Zen, Tea, and the Art of Life Management 228 Comments
This is a Zen-focused panel featuring Leo Babauta of Zen Habits, Susan O’Connell of San Francisco Zen Center, and yours truly.
The content starts at tea, moves to daily rituals, and spans many topics related to good living and productive living, which are not always the same thing. It also answers the question: is Tim Ferriss really as organized as you think he is? Short answer: no, and that should make you happy.
Reader Steven Luibrand pointed out an important omission in the video:
Unfortunately the best question asked at the entire Zen and Tea event (IMHO) didn’t make it on the video, so for those readers not fortunate enough to be there, it’s transcribed (read: liberally paraphrased) below:
Q: If you could give everyone here a “homework assignment” so to speak, something to do that would dramatically impact their life, what would it be?…
Jesse: “Walk around with your phone turned off. Unplug. I like to spend time unplugged, and its like being in another world. Going down Market St. watching all the people on their iPhones and crackberries makes me feel like I just dropped out of the Matrix.”
Susan: “Earlier Tim mentioned that doing something five times consecutively is the magic number that forms a habit. My assignment is: for the next five days, just sit. Set a timer for five minutes, and just sit. Don’t try to meditate, don’t try to do anything. Just sit.”
Tim: “Earlier I mentioned long dinners, but I won’t count that…
[Take long dinners with >3 friends at least once per week. This is happiness alchemy.]
… everyone here probably uses some form of digital calendar. Put in an event that repeats every Tuesday that says “PLAN WEEKEND.” Then come Saturday you have plans, so no gadgets. Leave the computer off, and get outside.”Leo: “Do one thing at a time. Just one thing. In other words: Single-Task.”
QOD: Do you have a helpful morning or pre-bed ritual? If so, please share in the comments.
###
Odds and Ends: Signed 4HB Copies
Thank you all so much for the amazing response to The 4-Hour Body announcement! Just a quick note, as a few people have asked: the only signed copies were those sold via BN.com, which are now sold-out. None of the Amazon copies are signed at this point. If that means you need to cancel orders, I completely understand and apologize for any confusion. Thank you again!
Posted on October 5th, 2010
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228 Comments
chris hughes — October 5th, 2010, 6:31 pm
Pre-bed I always create a to do list for the next day and the morning starts with 15 mins-an hour of exercise and then breaking into the to do list
Cindy — November 10th, 2010, 6:01 pm
I’ve been trying to get myself in morning workout mode.. that never seems to work the way I plan.. I always end up just doing light yoga and stretching, because I’m so accustomed to nightly workouts that in the morning that’s the last thing I want to do… hmm i admire your discipline
Cindy — November 10th, 2010, 6:06 pm
but to answer the blog, my morning routine consists of stretching every morning for a couple of minutes. I make an organic hemp protein shake with a banana and fat-free milk, or two eggs with only one yolk and some pita bread.. and then I’ll usually hop in the shower, mix up the hot and cold to keep things interesting.. and then I’ll usually get ready for whatever adventures i have planned
Josh Crocker — October 5th, 2010, 6:35 pm
Pre-bed is reading of fiction (thanks to your tips on sleep-hacking). Waking up involves a shower that ends James-Bond style with freezing cold water – to get my heart rate up, and to (as I’ve heard from a retired Navy Seal, sorry can’t remember his name) “cut a tough groove in my brain”.
That’ll wake you up in the morning!
- Josh
Luke Barry — October 5th, 2010, 6:35 pm
Awesome! Gotta love tea! Morning routine: wake, run, shower, brush/floss, 4 eggs, write.
Rob — October 5th, 2010, 6:37 pm
Great vid! Cool to see you guys together. I start my morning by glancing a what I call a morning “cascade” … different levels of encouragement or top level task reminders that I must read through to help refresh my goals and bring some center to my day. They are structured like a venn diagram.
Mike Arone — October 5th, 2010, 6:40 pm
Morning for sure…
Early rise
Cup of oats mixed with protein and berries
Hit the gym like it’s going out of style
Cup of coffee–yep after the gym
Boom ! a new day begins!
Rob — October 5th, 2010, 6:40 pm
Great vid! Cool to see you guys together. I start my morning by glancing a what I call a morning “cascade” … different levels of encouragement or top level task reminders that I must read through to help refresh my goals and bring some center to my day. They are structured like a ven diagram.
Mike Roberts — October 5th, 2010, 6:42 pm
My morning Ritual is the same 7 days a week 365 days a year…yoga and meditation. No fancy studio or anything, just me and my yoga mat on the floor n my room. In my experience, there is no better way than to start the day at 5 am along with my spiritual practices. Sets the tone for an awesome day
I also find that immediatley following my meditation is a great time to write.
~Mike
Kate Klemens — October 5th, 2010, 6:46 pm
Neat to see you guys together!
Mornings I have a raw protein bar and 16 ounces of clean water. Of course brushing my teeth, washing up, etc goes without saying.
I have a hard time sleeping at night so I usually listen to relaxation music off YouTube for 10-20 minutes trying to drift into sleep.
Looking forward to seeing what everyone else post.
Cheers,
Kate
Chuck Rylant — October 5th, 2010, 6:46 pm
Interesting comment you made about achievement and gratitude. I tend to find the most pleasure in life when I’m “going 100 miles an hour and hit milestones” to then only be disappointed or bored after reaching the goal. Perhaps it’s common to miss out on the ride with only the destination in view.
Will suggest any books on this topic.
Vic Dorfman — October 5th, 2010, 6:49 pm
Woot!
It was great hearing you in person (i.e. Tim is not an avatar of accomplishment but a REAL human being who drinks a LOT of water!)
Leo’s sardonic sense of humor was sheer delight as well.
I noticed sometimes you run out of breath as you speak and your voice has a tendency to crack.
It has to do with allowing your larynx to rise (e.g. – Patrick Stewart’s booming, resonant voice is due in large part to a low laryngeal position) and insufficient breath support. You’re already such a fantastic public speaker and I’d love to see you take it to the next level!
If you ever decide to hack opera singing and want to get a really commanding speaking voice, I’m at your disposal.
Best Wishes and keep inspiring us!
Vic Dorfman
p.s. if this falls into the obnoxious unsolicited advice category, plz delete
Allen — October 5th, 2010, 6:49 pm
Pre-bed I read textsfromlastnight.com It’s dumb and hilarious which is perfect for quieting down the brain. Comedy seems to help me sleep as it gets a good vibe going. Nothing is worse than having a mental argument while your trying to sleep.
Other stuff – humidifier for breathing and quiet white noise, water on the night stand, and if I’m feeling super beat up, foam roll the IT band and thoracic spine.
Glenn Bridges — October 5th, 2010, 6:52 pm
Tim – you are a machine! Clogging up my RSS feeder with your blog posts
Have you finally found your creativity button and started churning out blog posts or is it all promotion for the new book?
Whatever the case I feel a huge sense of enjoyment, bliss, inspiration, awe and wonder reading your shizzle and I soak it up in whatever form in whatever place. I read and re-read most your stuff till the point at which I could recite it.
Please keep it going – hard and heavy!
Glennster
Tim Ferriss — October 5th, 2010, 8:06 pm
Thanks, Glenn! Just did a few videos recently. Those are easy to post and don’t require much writing
Perry Permann — October 5th, 2010, 6:58 pm
In the morning:Get tea water to boil while computer boots. Have first cup of tea coold down while shaving etc. Drink put of tea while getting ready for the day. Meditate.
aa — October 5th, 2010, 6:59 pm
Pre bed
Drink as much beer as possible.
Morning.
Take dog for a walk. Drink tea. Eat eggs. Sulk. Go to work.
I could drink more beer if I could cut out the work.
deedee — December 1st, 2010, 11:55 am
lol!
Glenn Bridges — October 5th, 2010, 7:00 pm
Night ritual – closing my eyes when I hit the pillow and imagine one of my dreamlines – goregous girlfriend.
Morning ritual – wake up 11am, eat Tim’s “3 min breakfast”, write down 4/5 things on to do list, turn off digital distractions, listen to music, relax, begin day (..or something like that)
Steve — October 5th, 2010, 7:05 pm
Morning, just get the blood moving. A few minutes of jumping jacks, 40 push ups, a few pull ups. It takes a scant 4-5 minutes, then a glass of water and some mixture of meat and fruit/vegetables.
Charlie — October 5th, 2010, 7:24 pm
Nightly ritual – Brush my 4 yr olds Dinosaur teeth after a round of “Go Dino Go!!” Try to get the other 6 kids in Bed. Hopefully stay awake for 2 min of pillow talk with my amazing wife.
Morning ritual – Work in progress.
Tomorrow listen to this vid (hopefully) before work.
Try to avoid the coke and chocolate pie on the way to work.
Marco — October 5th, 2010, 7:36 pm
Tim,
where did you get that t-shirt?
Thanks.
Tim Ferriss — October 5th, 2010, 8:06 pm
Farmstead restaurant in St. Helena, CA
Adam Lamotte — October 5th, 2010, 7:45 pm
No ritual.
But, I will start tomorrow.
nicolas — October 5th, 2010, 8:05 pm
hi
my habits:
4am i wake up and walk with my dog.4:30 i came back and go to run
5am i breath ….sudarshan kriya and meditate 1 hour….
6am i work with silva method i focus in one exercise .
7am i drink 4 glasses of water.
7:30 take a bath
8:10 or 8:30 go to work.
Harper — October 5th, 2010, 8:42 pm
If I am on the ball, I do about an hour and a half to 3 hours of meditation with some intensive pranayama in the morning.
When I go to bed or wake up, though, I always repeat an affirmation of a certain virtue I am trying to develop. Like if I am trying to overcome laziness I will repeat “I have an Iron Will.” over and over until I feel certain that it is true, then I drift into sleep, or just kinda sit in that surety as I fully wake up.
I have overcome quite a few major bad habits with this and a few other methods. I learned it under the name of “Auto-Suggestion” but that is a translation of a translation, so might not be befitting.
David — October 5th, 2010, 8:58 pm
Tim I have to stop checking in on your blog late at night, keeps me up later than I want to be!
Emily McKinney — October 5th, 2010, 9:08 pm
Depend on both to help the day go smoother and more enjoyable.
Keep up the doable and useful info Tim!
Steve in Japan — October 5th, 2010, 9:20 pm
My morning ritual includes making green tea or coffee to get my day started. My evening ritual includes playing poker for about 30 minutes on my iPhone a few nights a week before falling asleep. I’m glad that Susan was there because tea with a group of guys is… not manly. Leo doesn’t back up his site and site name enough, talking about not wanting to commercialize it… well that’s what he did so he should embrace it. Why not? The site has been helpful, he put a lot of work into it, and he’s now enjoying a location independent career. I agree with that fear helps with procrastination, and you should live to what you feel your fullest potential is. You guys touched on some great subjects.
Hector Adrian — October 5th, 2010, 9:37 pm
Shaved heads! It’s like the blue man group, cool stuff.
Tim, I noticed you stare at whoever’s talking very intently, very present.. but sometimes you barely move, have you ever gotten a comment about it?
The art of listening is a lost art, nothing more insulting than having a conversation and the other person is “listening” while on their blackberry.
K — October 5th, 2010, 9:38 pm
Haha, mine seams unambitious compared to some others:
1. Wake up, Watch an episode of Dr. Who, or some other exciting thing.
—this makes me excited enough to start the day: make breakfast, get dressed, get to work, turn on brain (I’m a grad student)
The day
-Look at calendar, determine fun event happening at night
-work until fun event
-attend fun event
-Go back to work?
Zengise — October 5th, 2010, 9:53 pm
i jerk off
Tim Ferriss — October 5th, 2010, 11:58 pm
That’s certainly one option…
Scott Dinsmore — October 5th, 2010, 9:54 pm
Having Tim and Leo at the same tea house in SF talking life management is pretty epic! Just watched the whole thing. I think I might try an almond milk shake manana.
Excellent piece!
Scott
JoAnn — October 5th, 2010, 9:56 pm
Good discussion. Regarding what was said about discipline, I think that Stephen Covey summarized when he said: “It is easy to say ‘no’ when there is a deeper ‘yes!’ burning inside.”
Both before and after sleep, I think of things for which I am thankful. I find that gratitude helps me to adjust my perspective about the relative severity of the problems that I encounter on any given day.
Finally, Tim, I am happy to learn that you wake up after 10am and do your best work after midnight. My circadian rhythms are similar. I have found that adhering to such a schedule is acceptable for musicians and artists, but it doesn’t fit well into a corporate world that is full of “larks.” I have encountered more than a few people who equate anything other than matutinal beginnings with laziness, dysfunction or intolerance. I’m glad to hear you publicly admit and embrace a nocturnal lifestyle.
Kevvvv — October 5th, 2010, 10:06 pm
My morning ritual often starts with hitting the snooze button way too many times, making coffee (from a French Press coffee maker with coarse ground coffee. Makes a way better cup!) as well as a grain (like toast, a bagel or english muffin).
I get a lot of stomach pain from all the acid in the coffee, though. Even if I just have one cup.
I would love to do something like yoga or running in the morning but my body is most productive between 9am and 12pm so I don’t have time!
Thanks for the post, Tim. Real cool stuff.
Jeremy Caudle — October 5th, 2010, 10:17 pm
So glad I can watch the whole thing. I missed a few minutes here and there because of issues with uStream.
Do you have any of your art on the web? Have you checked out Autodesk Sketchbook Pro for the iPad yet?
R.G — October 30th, 2010, 5:11 am
Thank you for the inspiration Tim!
My morning and evening rituals:
Morning:
Drink Cup of Hot Water
30 Minutes to Thrive (Tony Robbins – Get the Edge)
Breath-walking, Incantation, Gratitude, Visualization, Celebration
Drink Wheat Grass
Yoga (Ashtanga – First Series)
Night:
Clean up my room entirely
Write a journal
Pranayama (Yogic Breathing)
Caroline — October 5th, 2010, 10:22 pm
Morning: workout/mediate/rebound/listen to Brian Johnson’s Philosopher’s Notes while getting ready!
Evening: Always write in my gratitude journal. I make a list of at least 10 things that I am grateful for from that day:-)!
Like now…I am grateful for watching this video!
Nils — October 5th, 2010, 11:01 pm
Pre-bed I used to read
And
Lian Gong when I wake up.
Niels — October 5th, 2010, 11:47 pm
Hey Tim,
I saw the vid couple of days ago, and I must say it is very great to see the new “successful” people do not wear ties (but green shirts instead), do not eat kaviar (but grass instead apparently), do not drink champagne (but tea, and lots of it
), and are not focussed on work, but on life.
For me this is the sign the world is changing a bit, and it is giving me a good feeling. My blog is all about that. If you feel the need to write a guest post, I will see what I can do for you.
Now you are on the base, keep on being an example!
Niels
Adam Light — October 6th, 2010, 12:04 am
I do all of my best thinking, learning, and creating between 11 pm and 4 am. That’s when my mind works the best. I’ve never tried to become a morning person because I’ve never had a reason to.
I wonder why I’m so brilliant late at night. Perhaps it’s because the trivialities of the day are over, the sun is down, and I do not expect to be interrupted by the world in any way. I go off into my own world once all the ties to my daily reality have been cut. Oh, look… it’s 2:02 am right now, and I’m having a blast! I’m watching educational videos, listening to music, and about to write a few thousand words.
I love the videos here. I read a lot, too, but watching videos is a great way for me to absorb information. I can move around and be more free. I can multitask a lot easier. Watching and listening is like opening up and expanding while reading is like zooming in and focusing. Both are good. It’s hard to pace or to play guitar while reading, though… Thanks for the post!
Niels — October 6th, 2010, 12:11 am
Ow, and the morning ritual……..I guess it is to avoid the morning as long as possible.
Pilar — October 6th, 2010, 12:31 am
Can I just say how much you’ve transformed my life! One thing out of many, is that I found out about InventRight through your book and I’m now finally getting somewhere with my inventions and it’s all because of YOU! You ROCK! Thank you, thank you, thank you so much!
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:29 pm
Congratulations, Pilar! I’m just writing this stuff, but you’re the one making things happen
Tim
Brandon Carter — October 6th, 2010, 12:59 am
I write down my goal, workout, then play guitar for a few hours
This was a really great video. I noticed that I was trying to do 8 other things wile watching it. I really need to work on doing ONE THING AT A TIME. Thats gonna be my thing for the next 5-10 days. thanks!
p.s. i pre ordered the new book, Ice baths??? lol, cant wait to read about it
David Hennessey — October 6th, 2010, 1:18 am
Hey Tim,
Last thing at night I enjoy reading an inspiring or spirtual book. It helps me make sure I have happy dreams!
Recently I picked up my copy of Zen in the Martial Arts. Last night I read about how to value my time in a chapter called ‘Do Not Disturb’. It inspired me to write this article http://thewondertechnique.com/spending-time-or-wasting-time/
To me this is an excellent book with bit sized reminders of how to live life for martial artists and non-martial artists. I recommend it.
Have you read it Tim?
David
Dennis Kempin — October 6th, 2010, 1:31 am
Hey Tim!
My most helpful pre-bed or morning (tried both) ritual is:
Free Writing!
Just sit down in in the favorite reading space, grab writing tools (laptop, paper, whatever you like), and start to write. At least 3 pages.
Just write what is going through your head, don’t hesitate to write bullshit and do not edit. Just let your mind flow out into writing.
In the evening this helps to get your head worry free and get closure on thoughts that haunt your mind. Whats written down does not come up into your mind again so easily.
And in the morning this can be very motivating to lay out the coming day, or dive into your sub-conscience by writing down dreams and feelings right after waking up.
In the beginning it might seem a bit waste of time. Writing 3 pages? That takes at least 1 or 2 hours!?
But if you write really free, without going back, just don’t ever stop to write until the 3 pages are full.. you get it done in under 15 minutes.
Very helpful to me and many other people. The Website 750words makes a game out of this with achievements and challenges for staying in the habit http://750words.com/
Jenia — October 6th, 2010, 1:35 am
I say prayers in the moring and evening. I love these moments of tranquility and no rush.
Fredrik Gyllensten — October 6th, 2010, 1:45 am
Great, going to watch this in the evening
Marcel — October 6th, 2010, 2:12 am
i make blueberry and almond smoothie, after that is just meditation for 10 minutes to calm my thought, after that i read for like 1-2 hours. AllThat’s done before opening any Email account or other work related stuff.
cheers
@ Tim, is the QA Call a group call, or is it personal 1on1 calls?
Joseph Dantes — October 6th, 2010, 3:00 am
Mornings:
Wake up. Start reading RSS feeds, check email but don’t respond, check blog stats for interesting events. Roll a cigarette while bleary eyes adjust. Start eating some light fruit.
Take notes on anything interesting in RSS, dump any thoughts that I might’ve had from dreams into my notes file. If necessary, expand into a rough draft blog post.
Set meat cooking. Get into the real day, now that I’m alert.
Open org-mode agenda file. Scan generated agenda for day’s scheduled events. Check google calendar. Then scan for top priority habits. Begin executing them.
I begin with my A level habit checklist. First I start pandora or else the Instant Einstein sbagen binaural with river sounds overlay. Then I check whether I need to rearrange the habit checklist due to some unusual feature of the day. Then I take a 5-10 minute motivational/relaxation break and check out Stumblupon’s excellent collection of scantily clad females. Then I take a walk and do a customized meditation sequence of koans important to my identity and way of being in life. I usually walk to the grocery store to buy fresh fruit, live fish, and meat for the day’s food. After coming back, I pray, work out, clean and cook. Then I start up my syntopical reading pdf, any apps and tools I need open, and make sure my notes file is datestamped. Then I enter my vital stats on optimismonline. Then I sort any new tasks in my agenda.org inbox into their appropriate project trees. Then I transcribe any voice recorder notes into my notes.org file. Then I commit my org files delta to my github repository using git-cola. Then I briefly brainstorm and prioritize my tasks by importance and uncomfortableness, using the org-mode generated task agenda view. Then I execute my remaining A habits and then A priority tasks. Then I move into B priority habits and then B tasks.
At any time during all this that I have a thought or generate a task, I drop everything to write it down or capture it in my voice recorder.
Evenings:
I’m trying to adapt to polyphasic sleep so I don’t really have predictable evenings. That said, I use a meditation sequence to deepen sleep. I often watch a movie suggested by Tastekid and found using letmewatchthis and watched on megavideo if I need some down time. I use a proxy service and switch proxies so I don’t have to buy a megavideo subscription.
Ralph — October 6th, 2010, 3:23 am
I just figured it out: you’re Batman.
Yup, it suddenly clicked when I heard you profess your love for comics. Just look at the common lines: rich, heavily involved in training and martial arts, collects cool Japanese art/artifacts, speaks multiple languages… it’s clear. Maybe you could discuss some of your crime-fighting in the next Random episode?
In any regard, I’m a new fan on of the blog (esp. the Random shows).
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:28 pm
Luis Lopes — October 6th, 2010, 4:10 am
Morning ritual:
Put big headphones and dance like a lunatic – it helps to wake up, celebrate the day and be in a good mood!
Then 5-10 minutes of Focus Intensity Training, bath… and of for the critical tasks.
At night: Qi gong, meditation, gratitude journal and reading something inspiring.
Btw: When will be a Portuguese version of 4HB?
Um abraço
Red — October 6th, 2010, 4:26 am
half a gallon water when you wake up would be great
Andy — October 6th, 2010, 5:00 am
Must I shave my head to be truly content with my life?
Freddie Smith — October 6th, 2010, 5:02 am
Thanks Tim, if I’m honest I skipped through the video listening just to your bits and some of Leos points. Tim how can you enjoy the car scene in Casino Royale?!!? A little part of me dies everytime I watch that beautiful DBS totalled… He should have just run her over instead of trying to avoid her!
I have two points that others may find useful. The first relates to gratitude for what you have and the second relates to getting important things done:
Firstly, Tim mentioned a gratitude/appreciation list which I’d highly recommend to anybody caught in the loop of always thinking about what they want in the future. I made an effort to start thinking about things I was grateful for in my life and I soon realised that everything you are, everything you own, every relationship you have and every thought and idea that flashes through your mind is PRECISELY what makes you who you are. Collectively, they represent you and it is for that very reason that you should take some time to appreciate yourself and what you already have. This process also makes you happy and provides you with motivation to strive to meet your other life goals.
Secondly, I find that my most productive days happen when I have a clear vision of what needs to be accomplished. I call this working proactively rather than reactively. Therefore, prior to going to sleep, I review all of my action steps/to do notes for current projects (I use the Action Method, as outlined in ‘Making Ideas Happen’ by Scott Belsky – An excellent summary of his observations of what makes top business people productive). Then I create a list of things that I want to do/must do the following day. Next to each item, I use a dot system to indicate how important the completion of that thing is.
This system ensures that you always have an idea of what needs to be done. You can also physically see your own progress on a given project, which is both motivational and enjoyable.
Good post Tim, I’m enjoying the increased frequency of your posts.
Freddie
Daniel — October 6th, 2010, 5:42 am
As I’m lying in bed focus on one of my goals and concentrate on the *feeling* of that wish for filled.
Chris D'Amico — October 6th, 2010, 5:50 am
At your suggestion in the “sleep hacking” post, I started standing under a cold shower for a few minutes every night before I go to bed. Didn’t want to go the full monty with the ice bags. It cut my time to fall asleep by 75%. Pumped about the 4HB because I’m sure you’ll go into more detail about temperature manipulation.
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:27 pm
Congrats! Oh, yes, much more detail. Tons.
Jan Andy — October 6th, 2010, 6:41 am
i get waked up by my cousin , eat , shower, take my bag and go to university // i get prepared all the necessary things in the evening .. pretty handy
John Soares — October 6th, 2010, 7:01 am
I read about science — usually astronomy — just before turning the lights out at night. It makes me use my brain, and it also helps clear out any of the thought patterns about work or stressing events I had during the day.
I think I get to sleep faster and I have better dreams, dreams that allow me to sleep more deeply.
Jason Dudley — October 6th, 2010, 7:08 am
Came at a perfect time for me. Absolutely great watch. Thanks a tonne for posting it.
Alex Wilson — October 6th, 2010, 7:15 am
Tim, a good ritual before bed is listening to some Ekhart Tolle (preferably live session) It will chill you out for sure. Definitely recommend him to anyone who is interested in furthering their practice of zen.
AskJackieB — October 6th, 2010, 7:22 am
I wake up every single morning, seven days a week, no matter where I am in the world and I upload pictures on [facebook]
I have never looked for a follower, but i think because of my passion it literally grows every single day.
Its pictures that move me, make me feel something. I do this every day and it is the most wonderful beginning to a day!
Tabor — October 6th, 2010, 7:23 am
Thanks Tim, I really enjoy all your stuff. Can’t wait for your new book! I don’t really have any morning or evening rituals right now. I use to have some morning rituals of exercise, meditation, and reading. I am going to start some rituals right away, thanks for the motivation to get back into doing that again! I know I need to start improving my skills of life management.
Steven Deering — October 6th, 2010, 7:27 am
Mornings: I always cook something in the morning, I feel that it gets my brain moving and also stimulates my appetite. Nothing special here, but I think it’s also instinctual for humans to engage in this routine(or hunt, but I don’t have happy deer running outside).
Pre-bed ritual: Going to the gym at night gives back some energy I need in order to keep studying for school. I wind down by watching one episode of The Daily Show. It’s funny, informative, and short. I always fall asleep immediately after.
Taylor White — October 6th, 2010, 7:30 am
@ Tim,
Just curious from Panama – are you going to have another site and blog dedicated to your new book…or piggy back on this site?
Also, around March of 2010 – a free practical guide to legal expatriation was posted on Zero Hedge…and it sited you quite a bit and generated a lot of buzz since its a step by step guide from someone who did it.
Posted here for reference.
http://www.zerohedge.com/sites/default/files/American_Expatriation_Guide.pdf
It sounds a lot like your writing…any insight?
Taylor White
P.S. – I am still holding you to your comment about you traveling to Panama more than Costa Rica when I posted about Neils book “How To Be Jason Bourne…”. Its probably time for a short information detox before your big marketing push for the book, eh?
“Pretty, pretty, fren!”
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:26 pm
LOL… pretty, pretty, fren, indeed
I’ll check out the link…
Chris Dyer — October 6th, 2010, 7:30 am
iPad version? Or is the new book only kindle?
Joseph Darlington — October 6th, 2010, 7:33 am
The only thing my ritual has in common with Tim’s, is Casino Royale!
But I’m working on the rest!
Leonard Irwin — October 6th, 2010, 7:35 am
Tim
Morning ritual has become 1 or 2 hour long talks in the morning with my girlfriend as we lye in bed and figure out our day. Where we are going both as individuals and as a couple. Time well spent to talks and reflect or our journey together.
Starting to take time and meditate first thing or some chi kung standing meditation works well too. Energizes the body to clear the mind and it can be done in five minutes intervals through out the day.
Cheers,
Leonard
Anon — October 6th, 2010, 7:50 am
@Marcel What’s the recipe for the smoothie? We usually do a frozen berry mix but your combo sounds awesome.
(sorry to bypass the Q Tim!)
s~
Marcel — October 26th, 2010, 8:34 am
Hey,
its mostly frozen blueberrys+Banana+almond milk, in case i dont have any almond milk around i use organic almond butter. for the extra ingredients i add 1 heaped teaspoon cinnamon and 1 spoon flaxseed oil.
Bon Appetit.
Clint — October 6th, 2010, 8:33 am
I do not keep a gratitude journal, but I would love to start.
I just wanted to tell everyone that if I were to make an entry right now, my gratitude would be for the Tim, and especially the community that surrounds his blog. All of your comments have been just as inspiring and helpful as the content itself.
Its really cool to see how a variety of different people put this stuff into action in real life, and prove that it can work for many different lifestyles and personality types.
So thanks everyone!
Eliz — October 6th, 2010, 8:40 am
Morning ritual : enjoy a cup of tea in bed brought by kind husband who gets up earlier than me (usually).
Then: put on running clothes and go out for a run, rain or shine, dark or light.
Then get ready and go to work in the normal way, only feeling extra-energised. At first I had to force myself into my running gear and out of the door, but now it’s become a habit, and once I’m out I feel fine, and I feel so much better for the rest of the day.
Anthony DeMarco — October 6th, 2010, 8:48 am
In the morning, I wake up on first alarm. I have three set just because my obsessive compulsive desires tend to manifest themselves in these ways. I suppose my mental state doesn’t allow me to take the chance of Sprint’s satellite crashing down to earth, or flaming into oblivion in outer space.
The stove is turned on shortly after, where I lightly oil it and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. During this time I pour a bowl of oats and let them soak in some water. As everything simmers for consumption, I do a light dynamic stretching routine to open up the hip complex so I can move without feeling like I’m in a full body cast. One I complete this, I go back and crack my four eggs and put my oats in the microwave. I return to stretching while watching Sports Center. After about 5 more minutes my eggs are topped with cayenne pepper and a cheese. On lucky days I’ll find some feta cheese left over from a previous meal and combine it with cheddar. I’m pretty sure this is better any sexual encounter, but I suppose that is what a five year relationship will give you.
Shortly after I finish eating, I will work on my book for 10-15 minutes and catch up with my latest online communities. Then it’s dressing for work and out the door.
My pre-bed ritual consists of a little myofasical release a la PVC pipe (foam rollers are for children). Again, more dynamic stretching and hip work. I then turn the TV on, to a channel that preferably isn’t sending out light flashes more extreme than a strip club. I will read for about 10 minutes. After, I put on my sunglasses like I’m some sort of James Bond, only nestled under covers. Gangster, I know. I watch whatever is on (I’ve found Sports Center to also be key here). It’s important to avoid any show that you will want to keep watching, like a movie of some sorts. I don’t want to be laying and bed and worrying about Frodo on his trip to destroy the ring, even though I’ve seen the movie and read the book (numerous times). It usually will take no longer than 10 minutes at this point before I feel like I will fall asleep. One quick mention that I forgot is that the TV must be only at a notch or two of volume. Voices must be muffled and preferably unable to be understood. We don’t want to process audio at this point, but a little white noise is good. A fan is an excellent choice here as well.
Turn the TV off, take the sunglasses off, turn over, and turn the page for another day.
alla jehan — October 6th, 2010, 8:55 am
listen to osho
Janet Oberholtzer — October 6th, 2010, 9:00 am
Tim … just started reading your blog (love it) because my coach said your book changed the way he works.
Enjoy watching this video, wrote down a number of things you said and shared them with others via twitter and facebook. I laughed at one thing in the video … your type A personality shines through, because your cups are lined up in straight row and the others aren’t
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:24 pm
Buahahaha… I’m busted. Yep, I’m somewhat obsessed with straight lines and symmetry. Pure American Psycho.
Cindy — November 10th, 2010, 6:30 pm
Well anyone who is a genius has gotta be a lil insane..in a good way
Karim — October 6th, 2010, 9:07 am
I normally like tim’s stuff, but I found this video to be sooooo geeky
Farah H. — October 6th, 2010, 9:09 am
Morning rituals? Well,if I am up before hitting the snooze button at least 2-3 times, I make time for prayers, yoga and meditations/daily positive mantras….but in most cases, I it usually goes like this….
Step 1-bolt out of bed, realizing how late I am and start with hot shower using shampoo designed for the type of hair day I am having, e.g. extra volume, frizzy, straight etc…then, deep conditioner while shaving of legs, armpits and any other area if needed, pumice stone for my feet and scrubs/washes for everywhere else…
Step 2-after shower, on to my miracle creams, primers, moisturizers and concealers to camouflage any dark circles, zits, sun spots, etc…then grooming of brows, curling of eyelashes, applying of mascara, and a brush of a bit of blush to achieve that flushed (I had great sex last night) glow…
Step 3-Hair-mousing, spraying, scrunching or straightening always depending on weather…
Step 4-lingerie-deciding between push up, miracle bra or natural….then choosing to go lace thongs or full granny panties depending on outfit and/or mood, time of month etc…
Step 4-repeatedly say “I have nothing to wear” about 10x before I actually decide on that perfect outfit that won’t reveal the extra dessert I had the night before, or make me look too slutty, too naive or too corporate in front of my boss…then complete it all with a pair of designer pumps which I paid an obscene amount for, that aren’t at all that comfortable but somehow make my ankles look thinner than they really are, and a pair of hoop earrings that will hopefully distract from that double chin that has started to form! Ohhh and after all this, do I care if no guy notices me??no, because at the end of the day…I am still da BOMB! but thats just my own 2 ‘zents’:)
Christine Hueber — October 6th, 2010, 9:24 am
My first thing in the morning and last thing at night favorite ritual is to repeat my affirmation to set the tone for my day and my dream time.
Paul — October 6th, 2010, 10:07 am
Do you need unusually short hair to be zen?
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:23 pm
Hahaha… don’t think so. Just helps
Jackie Adams — October 6th, 2010, 10:08 am
Nightly routine: I relax and spend a few minutes visualizing my goals and desires. With emotion and feeling. I drift off to sleep from the happy place.
Morning routine: I pick up where I left off at night. I love spending a few minutes in bed setting my intentions for the day. Imagining and feeling my desires as if they have already happened.
Judy — October 6th, 2010, 10:47 am
My morning ritual is tea and meditation as well as hypnosis techniques. It is the one time when it is quiet and I can ask and listen to what any higher consciousness is willing to convey. I find it helpful to journal before going to bed so that what is on my mind has a resting place and does not prevent me from sleeping.
Kyle — October 6th, 2010, 11:01 am
There is a noticeable lack of hair in this video…
Torumoy — October 6th, 2010, 11:21 am
Tim,
I haven’t watched all of it yet. Just watched the part where you talked about watching Casino Royale. It’s really nice to know about your daily routine.
On a different note: Will you please consider posting your videos on youtube always? Vimeo is too much for slow internet connections.
Cheers,
Torumoy.
Matt — October 6th, 2010, 12:00 pm
This was a great talk – really gave me some interesting insights for a productivity idea I have.
Unfortunatley, I don’t have a strict routine every day. Except for going to the gym. Nothing methodical every morning.
Guess I need to work on that.
gary martins — October 6th, 2010, 12:07 pm
sparkly ftw
Jacob Kilp — October 6th, 2010, 12:19 pm
Tim, great video. I’d love to hear sometime about the changes brought on by success and fame. You mentioned before that “fake friends” began to inundate you. How has the realization of your dreams affected your outlook on life?
Lots of people are driven by an insatiable desire to succeed, to prove all the naysayers wrong, to be at the top. When they finally reach that peak, they experience a short-lived period of euphoria. Immediately afterwards, however, they feel profoundly underwhelmed and lapse into depression, asking themselves, “Is there all there is?” Does any of this resonate with you? I’d imagine that your foundation in Stoicism has shielded you in some way.
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:22 pm
Hi Jacob,
Thanks for the comment. More to come on this, but Stoicism has helped A LOT.
Cheers,
Tim
Bella — October 6th, 2010, 12:25 pm
Before sleep every night, I lie down, place my hands over my heart, and breathe deeply 3 or 4 times until I feel relaxed and at peace. I imagine that my entire body is filled with brilliant, white light, and they I say aloud: “As I am entering this new segment of my life experience, it is my intent to see that which I am wanting to see. I am now falling into blissful, sweet slumber where my body will revitalize and heal itself, thereby achieving perfect health. I ask my spirit guides to come to me and assist in this healing. In the still of the night, while the world around me sleeps, may the Source smile upon me and bring me eternal peace. Blessings upon one and all. I know that all will be cared for and their needs be fulfilled, whatever those might be. I instill within me great harmony in thought and word and deed. Thank you for another wonderful day.”
This never fails to lead to very restful sleep for me, and I awaken refreshed and feeling wonderful. I’ve been saying the same thing to myself for about 10 years, and it never fails to work.
R.J. De Cristoforo — October 6th, 2010, 12:38 pm
Great!
Thanks,
R.J.
Anthony Landreth — October 6th, 2010, 12:58 pm
I try to book-end the day by connecting with my wife.
Favorite morning ritual: grind coffee beans by hand with mortar and pestle for morning coffee with coconut milk, then wake up my wife. I always take morning coffee with my wife to check in.
End of workday ritual: get an herbal tea and stroll the bookstore with wife. Book browsing stimulates conversation. Topics usually range from workday stuff to future plans.
Rhys Trenhaile — October 6th, 2010, 1:08 pm
Dear Tim Ferris Esquire,
The perfection of the morning ritual is currently one of my biggest foci.
Evening I grab a tall pint of water before bed.
Pass out sound asleep
4.5 hours of sleep wake up
Pint of water, Coffee, 4 eggs, and protein shake with vitamins (cottage cheese or non hydrolyzed yogurt also options).
Get out the door within 40 minutes to work with piece of fruit and/or homemade protein bar, or get to something constructive on my priorities list at home within 40 minutes.
If I am groggy in the morning which happens on occasion, I’ll typically crank the David Guetta tunes and/or exercise to get the blood moving.
Hope that helps peeps.
Denny — October 6th, 2010, 2:12 pm
5:30am. I set my alarm 15 minutes before I have to get my life going to wake up with my girlfriend and cuddle. Especially as it’s getting colder, this is totally f##king wonderful. Still sleep-dumb, super warm, best, most comfortable time to cuddle, bar none.
5:55am. French press Zabar’s house blend (mail order to seattle) & dash of soy & tbspn of unsweetened cocoa
6:15am. 2 Grain&Flax-Fed Eggs w/ Hot Sauce. Tomatoes, collard greens, peas, broccoli, spinach, some veggie. 4 grams fish oil & CoQ-10
6:30am. Girlfriend is out the door. I bike to the gym, run 3 mi or bike 10 mi.
7:15am. Long, hot shower. Totally just hang out in there. I think best in the shower, driving, and working out.
7:30am. Google news. Catch up on chess on my iPhone with strangers all across the world.
7:45am. Out the door to run my startup.
======================
I have absolutely no nighttime ritual. Fortunately I’m finding eating ~10 g of Fish oil per day and cutting caffeine has helped me get tired at the end of the day and fall asleep/sleep MUCH easier/faster/better.
Alexander Reif — October 6th, 2010, 2:48 pm
Already in bed, closing my eyes one moment before sleeping, I think about a positive or joyfull moment of the day.
In the morning, as soon as the alarm goes off, I take a deep breath and then I think about a joyfull moment (often it involves our daughter) and then I jump out of the bed.
ciao
Alexander
Jonathan K — October 6th, 2010, 4:27 pm
Hey Tim,
Great talk. You caught my interest with that MUSASHI book. It seems there are a few stories (the book of five rings, lone samurai WilliamScott Wilson, Musashi Eiji Yoshikawa). Which do you recommend.
Thanks,
JON
Steven Luibrand — October 6th, 2010, 4:31 pm
Unfortunately the best question asked at the entire Zen and Tea event (IMHO) didn’t make it on the video, so for those readers not fortunate enough to be there, it’s transcribed (read: liberally paraphrased) below:
Q: If you could give everyone here a “homework assignment” so to speak, something to do that would dramatically impact their life, what would it be?
Jesse: “Walk around with your phone turned off. Unplug. I like to spend time unplugged, and its like being in another world. Going down Market St. watching all the people on their iPhones and crackberries makes me feel like I just dropped out of the Matrix.”
Susan: “Earlier Tim mentioned that doing something five times consecutively is the magic number that forms a habit. My assignment is: for the next five days, just sit. Set a timer for five minutes, and just sit. Don’t try to meditate, don’t try to do anything. Just sit.”
Tim: “Earlier I mentioned long dinners, but I won’t count that…
[Take long dinners with >3 friends at least once per week. This is happiness alchemy.]
… everyone here probably uses some form of digital calendar. Put in an event that repeats every Tuesday that says “PLAN WEEKEND.” Then come Saturday you have plans, so no gadgets. Leave the computer off, and get outside.”
Leo: “Do one thing at a time. Just one thing. In other words: Single-Task.”
###
I do a “Morning Success Ritual” as follows:
1. Wake up to my Zen Alarm Clock [http://www.now-zen.com/]
2. Allow a 10 minute “on ramp” and 10 minute “off ramp.” These serve to buffer your time so you never get rushed.
3. Brush. Immediately drink 0.5L of Water
4. 5-15 Minutes of Yoga and Calisthenics (read: Burpees!!!!)
5. Shower (optional) then…
6. Meditate for 10-20 minutes.
7. Breakfast: Almond milk + Ezekial Cereal + Kashi Golean Fiber&Protein + Hemp seeds (not paleo, but they are the only healthy breakfast cereals)
8. Immediately perform the highest impact task of the day (read: most uncomfortable)
Tim – It was an honor meeting you after the event. You’ve come a long way since that black-belt magazine ad!!! =)
I hope our paths cross again soon.
Rock on brother.
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 5:14 pm
Steve, it was great to meet you. And thank you for pointing out this omission. I’ll drop into the post.
Muay Thai forever! Well, probably more for you than for me. I’m too short. Eat too many knees to the head
Tim
Steve Latronica — October 6th, 2010, 4:40 pm
I think organization is often over thought. Pick your most common, important, hopefully revenue generating task and dissect it. Start with the organization of one important item and move on from there. Thats how I’ve been able to improve my ‘life management’ over the past few months. It’s not always easy to stay focused but it is possible.
MSmith — October 6th, 2010, 5:06 pm
I havent even read all of these responses, but am so excited to. I just decided to create a morning and evening routine a few days ago, so how perfect that the universe has found me reading this article!! Some of the things I have included are starting my day with telling myself 5 postive things and visualizing a great day, planning my day, exersice…to end I recap my day and tell myself what positive things happened, what I needed to learn and do better tommorrow and ending with a speed prayer to let go of all the negative things that linger. In only a few days what a difference it has made. Can’t wait to see how this compounds in time!!
Ian — October 6th, 2010, 5:08 pm
Morning ritual – Listen to recordings of birds chirping (for real)
There is something gently invigorating about bird calls in the morning. It tells your brain that the rest of nature is getting up, so you might want to as well.
Evening ritual –
empty the mind on to paper,
live your day mentally in reverse to unload (write that down too),
plan the next day,
stretch the body,
listen to recordings of the ocean or the rain.
These sounds will put you to sleep in a very pleasant fashion.
These two points in your day offer major leverage for anything else you might want to change or shift.
Mahalo,
Ian
Clare — October 6th, 2010, 5:28 pm
Hi Tim
Morning ritual – pot of tea, quiet time gazing out at the rainforest mountainside across from my home (I live in Cairns, tropical Australia)
Thanks for The 4-hour Week, just come across it and it fills the gaps in my “how am I going to pull this off” plan for my start-up publishing company and life as a cookbook writer. Getting stuck into your recommendations, and feeling great about the direction they’re giving me around some sticking points I’ve had in my plans.
My cookbook will be released in November and I’ve managed the whole process on a shoestring thanks to the incredible amount of support that has come my way.
My take on why I’ve had so much support – I love what I’m doing, there is an umet market for what I’m doing, my work benefits a whole stack of other businesses/players, I’m deeply passionate about my work, have put everything on the line (happily, without reservation or regret) to make it happen…AND
I only connect with and work with people who say “YES”. No “maybe” energy, and certainly no “no” energy. Life is too short, and too challenging as a start-up to have ambivalent people in my zone.
That’s my zen tip! Flow like water, that’s the yes energy. Funnily enough I have a recipe on my website which is also in the book “Zen and the art of scones”…
warm regards
Clare
Dena Stern — October 6th, 2010, 5:47 pm
Every night before I go to bed I try to think of somebody who made me happy that day and send them some gratitude. It helps me to let go of the tension of the day and end my day on a positive note, fortunate to be surrounded by awesome people who teach and support me.
Bill Gluth — October 6th, 2010, 5:49 pm
I use the first hour to 90 min of every day by taking a nice, brisk walk with my dog, then I come home and lovingly feed him, make a little coffee and something to eat while I ready something that enriches my soul.
Then I move into my day in a calm, relaxed and reflective state.
Rodrigo — October 6th, 2010, 6:04 pm
Hi Tim!
Do you intend to sell a (brazillian) portuguese version of your book, the 4-hour body?? I’ve alredy bought the portuguese version of the 4-hour workweek and it was awsome!
Hugs from Brazil
Greg — October 6th, 2010, 6:07 pm
Wow, the only way the still frame from the video could get more liberal is if there was a “Hope” poster in the back.
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 9:09 pm
Buahahaha… that’s actually really funny.
Darren — October 6th, 2010, 6:14 pm
Before Bed – Take a hot shower.
Then hit the foam roller focusing especially on calves, outside thigh, inside thigh, front of the thigh, usually take a lacrosse ball to the glutes, then a quick foam roll to the T-Spine, maybe lacrosse ball to pecs, rotator cuff and lats. No more than 5 minutes, focusing on whatever feels the most tense. The most tense is usually a result of what (if any) exercise I happened to do the previous day.
Then I go through a few static stretches for no more than 10 minutes, focusing on areas that were tense. Areas that will need attention on almost all men – Calves, Hip Flexors, Adductors, Glutes, T-Spine and Pecs (maybe other shoulder work but that’s getting a little too detailed)
If you are not relaxed and ready for bed after all that; seek help.
Now I’m ready for a quick read before I nod off.
In the morning – Mobility Drills and Dynamic Stretching to Applicable Areas
Cooking Therapy (something egg based typically)
Fresh Ground Coffee or Green Tea
Smile for the camera.
Charlie — October 6th, 2010, 7:11 pm
Great lecture Tim, helps me feel good about this break I`m taking
Can you put a link or at least spell out the name and author of your Buddhist Japanese sword fighting book?
Thanks
C
Tim Ferriss — October 6th, 2010, 9:08 pm
Here you go: “Musashi” by Yoshikawa. The swordsman’s full name is Musashi Miyamoto (Miyamoto is his last name). Here’s the book:
http://su.pr/9i6Rri
Star — October 6th, 2010, 7:17 pm
Ah, pre bed is pretty simple. Just the usual getting into jammies (essentially a cami and Thai wrap pants), brush teeth, remove contacts, etc. Check my computer one last time, turn on my sleep music and make sure my music alarm is on, then sleep.
I’m trying to get in the habit of reading before bed, or when I wake up. Not sure which will be a better time, since I am often on Skype at night talking with Australian friends in a completely different time zone.
In the morning, I wake (of course), eat either a protein/nutrition bar or Greek yogurt with some kind of organic granola or muesli or even oats while checking up on my online business/email/twitter/bank accounts.
Shower (4 days out of the week)
Then I pack my shoulder bag for the day, which is mainly food and leave for school!
Star — October 6th, 2010, 7:18 pm
Oh, I also drink a quart of water each evening with my supper. I find that helps a lot to keep me hydrated and not wake in the middle of the night with an uncomfortably dry throat.
Espree — October 6th, 2010, 7:53 pm
@DenaStern , the 2nd best blogger to Tim F
you are the person who makes people happy each day… I’m grateful for you …. xo
Falcon — October 6th, 2010, 8:37 pm
This is my favorite posit in a while, besides the 4-Hour Body announcement of course
I start my day reading — currently Love is a Dog from Hell, a shot of chlorophyll and a cup of green tea.
Before bed I try to read and sometimes listen to a Devon White recording on my iPod.
Paul — October 6th, 2010, 10:49 pm
Thanks, Tim, for the great panel discussion and for your reminder to practice gratitude.
You mentioned the Book of Five Rings, so I must ask about another samurai classic: Have you read Hagakure? It’s a brilliant, eminently quotable, and controversial adaptation of Zen to the demands of a samurai’s work. Given your interests and other books you’ve recommended, I think you’d love it.
Chris — October 7th, 2010, 1:07 am
My Morning ritual is 2 hours:
20 minute Jog
Glass of Water
Green Smoothie
Yerba Mate
Non Fiction Book
10 Minute Meditation
Shower
“Micro Clean” of the House
Daniel — October 7th, 2010, 4:26 am
Have made a comparison of following between Tim and Leo. Don’t know how accurate this is, but if it is at least half as accurate, then Tim’s analytics are winning
http://twittergrader.com/history/zen_habits?compuser=tferriss
Ralph — October 7th, 2010, 5:12 am
Musashi!
I finally finished watching the entire video. I spent my college years house/dog sitting for a Japanese translator who not only translated Musashi’s Book of Five Rings, but also wrote a biography on the swordsman. So, needless to say, I’ve read up on Musashi. He is certainly an interesting character and I’m glad to hear you mention him.
Alberto — October 7th, 2010, 6:37 am
Hello, does anyone have a transcript of this video? it would be great to have. Thanks
Nick — October 7th, 2010, 7:27 am
Morning routine: get up around 5:45 AM, hit the gym at 6:00 and run/lift (started doing the 5×5 cadence routine with squats and it is -intense- man!), then eat and dress as quickly as possible (your 3 min. eggs are helping with this). Read for 30 minutes and head to work. Right now I’m reading Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us – getting excellent right now as Pink talks about the role of grit in achieving mastery and very interesting in the context of your 4-Hour techniques for mastering Tango, Swimming, Kick-Assness, etc.
My question for you: what’s your optimal post-workout meal/shake? I am following your slow-carb diet, but I’m not sure whether slow carbs are ideal post-workout. Instead of beans on workout days would you recommend switching to something higher GI & carb like a bagel & jelly with 4 eggs? Any advice about milk post-workout and in general? Seems like the sugar in there would be great, but the casein would be slow for PWO…Would really appreciate some quick feedback!
On Musashi, which I was pleased to see you mention: The very excellent Samurai trilogy films are also based on the Musashi story and highly recommended. Another cool alternative is be the beautiful Buddha manga by Osamu Tezuka.
Lisa — October 7th, 2010, 7:55 am
For many months I was having trouble falling asleep at night. Rethought my bedtime ritual, which often included catching up on blog posts. Bad idea.
I switched back to reading – books, magazines, whatever – which I used to do before I was a blog reader.
Reading makes me sleepy. Online stuff does not. I make sure the computer’s off by 9pm every night, and it works.
Lisa — October 7th, 2010, 7:57 am
Oh. And I love that T-shirt too.
I saw a really cool shirt the other week that had a cartoon of a dinosaur, and underneath the dinosaur was written: “Vegetarian”.
Kieran O'Flynn — October 7th, 2010, 8:16 am
Hey Tim,
I’m a recently converted fan of yours. I know that you like questioning the assumptions at the foundations of society so i thought you might be interested in this.
I’ve spent about a year investigating the fundamentals of economics and found that the foundation level secret to the current economic problems comes down to two opposing economic schools of thought: Keynesian Economics vs Austrian Economics.
If you’re interested I can recommend some high profile Austrian Economists that you should follow.
Another area i’ve stumbled upon is an injury treatment method called Bio-Cranial Therapy (not to be confused with Bio Cranial Release Therapy) that contradicts some of the fundamentals of Osteopathy. I’ve tested it against osteopathy with a number of injuries and it’s remarkable.
Thanks for your book, can’t wait for the next one.
Kieran
Tim Ferriss — October 7th, 2010, 3:14 pm
Hi Kieran,
I’d love to hear more about both economics and the therapy!
Tim
Lauren Seymour — October 7th, 2010, 9:09 am
As a CrossFit instructor I spend a lot of time with students either teaching or working out so when I go to bed it is important for me to shed the excitement of the day at my bedroom door. Before I turn off the light I read The Essential Rumi. I feel a state of grace that is the greatest at the end of the day.
Julie — October 7th, 2010, 9:31 am
This is great since I subscribe to both yours and Leo’s blog – both are great reminders to live life Zen-like and as Leo says “single-task”… That can be a challenge and reminders are always helpful – so thanks to all of you for reminding us of the need for balance. And tea!
BTW – Love the T-shirt! And, Leo good luck becoming a ninja!
ZStar — October 7th, 2010, 10:18 am
Am I like anyone else who is listening to this in the background at work, defying the most underlying principles of this video? And then to top it off, commenting on the blog for the first time. What a glutton for un-zen punishment.
Vadim S. — October 7th, 2010, 11:22 am
very inspiring talk.
it just came to me – i want to set a goal for the next period of 6 months, and it is to meet you, tim. just to shake your hand. not to speak or ask much, just to meet and shake hand. simple and in a very high priority.
let’s see how will it work.
be good, buddy
lonpars — October 7th, 2010, 12:07 pm
Thanks for posting the video it was really enjoyable to watch.
I really need to spend more time just sitting and thinking.
tonihock — October 7th, 2010, 12:47 pm
My ritual before going to work…
Just eat something “primal”. Eggs and vegetables and a cup of green tea.
On the weekend just chill!
Brian — October 7th, 2010, 1:22 pm
Does anyone know what happened to PXmethod.com? Went to check it out today and it’s gone…
Tim Ferriss — October 7th, 2010, 2:37 pm
Hey B,
In the process of fixing. Will have up as soon as we can…
Thx!
Tim
Nathan Schmitt — October 7th, 2010, 2:13 pm
Tim,
I’m currently doing thesis work in philosophy of education (esp. pragmatism) and just came across a quote by William James I thought you’d like and that relates to this post:
“The great thing, then, in all education, is to make our nervous system our ally instead of our enemy… For this we must make automatic and habitual, as early as possible as many useful actions as we can… The more of the details of our daily life we can hand over to the effortless custody of automatism, the more our higher powers of mind will be set free for their own proper work.” (James, 1890/1950 Vol. I, p. 122)
Nathan
Nathan Schmitt — October 7th, 2010, 2:26 pm
One more…
“My thinking is first and last and always for the sake of my doing, and I can only do one thing at a time.” (James 1890/1950, Vol. II, p. 333)
Josh Clemence — October 7th, 2010, 3:25 pm
Tim,
I want to thank you. I owe my happiness to your book. Already having career and material success, it made me remember why I thought I wanted all of that in the first place.
Keep it up.
Josh
Tim Ferriss — October 8th, 2010, 6:36 pm
Thank you very much, Josh
Alexey — October 7th, 2010, 3:35 pm
whatever happened to just being spontaneous, letting things go out of control, a bit, letting life happen, instead of concentrating on following rituals, reading about rituals, listening about rituals, writing about ritual, making up rituals, etc. it almost seems like way too much thought process goes into all of this
jeff — October 7th, 2010, 4:15 pm
Yo Tim!
Ok..just saw the today show clip you had on your blog with you and Bobby Douchbag– i mean Deutsch
ha..joking
Obviously he’s old school and the notion of working less will damage America…. as we all know its the opposite..
anyway, good interview.. i liked your final statement on taking 1 hour of condensed thought to trump 20+ hours for same result
After watching the tea talk and your previous random show.. i noticed all the cool stuff you do, trampoline, reading, tea drinking, sketching,,etc.. i have not heard anything on a musical instrament..just curious??
peace out
J
fyi.. i’m pre-ordering a copy of your new book tonight..can’t wait to read it when it drops!!!
Ware Carlton-Ford — October 7th, 2010, 5:16 pm
First, I figure out how much time (bare minimum) I need to be really ready for the day, which for me is roughly an hour. Then, I set my alarm for about half an hour longer that that. This ensures that the very first thing I do in any given day is make a decision based on listening to my body – if I wake up and don’t feel totally rested, I can go back to sleep for as much as half an hour. After, I get out of bed and take a quick, cool shower (not shockingly cold, but cool enough to be stimulating). Then I put the tea kettle on, and do at least the first section (yogic sun salutation) of the warmup designed by my movement professor (I’m an acting major). By the time that’s done, the tea kettle is just whistling, and I make some green tea. Breakfast is some assortment of fruits, particularly apples. Then I take whatever time is leftover, and use it to read, meditate, or do some more stretching or light cardio, again, by listening to what my body needs on each particular morning.
John Konrad — October 7th, 2010, 5:49 pm
I remember you saying that you often throw away the first draft or two of what you write, which took a lot of pressure off me. So I got in the habit of writing those disposable first drafts on a legal pad with pen. The ideas really start to flow but I found myself still wasting time surfing the net for research… so I began to print out notes and articles and filing them in a binder. Now I go home, have dinner, bath and read books with the kids, enjoy tea with my wife and then sit down alone with my notepad and binder to write the drafts tech free. And what a difference it makes.
As an early member of digg Kevin inspired me to start my blog and to read your book… both have been life changing events. The first gave me financial freedom and the second gave me the time to enjoy life and zero in on my goals. Today I have a book deal with HarperCollins and am enjoying life. Many thanks Tim (and Kevin!) -John
Tim Ferriss — October 8th, 2010, 6:35 pm
Congratulations, John! I completely agree on the tech-free writing. Too easy to get lost in the Internet blackhole. Thank you so much for the wonderful comment and kind words. Many adventures in store
Pura vida,
Tim
TGF — October 7th, 2010, 5:49 pm
The video should be splited, it’s too long to see.
If splited it’s easier to get back.
That apart great talk..
James St. James — October 7th, 2010, 7:01 pm
Tim,
- I love the 4 hour dinners in Argentina story
- Its crazy that you had 6 teas in front of you
- I agree with ritual setting and have been tracking some revolutionary experiments each month – Sept. Veganism, Oct. Global memorization.
- Enjoy your day’s dishes, and peach (inside joke for those who watched the whole video!)
Thanks again for your cyber-mentoring,
James St. James
J — October 7th, 2010, 8:28 pm
Hey Tim- Thanks for posting this. Mildly off topic but not really: number one time thief (in present and future) and balance wrecker- smoking. Have you or can you pool your resources and find something useful out there for someone who has tried seemingly everything to stop and still can’t?
thanks in advance…
Benny — October 7th, 2010, 9:16 pm
I am guilty of having developed bad habits over too many years. I did just read a book by Darren Hardy called “The Compound Effect” that opened my eyes to the benefits of developing good life long habits. He has a great pre-bed and post morning habit. Just a change in one habit, in the long run, can have positive effects on life. So I am actively being aware of bad habits and developing positive daily habits.
Ramiro — October 7th, 2010, 9:22 pm
I am from Argentina and I am proud that you drink Cruz Malta and Rosamonte. I personally drink Taragui right now, but my mother always liked Cruz Malta (the white and red package). Mate has a long tradition, and I am glad you adopted this beverage from the Rio de la Plata region (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and south of Brazil). I just wanted to say that.
Looking forward to the 4 hour body book!!!
Shawna Fields — October 7th, 2010, 9:51 pm
Tim,
We are a lot alike in many ways. I am waiting for you to invite me on the Random show since I live in the Bay area! The other day I was in the City carrying my video camera with me so if I ran into you we could film a “quickie” LOL. Anyway, my fellow OCD martial artist author blog writer bi-lingual world traveler, I am opposite you in one very important way.
There is NO better time in the day then the morning! You don’t know what you are missing my friend. The birds are chirping, the air is crisp, and it is the best time to get a hardcore workout in.
I am currently working on a blogpost in your honor, utilizing your techniques for titles. I will send it to you somehow when it is done (since we all know you outsource most of your emails haha). It has to be good enough for the Tim-meister!
Oh and ps. I like my protein mixed with natural peanut butter, a little cocoa powder, a tiny bit of water, and heated up in the microwave… it’s like brownie batter. Peace.
Josh — October 8th, 2010, 1:25 am
Is the tea terrible? I am 45 minutes into the video and no one has drank their tea.
paul — October 8th, 2010, 5:04 am
Tim – your chat about the LONG dinners in Argentina was a good talking point for many people who follow you / read your book or live the over analyzed and overly time-managed lifestyle. We all don’t know how and/or don’t feel comfortable enjoying downtime. Just returned from Paris on business and couldn’t get past the late and long dinners. Its interesting that you say the more you did the long dinner thing, the more comfortable you felt… I am a big fan of your thoughts, and wonder if you could switch gears at some point and talk about downtime… since the point of most of your lifestyle hacks is to create it… but most of us fear it, so we end up using it to make lists, and schedules, etc. Just a thought… also a little fact – french guy next to me on the flight was reading 4HWW so we spent about 6 hours talking about it – definitely a good conversation starter.
-p
Chris Brisson — October 8th, 2010, 7:00 am
Just ran out of ink taking some notes…
Funny, we know what to do, but get so distracted from the “need” to check email, take that phone call, or whatever to get away from the major priority.
I think an interesting “challenge” to offer your readers would be to do just that… offer us a challenge. Something similar to Bill Philips “Body For Life” or the Shopify challenge.
Could be one for 4HBody or on Productivity.
People just need a “reason” to do it…
Challenge us to change our habits.
Keep on truckin’
Chris
Shawna Fields — October 8th, 2010, 8:24 am
Tim,
We are a lot alike in many ways. I am waiting for you to invite me on the Random show since I live in the Bay area! The other day I was in the City carrying my video camera with me so if I ran into you we could film a “quickie” LOL (you tube video for my channel). Anyway, my fellow OCD martial artist author blog writer bi-lingual world traveler, I am opposite you in one very important way.
There is NO better time in the day then the morning! You don’t know what you are missing my friend. The birds are chirping, the air is crisp, and it is the best time to get a hardcore workout in.
I am currently working on a blogpost in your honor, utilizing your techniques for titles. I will send it to you somehow when it is done (since we all know you outsource most of your emails haha). It has to be good enough for the Tim-meister!
Oh and ps. I like my protein mixed with natural peanut butter, a little cocoa powder, a tiny bit of water, and heated up in the microwave… it’s like brownie batter. Peace.
Michelle Denham — October 8th, 2010, 3:13 pm
Morning ritual: Morning pages (Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way)–three pages of writing whatever comes into your head, non-stop. No editing, just writing. I’m much more centered and happy when I write them than when I don’t.
toby — October 8th, 2010, 3:57 pm
Tim:
My morning routine. Weekdays. Wake up then spend some time lying quietly. Rise, cleanup, get dressed and walk about a half mile to the coffeehouse. Have a bagle or scone with multiple cups of decaf and conversation with the regular senior crowd, mostly about subjects stirred up by the morning newspaper. Walk home, change into shorts and go run for 40 min to an hour. Cool off, shower, and then engage in the necessaries of life.
An aside: the sound on this video was almost painful for me, a grit your teeth and clench your hands effect. I had to take breaks from viewing to decompress. There was a lot of good/thought provoking information being transmitted. The four of you obviously put yourselves out there for quite some time. It is a shame that the production quality detracted from the presentation.
Abbey — October 8th, 2010, 4:55 pm
I have so enjoyed reading all of these comments. Every person’s life is so special and personal, and we can gain so much from asking questions like these and listening to each other’s answers and insight.
To two of the commenters above:
Toby – I agree about the audio. I had the same sensitivity. Sheesh, my fillings were vibrating!
Shawna – The whey/peanut butter/cocoa powder thing… DAY-AM that’s good! I’m eating some right now and it’s deeeeelicious! Thanks for the tip.
As for me, my morning ritual involves reading a poem I love by Haifz (14th century sufi poet) to remind me not to just “wake up” and get going, but to really be AWAKE. So I read this, then stretch, then french press some Philz coffee. Unstoppable happiness ensues.
“Today”
I
Do not
Want to step so quickly
Over a beautiful line on God’s palm
As I move through the earth’s marketplace
Today.
I do not want to touch any object in this world
Without my eyes testifying to the truth
That everything is
My Beloved.
Something has happened
To my understanding of existence
That now makes my heart always full of wonder
and kindness.
I do not
Want to step so quickly
Over this sacred place on God’s body
That is right beneath your
Own foot
As I
Dance with
Precious life
Today.
Mark Madison — October 8th, 2010, 5:29 pm
Hi Tim,
Can you expand a bit more on the Turmeric / Black Pepper / Almond Milk concoction that you mentioned in the video? I have been trying to utilize the many beneficial properties of turmeric. I understand that the curcumin is most efficiently absorbed by the body in the presence of black pepper. So far, my solution has been to mix them together with water into an ungodly shot. It is not pleasant. Is there a particular product that you are using, or are you mixing with the almond milk and such? Any insights would be much appreciated.
Much thanks for the info that you provide. Your blog is, pound for pound, the most useful blog I have found.
Cheers,
Mark
Tim Ferriss — October 8th, 2010, 6:25 pm
Thanks, Mark (and thanks, all!) for the comment.
The Nutmeric goodies I mentioned is here:
http://spreadhealthfoods.foodzie.com/nutmeric-almond-turmeric-spread-single-jar.html
Be careful — it’s really addictive. I ate an entire jar (with a spoon, mind you) in two evenings. Wow. So, so good.
Tim
Kathleen — October 8th, 2010, 5:50 pm
Thank you for the great post. I can attest to the transformative value of dining regularly with a group of friends. About 5 years ago we started “Wednesday Night Barbecue”… happiness alchemy indeed!
Thanks also for the book recommendation and link.
You are an inspiration to me.
KC
Sean Fyock — October 8th, 2010, 7:44 pm
Admittedly I need to more fully develop my waking and bedding routines, but I am thankful to Tim and all of you for sharing yours. What I do more sporadically than routinely is:
Wake around 6 am to the more-or-less pleasant sound of church bells using my iPhone as an alarm clock. This produces a gentle light along with the sound. In my own experiences this is a more pleasant waking than a harsh, loud blaring alarm. I then shower, etc. and move into a series of stretches for about 10 minutes.
I eat yogurt and sometimes a protein bar for breakfast and head to work.
In the evening, I sometimes go through a stretching routine again. I quite my mind by first setting my to-do list for the next day and then use the method of “examen” from the Jesuits (found at http://ignatianspirituality.com/).
If it is an evening that I am just wound up for some reason I find that playing an action type game (usually on my iPhone) allows my to use up that energy and then I can relax into sleep. Other times I uses a hypnotic relaxation audio such as the one from http://www.Adam-Eason.com.
Josh — October 8th, 2010, 9:36 pm
Tim,
Do you have a quick tip for how to go about determining what your ideal “bio-rhythm” (your ideal sleep/wake period, best creative time) is?
Cory — October 9th, 2010, 5:58 am
Evening (which is the key to everything)
shut down computer, turn off Iphone, and charge it.
1. Take 3 mg melatonin, vit d, magnesium
2. Make coffee for the morning
3. Empty contents of sink into dishwasher, turn it on if full, shine sink.
4. Lay out clothes for morning and put on PJ’s that will double as exercise clothes in a.m. Put my sneakers on toilet bowl lid.
5. Floss/brush teeth, wash face and apply Oil of Delay (or other gravity fighting cream)
6. sit on bed, set alarm, massage hands and feet with lavender soothing lotion while giving thanks to the breath and body that carried me through another day.
7. Get under the covers, arrange the pillows in a restorative pattern (roll under neck, pillow under knees)
8. Breath slowly and deeply quieting my mind and relaxing my body
9. Dream.
AM
1 alarm at 6 am every day.
2. slip out of bed head for toilet where my sneakers greet me. I cannot pee without dealing with sneakers so I put them on. I already have my exercise clothes on as PJ’s.
3. start coffemaker, feed fish,
4. head out the door for a walk or run while the world is still yawning. Go for 15–45 minutes (it varies based on aches/pains, temp, energy level but it is NO LESS than 15 minutes every day to start the gears spinning)
5. Return home, stretch, coffee, breakfast
6. shower/dress
7. turn on computer but do not sign on, spend 1 hour of most intense stuff of day.
8. Then, and ONLY then, do I check email.
Cory
Erik Ciccarelli — October 9th, 2010, 7:55 am
Thanks for posting these videos. I hope they keep coming. Like you said, you found your way to be creative late in the evening with motion going on in the background.
It’s great to visually see and hear you talk about your beliefs and way of life. I’ve found that audio and visual really help me process.
Can’t wait for the new book.
Erik
Frankerson — October 9th, 2010, 3:34 pm
Great stuff, but I’m not going to shave my head.
dayagrant — October 9th, 2010, 9:27 pm
I found this talk so interesting, and one thing among the many that really resonated was Susan’s referrals to community and sharing experiences with others. I know there was a question asked about how to make that deeper connection with people, and I liked all the responses to it, but for me the question is broader. The breakdown, or reshaping, of community both near and wide seems to me to be an equal and parallel issue to that of our frenetic, multi-tasking, technology-reliant lives. I’d be really interested to know what your thoughts are on the future of community. What are the implications of a life lived without connection to a wider community? Is it still relevant?
Xeno — October 9th, 2010, 11:28 pm
Hello Tim,
I stopped reading CNN. So one of my rowers told me about what happened yesterday. I was happy I did not know about it until after the fact, because I am a very emotional passionate person, I would have been traumatized by the event until luckily the happy ending.
Thank you.
Xeno
jason palmer — October 10th, 2010, 3:57 am
i have just started watching this and keep thinking ‘grass fed’..perhaps you need a 4 hour work week t-shirt to wear to things like this
jason palmer — October 10th, 2010, 4:01 am
ok..i could not put the video back to where i stopped to comment, i remember people walking past the camera… is not good, i have lost interest
this guy needs to buy you lunch for tips on how to make a video people will watch
I often buy unemployed professionals lunch and pick their brains about their subject.
Vinayak — October 10th, 2010, 4:41 am
Hi Tim
You mentioned that you were interested in Comic Books. If you are interested you can read about the Buddha in a very interesting comic book series by Osamu Tezuka. The link on Amazon is http://amzn.to/ac4GcW
Adonis — October 10th, 2010, 7:58 am
Tim, i’ve got a problem with vimeo. I’m trying to watch or even download it and at the half of the video it stops. I’m pretty sure the problem isn’t mine. Is there a way to upload the whole video to youtube or share a torrent or rapidshare link to download it? Thanks for the inspiration…
Joel Valdez — October 10th, 2010, 8:20 am
Hey Tim,
Is there anyway to get the full video ?
Alex — October 10th, 2010, 9:07 am
Hey Tim,
I recently watched the movie “The Social Network.” Without giving too much away for those who haven’t seen it, there’s one scene where two characters discuss finding inspiration/motivation directly after a tough break-up. You mention a similar experience in the above video. Any insight into this causal relationship? Thanks and keep up the great work!
Best,
Alex
Kieran O'Flynn — October 11th, 2010, 10:01 am
Hey Tim,
Re: Austrian Economics and Bio-Cranial Therapy
The flaw in economics came many decades ago when Austrian Economics and Keynesian Economics were both relatively untested schools of thought. Austrian Economics claimed that an economies growth should be based on manufacturing, production and stable control of monetary policy. Keynesian Economics claimed that economies fluctuate in boom-bust cycles and counter-cyclical monetary policy is required i.e. increase money supply to recover from recession and reduce money supply to control a boom.
When these opposing schools of thought were put to politicians, over time, Keynesian Economics prevailed. This happened for obvious reason – all politicians want results quickly and easily, increasing the money supply was always the easiest option. As history has proved, this school of thought allowed for progressively more reckless decision and counter productive initiatives that view through Keynesian eyes were assisting the economy. There were many steps in the decline of the US economy (removal of the gold standard, allowing excessive off-shore production, wars, bail outs, stimulus etc.) but the best way of understanding how to view an economy like a business is to read Peter Schiff’s book – How an Economy Grows and Why it Crashes. I’ve a spare copy if you’d like one sent to you.
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/How-an-Economy-Grows-and-Why-It-Crashes/Peter-D-Schiff/e/9780470526705/?pt=BK&stage=bookproduct&pwb=1&
I also follow Peter’s weekly commentary on the World Economy to understand the effects of the government’s decisions as they are happening:
http://www.europac.net/
I advise reading his written articles and listening to his video diaries. Once you’ve read the book, the on-going commentary will become much clearer.
Bio-Cranial Therapy is a technique discovered by Dr. Robert Boyd in the 1980′s and he has spent over 20 years developing this therapy. He still teaches Bio-Cranial Therapy and is in the process of developing a BCT textbook and demonstration videos. Here is a link to some articles by Dr. Boyd that begin to explain it.
http://www.biocranialinstitute.com/articles
I recommend trying it out with any form of injury that isn’t a result of direct trauma (by that i mean, it won’t fix a broke leg but will fix a recurring hamstring injury or back misalignment)
If you think it’s interesting enough, i could put you in contact with Dr. Boyd (For all injuries I see a close friend of his – give me an email address coz i can’t post it here)
Amazon doesn’t stock Dr. Boyd’s book ‘an introduction to Bio-Cranial Therapy’ so i’ll try and find you another book that explains it.
Well there is my vomit of information and links!
Laters
Kieran
Kieran O'Flynn — October 11th, 2010, 10:13 am
I should have said google ‘biocraniopathy’. It’s actually the correct term. Google recognises it.
Kieran
Brad — October 11th, 2010, 10:57 am
I’ve been passing this video around to all of my friends and co-workers. Thanks for sharing this, Tim. Lots of great information shared.
Orlando — October 11th, 2010, 11:24 am
Here is some old school -
“The secret of success is learning how to use pain and pleasure instead of having pain and pleasure use you. If you do that, you’re in control of your life. If you don’t, life controls you.”
Tony Robbins
Kohan Ikin — October 11th, 2010, 12:35 pm
@Joel: I was able to download the full video by going to the Vimeo link (http://vimeo.com/15457921) and looking for the “Download This Video” link underneath “About This Video” on the right-hand side of the page. You’ll need to have logged in to a Vimeo account for the download link to appear.
The video is working for me – using a Mac with OS X 10.6 here, and playing it using Quicktime Player v10. Loved the video, and now I’m playing it again in the background, looped and muted… Casino Royale style
NCA — October 11th, 2010, 1:47 pm
Hi Tim,
Interesting stuff but that whole vibe reminded me of a hippy Liberal love fest.
Do you lean to the Right on any issues?
Tim Ferriss — October 13th, 2010, 8:07 pm
Hahaha… I suppose it is SF, after all.
As far as politics, I tend to be fiscally conservative and socially liberal. It really depends on the issues. Pretty hard-core free-market guy in the end. I don’t beat bongos while repeating mantras from “The Secret” or anything
Hope that somehow helps,
Tim
Alberto — October 11th, 2010, 4:16 pm
@Mark Madison or anyone using turmeric/black pepper.
Can you please tell the proportion of each you use in any mix to enhance absorption?
Thanks.
Katie — October 11th, 2010, 8:50 pm
Love the shirt Tim!
William in DC — October 12th, 2010, 10:16 am
Tim, have you thought of doing podcasts or sound recordings of your new video blogs? These have the added advantage of being transportable, but more importantly of getting listeners up OFF of the computer. Possibly it’s just me, but the temptation would be to multi-task and “surf the web” while watching one of your videos.
Audio’s good as one doesn’t have to be on the computer, they can be pressing clothes, running, driving, or just sitting
Tim Ferriss — October 13th, 2010, 8:03 pm
I totally agree. Need to get on that!
Tim
Neil — October 14th, 2010, 8:16 am
Tim – one point you made which was very brief but I think so important is: examining the fear of death and looking at how life is often driven by that fear. I think overcoming the fear of death is one of the most fundamental challenges we have. You say you are not afraid to die – because you have lived such a full life till now. I think that is wonderful and merits a blog in its own right! Neil
Eugene — October 16th, 2010, 3:34 pm
I’m a big Leo fan as well, so this was an absolute pleasure to watch. A podcast would be incredible.
Anne — October 17th, 2010, 9:26 am
I get to work crazy early, but I don’t go in. I sit in my car for 60-90 minutes, drink coffee, and watch the sun come up.
Collin — October 18th, 2010, 8:49 am
I finally found a solid enough connection in Southeast Asia to watch this video. Great advice Tim, as always, keep the content flowing while we await your next book.
In the video you made the a “V” gesture and said something to the effect of “it’s easier to alter your course here [bottom of the V] than here [top of the V].” It made me think of my Dad, who, a few years from retirement (the delayed satisfaction kind), is at the top of the V. He is overweight and harbors unrealized dreams which he feels are (financially) not an option. Is he to far along on the wrong course to alter his destination? Also, does your new book contain any useful info for someone like him – 59 years old, overweight, and viced with a collection of lifetime-ingrained bad habits?
Thanks,
Collin
Kenny Ewell — October 18th, 2010, 9:07 pm
@Chuck Rylant: Check out the book “Mastery” by George Leonard.
Collin — October 19th, 2010, 4:47 am
I’m going to check out that Musashi book. Have you read any Lone Wolf and Cub? The full series is fairly long (28 volumes). I’ve read half of it and feel comfortable recommending it. Dunno if you can speed-read a graphic novel though
Stephen Nash — October 19th, 2010, 1:29 pm
Great post man. I need a better pre-bed ritual. Upon awakening I used to formally sit, but currently find that too stuffy and rigid. Now, I have a number of texts I read from (one being the “Less Is More” book by Vandenbroek) for a half an hour. Then, I walk my dog to the park and back, trying to hold the ideas I read in my mind. It really helps me get off on the right footing every day.
MarkV — October 19th, 2010, 3:01 pm
Bedtime: Meditate to slow my mind. Also play slow classical background music while I am in bed.
Morning: Pet Dog. Shower. Get dressed and pet dog. Take dog out. Brush teeth. Hop in car for 45 minute commute. (eat breakfast of Oats, Hemp protein, Chia seeds and berries at work)
Leah — October 19th, 2010, 3:28 pm
Hi Tim,
Just want to ask if your allowing guest to post blogs on your blog site?
Thanks,
Alberto — October 19th, 2010, 6:25 pm
There is a preview of the book Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa in Google Books
Brett — October 21st, 2010, 9:40 am
Hi Tim,
What kind of shoes are you wearing?
Thanks
Yonatan Weic — October 22nd, 2010, 2:07 am
Hi Tim,
How come you haven’t done a video like that ‘live’ so far (besides conferences and public speaking).
I know the importance of ever green content but using something like ustream.tv or any other live video platform could be really interesting not to mention the fact that it could create anticipation since people can ask and interact with you live.
im sure that if you want to record it or keep it as content you can do so by recording it as as screencast from a computer and uploading it to vimeo so you can eat your cake and have it at the same time.
just some food for thought
Yonatan
Darren B — October 23rd, 2010, 7:31 pm
I think it was cool when you were talking about rituals at the 54 minute mark and the bells started to chime in the background…bit of a synchronicity,since chiming clock bells are one of the most ritualistic of the day.
Darren B — October 23rd, 2010, 7:33 pm
I think it was cool when you were talking about rituals at the 54 minute mark and the bells started to chime in the background…bit of a synchronicity,since chiming clock bells are one of the most ritualistic things of the day.
Dan — October 24th, 2010, 3:50 pm
Dear Tim,
This is an awesome video. I like you am at my best at night. From about 10pm, my brain seem to be in this getting things done mode and I have a ton of mental energy. Conversely, during the day especially morning, I am really groggy and my creativity sucks. For various reasons I cannot afford to stay up at night and wake up at 10am… I have experimented with entrainment audios, shifted my workouts at different times of the day, actually been trying to have my brain scanned to see if there is anything to replicate that particular mental state, tried eating and drinking fluids at different times… Nothing seem to change what seems to be able to change that immutable fact.
Have you experimented at all, o ever been interested in becoming more of a morning person? And what were your findings, whats your take on the whole subject? Do you have any recommendations?
Keep rocking the world,
Ciao
Dan — October 25th, 2010, 4:17 am
Just wanted to check if for some reason I am banned from posting on your blog? I dont see my comments ever in your stream.
Paul — October 25th, 2010, 3:50 pm
Really enjoyed that video, thanks for sharing!
Regarding dinner with friends increasing happiness — that is obviously true, but did you quote that from your own experience or from published research? If it’s based on research I would love to see the original article and the experiment design. Couldn’t find anything online.
Keep the good stuff coming!
Tyler Carter — October 30th, 2010, 10:22 am
It’s just funny to see these four think, if nothing else other than the physical reaction to listening to each other; Leo is relaxed, but sitting crooked in his chair, Tim is alert, but his cups are in a straight line at all times and his hands are always moving, Susan is unchanging, Jesse sits in a similar position when listening, but straightens up when he talks.
Great post though, thanks Tim!
Nabil Gulamani — October 30th, 2010, 5:57 pm
Tim,
Great video. I am a crazy tea fan. I went to this place called Samovar Tea Lounge in SF, it was amazing.
I wanted your opinion on the followng…. I feel like our Westen society lacks a lot of zen and buddhism knowledge. These philosophies have helped me find my passion and have helped me control my internal thoughts.
Do you beleive that these Eastern philosophies will spread more to the U.S in the next 10 years? If not, how do we get more people aware of the benefit of learning the philosophies of zen buddhism and Buddhism?
Have a great weekend.
Cheers,
Nabil
John Marlow — October 31st, 2010, 3:31 am
Tim:
Regarding the shortage of signed copies–have you considered offering signed bookplates? Lightweight, handily signed, cheap(er) to mail, with room for a message, ad, or pithy quote.
Amanda White — October 31st, 2010, 12:37 pm
Hi Tim,
Since I don’t so much love watching videos, what would be great for me would be to know which contain “new material,” (suggestions, new ideas, whatever) and which are just rehashes of stuff your long-time fans have read and heard many times before. Is there any way you could include some sort of note about that when you post new videos?
Not that I don’t love seeing your charming face, it’s just that it can be a lot of time to invest, if after an hour you realize you haven’t learned anything new. Always worth a reminder, of course, but you know- to help prioritize.
Gruß
Amanda
Sharita — October 31st, 2010, 4:25 pm
Tim,
I am an attorney and I have gotten a great deal out of your book. My job requires that I put out fires for my clients, I am in court almost daily, and have deadlines constantly. I have no predictability in my schedule. I may have court in the morning and client meetings in the afternoon and calls to return to other attorneys etc. What suggestions do you have for me regarding how to incorporate some of the Zen type practices and philosophies into my day?
bryan — November 1st, 2010, 9:17 pm
So Important,
I wounder why they don’t teach more of this stuff in school. It will help a lot more people out.
Bryan Carlton
John Marlow — November 2nd, 2010, 3:37 pm
Vimeo Suckosity
I appreciate the video post, I really do–but there has to be a better way…
A note on vimeo videos (and why you might want to choose another service): So far as I can tell, it’s impossible to skip ahead. So when (for example) my browser crashes, I have to guess where I left off, start the video running again, set a timer, and let the thing eat up my memory for an hour while I’m not watching it–then start watching again. Same routine if I set the timer for duration -5 minutes and skip backward looking for the right spot.
And what if nothing goes wrong and I just to watch your comments, skipping the others? I believe that using this format is going to result in fewer people watching the content.
Nathan — November 2nd, 2010, 6:20 pm
Tim your best creative hours in the am are so because no one around you is broadcasting thought forms.
Jacob B — November 5th, 2010, 7:57 pm
streamlining your mornings – lessons from Japan
Toshi O. — November 7th, 2010, 9:11 am
Morning – First thing i do when i wake up is drink a glass of water.
frank luna — November 7th, 2010, 11:52 pm
Hey Tim,
I love your routine. I need something similar, I nap everyday and i’m getting tired of it. I also have horrible sleeping patterns. I’m never fully asleep. I’ve tried everything and nothing helps. Of course, ambien works well, a little too well. Any suggestions? links?
thanks for all the experiments.
Buffy F — November 19th, 2010, 2:32 am
Evening:
Load dishwasher and wipe down kitchen counters. Smile at clean kitchen. Leave bedroom door open and let rhythmic white noise of dishwasher lull me to sleep.
Morning:
Hug and kiss cat, feed him, clean litter box. Unload dishwasher while cage-free eggs fry on stove. Fluff couch pillows and open blinds. Sit by fireplace to meditate and write in spiritual journal. Shower/dress. Check day planner while computer boots up. Start working. Take break when my boyfriend wakes up and have coffee with him.
Yadgyu — November 21st, 2010, 11:04 pm
Most of the rituals and routines I have read seem pretty boring. I haven’t seen one post mention having intercourse as a way to start the day or end the evening. Is it inappropriate to talk about such a fun, exciting, and gratifying activity?
I can’t be the only one who thinks that getting busy is better than jogging, meditating, reading, or eating the latest organic food craze.
Joseph Darlington — November 22nd, 2010, 8:54 am
Yadgyu,
You touched on an interesting point. Not about sex per se, but I did notice that Tim’s daily routine doesn’t seem to leave much room for a relationship. I share the same inner ‘clock’ too. I would easily do my best work from 1am to 4am, but that doesn’t work too well if you have a girlfriend/wife and family who are on more mainstream schedules.
test — November 26th, 2010, 1:02 am
test
Rebecca — November 26th, 2010, 2:01 am
Hi Tim and everyone in the comments,
I need some information that i can’t seem to get hold of. Any help would be greatly appreciated. In the 4 hour work week Tim mentions briefly a guy who set up an online dvd rental buiness if I recall correctly. This is something i would like to attempt to do but with indie films and world cinema. But according to the info i find online, rentable dvds cost 4 times what they cost retail and if I need a few 100 or 1000 titles to begin the business, the start up costs will be huge. The thing is, I’m sure the guy mentioned in the book was a student and therefore wouldn’t have that kind of money. Are there any loop holes there that let you rent dvds you buy from a normal retailer? And does anyone know more about the guy who does this mentioned in tims book so i could contact him?
Thanks
Rebecca, Ireland
michelle moore — November 26th, 2010, 5:13 pm
cool is cool!
pre bed rituals …
well having spent my life living on the beach the sound of the surf was part of life and when I moved to this little rock surrounded by the sea but no surf so to get to sleep I have a little white noise sound machine and have it set to “waves” and leave it on all night…!
Alex — December 3rd, 2010, 3:21 am
Hey Tim
I read a lot of your stuff and now I definitely can´t wait to get your 2 books. Especially the 4 hour body looks reeeeeeally interesting !
I wonnder whether you know Tony Robbins?
He was also a speaker at TED once and has written about motivation.
He´s really good at what he is doing and I think you and him have a lot in common.
You Should really at least check out his Ted Talk if you happen to don´t know him.
greets from germany
Alex — December 3rd, 2010, 3:34 am
Heree´s the Ted Talk of Tony Robbins :
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/tony_robbins_asks_why_we_do_what_we_do.html
really interesting stuff about changing behaviour.
Kathy — January 20th, 2011, 3:05 am
30min in and they’ve hardly drank the tea?!? lol
I am def a night person and love to learn and think into the night. Perhaps I am a future writer or teacher. But am needing to make some big changes in my life and set some new daily routines in motion, yet I am not doing what I need to get done. Perhaps for one thing, if I get it done and progress, then I will be the person that gets it done and progresses. Perhaps it is actually the result of the change that is what I resist. I will take Tim’s advice, and do the number one thing first in the day (after some meditation and light exercise), which I am for some reason resisting.
It seems that old ideas of discipline just don’t work. For example, fighting yourself doesn’t work. Must be a conversation with yourself. Face the conversation with oneself about what you’re resisting, for example. That is, assuming the thing is on your list is there because it is something that is important to you. So having that conversation may bring the resisting part of yourself on board with what you gotta do.
greg gutierrez — March 11th, 2011, 1:21 pm
Thanks for the positive energy!
Blessings,
Greg Gutierrez
Dave P — April 24th, 2011, 12:45 pm
Tim your content is always stellar. What I appreciate more though is your constant ability to crack me up.
One example would be your WTF body language in this video. LOL.
There were a couple of things that were said by the other guests that I could just hear your mind saying “what the hell?”
Literally, I started dying out laughing….enough where my wife can in to see what all the fuss was about.
But you were super kind and respectful of the other guest. (which is pretty cool in itself) But please keep the laughs coming…..
Sortholan — June 3rd, 2011, 2:04 pm
Oh this is a goodie…
Wake up…jump on wife. Jump off wife (thats the 3 min cardio sorted). Stagger in to the world to release children from bedroom (two children so maybe thats multitasking…bad dog!). Eat a bowl of cornflakes for brekkie (it has a chicken on the box so that is nearly as good as eggs for breakfast.)
Head off to work at my utterly pointless job which is slowly killing me (I knew that years ago but after reading 4HWW and Tim…now I REALLY REALLY know it.
Wait 8 hours, come home to the real world, sync with the family, catch up on the new rich and try to find that elusive muse. Now thats a routine.
Owen Marcus — February 25th, 2012, 5:11 pm
Thanks Tim for posting the video. It was fun hearing all you talk about the tweaks to being present. I love your unique spin on things. So many people take this stuff way to seriously and then wonder why their life sucks.