The Prescription for Self-Doubt: Watch This Video 290 Comments

Written by Topics: Mental Performance

Business icons, superstar professional athletes, billionaires — it doesn’t matter how rich or how accomplished — I’ve had them all tell me the same thing…

There are moments when you feel the world is too much. Days and even weeks when you want to (or perhaps do) pull up the covers and half-sleep in bed until nightfall, avoiding a feeling of hopelessness that seems insurmountable. Long-awaited deals fall through without warning, haters attack you without reason or fact, circumstances turn good decisions into awful realities — sometimes it just feels like the deck is stacked against you and there is nothing you can do about it.

I’ve felt the same on more than a few occasions, and more are coming.

Entrepreneurs in particular seem prone to feeling on top of the world one minute, only to feel crushed by it the next.

To this breed, I assure you all: in our species, it’s normal.

It’s an integral part of building anything remarkable, whether a business, a relationship, or a life. Expanding your sphere of comfort and abilities comes with a cost: repeated self-doubt.

I thank my mother for forwarding me the above video to put things in perspective. In your moments of self-doubt, I encourage you to watch it and meditate on all of the things you’ve done that you once considering impossible. The odds you’ve overcome, the critics you’ve proven wrong, and the small defeats that — through making you stronger and smarter — made huge victories possible later.

Get back up. Bigger and better things are waiting for you.

Related and suggested reading:
Harnessing Entrepreneurial Manic-Depression: Making the Rollercoaster Work for You
Depression: How You Label Determines How You Feel

Posted on January 12th, 2009

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290 Comments

    • Wconklin — October 18th, 2011, 9:13 am

      This was a great post Tim thanks for the video its some great insight. I know being an Entrepreneur self doubt can be one of the biggest opsticals. Procrastination is your worst enemy along with self doubt. Its Important to keep your self goal oriented and stay focused completling one task after another until the day is finally over… or at least you get a point were you can justify stopping for the day, the day is truely never over when you own your own business.

      Reply

    • Brian — November 11th, 2011, 12:47 am

      Please re-read the following sentence:

      “I encourage you to watch it and meditate on all of the things you’ve done that you once considering impossible.”

      I think you meant “considered” not “considering”.

      Reply

  • Darius A Monsef IV — January 13th, 2009, 12:28 am

    Thanks for the reminder Tim. That guy is inspiring… Here I was thinking that my pile of To-Dos was an insurmountable challenge.

    Reply

  • Janis Krums — January 13th, 2009, 12:33 am

    Thanks for this post Tim. One of the most inspirational things I’ve seen in a long time. God Bless, Janis

    Reply

  • Sharlene — January 13th, 2009, 12:40 am

    Wow, What a wonderful man!
    I’ll be bookmarking this vid to revisit when I need a boost.

    Tim, your book and blog rock. You’re a fountain of inspiration.
    Thanks for all you do. :)

    Reply

  • Brian — January 13th, 2009, 12:55 am

    I once listened to a speaker who talked about throwing yourself a “pity party.” The idea was that you would just give in and wallow in self pity, but only for 15 minutes. And once you’d cathartically released the pity, move on.

    When these things happen, and happen they certainly do, I think it’s good to just give yourself a day to close the curtains and retreat from the world rather than try to “man up” or tough it out. Sometimes you just have to turn off the switch and recharge the emotional batteries.

    But once that is done the key is to just get back in the game. You don’t have to get right back on top of the world immediately, in fact you should most definitely avoid trying. The key is simply to get yourself back in play. Things will inevitably start going your way again. One thing leads to another and feeling on top of the world again takes care of itself.

    Reply

  • eadwine — January 13th, 2009, 1:11 am

    nic is very inspiring. i had the opportunity to hear him speak a few times at my country. always stay motivated!

    Reply

  • Amy Ewart — January 13th, 2009, 1:12 am

    Hi Tim,

    Amy here. Yes, you’re assistant! You’ve made my day! After one of the longest most stressful days, not from your work of course, other ‘matters and circumstances’, you have captured in word, and in the video, the strength that each one of us possesses. Thanks Dude, for the happy post, you rock!

    – Amy

    Reply

  • Peter Blue — January 13th, 2009, 1:21 am

    Just blew me away. I hope I remember this the next time I feel discouraged by some obstacle in my way!
    Thank you for posting!

    Peter

    Reply

  • Kevin H — January 13th, 2009, 1:28 am

    Your posts are always very insightful, informative, and inspiring. Every post is a meaningful post and bring up new ideas that I haven’t seen before. In no way are any of your posts generic or repetitive.

    I definitely enjoy how you’ve conquered your fears. Not only that, but doing it in effective and efficient ways. I’m working on conquering ballroom and have started investing time in it – recently signing up for a class and learning as much as I can from students in the class who have been there for quite sometime. Conquering a fear is one of the best feelings in the world.

    This post really hit the spot. Thanks for all the shared ideas!

    Reply

  • Geoff McNeely — January 13th, 2009, 1:36 am

    Wow Tim. Thank you for sharing this and thank your mom for sending it your way. Just when I was thinking that the doubts I face about my self and choices I’ve made were big – this comes along and humbles me. I’m grateful for the opportunities I have to make a difference for the people I care about. I’m grateful to you because your book (and now blog too!) inspired me to open up to things I’d never imagined doing. This fellow is a reminder to us all of the power of our thoughts and intentions. Be the change! Peace.

    Reply

  • Melissa — January 13th, 2009, 1:40 am

    Wow, Tim. For someone in the late-night grip of hopelessness, this is pretty timely. Thanks for the perspective.

    Reply

  • Thegoodforce — January 13th, 2009, 1:43 am

    Very inspirational.

    Great words of wisdom!

    ” Be diligent. Never give up! ”

    Thank you for this video Tim.

    Reply

  • Ben — January 13th, 2009, 1:49 am

    Tim,

    This is your best post ever.

    Reply

  • Koen Daems — January 13th, 2009, 1:55 am

    Incredible guy – and he is so absolutely right.

    I once knew a guy (in Belgium) who couldn’t move – he was lying in his bed full time. The only thing he could move was his head.

    And yet, he owned his own private company, and was very successful doing so.

    These people do inspire us!

    Thanks to your mom for sharing :-)

    Koen

    Reply

  • Alan Furth — January 13th, 2009, 1:56 am

    Thanks Tim, made me laugh and cry at the same time, guess I got the message =D

    Reply

  • J.D. Meier — January 13th, 2009, 2:17 am

    I find temporal skills really help – either drawing from the past, or projecting in the future.

    When that won’t work, there’s a comfort in knowing that you made your best play for the current situation. And when you get knocked down, you get up again with another lesson under your belt of how not to do something.

    Reply

  • David Turnbull — January 13th, 2009, 2:33 am

    Awesome video. Makes you remember how trivial so many modern day concerns are.

    Reply

  • Chris — January 13th, 2009, 2:47 am

    All to often we find ourselves focusing on the negatives and not looking back on all the things we have actually achieved. Often, we achieve some great things on auto-pilot without even realising. Self doubt is a stumbling block for many high achievers, but with perspective through insights such as this we can overcome this and realise that most of the time we do truly do some amazing things.

    Nice simple post with a strong message Tim, I like it.

    Reply

  • Gina — January 13th, 2009, 3:14 am

    Tim, thanks for posting that, refreshing reminder of all the amazing things going on in the world.

    Chris, I agree, so often we don’t notice our accomplishments or the people we have affected because we haven’t reached the desired outcome yet – I’ve found that it’s often in those low moments of introspection that the realisation of how much we have done comes!

    Reply

  • Adam — January 13th, 2009, 3:18 am

    Thanks for posting this Tim. Love your book, and Penelope Trunk sucks.

    Reply

  • David — January 13th, 2009, 4:06 am

    Tim,

    That was incredible! I’d love to hear/read you chat to/interview that guy some day! I think that would be an incredible idea…

    More posts like that would be amazing. Thanks for sharing.

    David

    Reply

  • Cody McKibben — January 13th, 2009, 4:22 am

    Hey Tim, that young guy is an incredible inspiration, thanks for sharing the video. You should be thankful for your mom for keeping you up during hard times, we’re not all that lucky! :)

    I was sad to see the hate directed your way earlier this week, and I know how it is when you feel like the world’s against you. I hope you don’t let it slow you down though, you know there are a ton of us who’ve benefited from all you’ve done and are behind you, man! Cheers!

    Reply

  • Magida — January 13th, 2009, 4:38 am

    WOW this really gave me a reality check! I was about to give up on a biz I have been working at for 3 years and thought I was a failure but this just makes me realize that to suceed you must fail, and learn from your mistakes. Maybe the biz will work out, maybe it won’t, but at least I learnt something from it and I won’t give up until I have nothin left in me!
    Thanks Tim, your book and posts are what keep me going with all my silly ideas, one day, one of them will pay off…..

    Reply

  • Mark J. Easton — January 13th, 2009, 4:51 am

    Having found myself in one such mood yesterday, a friend reminded me “Feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders gives you something solid to push against”.

    I’m now primed to start pushing again, but it’s reassuring to read Tim suffers from the same self-doubts.

    Reply

  • Keith grinsted — January 13th, 2009, 4:55 am

    Wow Tim, thanks for that, incredible.

    Yes, it had me in tears of admiration.

    Here I am with cashflow problems coming out of my ears feeling that every day is becoming a challenge simply to try and move forward and then along comes this!!

    I have always prided myself on my ability to bounce back but hell, this guy is supreme.

    Thanks for sharing it – and thanks to your mother too

    Keith

    Reply

  • André Branco — January 13th, 2009, 5:01 am

    Action cures fears. Organize your room, grab a book to read or just find some rewarding repetitive task to tackle with. It works.

    Even then, there are those moments of deep existential feeling that strike you on an idle Tuesday and put you into the role of Sartre’s Antoine Roquentin. Seems common among right-brainers and smart folks with lots of free time.

    Slightly different than the self-doubt, here everything is calm and fine — but just way too much, and I’ve learned that this nihilism, despite insightful, can be quite unproductive since it kidnaps your natural excitement. And this aloofness and idleness can also escalate to self-doubt quite too soon.

    From my experience, pushing yourself into extreme, self-imposed challenges helps to drive you back into a (Csíkszentmihályi’s) flow mood and break the spell. (Hmmm, I guess I’ll just run 30 blocks today to eat in my fav restaurant.)

    Tim, what is your rule of thumb for those cases?

    Cheers from Rio,
    —André

    Reply

  • Ronanob — January 13th, 2009, 5:04 am

    Great Post Tim, I really believe most of the things we are most proud of come from our biggest challenges and problems. We just need to remind ourselves of that everytime we have a challenge / Problem – somehow its always easier to forget.

    Reply

  • Jacob Share from JobMob — January 13th, 2009, 5:17 am

    Amazing guy, that Nick. His terrific attitude means that he will almost surely live long enough to enter the bionic era when other people would have given up earlier.

    He seized the day.

    Reply

  • Tom — January 13th, 2009, 5:19 am

    Tim,
    What great timing this was for me – thank you so very much. My business is drowning in debt, got a notice from unemployment that I owe them $7,200 from a failed business in 1989 and was thinking about suicide.

    Thanks for helping me look at things so very differently. I know there is another way.

    Reply

  • JasonKiesau — January 13th, 2009, 5:33 am

    Wow, I love videos like this.

    My goal in life is to help people experience realizations that help them “get back up” in which ever area of life they are falling down. This is an AWESOME lesson and EVERYONE should watch.

    I will be reposting this today. This is greatly needed!

    Thanks for the post!

    Reply

  • Dan Massicotte — January 13th, 2009, 5:42 am

    Thank you sharing that Tim. You guys are right.

    Reply

  • Adam Steer - Better Is Better — January 13th, 2009, 5:45 am

    “Entrepreneurs in particular seem prone to feeling on top of the world one minute, only to feel crushed by it the next.”
    I find it very comforting to have someone else express this… :)

    I suppose when you are just running the rat race, everything seems pretty steady. It’s when you want to stick your neck out and achieve big things that the ride seems more choppy, with emotional ups and downs.

    Thanks Tim for bringing things into perspective.

    Cheers,
    Adam

    Reply

  • Ram — January 13th, 2009, 5:46 am

    Thanks Tim. This is an awesome video. This is an opportunity for all of us to thank the Lord for our blessings and to be grateful.

    Reply

  • Andrew Barbour — January 13th, 2009, 5:52 am

    I live in Korea, and know enough Korean to translate the subtitles, which mention a lot of stuff the dialogue leaves out.

    :23: Nick was born in Australia in 1982 with no arms or legs and only a very small left foot.

    :32: But as Nick grew to to be a boy, he noticed he was different and instead of hope, could only learn despair.

    :42 (translation of English)

    1:08: Instead of a school for the disabled, Nick attended a regular school.

    1:14: But as he continued to grow, he gradually took on greater challenges

    1:20 : In college, he double majored in accounting and finance, and expanded the scope of his activities

    1:26: And now, Nick’s job is teaching others how to be happy

    1:28 (Translation from English)

    5:07: Disabilities may be inconvenient, but they are not misfortunes. –Helen Keller–

    Reply

  • Victor Liew - The Network Marketing Mind — January 13th, 2009, 6:04 am

    Tim,

    Thanks for the timely reminder.

    He makes our “problems” embarrassing.

    Terima kasih from Malaysia.

    Victor

    Reply

  • Michael — January 13th, 2009, 6:05 am

    Tim,

    I’m currently going trough doubt/feeling on top regurlaly theses days. It’s more trhilling than just getting a pay check :)

    Hallo from Berlin

    Reply

  • Noah — January 13th, 2009, 6:20 am

    Tim,

    Thanks for this amazingly insightful post.
    Just an awesome video as well.

    I’ll be passing that along for sure.

    Reply

  • lifezone — January 13th, 2009, 6:27 am

    thx, tim. I’ve embeddet it in my website. so good. It encouraged me so much. greetings from germany

    Reply

  • Steve — January 13th, 2009, 6:27 am

    This post and video came at the perfect time for me. Thanks.

    Reply

  • Robert Jet Set Life — January 13th, 2009, 6:39 am

    Hey Tim,

    This blog post could not have been more perfectly timed for me. As I ‘put my self out there’ in doing more on camera and even just blogging work (with my muse) I realized how much I’m exposing myself to more harsh comments from the peanut gallery.

    When I first started this I was blown away at how intense people could be with their comments and there were many days I felt like you described above. But, your right “Get back up- Bigger and better things are waiting for you”. My life has radically changed since I started this and better things have already showed up! Thanks for the post.

    Best,
    Rob

    Reply

  • Harold — January 13th, 2009, 7:12 am

    Thanks for posting this one TIm. Very inspirational.

    Reply

  • Mario — January 13th, 2009, 7:13 am

    Hi Tim,

    As I’m speechless after watching the video, I just want to let you know that you just broke my heart with this post. (In a positive way!)

    Reply

  • Sheri @ Everlasting Designs — January 13th, 2009, 7:18 am

    As a mother to a little boy with mild disabilities this speaks volumes. It reminds me that giving up is selfish…Who am I to give up, what right do I have to roll over and die when my son has no choice but to keep going. I need to be there to pick HIM up when he has fallen and to teach him how to master this art when I am gone.

    The days when I beat myself up for not accomplishing whatever trivial task I have at hand I only have to look at my son (and others like him) who has no choice but to persevere. He is also too young to realize that not trying is an option. When did we lose that childlike fortitude? Giving up is the only true failure in my book.

    Tim, Thank your Mom for pointing out the sometimes-not -so-obvious~

    Reply

  • KC — January 13th, 2009, 7:21 am

    I think that we too often forget what most of us are lucky enough to come to the table with – namely a core of stability. Having good health and the ability to at least attempt anything counts for a lot. Too bad it’s often forgotten.

    I was just taking a look at something which was reminding readers to remain mindful of the simple power behind having a place to sleep, food to eat etc. The much-hyped “consumption” mindset makes it easy to forget what really matters.

    Ahhh… the power of maintaining perspective.

    Reply

  • HIB — January 13th, 2009, 7:25 am

    Wow!

    I’m not sure what to say, but WOW.
    That definitely gave me a boost.
    Maybe I need to watch this once a week.
    -HIB

    Reply

  • RhondaL — January 13th, 2009, 7:51 am

    Add my voice to the chorus of “thank you’s.” Like some of the other commenters, the timing couldn’t be better. But we all have little “mosquitoes” biting us every day. His achievements put our day2day worries into perspective.

    Reply

  • Benjamin Reece — January 13th, 2009, 7:51 am

    Tim,

    This post was written for me. For this exact moment. Thank you man…..

    Reply

  • Peter Carey — January 13th, 2009, 7:52 am

    Wow. That’s a great clip to start the day. It’s always good to have a reminder that our life really isn’t that hard as we make it sometimes. Not that it’s not hard, but that we often make it out to be worse than it really is.
    Thanks, Tim

    pwc

    Reply

  • Mike — January 13th, 2009, 8:02 am

    How do you handle these feelings of self-doubt and depression when it comes to relationships that turned bad or are for whatever reason over? I’m sure you’ve had your share of dates and relationships and break-ups, but you still are single. Why? What are the lessons you’ve learned?

    Reply

  • Don Dillon — January 13th, 2009, 8:03 am

    Tim – Great post!

    I’ve met this guy. He is a force of nature and one of the greatest public speakers I’ve ever experienced. Very impressive man irrespective of the number of limbs he has.

    Thanks,
    Don

    Reply

  • Zaid Rasid — January 13th, 2009, 8:06 am

    When I watch people like that in the video, or even people on Oprah who have overcome unbelievable odds and challenges, it definitely puts things in perspective. Thanks for the reminder.

    You know I was waiting for the bus the other night and I was complaining in my head that I wish I had a car. But then as I sat on the bus, I realized that I had my health, I was working, I was happy. So really I had nothing to complain about.

    People like the above video, well we need more people like that!

    Reply

  • Stephen Hopson — January 13th, 2009, 8:10 am

    I’ve seen him in countless vidoes and posted one of them at my blog a while back. He continues to inspire me to no end. His disability makes mine seem like nothing (I’m profoundly deaf).

    This article truly reasonated with me because I happen to be in a funk where self doubt appears to be having its way with me and this is a guy who was a former stockbroker, the world’s first deaf instrument rated pilot!

    So yes, you are right – EVERYONE has their moments when they want to stay in bed with the covers over their heads and not venture outside. I’ve had those moments, for sure.

    Your article today was the kick I needed to get moving. The moment I start moving, miracles happen.

    Thanks Tim.

    Reply

  • Hunter Ogletree — January 13th, 2009, 8:15 am

    The is an awesome and powerful message. The path to success in life and business is marked by many obstacles and everyone on the path to success falls. To achieve success we must get up and keep going. Thanks for sharing!!!

    Reply

  • mike — January 13th, 2009, 8:26 am

    Thanks for the AWESOME reminder that how our little problems of traffic and paper jams mean nothing to the problems of the world..Make it a better day.Thanks again for the inspiration!!

    Reply

  • Doug McIsaac — January 13th, 2009, 8:30 am

    Awesome message. Absolutely awe inspiring. Thanks you for sharing.

    If you want to remove the search bar from the video you can do it for free at a site called http://www.removethesearchbar.com

    Doug

    Reply

  • Darin Steen — January 13th, 2009, 8:41 am

    Hi Tim,

    Great reminder. I actually met Nick and talked to him. The dude is powerful and my life will never be the same because of him.

    We are on a mission; and we are not stopping until we change the world.

    I highly suggest that you go and hear Nick speak.

    It will change you. We all have the power to change!!

    Darin

    Reply

  • Gennaro @ Enduring Wanderlust — January 13th, 2009, 8:43 am

    As long as it’s not over-the-top self doubt it can keep your ego in check. Once it get to the sheets over the head though, it’s time to kick it in gear and push forward. Much of this doubt stems from fear and FDR said in best: “we have nothing to fear, but fear itself.

    Reply

  • Bill from Florida — January 13th, 2009, 8:43 am

    Thank you for this…it came at a time that I really needed it.

    Reply

  • Jennifer Bingham Heart — January 13th, 2009, 8:46 am

    Tim,
    Ah your Mom is a smart lady. When life throws daggers at you or things that you want in life are not arriving immediately, it may be because something better is in store you for you. You may have all your limbs but your past challenges brought your greatest triumphs. Would you have appreciated your success if it came so easily? Well I am sure for my own little battles won, I wished for less fight but hey that’s not how the game of life is won and I would most likely be less intelligent. Ha-ha! You are an inspiration Tim! Even when other people may tear you down, an opportunity is lost, or love still is in waiting, know that there is only one of you in this world and we are all better because you came to play in the field of life during this time. Keep being creative, brave and balls out yourself.

    Hugs,
    Jen

    Reply

  • Trish Lambert — January 13th, 2009, 8:47 am

    Thanks for the reminder and the video. When I get in a funk I always start out thinking that I’m the only one…and sometimes, like now, mercifully, I get reminded that it’s normal, it will pass, and we all go through it.

    Reply

  • Annemarie Juhlian — January 13th, 2009, 8:50 am

    Thank you very much for this. Yes, we will all finish STRONG. And in the meantime, we get up, we take things one thing at a time – perhaps on certain days, a hundred things at a time. In this moment, I am in awe of this man and the grace that he shares through his courage and story.

    Reply

  • Scott F. Nolan — January 13th, 2009, 8:52 am

    Nick is truly inspiring and I found his words of wisdom to bring joy to my heart. His ability to tell his story from a place of truth and determination lead me to believe their is nothing we can’t accomplish even in my own moments of self-doubt. I would welcome the opportunity to sit down and talk with Nick. Having served people with disabilites for over twenty-six years, he is an affirmation of why I entered the field, “I see people’s abilities not their disabilities”.
    Thank you Tim for an inspiring post.

    Regards,
    Scott

    Reply

  • nnamdi — January 13th, 2009, 8:55 am

    my apologies,

    i know this off topic. but Tim (or anyone else out there) , can u PLEEEEEAAASE explain or do a video tutorial on how you are able to only workout once a week for 30 min. while working out your entire body?!

    I strength train also, but I am unable to get a good workout for my entire body that can fit into a 30 minute session once a week. its seems impossible.

    HELP!
    -lost in Washington D.C.

    Reply

  • Janice Cartier — January 13th, 2009, 8:56 am

    Thanks Tim’s Mom….a little bit of perspective … seems like that task right in front of me just got a little smaller… beautiful post Tim.

    ( BTW many thanks for the heads up post on Total Leadership with Stewart Friedman a while back.The book is changing the way I approach 2009. Happy New Year. It’s going to be a fun one.)

    Reply

  • Buddy — January 13th, 2009, 9:26 am

    Tim, I recieved your book as birthday gift on Dec 8 2008. On January 1 2009 i quite my job…..of 24 years to pursue my own path. Now when self doubt sets in i’ll remember the Aussie with no limps.. and like him when i do fall or stumble i’ll get right back up again and again and again. thanks for the inspiration and motivation. I would love to share my story with any person needing a little self confidense.

    Reply

  • 4 Freedom Books — January 13th, 2009, 9:27 am

    Thank you Tim for the perspective. I wonder how soon we’ll have the technology to offer him perfectly functional artificial, or real, limbs?

    Reply

  • Dana Gundlach — January 13th, 2009, 9:49 am

    Tim –

    Are you trying to make me cry, haha. Great story. Mom’s always find ways of making things clear.

    Good Luck,

    Dana

    Reply

  • Curiouser and Curiouser - Curious Pursuit — January 13th, 2009, 9:56 am

    [...] in my business and I’m still not exactly sure the way out.  So how grateful was I for Tim Ferriss’s latest post where he linked to the video below.  He calls it the Prescription for Self-Doubt … I would [...]

  • Ladi — January 13th, 2009, 9:58 am

    Hey Tim,
    This humbles me. I now know I really don’t have a right to whine about my own challenges.
    It’s all about the “WILL POWER”.
    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Jordan Pearce — January 13th, 2009, 10:24 am

    You’re mom is cool! Thanks for passing this on. A good message that I’ll share with others too. No more excuses!

    Reply

  • Peter — January 13th, 2009, 10:27 am

    Tim, I broke down when I saw it…. What a lesson..I just missed meeting you in Madrid last year.. My wife and I were there 3 days later..Would love to meet you some day!

    Reply

  • deanruns — January 13th, 2009, 10:27 am

    It’s people like him that make me feel like a chump when I get down about “my life”. Most of us have it so good, especially in the U.S., compared to so many others.

    A recent song intro has really changed my outlook:

    “What you need to do is be thankful for the life you got.
    You know what I’m sayin’.
    Stop looking at what you ain’t got
    And start bein’ thankful for what you do got.”
    - T.I. : Live Your Life

    Reply

  • Stewart — January 13th, 2009, 10:31 am

    Hey Tim,

    thanks for the great post. Here is the video I always watch when I need to refocus. I saw it during the Olympics and watch it a few times a week whenever the roller coaster requires.

    Its not on the same thread as this video and im not comparing the two (Nick Vujicic is amazing), just sharing my pick-me-up.

    http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=-ae3tFI8wXE

    thanks again

    Reply

  • Stephanie — January 13th, 2009, 10:49 am

    It took me 10 years to gain the courage to do what I really wanted to do — Improv. Last night I had my first class at the famous second city in chicago and for the first time in my life I feel incredibly accomplished. This was the perfect posting for today. I think that there are a lot of similarities between this post and what I learned in my impov class last night. Improv teaches you that, yeah, you’re going to fuck up A LOT… but so does everyone. So get back up on your feet and try again.

    Thanks for this! You’re a true inspiration!

    Reply

  • Jose Castro-Frenzel — January 13th, 2009, 11:05 am

    Outstanding…… Great Post Tim… Im putting it on my facebook. Thanks

    Jose

    Reply

  • Dundalk Matt — January 13th, 2009, 11:05 am

    I called out of work today. I’ve been wandering around my empty home aimlessly for hours, cursing myself and all of existence. This video made me weep. There is hope yet. Thank you, Tim.

    Reply

  • Michael — January 13th, 2009, 11:20 am

    That was so powerful. The post alone was something I needed to read. Then to see the amazing video, it brought me to tears. I’ve been a very successful entreprenuer over the years and yet there are many days I feel like a failure. As successful as I’ve been I don’t get it. It was good to read that we all feel the same thing. And in this tough economy that is affecting me and so many others, it was great to get this post and the reminder.

    I love your posts Tim as there have been many things that have been very helpful for my businesses, but this for me is your best post to date.

    Thank you.

    Michael

    Reply

  • Doc Kane — January 13th, 2009, 11:29 am

    Tim, I’ve seen Nick Vujicic before somewhere online and was immediately moved, as you were and as your readers, no doubt are as well.

    Some people are clearly here on this earth to remind us of what is possible in life: of the seemingly unsurmountable obstacles we can overcome; of the love we can absorb from others just by being there for them as well.

    Nick is one of those amazing people.

    For those interested, here is Nick’s website: http://www.attitudeisaltitude.com/

    Thanks for spreading his message!

    And cheer up yourself!

    Cheers, Doc

    Reply

  • Grayson Leverenz — January 13th, 2009, 11:45 am

    Tim, I came to your blog today to start a new project I’m calling “Deconstructing Tim Ferriss.” No worries, this project is strictly for me, not for publication; the goal is to figure out why I love your work so much and carry that into my own creations.

    Yesterday, Merlin Mann led me to a website with an intriguing idea but content that couldn’t hold my attention. After checking it out, I went to your blog where you just happened to be discussing the exact same website, and I devoured every word. Now here’s the kicker, I tend to write more like the original (i.e. boring) author, and I really want to improve for my readers. Hence, the Deconstructing Tim Ferriss project.

    This post is the perfect place to start. You are authentic, caring and full of life. Thank you (and your mom) for encouraging us all.

    Reply

  • Meghan — January 13th, 2009, 1:22 pm

    Having left my office early to wallow in yet another disappointment, I came across this post while, errhm… in bed and under the covers with plans to hide until nightfall. This uplifting post has not only made me smile, but I actually felt my negative mood crack and now a trickle of optimism is leaking back in. To further push my mood in the right direction, I’m going to hit up a pilates class before going back to the office to burn some midnight oil coming up with ideas on ways to recover from this major set back.

    Thanks for being so spot-on once again Tim. Maybe you’ll share more of Mama Ferriss’ golden nuggets of inspiration with us in the future?

    Reply

  • wayct — January 13th, 2009, 1:49 pm

    great stuff Tim. Keep it up

    Reply

  • An Inspirational Video | Tony Tells All — January 13th, 2009, 2:05 pm

    [...] Watch this video. It’ll instantly pick you up and put everything into perspective. I want to give a special thanks to 4 Hour Workweek author Tim Ferriss for posting it on his blog. [...]

  • Chris — January 13th, 2009, 2:09 pm

    I came across this blog last night. It was the first thing on my screen and came at a point in my life and business where I face many difficult obstacles. This is another reminder of why we should never give up.

    Reply

  • LucidAnna — January 13th, 2009, 2:24 pm

    Thank you for sharing everyone! Made me feel better that I am not alone feeling overwhelmed by the world at times…

    Greetings from New Zealand where I’m taking my first “mini retirement” this year…

    Reply

  • Ben — January 13th, 2009, 2:39 pm

    Tim – Off topic, but did you see the cover of Inc. Magazine this month? They interviewed a guy who makes $10 million a year working an hour a day. Sounds like a guy you should interview.

    Reply

  • Raz Chorev — January 13th, 2009, 3:17 pm

    I wish I could remember who said it before me, but I can’t. which is a paradox on what I’m about to say:
    “If you think you can, or you think you can’t – You’re right!”
    We limit ourselves with our own thoughts. There are no physical limitation, only mental.
    Nick is a great example. with all the apparent physical limitations, he managed to do so much.
    It is truly inspirational.

    Thanks Tim for sharing!

    Reply

  • Tedd — January 13th, 2009, 3:32 pm

    Thank You for posting this blog! I lost my Job just 6 weeks ago and was starting to feel down.

    Reply

  • Alchemos — January 13th, 2009, 3:38 pm

    Thanks for the video, Tim.

    We have all heard of and know the validity of advice to “keep going”, “try, try and try again”, “never give up”, “pick yourself up again” etc – sometimes when people find themselves in a rut, however, the words don’t give quite enough motivation.

    Videos like this give a real world demonstration of inner strength and serve as great inspiration when we need it.

    Reply

  • Su — January 13th, 2009, 4:03 pm

    Thanks Tim, awesome video, makes one appreciate what one has.

    Reply

  • J — January 13th, 2009, 4:12 pm

    Tim, you are my hero!

    Reply

  • DENISE FARQUHARSON — January 13th, 2009, 4:23 pm

    Wow – Tim that made me cry, made me pick myself up, made me look at myself and made me think I can do anything i put my mind to. Thanks for sharing!
    Denise
    x

    Reply

  • Craig — January 13th, 2009, 4:46 pm

    “Days and even weeks when you want to (or perhaps do) pull up the covers and half-sleep in bed until nightfall, avoiding a feeling of hopelessness that seems insurmountable.”

    This statement is so true for so many. Everyone goes through ruts when all they want to do is hide under the covers, half-sleeping until they can manage to drag themselves out of bed to go to the bathroom or eat something or God forbid venture out of the house into the real world.

    Whenever feelings like the above hit me, for some reason I tend to remember the stupid Cymbalta commercials that end up depressing me even more – “I’m one of those people in the commercials, how sad, time for another nap!”.

    While prescription medication is certainly needed for some circumstances; Videos like this are exactly what most people need for a boost of motivation and happiness. Sometimes you just have to ask yourself “Is life really that bad?”

    Thanks for the extremely motivating post, Tim.

    Reply

  • Rehan — January 13th, 2009, 4:47 pm

    Hi Tim,

    It was as if somthing was pushing me to come to this post. Today I faced many problems at work and home and was sitting here thinking Its hopeless.
    This video shattered me.
    I cannot look at myself in the mirror. I was worried about things which compared to Nicks challenges are nothing. Nothing at all. I feel like suddenly I’ve become like a blank page, all my excuses and problems wiped off.
    Thank you Tim. You have already changed my life and started my journey towards a better future. And continue to be a source of massive inspiration.
    Thank you from London.

    Reply

  • Nick Vujicic Puts Life In Perspective « AndyBrown.org — January 13th, 2009, 5:37 pm

    [...] all know the feeling and here is your prescription for self doubt and cure to your [...]

  • Pinny Cohen — January 13th, 2009, 6:11 pm

    Very inspiring video! Hopefully some people down and out on their luck will see this and get courage to keep on working toward their goals.

    Reply

  • Sonya — January 13th, 2009, 6:32 pm

    60 Minutes Australia done a great interview with Nick last year. You can click above to watch the interview.

    Reply

  • Nestor — January 13th, 2009, 6:38 pm

    Ah hell as my previous comment might’ve indicated I was feeling sorry for myself. Then I actually watched the video you posted and it kicked my ass.

    Damn.

    Reply

  • Ted — January 13th, 2009, 7:07 pm

    The power of comparison and contrast is awesome..Puts things in perspective. I just started an another semester at school and am feeling Mad overwhelmed. Accounting & Statistics.. Why did I sign up for these classes in the same semester? Money is tight, launched new website.. etc. etc.

    Good Post Tim
    Thanks man

    Reply

  • Stan — January 13th, 2009, 8:35 pm

    Hi All,

    Nic came to my school when I was in year 11.
    It is a fantastic performance he puts on watching him on stage. It will make you laugh and cry so much while at the same time, making you question why you are laughing at someone’s misfortunes. This really brings tears to your eyes.

    It is such an inspiration to watch such a talented person do what he is able to do no matter what the circumstances.

    Reply

  • Sharron — January 13th, 2009, 9:10 pm

    Thanks for feeding my soul….it was hungry.

    Reply

  • Jon Niebling — January 13th, 2009, 9:46 pm

    Thank you Tim. read your book, love your blog…but this was so much more, will pass it on to my kids, again….thank you.

    J

    Reply

  • Hethir — January 13th, 2009, 10:59 pm

    Thanks for the great video and post. What an amazing and honest man.

    Reply

  • Geez… Melissa » Blog Archive » When you’re ready to give up — January 13th, 2009, 11:06 pm

    [...] This video inspires me. I got the link from Tim Ferriss’ blog [...]

  • Diego — January 13th, 2009, 11:21 pm

    Dude, That guy´s heart is pure gold!

    Thanks man for your info. :D

    Reply

  • Vincent — January 13th, 2009, 11:36 pm

    Hey Tim,

    Thanks for sharing this video with us. It never fail to inspire me whenever I watch a video of Nick. I wish him the best and I hope his story can inspire more people. I wrote an article on Nick and I hope you guys like it [URL in name per comment rules].

    Cheers
    Vincent
    Personal Development Blogger

    Reply

  • Janet — January 14th, 2009, 12:34 am

    Yup, was having one of those days. A friend sent me this link. (Don’t you love synchronicity?) Nic is extraordinary. I want to thank you for your comments as well, Tim. I am building something extraordinary. I’d temporarily forgotten, being on the rollercoaster and all, until I read your post. Instantly, I laughed and reminded myself how incredibly grateful I am to be on this rollercoaster and not ‘stuck’ in the doldrums of same job, same stuff, same work hours, every day, day in, day out. A great lift, thank you!

    Reply

  • Gary — January 14th, 2009, 2:21 am

    The crazy thing is, I’ve seen this guy speak at a church a while back, and it was inspiring enough at the time for me to purchase the video for my family…..but that was a very temporary fix. This was a very good reminder of just how blessed I am. If I ever think I am lacking of things to be grateful for, I should remember this guy, and be ever so thankful that I have limbs, and have so much potential – even without limbs, this guy is running circles around me.

    Reply

  • Hayden — January 14th, 2009, 2:51 am

    Thanks Tim.

    What an awesome man. I used to think this stuff was just syrupy stuff that played with our emotions, but now I really believe that it is pointing to something deep inside all of us (or at least many of us) that says you are a good person and the people you share the earth with are too and to be brave and open your heart.

    World’s Strongest Dad points to the same thing that we all have inside of us. To be stronger, to get back up, and to take care of our fellow man and do something good in the world.

    Reply

  • Joel — January 14th, 2009, 5:43 am

    What an amazing attitude towards life… Really puts things into perspective – I’ll think twice next time I get angry at the way things temporarily go.

    Reply

  • Charbel — January 14th, 2009, 7:54 am

    Thank you. This might just have saved my sanity. Facing bankruptcy, the trauma of moving across continents back home (twice in a year now) and the feeling that I have no place and little hope or money – it’s all rubbish. It’s only temporary and as he mentioned, there’s a bigger plan.

    Again, thank you.

    Reply

  • Tony Santos — January 14th, 2009, 11:04 am

    Ok time for a dissenting opinion here, I’ll try not to make it a rant…

    I think that using Nick’s story as a soppy, piano-soundtracked, emotion-laden source of inspiration completely misses the point. Why does so much unnecessary drama have to be injected into a message in order to give it perceived value and deem it effective for human consumption? UGH!

    Look, I totally appreciate that he’s an inspiration. But why do people even need someone like Nick to be able to say “hey, I feel so lucky about my life when I see someone like him?” and in turn feel artificially good about themselves?

    Despite popular belief, self-esteem and confidence are not things that are rated by some kind of warped comparative analysis with someone else or even a peer group! It’s strictly dictated and given a value by its bearer, you. You and no one else.

    When I see things like this so mishandled with grandstanding and emotional music, it’s just disturbing to me. It’s so demeaning and antithetical to what Nick’s real message is. And his message is quite simple: “Hey, I’m living a great life and doing all this cool shit despite the fact that I have no legs or arms! Quit bitching or whining, and sort it out!”. It doesn’t need to be glorified or elevated, does it?

    Oftentimes, people place themselves under extreme artificially inflated amounts of pressure and stress in their drive to “succeed” because they think they have to endure it. Tim said:

    “building anything remarkable, whether a business, a relationship, or a life. Expanding your sphere of comfort and abilities comes with a cost: repeated self-doubt”.

    Really now? I think it’s plain to say that anything worth having in life involves a challenge. No question about it. But I think that most people challenge themselves in completely the wrong way in their quests. Further, they find themselves chasing an elusive ideal for happiness. An illusion.

    I know, I was one of those people. It wasn’t until I actually realized that the things that can actually make you happy are things that are really so simple and attainable vs. what is pitched upon us all by the conventional world. Once I understood that, all the self-doubt in the world couldn’t stop me from achieving my life’s dream. Nick’s advantage over all of us, is that he kept his “challenges” in perspective, overcame them despite the odds, and self-inflicted “self-doubt” and got it done. Commendable? Absolutely. Special, unique, or difficult to do? Not at all.

    If people just stopped for a moment, REALLY STOPPED and identified the things in their life that they need to TRULY make them happy, things would become aligned in a way for them that self-doubt would almost cease to come into play as a threat to reaching their goals. As Nick plainly shows, self-doubt simply ceases to have any effect. I know it sounds crazy, but believe me, it’s true.

    Sorry for the lengthy comment guys, had to get it off my chest. ;)

    Reply

  • Karen Masullo — January 14th, 2009, 11:55 am

    Tim, Nick, wonderful wonderful.

    I left home when I was 14. I was homeless in NY. There was so much pain and confusion at the time, but when I was 17 I made a choice to live and to live differently. I am happy and I am content, and have been for more than 30 years now. As a Career Coach, my First Step direction to candidates will now be “watch this.”

    Thanks for posting this. Absolutely.

    Reply

  • Joe Jarden — January 14th, 2009, 11:59 am

    Makes me forget all about the $120,000 in hard cash I lost in Real Estate Speculation.

    Hey Tim…What BLOG program did you use to set up this BLOG?

    I’d like to start my own BLOG, but not sure yet which Blogging program I should use. I bought a domain name form Go Daddy so I have that ready to go.

    Thanks!!

    Reply

  • Inspiration Tip From Tim Ferris — January 14th, 2009, 1:30 pm

    [...] to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!If you haven’t checked this inspirational video on Tim Ferris blog…you [...]

  • Shaine Mata / Get Beyond Self-Doubt — January 14th, 2009, 2:17 pm

    [...] keeps us from confidently making a choice and carrying on. So what happens when you fall? Tim Ferriss shares a video about Nick Vujicic to help put things in perspective. The answer is, you get [...]

  • Kevin in 2009 - Remember to Get Up — January 14th, 2009, 3:19 pm

    [...] You’ve fallen. You feel doubt, undesired to keep plowing, despressed, overwhelmed and you feel like the whole world is against you. When everything seems impossible please remember: It’s normal. It’s an integral part of building anything remarkable, whether a business, a relationship, or a li… [...]

  • Michael — January 14th, 2009, 3:25 pm

    Nick has an awesome message. I saw him speak a couple of months ago at local church.

    Nick tells a story about being stopped at a red light and sitting in the passenger seat. A cute girl drives up to his right and winks at him. Nick winks back, and without the girl realizing Nick’s condition he does a 360 right in his seat and freaks her out.

    Nick shares an amazing story of how God’s love goes much deeper than just flesh and bones. His website is: http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/

    Reply

  • Electra — January 14th, 2009, 6:03 pm

    Thanks for sharing Tim.

    I have watched many of Nick’s videos on YouTube, and when a family member of mine had the “poor me’s” over Thanksgiving, I sat him down and made him watch about 5 of Nick’s videos, and the tears came and the “funk” lifted. Perspective is everything.

    Props to your Mom. I think on Mother’s day, you should do a post about the most valuable lessons you’ve learned from your Mom. Please “deconstruct” or “distill” the greatest gifts you’ve received from your parents. Maybe they can distill what they did to turn out such a great human being. I know your fans who are parents would be all ears!

    Keep spreading your sunshine!
    With gratitude,
    Electra

    Reply

  • Steven C Randel — January 14th, 2009, 6:46 pm

    Dear Tim,

    You are pure inspiration yourself. I know that whenever I visit this blog there will be something to take away from it, and this link certainly lived up to that. Thanks for being a best friend.

    Steve

    Reply

  • Curtis Ludlow — January 14th, 2009, 8:41 pm

    I saw Nick in person, front row, back in April.

    He was and is amazing.

    Thank you for posting this :)

    Reply

  • Johnny Kuo — January 14th, 2009, 9:24 pm

    Thanks for the inspirational post. When you think you have it rough, it’s good to remember that someone else out there probably has it worse.

    Although the circumstances are a little different, I find Kyle Maynard’s story equally inspirational:

    Reply

  • Caisy — January 14th, 2009, 9:42 pm

    so wishing I had high speed internet right about now!!!
    Ferriss ur awsome and inspiring
    My philosophy teacher always encouraged us to look how good we had it when were feeling down and honestly you have touched so many lives in good ways that certainly it outways some if not all of the bad…

    Reply

  • Get Back Up « A Blog for Clint, Megan, Jed, and Porter — January 14th, 2009, 11:24 pm

    [...] There are moments when we feel the world is too much. Days and even weeks when we want to (or perhaps do) pull up the covers and half-sleep in bed until nightfall, avoiding a feeling of hopelessness that seems insurmountable. Long-awaited deals fall through without warning, haters attack you without reason or fact, circumstances turn good decisions into awful realities – sometimes it just feels like the deck is stacked against you and there is nothing you can do about it. -From the 4-hr work week Blog [...]

  • Wilma Keppel — January 15th, 2009, 1:15 am

    Sometimes the worst experiences and situations are the seeds of a person’s greatest triumphs.

    10 years ago I was suicidally depressed as a result of a lifetime living with a mental illness I didn’t know I had. All I knew was that I hated my life and myself, and I wanted to die.

    3 years of suicidal depression were difficult to deal with, but I kept picking myself up over and over again. Most experts on my problem claimed it was basically incurable.

    They were wrong.

    I am now mentally healthy, happy, and going strong… in ways I never could have achieved without the going through the depression experience. When my situation was “fix this problem or die,” I found the courage to do ANYTHING required to get the outcome I wanted.

    Along the way I experienced and learned amazing things, gained some remarkable skills, and overcame crippling fears. I’m now I’m able to function and enjoy life in ways I never could have without the depression. I wouldn’t wish what I experienced on anyone, but the net effects are good beyond my ability to describe.

    In December, another “problem.” Due to difficulties that seemed overwhelming, I quit a business startup I was a partner in. It was an extremely tough decision. Failing my part in the business and letting my partners down was one of my worst nightmares. I was so stressed about it that I got physically ill for several months.

    But again, what a blessing. One of the things I feared most happened, and it was no big deal. Now my other fears seem much smaller, or have vanished altogether. Things I’d been afraid to do, I’m now taking active steps toward. These few months of tough times are going to pay DECADES of dividends, not just to me but to the many other people I’ll be able to help in the future because I’m not afraid any more.

    In the middle of FEELING bad, it’s easy to think that one’s life, self, or circumstances ARE bad. Be patient. Expect the crap will contain some treasures you’ll only discover with hindsight. And as Nick says, keep picking yourself up.

    Reply

  • diana — January 15th, 2009, 4:58 am

    amaising person!! such an inspiration to everyone

    Reply

  • UAE reader — January 15th, 2009, 6:37 am

    I can’t see no video. :)

    Could you please also paste a link somewhere on the same post to any videos on YouTube, Viddler, etc.

    Reply

  • Hack Yak! » Get Up — January 15th, 2009, 7:50 am

    [...] The Prescription for Self-Doubt: Watch This Video January 15, 2009 | life | [...]

  • Riyadh — January 15th, 2009, 10:18 am

    Thank you very much for this video. After watching that, I could safely name Nick as one of my heroes.

    Reply

  • Dirk — January 15th, 2009, 11:03 am

    Tim’s information in The Four Hour Work Week book/blog have some of the most practical information ever written on efficiency and making the most use of your time. And Nick has such an amazing story. He is very courageous! However, it’s Nick’s spiritual message that trumps all. Ultimately reminding us, “What if a person gains the whole world but forfeits his soul?” A life of self indulgence is temporarily pleasing, but long term…unfulfilling and meaningless. After all, if you want to learn about life…”Don’t go to a party, go to a funeral”

    Reply

  • Marcie — January 15th, 2009, 2:27 pm

    @Joe – Tim is using wordpress.

    Reply

  • Teri Conrad — January 15th, 2009, 2:50 pm

    Wow! thanks so much for the great inspiration! Am promptly getting over myself NOW!

    Ps – are you on Twitter??

    Reply

  • The Inspirational Story of Nick Vijicic « ZacharyH — January 15th, 2009, 2:51 pm

    [...] Brave New Web! The Inspirational Story of Nick Vijicic January 15, 2009 Over at the Four Hour Work Week, Tim Ferriss has a very inspiration post up about an Australian named Nick Vijicic. Here is his web [...]

  • BodenseePeter » Blog Archive » Never give up, Teil 2 — January 15th, 2009, 3:01 pm

    [...] JK Livin’ und Tim Ferris (dem Typ mit der 4 Stunden [...]

  • Joe Jarden — January 15th, 2009, 3:25 pm

    Thank You Marcie!!…I’ll pursue the WordPress

    Reply

  • Brent — January 15th, 2009, 4:39 pm

    Tim,

    Not sure how to get your attention and I know this isn’t related to this particular post but as a young forward thinking person I thought maybe you would have a strong opinion on suburban sprawl and the fact that the U.S. is about to spend $1 trillion on building new roads while ignoring our desperate need trains and mass transit that help make European cities so amazing and that could get people off the roads so they can do something more productive with their time then commute 2 hours / day.

    http://action.smartgrowthamerica.org/t/3224/petition.jsp?petition_KEY=206

    Reply

  • Michelle — January 15th, 2009, 6:00 pm

    Thanks for the inspirational post Tim! After failing the California bar exam on my first try, anxiety, depression, and self-doubt made it hard to get back up and try again. After almost two years laying in limbo, I’m finally taking the exam again in February. Sometimes we just need to look outside ourselves for the courage to get up and face our fears.

    Reply

    • Austin Hicks (@austinjhicks) — November 11th, 2011, 8:57 am

      Did you apply the four hour work week principles to your bar prep? I’m taking the bar in February and I’m failing to see how I can prep for the bar without putting in the time. Thanks for answering if you find the time to answer
      -Austin

      Reply

  • Matt Manfredi — January 15th, 2009, 7:12 pm

    Tim,
    I just got word today that my position in a NY school district was being eliminated on June 30. THANK GOD I read the Four Hour Workweek in July of 2007. I started my company Teacher2Teacher Network that same year because of you. We launched on January 1, 2009 and we are anticipating some serious Ferriss-like success and being able to work anywhere in the world. Just when I was feeling pretty crappy about my situation you posted this article. Timing is everything. The video brought tears to my eyes. Thank you Tim Ferriss-Thank you Tim Ferriss-Thank you Time Ferriss.
    Regards,
    Matt

    Reply

  • Donna McGinty — January 15th, 2009, 7:48 pm

    As I sat here at the computer doing bookwork to try and get us lower house payments, opening mail at the same time. This wonderful man I have seen before, but he brings me to my knees each time. The youngsters he impacts with what he can do with what God gave him compared to what they can do with so much more is almost palpable with the looks on thier faces. He has truely reached the Glory of God and will be a blessing to know in Heaven just as he is here on Earth.

    Reply

  • Madelyn — January 15th, 2009, 8:49 pm

    What a message; what a testimony!
    How easy it is to forget about the blessings God has showered me with,
    Thank you for the reminder. Life is beautiful.

    Reply

  • Emily Fiorella — January 15th, 2009, 11:39 pm

    This video evokes so much emotion. It is so powerful.

    The power of influence, the way we are able to inspire one another, the ability to become motivated, the adrenaline that comes with it and then what we do with it all…is up to us…

    Thanks ~ Emily

    Reply

  • John Broyles — January 15th, 2009, 11:49 pm

    If you’ve never gotten a chance to meet Nick or hear him speak live, you’re missing out.

    To see him in person and see the fire in his eyes and desire to make a difference on this earth is absolutely incredible… whether its seeking the lifestyle design of choice or simply bringing encouragement and hope to peoples lives, we all have something we should strive for no matter how great.

    As Nick says, you keep trying and trying despite failure until you’ve reached that ultimate goal… he’s a huggin machine and a huge inspiration… I’m glad you’ve heard his story

    Reply

  • Bits and Pieces 16 Jan 09 | Fragments From Floyd — January 16th, 2009, 3:24 am

    [...] Or give him a hug. He can’t hug you back. But you’ll feel like you have been embraced. The Prescription for Self Doubt (video 5 [...]

  • Adam — January 16th, 2009, 4:39 am

    Thanks, Tim! Have you seen Sean Stephenson? – an equally inspiring guy.

    Reply

  • Rise up from the ruins - January 15 | Patio Genius — January 16th, 2009, 7:11 am

    [...] Madoff investor who lost $1.4 billion. No matter how bad things get, your life is worth more. This video posted by Tim Ferris proves it. Then there are the auto companies, retailers big and small and so [...]

  • David — January 16th, 2009, 7:16 am

    thanks Tim.

    Thanks for posting this and for your continual inspiration.

    Reply

  • Sam Stone — January 16th, 2009, 8:44 am

    Awesome post! thanks. just at the right time too!

    Reply

  • Dallas — January 16th, 2009, 9:38 am

    It’s so easy to except the outside discouragement. But, you have to know inside that you can come out of the situation better than before.

    Reply

  • Fabio Platero — January 16th, 2009, 10:37 am

    Thanks for the inspirational post and video, Tim.

    Reply

  • Brianne — January 16th, 2009, 12:05 pm

    You just saved my life. Thank you so much. I’m going to get back up.

    Reply

  • Stella — January 16th, 2009, 5:15 pm

    Thanks Tim..Each of your blog entries are like your book, inspiring and informative and most of all..always motivates me to act and change my behavior. Thank you and thanks to everyone who supports you!

    Reply

  • Mary Shaw — January 16th, 2009, 6:21 pm

    Hi Tim,

    Thank you so much for this. My husband’s mom passed away 2 days after you posted this. It has given us much inspiration and hope. You are a true gift. Keep on doing the things you do!

    Best,
    Mary

    Reply

    • Tim Ferriss — January 17th, 2009, 1:36 pm

      @Mary Shaw,

      My sincerest condolences, Mary. I wish you and yours all strength during what must be a very challenging period.

      All the best, and thank you all for the great comments and dialogue,

      Tim

      Reply

  • bootcat — January 16th, 2009, 7:27 pm

    you made me cry as the first thing in the morning tim .

    Reply

  • Charles — January 16th, 2009, 9:49 pm

    Thanks to Tim and Tim’s mother for sharing this.

    I thought about Tim and the 4HWW when I came across this article a few days ago. It’s about entrepreneurs not knowing when to quit. Segway inventor Dean Kamen said it is “the toughest question there is”.

    http://snurl.com/a7pdm

    Reply

  • Revue de presse — January 16th, 2009, 9:50 pm

    [...] 3. Si vous pensez que vous n’avez pas de chance regardez cette vidéo [...]

  • Karen — January 16th, 2009, 9:54 pm

    Thanks Tim for the “Four Hour Work Week” and thanks for the timely message.

    And thanks everyone for the comments. As with many of them, this posting came at the perfect time.

    Just found out that I have a return of cancer after being clear for 5 years. My first reaction was no way am I going to fight this again. For God’s sake I finally have long hair!!! Despair lasted about a day and I got back up for the task at hand.

    This guy’s story just reminds me not to take all this too personally, that everyone has their particular and unique challenge. And that the greatest work of art you can create is your own life, by making something beautiful and worthwhile with all the challenges.

    Oh and by the way Tim that chick Penelope Trunk has got to be IN LOVE WITH YOU. She does go on like a grade school girl who talks trash about the one that gets the most under her skin! LOLOL;))

    Love and Blessings,
    Karen

    Reply

  • Occdude — January 17th, 2009, 1:05 am

    I have to say normally I’am a critical and cynical person, but that video of the guy with no limbs was inspirational. We tend to forget the things we have and focus on the things we dont. Its nice to see a person triumph through sheer will. He is a TRUE hero as opposed to the “the made for tv type”.

    Reply

  • Cam — January 17th, 2009, 1:37 am

    Man, that blog post came at just the perfect time for me. Thanks so much man… Cam

    Reply

  • @davideckoff — January 17th, 2009, 2:35 am

    Karen, you have a great perspective, I wish you all the best as your body heals. A thought: “Sometimes through our greatest challenges we find our greatest strength.”

    Tim, thanks for the inspirational message and video. These days, I think a lot of people can relate to this, entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs alike.

    I’m reminded of this great scene from the final Rocky movie:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1tXhJniSEc

    “You, me or nobody, is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard you hit… It’s about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward… how much you can take, and keep moving forward. That´s how winning is done.”

    Reply

  • Laura Posey — January 17th, 2009, 4:06 am

    Nick is an incredibly inspiring guy. Ever watch him eat? Think about that- with no arms, legs, fingers or toes. Makes you appreciate the little things in life like being able to feed yourself when you want. Oh, the things we take for granted…

    Check out Clay Dyer as well. He is an amazing fisherman and also is missing most of his limbs. He ties lures on his line with his tongue. Just goes to show that when you are passionate about something, anything, it can be accomplished no matter the obstacles.

    Nick is so passionate about spreading his message that he will do anything to get it out.

    Hopefully we can all find out passions and pursue them with such vigor, grace and purpose.

    Thanks, Tim, for being inspiration-central.

    Laura

    Reply

  • Kevin Marple — January 17th, 2009, 8:55 am

    Tim,
    Thank you for posting this video. Those are unforgettable images and words. Keep doing what you are doing, it is working.

    Reply

  • Losing Hope? Just remember, Nick Vujicic | Puleen Patel — January 17th, 2009, 11:23 am

    [...] And remember this name, Nick Vujicic. And more importantly just watch this quick 5 minute inspirational video on The Blog of Tim Ferriss. [...]

  • Paul — January 17th, 2009, 11:27 am

    Amazing. To God be the glory.

    Reply

  • Cindy Hamilton — January 17th, 2009, 12:33 pm

    Thank you, Tim (and Tim’s mom), for sharing this inspiring and very special video.

    Reply

  • james — January 17th, 2009, 12:33 pm

    Thanks for sharing this and like you I will forward this onto others as well.

    Reply

  • Nancy Fox — January 17th, 2009, 1:35 pm

    Tim:
    Will add my thanks to the many others – fantastic video.
    What moved me as much as Nik’s message was how moved those students were. They got it!
    In a world where young people can be so jaded by a complex, challenging world, they were inspired and touched by someone else’s life lessons.
    Here’s a guy who truly knows he is making a difference, one that he couldn’t have made had he not had to endure his own incredible losses and challenges.

    Thanks again.

    Nancy Fox

    Reply

  • Liza — January 17th, 2009, 2:43 pm

    Hi Tim,

    I genuinely thank you for sharing your time and knowledge with respect to this beautiful thing called life. I’ve learned so much since I read your book last September and moreover following your journey via your website. I now value my time and it’s worth, based upon what it cost to have those priceless experiences (does that make sense?) In any case have a brilliant 2009 and thank you for paying it forward!!

    Liza

    Reply

  • Aaron Stull — January 17th, 2009, 6:27 pm

    We are all fools sometimes. Money, work, being busy, what are we allowing ourselves become sometimes. What an inspiration that gentleman is. I feel shame today as I let my wife leave the house without telling her I love her. Thank you for this video.

    Reply

  • jcrowlife — January 17th, 2009, 7:34 pm

    Thanks for sharing

    Reply

  • steve — January 17th, 2009, 8:01 pm

    Stop it Tim!

    I keep looking for a boring, lame post, so I can stop reading this blog and be productive, but I never seem to find worthless content here.Yet another job well done. You didn’t do much on this one other than share it with us, but that was all that was needed. Thank you!

    Reply

  • bill Hash — January 17th, 2009, 11:12 pm

    Tim
    thanks so much for posting the latest video. I am so glad I have my arms and legs. And I count myself lucky ‘knowing you’ . Best wishes and hurry up with your next book
    regards
    Bill Hash

    Reply

  • David — January 17th, 2009, 11:38 pm

    I’ve watched this vid so many times, and 3:24 gets me choked up everytime

    Reply

  • Karl Staib - Work Happy Now — January 18th, 2009, 9:37 am

    Wow! I love that video. I recently was forced to move to a new office further from my home, at a job that doesn’t excite me. I’m working on building my business from a blog to a speaking career. Not an easy task. My doubts happen and come often.

    As each doubt passes I realize that all I have to do is pick myself up like the video suggests. Use the knowledge that I’ve gained to position my career to fulfill my dreams.

    One step, day, and experience at a time.

    Reply

  • Niall — January 18th, 2009, 1:56 pm

    The timing of that post was uncanny Tim. I’ve been really struggling the last few weeks to keep myself off that “rollercoaster” and it’s been tough. Truly inspiring and something I’ll be taking into my life and definitely to my jiujitsu training tomorrow night (for all those nights I doubted that I could keep going)!

    Reply

  • Denice — January 18th, 2009, 7:41 pm

    Thank you Tim

    today is my 62 birthday and I want to thank you for your spirit and inspiration. I will forward this because the message is awe inspiring.

    Reply

  • Yuni — January 19th, 2009, 1:34 am

    Being going through such a challengng time right now, I was very much inspired and touched by the video and thankful for watching it at the just right time. Sometimes we need to be reminded how lucky and blessed we are just to be alive.
    Thank you for uploading this video.

    Reply

  • Anthony Martinez — January 19th, 2009, 4:09 am

    Wow. After a few of the most challenging and difficult weeks of my life, and with only more ahead of me, this helped renew perspective and purpose in my life. Thank you.

    Reply

  • Volker — January 19th, 2009, 10:48 am

    Thank you for that clip. This is my favourite one when I’m down:

    http://de.youtube.com/watch?v=WZmgZN1umsM

    As far as I know, he needs his crutches in daily life.

    By the way, thank you for your book also.

    Greetings from Düsseldorf
    Volker

    Reply

  • Joshua Blank — January 19th, 2009, 12:37 pm

    Makes my worries seem foolish. I am going to try to watch this video weekly.

    Reply

  • Christopher Fetterman — January 19th, 2009, 12:50 pm

    I was wondering if Tim is related to Steven Ferriss. Check out this article about “Steven Ferriss.” He makes pills that have “cognitive-enhancing effects” like brainquicken

    ###

    From Tim: Hi Chris. I checked it out. It’s Steven Ferris with one “S” so we aren’t related, but it’s an interesting article nonetheless. Thanks for the link!

    Tim

    Reply

  • Erin — January 19th, 2009, 1:13 pm

    Tim, I’ve always drawn inspiration from your writtings, as they affirm my aspirations while the world around me strives for mediocrity. But it is that self doubt that creeps in when things are tough, that fear of failing or not being good enough, and my response is sleeping until 2 and shutting off the phone. Thanks for your post. It was a much needed reminder that it will all work out, and I need to stay persistent.

    Thanks!

    Reply

  • Denise — January 19th, 2009, 6:41 pm

    A great video, Tim. Thanks for sharing! It reminds me of one of my favorite quotes:

    “Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens.” -Kahlil Gibran

    No matter what hand we are dealt in life, every person has the choice of what to focus on, talk about, and direct their energy towards. This is a true testament to a person’s character. Kudos to Nick for sharing his amazing message with the world.

    Reply

  • Marcie — January 19th, 2009, 8:31 pm

    Tim – thanks for the yerba mate research links – glad to see. I had info handed to me by a nutritionist at work that cited mate as a high risk for throat cancer based on “hundreds of studies”, do you know if that many studies have been done and/or if there are other factors in those regions (smoking comes first to mind) that would skew the study? Curious about this type of research. Thanks! :)

    Reply

  • Denise — January 20th, 2009, 1:43 am

    This story is also tragic, inspiring and thought provoking. Jacqueline Saburido was 20 when she was hit by a drunk driver and survived the fiery wreck. She only allows herself to cry or feel bad for 5 minutes a day (watch out- its pretty graphic).

    http://www.texasdwi.org/jacqui.html

    Reply

  • Ivona — January 20th, 2009, 5:02 am

    Hey tim, just wanted to say i think you’re ace!

    Appreciate all the advice; now it’s just a matter of putting it in practice.

    Cheers

    Reply

  • Brett Richard — January 20th, 2009, 6:14 am

    I really needed that! Thank you for all you do!

    Reply

  • ladd — January 20th, 2009, 3:34 pm

    -Thanks

    I was just having one of those days and I thought I would check out your blog. It acted like very powerful sniffing salts to help me count my blessings, keep my head up, and keep pushin’ on.

    Your insights are much appreciated-

    Reply

  • Derek Wood — January 20th, 2009, 7:51 pm

    Great post. I’ve been following this blog for some time, as well as the 4HWW principles. This is the first time I’ve posted my reply, but it made me think about the following video clip, which makes me think hard everytime I am down in the dumps. I watch this at least 1x/month to keep it fresh in my mind. Any athletes out there? Then this one will especially hit home with you. Enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRHxHapwirw&feature=channel

    Hope this did not post 2x, my apologies if so.

    Reply

  • Prescription for self doubt | Uncategorized | Everything in this world is survival and this blog is all about survival — January 20th, 2009, 8:05 pm

    [...] read this blog post of Tim Ferriss and I’ve to admit that this is one of the best videos I’ve ever seen in my life. Since [...]

  • x — January 21st, 2009, 3:13 pm

    I wasn’t crying probably 3 years. I did watching the ideo, I can only wish that guy all the best and laugh from our problems

    Reply

  • Gibson Starkweather — January 22nd, 2009, 12:35 am

    A chicken wing may look funny but it’s still useful! :)

    Thank you for another excellent (and honest) post.

    Keep doing your best.

    Reply

  • Aaron Vaughn — January 22nd, 2009, 4:26 pm

    This is the MOST inspirational message I have heard. I looked at his website: http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/about-nick-vujicic.php

    In his message he says he’d like to be interviewed on Oprah and that he is writing a book.

    Tim, I know you only work 4 hours a week – but if you see this message and if you have any connections in the media that could get this amazingly inspirational man on the Opera show – it would inspire millions of people all over the world through her show.

    Tim, thanks so much for sharing this story on your blog – it has humbled me and inspired me – I am not sure how to contact the Opera show if anyone knows – please post a message – truely inspiring.

    GOD bless.

    Reply

  • John — January 23rd, 2009, 12:46 am

    Tim,
    I’ve got a great idea for a 4HWW iphone application.
    E-mail me!

    Reply

  • Bob Schroy — January 23rd, 2009, 3:33 am

    This man is a miracle, very inspiring, this piece alone will help hundreds if not thousands to try harder to accomplish their ministries. Thank you.

    Reply

  • Lesli — January 23rd, 2009, 4:15 pm

    Thanks for sharing your story – it was very powerful!

    Reply

  • Aaron Kemmer — January 23rd, 2009, 8:31 pm

    @Amy: So Tim really does have assistants, eh? :)

    @Tim: Amazing video. The world is not always fair, and we have to make the best of it. Some of us are better at it than others, but I think the best approach to take is to try and improve a little each day. Keep getting back up.

    Reply

  • Nous n’avons pas de problèmes !!! « Il est temps de se prendre en charge ! — January 25th, 2009, 1:49 am

    [...] l’ai trouvé sur le site de Tim Ferriss et c’est extraordinaire. Cette vidéo m’a fait tout bonnement [...]

  • Angelo Magliocco — January 26th, 2009, 9:01 am

    Just thank you, Tim.
    This one was wonderful, and moved me to tears.
    I think it is powerful in that it succeeds in turning (somehow) the “energy” stored in the feeling of hopelessness in something different.
    I am certain that hopelessness is something we DO, actively, I mean.
    Well, I often propose to myself that, when I am hopeless, since I am already “doing” something, I could just switch track and try out something more worthwhile.
    My 2 cents…

    Greetings and congratulations from Italy
    Angelo

    Reply

  • ripdaflip — January 26th, 2009, 9:34 pm

    That is awesome I watched it more than 10 times. Very Inspirational for a intermediate student

    Reply

  • Justin — January 26th, 2009, 11:14 pm

    Brian commented on a speaker who spoke about the subject of self pity. I would like to add to that fear, anger, bitterness and other emotional thought. They are all destructive in nature and usually dwell on situations that can’t be changed. Not only does emotional thought thwart logical thought and hinder true joy, it prevents one from finding other rewarding opportunities. Once your mind stops thinking with logic, you’ve had it. Not only does your own life become a wreck but your relationships become caustic, sometimes planting the seeds of destructive emotional thought in others.

    Reply

  • Kim Chapman — January 26th, 2009, 11:58 pm

    I watched this and found inspiration from it. I am a 40 yr old single Mom of twins and I just lost my job. I’ve had cervical cancer and breast cancer,I was raped by their father after our divorce,while the boys watched and it just never seemed to stop raining on my parade. Also, who would have guessed how expensive cancer would be! As you raise your children you wish to always see them look at you with pride. I had lost my strength to get up and do my best every day and spent so much time boo-hooing. I went to the store one afternoon, looking for something at the book store to help me find my way again. I looked and cried, yes in public. It just all seemed so unrealistic and out of my reach. I picked up Tim’s book because I have spent the last 10 years working 50-65 hours a week, missing my boys at football and so on…the title got me. I sincerely will apply what is in this book to improve the my lifestyle and to see pride in the eyes of my boys. What a great life it would be to attend every football game before they are out of highschool.
    Thanks Tim
    Wish me luck and really, really believe.

    Reply

  • BrainFuel » Life is Beautiful — January 27th, 2009, 9:55 pm

    [...] 1. Get Back Up – Nick Vujicic (via) [...]

  • Liz McLellan — January 30th, 2009, 12:44 am

    Great to be reminded that all of the rest of you go through it! And that you move past it – and keep creating!

    We’re all so unique in the very same way ; D

    Onward!

    Reply

  • Denice — January 31st, 2009, 8:40 am

    thank you thank you thank you you are truely an inspiration

    Reply

  • Matthew Loop — January 31st, 2009, 4:59 pm

    Still gives me chills when I watch this video! What an incredible inspiration Nick has become..

    Reply

  • James from Babyspot.com — February 2nd, 2009, 12:20 pm

    Great post Tim. Thanks for sharing this! I am truly amazed at what you accomplish when you just put your mind to it. I mean no limbs yet he continues with life! I love it! He is very inspiring. This is reminds me of a great saying..”Stop stressing about what you don’t have and start appreciating what you do have!”

    Thanks again

    Reply

  • Marcus Quincy — February 3rd, 2009, 3:00 pm

    Wow. I guess I’ll start appreciating everything that I DO HAVE!

    Reply

  • Alpesh — February 4th, 2009, 9:37 am

    What a great video that you have posted. I ended up posting it on some other blogs and it has touched so many people in the last couple of weeks it’s unbelievable. This individual is a true testament that obstacles can either stop you or motivate you. He has such a strong faith in god after all these trials and tribulations, what an unbelievable inspiration.

    Reply

  • Stephen Nash — February 5th, 2009, 11:13 am

    Great vid Tim. Wasn’t aware of him at all – very uplifting. I recently did an interview with Sean Stephenson. It was a superb experience. He’s a similarly afflicted man, but with an extraordinary outlook and attitude towards life.

    Stephen Nash.

    Reply

  • Sandra Keros — February 5th, 2009, 5:08 pm

    Soooooo cool. Love this guy’s attitude. Thanks for sharing it with me and the masses, Tim!

    Best,
    Sandra

    Reply

  • Sarah Oh — February 6th, 2009, 5:40 am

    Thank you for posted this vidio, Tim.
    It’s a really great vidio, about one person.
    And even he has no arms and no legs. It would be very very uncomfortable.
    And I’m thanks to god to make me out of this incredible world.
    And thank you Tim, to posted this great vidio. I learned a lot.

    Reply

  • Dr J — February 6th, 2009, 8:04 pm

    Thanks Tim, it’s what I needed today.

    Reply

  • stephane — February 7th, 2009, 11:45 am

    Thank-you,
    a great lesson in courage I dont think I will forget

    Reply

  • Alicia — February 7th, 2009, 11:54 am

    I literally stumbled on this today and it did the trick – as if it was waiting for me. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

  • Eddy — February 7th, 2009, 3:37 pm

    Thanks for the reminder Tim, I saw Nick at a seminar in Brisbane, Australia. What an awesome and inspirational human being!

    Reply

  • Dave — February 16th, 2009, 1:53 pm

    Well Tim I have had quite a few trials and I feel like giving up sometimes but now and again someone like Nick and yourself turn up and hay presto am goin to keep going even stronger.
    Thanks Nick.

    Reply

  • Sean West — February 19th, 2009, 2:18 pm

    I was actually sitting in bed feeling sorry for myself while reading this, stressed about some business stuff. I’ve been here pretty much all day, and you and this video are putting me back on my feet.

    As Ever, Thanks,
    Sean

    Reply

  • TLL — February 20th, 2009, 7:51 am

    Tim,

    Thank you for this inspiration. I am an entrepreneur going through a season of battling depression and self-doubt, brought on by the financial hardships of the current economy. This video was as good as any of the therapy or medication I’ve received. I too, can get up.

    Reply

  • Real Fortin — February 21st, 2009, 6:07 am

    Thanks Tim!

    I was right in the middle of my pity party, after having lost the last 15 years of my life savings on that crazy stock market. I was feeling pretty crappy. After just watching the video, specially the 1st clip, I felt much better. I’m ready to take on the world again. This last defeat will make my next victory so much sweeter.

    Réal

    Reply

  • tessi — February 26th, 2009, 12:32 pm

    My six yr. old daughter and I just watched this video together. I was crying as we watched. We left London with two suitcases and my laptop, no money, just plane tickets back to the USA, to leave her abusive father. I thought our life was destroyed, but there is hope in the future isn’t there. I can see it now. Now matter how Fate knocks you down, there is hope and we must find happiness in what we have.

    Reply

  • Scott — February 27th, 2009, 12:40 pm

    Video won’t play on my computer. Have Quicktime 7.6, divx plugin, Windows XP. help please.

    Reply

  • Dorothy — March 1st, 2009, 6:49 am

    hi, tim!!
    i,m your fan.
    u are my rollmodel.^_^

    i’m korean. it’s UCC’s nation is korea.

    It makes me happy. :-)

    Reply

  • B.D. — March 5th, 2009, 12:49 pm

    The upbeat video ironically reminded me of the following sour passage from Martin Amis’s novel THE INFORMATION (about a failed novelist’s bitterness toward his friend’s success). The lines are his internal musings about his failed life: “Like the lady who was of course still there between the mortar board and the prosthetic legs (and what a moving acceptance speech she gave), like the laughing athlete who, after the mishap in the car park, awoke to find himself running a network of charities from his padded rack, Richard had to see whether the experience of disappointment was going to make him bitter or better. And it made him bitter. He was sorry: there was nothing he could do about it. He wasn’t up to better.”

    Reply

  • Allen Hollywood — March 19th, 2009, 7:29 pm

    Makes me realize how lucky I am. Great post. It is amazing how tough we think we have it and then we see someone that works just a little bit harder at life.
    Allen

    Reply

  • Ryan Hardesty — April 22nd, 2009, 2:19 pm

    This guy spoke at my church. He is an amazing inspiration!

    Reply

  • Lynda — April 25th, 2009, 9:56 pm

    I have just realised your reason for this post; a little behind the 8 Ball, but that it was in response to the post about you, Tim 4 days earlier by PT. I’ve only just looked at her blog this week, have realised the woman is a totally amusing nut-job, and wondering how much more rope she needs to hang herself with! Amazing isn’t it that someone who talks about valuing connections could be so cruel. Sad….

    Reply

  • Emerson & The Trials of being an Entrepreneur « Enternships — April 26th, 2009, 12:44 pm

    [...] I stumbled upon a blog post by Tim Ferriss (of The Four-Hour Week fame). The post was aimed at helping entrepreneurs push past [...]

  • Blogging Money » Blog Archive » Prescription for self doubt — April 27th, 2009, 9:37 pm

    [...] read this blog post of Tim Ferriss and I’ve to admit that this is one of the best videos I’ve ever seen in my life. Since [...]

  • scott duncan — May 3rd, 2009, 6:04 am

    I just shed a tear as I remembered that I have nothing to be unhappy about, thank you!

    Reply

  • miss manmeet — May 16th, 2009, 5:30 am

    wow thts inspiring and beautiful

    Reply

  • Christopher — May 25th, 2009, 8:54 pm

    hola Tim!
    se que puedes hablar mi idioma así que lo uso (my english such jaja) bueno muy buen vídeo justo ahora estoy un momento de mi vida muy malo y por cosa de dios lo veo y me doy cuenta de lo tonto y afortunado que e sido y que seré muchas gracias por tan buen post . soy un fanático de tu pagina la reviso todos los días llevo 3 semanas revisándola.
    Eres una muy buena aspiración, me encantaría leer tu libro pero en Chile no lo encuentro (y lo busco mucho). ojala que en unos de tus tantos viajes puedas venir a chile encantado te invitaría unos tragos para hablar y te mostraría este largo y muy angosto país .Chile tiene mucho que mostrarte de eso estoy seguro!.
    muy respetuosamente me despido CHIAO!

    Reply

  • Michael Searles — June 5th, 2009, 3:00 am

    Thanks Tim.

    Nick in this video has helped me once again remember the importance of ‘putting things into perspective’. I have been fortunate to see Nick interviewed on Australian ’60 Minutes’ TV. Again, simply inspiring.

    Richard Wiseman wrote a book titled, ‘Luck Factor’ and one of the four factors for good luck is to turn bad luck and misfortune around.

    This video and Nick’s attitude is a living, breathing example of that luck factor in action.

    Have gained much from your own book Tim, thanks.

    Michael

    Reply

  • Jay Belle Isle — September 7th, 2009, 1:38 pm

    Truly inspiring, Tim. Thanks for sharing! I needed it.

    Reply

  • Tom — September 10th, 2009, 1:15 pm

    Thank you Nick.
    Thank you Tim.

    Very, very inspirational.

    Tom

    Reply

  • Joe Clash — September 30th, 2009, 6:08 am

    Thanks for the pick me up. I’m going to watch this once per week.

    Reply

  • Yadgyu — October 11th, 2009, 8:13 pm

    I became even more depressed after watching this video.

    I just do not see why someone should be happy just for theck of it. It may be true that I have my health and I accomplished some things. But past success is no indication of present satisfaction or future happiness.

    It gets sort of annoying to have people to tell me to be happy with what I already have. I am bored with what I have. I want to accomplish new things and do more without putting in a ton of work and sacrificing.

    I am not like others. I do not want to work hard to gain more. I would love for someone to give me what I want. Working hard for something does not make me appreciate it more. I actually feel a sense of dissapointment and ambivalence when I wait and work.

    Life is too short for me to lie and tell myself to be happy with what I have. I would be happier with more!

    Reply

  • missmanmeet — October 12th, 2009, 8:58 am

    thnx for an amazing video that inspires manyyyyyyyyyyy…….absolutely great

    Reply

  • Oleg Mokhov — October 13th, 2009, 7:08 pm

    Hey Tim,

    Eliminate self-doubt by asking yourself if the situation sparking it will matter in a week/month/year.

    Sometimes we’re so caught up in the details that we forget to look at the big picture. It’s like logging into Analytics and only looking at yesterday’s data rather than the month’s.

    Shit happens, and when it does, self-doubt automatically starts to creep in. We can swat it in its initial stage, before it spreads too much, by putting the situation in perspective. Will this thing matter in a month or year? Does it change my big goal? Most likely it won’t. Once that is realized, the negative situation is externalized. It becomes simply a weed that we can pull out and proceed to work on our garden.

    Awesome video, thanks to you and your mom,
    Oleg

    Reply

  • cindy — October 31st, 2009, 8:51 pm

    Such a great video. I cried! I will spread the video out and make people change.

    Reply

  • heuristic — November 3rd, 2009, 11:49 am

    It’s cool that he has a mental construct that gives him such power – Christianity in his in case. I don’t share the construct but I say: whatever works. Mine is hate, which serves equally to get one out of bed and through the day.

    Reply

  • Michael — December 17th, 2009, 8:41 am

    This inspires me and give me chills. This young man has a huge reason and purpose for his life.

    Reply

  • Dan — December 28th, 2009, 10:46 pm

    Thank you for this. I am experiencing what you call a “crisis of meaning” stage in my development and after watching this I realize that I have been making too many ‘stay down’ choices lately. This has been a big help, thank you again.

    Reply

  • Vince — February 1st, 2010, 9:11 pm

    Wow, it’s hard to have any self doubts when you watch his story. Thank you for the post!

    Reply

  • Julie Fogg — February 8th, 2010, 11:12 am

    Amazing video. I tweeted this morning about some guy I saw last night on #undercoverboss that had been on dialysis for 19 years and he wound up firing the “undercover boss” the CEO of Waste Management because the CEO wasn’t performing as well as the manager that went to dialysis 3 days a week. My tweet said something about how I wasn’t going to let the cold and me being sleepy get in the way of my workout this morning and I had a fantastic workout very early today. Then I got a DM (direct message) on Twitter from @monkchips who is someone I admire a great deal and he posted the link to this video for me to look at. What an amazing message Brian!!! Your authentic message was spectacular. I’ll keep a window open on my PC for when I need a little bit o’ that to keep me going. You’re a rock star in my book. :)

    Julie Fogg

    Reply

  • Cam — February 9th, 2010, 1:57 am

    Amazing. What an awesome guy!

    Thanks dude.

    Reply

  • Back on the Rollercoaster — February 19th, 2010, 11:34 am

    [...] The Prescription for Self-Doubt: Watch This Video – short article by Tim Ferriss containing a very moving video about moving forward in the face of adversity. [...]

  • Bobbee — May 6th, 2010, 4:51 pm

    Tim…thank you for your insights!..as always you provide a huge perspective shift – and a perfect virtual kick in the seat of the pants.

    Reply

  • Linda — May 18th, 2010, 5:36 pm

    This took my breath away -

    Reply

  • Mike — June 26th, 2010, 9:09 pm

    When I was struggling in college, the strangest thing happened. I began to see stories on the news about people like Nick who were loving life and thriving. It inspired me to keep working hard because if they could do it, so could I.

    Reply

  • Kristaps — August 12th, 2010, 8:49 am

    Thank you Tim for this post.

    Reply

  • Jenny — August 14th, 2010, 4:17 pm

    Great video! I’m going to share this with my friends!

    Reply

  • Máire — September 6th, 2010, 9:01 am

    Thanks! Perfect timing for a perfect reminder. Don’t give up!

    Reply

  • Christopher — September 6th, 2010, 2:43 pm

    Doubt makes me feel alone. But when you read posts like this, watch videos like this, and realize others have been where you are, you understand that you aren’t alone. I cry when watching that video because I have empathy, a sign that we are social animals and in “it” together. Thank you.

    Reply

  • Liam — September 6th, 2010, 6:19 pm

    Timely reminder indeed. Cheers.

    Reply

  • Niall — September 7th, 2010, 3:52 pm

    A really well timed reminder of what’s important man. Between that and the article on entreprenurial highs/lows I’ve just gotten a lot more clarity and peace of mind!

    Good to know I’m not alone in doubting who I am and what I do at times! lol

    Reply

  • Eddie — September 7th, 2010, 10:43 pm

    I’m watching the video and enjoying this motivational story and THEN he falls on his chest. It’s THEN his message touches your heart with the inevitability of, and the effectiveness of a well-aimed bullet. I literally had a full body chill such as I’ve never experienced, and I’m typing this though the drying tears in my eyes.

    Bravo, Blog of Author Tim Ferriss, for teaching me so about the myriad of aspects of mind, body, and soul. With all authenticity, Tim’s Blog and site has enhanced my quality of life.

    Reply

  • Jeanmarie — September 12th, 2010, 7:09 pm

    Okay, okay, I’ll stop complaining!

    Reply

  • mattjc — September 15th, 2010, 6:43 am

    Whoa I’ve been in a real ditch of late – my own worst enemy, you know? I watched this and burst into a state of shuddering uncontrollable tears! It felt really good. Think I’ve been holding that back for a while. Time to get up… Thanks.

    Reply

  • GCENT — October 2nd, 2010, 7:20 am

    I make 80k/day with my internet business, was a 2nd dan black belt in my 20′s, owned nightclubs, and Tim, even deadlifted 445. Been to over 40 Countries and my life isn’t far off this author. I’m “that” guy in bed now at 36 and have no idea how this happened. I can totally relate to this. It will never make sense to many, but what I do is just remember a time I felt great just a few years back and tell myself this moment is something that will pass…

    Reply

  • Sarah — October 2nd, 2010, 10:16 am

    Beautiful. And this is indeed normal for us. So normal that it even starts to feel normal, so there is a steady core that holds true in the midst of the ups and downs, because God is there, great and gracious through it all, revealing his glory partly in people doing good and impossible things they were created to do — as Nick clearly shows.

    Reply

  • Thomas — October 2nd, 2010, 11:29 am

    I have seen Nick Vujicic before and I been thinking about getting in touch with him. I help run a broadcasting company up in Canada that broadcasts programming for and about people with disabilities. Nick would be a wonderful representative.

    Reply

  • Ryan Critchett — January 4th, 2011, 7:31 am

    Tim,

    You hit on something I hadn’t thought about; the commonality amongst entrepreneurs to experience lack of assurance because of how much we challenge the world. No Wonder why I have to work extra hard at esteem conditioning!

    Thanks

    RC

    Reply

  • Yagiz — February 5th, 2011, 8:20 am

    Tim, i really wish to meet you in this world or in the next. God bless you.

    Reply

  • Mitchell F. — February 13th, 2011, 4:57 am

    Beautiful, beautiful video. It inspires me to be better every single day.

    Reply

  • Lily — February 18th, 2011, 12:28 am

    A very inspiring video, makes me realize that there are great things in life, to be thankful of.

    Reply

  • Julia — March 6th, 2011, 7:54 pm

    WoW! Thank you Tim for posting this on your Blog for people to find and read. I’m at the stage of being a start up while having been unemployeed for the past year and half and I’m now to the point were I’m be pitching my invention to a top industry leader this coming weekend. So naturally I’m scared out of my freking mind and have a ton of mental demons that thought it was a good time to visit, lucky me.
    So to quite some of the interal chatter I’ve been reading some of your post as they always have some thing positive, useful and or funny. And I’m glad I came across this one.

    Thanks again, and if you don’t mind wish me a little luck.

    Cheers,

    Julia

    Reply

  • Dani — May 7th, 2011, 4:25 pm

    Damn my anxiety and low self- esteem is killing me. I´ve done EVERYTHING and nothing seems to work. I popped pills, read all the books out there, I tried to work out, but I became so afraid of sparring that I had to quit even though I tried it for 2months, then I started again and it was the same shit over again, I worked out for one month then I started getting stomach cramps and people started hating me, saying what a coward I was. I quit! A year later I jumped back on the horse and worked out for 3months, I couldn’t perform so I had to quit. Nobody didn´t want to box or wrestle with me anymore. So I put the gloves on the shelf and realised that there are some things in life you can´t do anything about. It´s not easy being handicapped in the head. I´ve always been like this and it sucks. Some people are born winners, others aren´t. That guy in the clip is a winner, Ferris is a winner because it is in their heads. Too bad the book doesn´t cover psychology, but then again I don´t believe that he would know what he was talking about if it did.

    Reply

  • Tony Draper — June 10th, 2011, 2:13 pm

    I remember this video when it first came out. It really pulls at the heart strings.

    But it is a great message to say to us all that life throws you some bum deals in life but it is how you pick yourself up and use them to your greatest advantages that really makes you the person you are.

    We all make many mistakes in life but as long as we learn from them and keep moving forward, life will provide some blessings along the way that will make you forget for just that split second about reality and take you to that place in your heart where everything is bliss and you feel on top of the world.

    All the best to everyone who visits the site. I hope you all achieve your goals and dreams.

    Reply

  • Matthew L — July 17th, 2011, 9:51 am

    Such an incredibly powerful video, Tim. When I saw this the first time, I had chills. Amazing example for everyone to follow.

    Reply

  • Michele — September 5th, 2011, 4:19 pm

    I’ve recently started yet another venture with the hope to make it work and found this video. I totally believe in perfect timing – and the synchronicity of inspiration. Thanks!

    Reply

  • Matt Kinsella — October 4th, 2011, 5:09 am

    You have no idea how much I needed to read this right now!! Thanks for this post, I spend most of my life building others up and offering support so it’s nice to get some from someone else.

    I started my adult life in a hostel for homeless teenagers and turned my life around by changing my attitude and finding success as an entrepreneur. Because of this I am no stranger to hard times and problems but it never gets any easier. Many people who didn’t know me or my past told me I was lucky which was hard to swallow considering the hardships so I decided if this is what people think is luck then I can teach anyone how to be lucky.

    Reply

  • John — October 23rd, 2011, 5:03 am

    This is a nice video.Many people are having self doubt and they should over come it!Most people who are suffering from self doubt had negative results. They should know what they really love to be.

    Reply

  • order details please — May 23rd, 2012, 10:53 pm

    A good teacher is a master of simplification and an enemy of simplism.

    Reply

  • Jesstine — May 29th, 2012, 7:09 pm

    Hi Tim,

    Promise I enjoy watching your video post. Its nice and inspired me of course.

    Good Job. :)

    Reply

  • krishna — February 3rd, 2013, 10:25 pm

    Just blew me away. I hope I remember this the next time I feel discouraged by some obstacle in my way!
    Thank you for posting!

    Reply

  • krishna — February 3rd, 2013, 10:26 pm

    Very inspirational.

    Great words of wisdom!

    ” Be diligent. Never give up! ”

    Thank you

    Reply

  • krishna — February 5th, 2013, 9:48 am

    The Prescription for Self-Doubt: Watch This Video nice video

    thank you!

    Reply

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