still going to be one hell of a good life!!
I chose liberation from the excitement treadmill, and ironically, found myself in a constant state of happiness and excitement.
But…I could only have done this by reorganizing my life through the paradigm shifts I achieved through your work, because for the healing that I’m talking about you will definately need the skills to acquire more time, money and mobility. To heal the wounds to get to “The field” which Rumi talks about, one needs to heal a lot of judgment, poor-man’s ways, emotional energy/trauma, etc, to get free enough to see who they really are.
My daily gratitude for your work is the result of my liberation which is in part the result of your work. Thank you so very, very much.
January 11th, 2009
4:12 pm
Good stuff. Who need Jesus? (joke)
I like the one best about trying to impress people you don’t like.
My favorite variation of the Adversity line: People are like teabags. You don’t know how good they are until they’re in hot water.
Another idea: You always do better in job interviews when you don’t want the job. Maybe honesty and a “why worry?” attitude comes out of that. So that might be a good thing to cultivate.
All good thoughts.
January 11th, 2009
6:13 pm
Tim you’re a constant source of inspiration and you do it with humour – refreshing to say the least man!
“There are no statues erected to critics” – this is becoming my mantra from now on!
January 12th, 2009
7:14 am
Tim,
Forum site on the back end could be a powerful tool, but it’s completely misguided. I’d like to throw some ideas by you how we could turn it into a braintrust for entrepreneurs and developing business people. There is a need for greater specialization in the topics and clearly defined goals for each section so that the information is clearly categorized as it is in your book. I’d be happy to send you a sample design, let me know.
Scott
January 13th, 2009
3:47 am
[...] » Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008 [fourhourworkweek.com] [...]
January 13th, 2009
2:46 pm
Isn’t it better to exercise before breakfast to maximize fat-loss? What are the benefits of eating then going for a walk?
Thanks
January 13th, 2009
3:57 pm
I concur. I have had a thing for Chloe since Kids.
January 13th, 2009
11:23 pm
[...] Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008 by Tim Ferris (author of the book “4 hour work week“). [...]
January 14th, 2009
7:41 am
best post ever.
January 18th, 2009
9:50 am
[...] of this blog is to help people find solutions to improve their life. Today’s solution is a wonderful post by Tim Ferris, of 4-Hour Workweek [...]
January 19th, 2009
1:22 pm
[...] Worth to read as well is the list of things that Tim Ferriss has learned and loved in 2008. [...]
January 19th, 2009
5:26 pm
That list looks like a lifetime of wisdom!
Thanks for thinking different and speaking your mind. Your unconventional writing has been an inspiration and helped me improve my life in so many ways. Still got a long way to go to the 4 hour work week.
You know that saying “do something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life”? My day job is like that 80% of the time, because I get to help young people most days. But I’m still working on my own projects to be able to keep doing it for the love and not the money.
Your efforts blogging are hugely appreciated.
Cameron
January 20th, 2009
11:54 pm
Tim,
Thank you for helping me to enjoy 2008. Your tips on speed-reading, batching and following the 80/20 rule helped me to carve out more time for enjoying the slow lane and watching my three year old daughter laugh and learn.
The big highlight for 2009 is shaping up to be the altMBA – a virtual non-MBA where we teach each other over 26 weeks and 26 great books and get behind the highest voted big ideas. Of course, you’re on the curriculum (http://altmba.pbwiki.com/Course-Outline – week 20 – starting June 1st, I’m facilitating that week) and we’d love to interview you for the course. LMK! (BTW, registration closes tonight, if you want to join in)
January 23rd, 2009
5:00 am
[...] ahead and make fun of my appreciation for the practical philosophy of Tim Ferriss, but he’s got insight: One of the most universal causes of self-doubt and depression: trying to impress people you [...]
January 24th, 2009
10:18 am
I started swimming again last year and find it an excellent exercises.
Really profound comments right there about not having to be nice.
Regarding a walk outside – I do that during the summer and spring and its a fantastic way to start the day off.
Happy Belated New Year
January 24th, 2009
5:19 pm
This is late and probably one of the last posts but I had to say that I have found Seneca and understand why you have quoted him regularly in your book and on this site. Very good.
After coming to the realization that I need to change some things in my outlook, reading Seneca and The Magic of Thinking Big has been like a big slap in the face. A great wake up call. There are so many great things to look forward to and start today.
Thank you so much for the recommendations.
January 25th, 2009
11:13 am
Tim,
You are wrong about leaving the house, unrented. Just sell the house or rent it out. I will greatly increase your energy, you spend in thinking consciously/unconsciously about the house unused.
Also, it voilates all your earlier principles of having less clutter.
January 26th, 2009
8:39 pm
Tim, as always thank you for the great motivational insights. I too reflect back on 2008 with many lessons learned, both good and bad, and yet each contributing to my overall growth. I keep up reading your blog and have read through your book more than 3 times, good stuff, especially about theory of time, money & foreign economic strategies. I also signed up for a new virtual assistant service called Red Butler to help me outsource my tasks. They’re based in the US and take care of a lot of my day to day tasks. I look forward to seeing what you have planned in 2009, and please keep posting pics. The picture of you and the maids in Japan rocks!
KP -
January 27th, 2009
5:02 am
Hey Tim
I find you interesting.
Ive read your book and found it stretching and liked that.
I was thinking – with your energy, intelligence, amount of spare time etc what an incredible amount of value you could add to an agency that helps people.
Why not volunteer for some worthwhile cause – I think you and many more people will benefit from it than a very well put together chair review.
It would be incredible to see what you could accomplish if you fell in love with helping people.
Saying that – you have definitely encouraged me to work smart and free up time so that i can contribute to lives that need.
All the best
James
January 27th, 2009
11:46 am
@James from S. Africa,
Hi James! I have fallen in love with helping people, specifically with education. Just search “Donorschoose” “litliberation” or “karmic capitalist” on this blog to see what I mean.
All the best,
Tim
January 27th, 2009
9:24 am
Hi Tim, It’s great to know there’s someone else devoted to Benevolence, Truth, and Life. Or Goodness, Objectivity, and Duration. And has a brain. Impressive.
January 29th, 2009
3:33 pm
Hi James,
I think it’s possible that you don’t see the true value of “a very well put together chair review”. Let’s suppose that Tim would like to help all mankind as much as possible. And we know that he has a brain. It might even be the “best” brain.
So does that mean his talents should be used to directly help every person in need? Or would they be better used to help other “powerful brains” or potentially PBs get into the position of being as capable of helping others as he is?
To be as capable as he is, he has had to solve problems that any human might face in a similar situation. The importance of these solutions in allowing any of us to become super productive should not be underestimated, and I personally appreciate his sharing deeply.
How about you? Wouldn’t your time be better spent increasing your power/brainpower to the point where YOU would have the “energy, intelligence, amount of spare time etc” to add “an incredible amount of value” … “to an agency that helps people.” rather than thinking about what Tim should do?
February 10th, 2009
10:55 am
Tim love the post . . are you single???
February 16th, 2009
4:23 pm
[...] Bad Things Happen (and Weapons of Mass Distraction) The Not-To-Do List: 9 Habits to Stop Now Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008 How to Travel the World with 10 Pounds or Less The Choice-Minimal Lifestyle: 6 Formulas for More [...]
February 26th, 2009
10:05 pm
Tim, I’d get overwhelmed by the stuff I have to do then I’d remember your site… it puts me back on track by reminding me that life and work don’t have to be such a drag if you are conscious about having other things besides work.
Thanks again.
By the way, please answer Kristie Wolfe’s question! :)
March 2nd, 2009
11:51 pm
From very powerful takeaways in the post. I especially liked your mention of Slow meals = life. I have found that I tend to feel better when I take at least once a week to do this.
March 16th, 2009
4:23 am
[...] Rules for Uncommon Times Rethinking Investing – Part 2: Information Advantage, Best Books, and More Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008 – Recouping Losses, etc. digg_url = ‘http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2009/03/16/jon-stewart-and-jim-cramer/’; [...]
April 7th, 2009
11:01 pm
Hi Tim, hi All!
Short question: is it OK to play with the Rubik’s cube during the morning walk? Does it replace the ball bouncing sufficiently?
All the best to everyone!
Radagast
April 26th, 2009
12:51 pm
Great content man!!
Your contributions and experiments are of great value to us.
Continue rocking this world!!
May 6th, 2009
3:47 pm
[...] the Greek – This one is a bit out there but it is recommend in one of Tim Ferriss blog posts. Zorba reminds us of the simple pleasures in life and how we should enjoy each moment (I prefer [...]
May 11th, 2009
8:55 am
[...] Tim’s blog: The Blog of Author Tim Ferriss Follow him on Twitter: @tferriss Place recently lived or traveled: Vietnam A favorite post: Things I’ve Learned and Loved in 2008 [...]
August 11th, 2009
9:07 pm
Tim,
I am preparing for an extended trip to Sri Lanka as I asked the magic question from my employer – can I work remote? Yes – Great – sell everything and taking off in 28 days. – Thanks and Have a great life.
Ian
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