Thank Yous and Feedback

Ash Haque Says:

November 21st, 2007, 3:03 am

Just wanted to be one of the first to say thanks for all the great articles over the past few months! Keep up the great work

Tess Says:

November 21st, 2007, 3:18 am

I agree with Ash. Yours is one of my “never miss” blogs and since discovering the monthly habits in October I haven’t looked back - and neither have my sleeping habits and keeping my living space clear.
I think your new contact policy is really good. I don’t have anything even approaching your readership but still find it difficult to keep up.
All the best to you.

Damian Says:

November 21st, 2007, 3:54 am

Leo,

Thank you for adding so much value to my development. I like your posts very much. I know that you have a lot readers here in Poland.

Wish you all the best and keep doing great work.

Damian

Georgio Says:

November 21st, 2007, 5:31 am

Another great example of you taking decisive effective action, and communicating clear boundaries to protect your 3-5 most important things in your life. You never just stress, explode, and play the victim. Great work Leo! You’re an inspiration!

Leo Says:

November 21st, 2007, 16:16 pm

Thanks for the nice comments, guys! And thanks for understanding about my new policy.

Your feedback is greatly appreciated … in fact, this encouragement is what keeps me going. :)

Chris Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 12:01 pm

Great work Leo! You seem to have a similar set of goals and outlook to myself. Your website has become essential reading to refine my own life.

Gerry Power Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 12:45 pm

Leo - the amount of time and effort you put into this wonderful and free resource is awe inspiring, and much appreciated, as is your careful attention and often response to comments. May it help carry you to your dreams, and bring peace and happiness to you and your loved ones always!

Peace - Gerry

Asha Dornfest Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 13:00 pm

Hi Leo,

I really respect the moves you’re making to reduce the email while still giving your readers a voice and, through it all, being absolutely clear about how much you appreciate everyone’s contributions. You’re an inspiration!

Happy thanksgiving,
Asha

Natasha Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 13:38 pm

I like your site. It makes me feel all tingly on the inside.:p Keep up the good work. :)

~Natasha

Niels Bom Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 15:16 pm

“Take This Quiz: Are You an Under-buyer or an Over-buyer?”
The first 3 links to the quizzes are broken in the rss-feed.

With kind regards,
Niels Bom

Remy Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 15:56 pm

Love the e-book. Thanks. In the forms in the back you have a line for Mantra, yet do not explain the technique or rationale anywhere in the book. Would you please elaborate?? In future editions of the ebook?

Leo Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 18:20 pm

Excellent question, Remy … the Mantra was added into the forms after I wrote the rest of the book, and I forgot that it wasn’t in the book.

It refers to a personal mantra, one that I’ve talked about a couple of times … see #5 in this article.

K Stone Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 23:04 pm

Leo,
Your decision to come up with a solution for your email problem shows us all the way to handle challenges: find a solution and execute it even if it is uncomfortable at first. Nice job!

K Stone Says:

November 22nd, 2007, 23:05 pm

One suggestion which you might already have in mind is to add links to these new pages so that people can access them easily or have a contact page that outlines your new contact policy.

Vinay S Shastry Says:

November 23rd, 2007, 3:13 am

Hi,

An article titled “GTD and Zen” about this site appeared in a national newspaper in India - The New Indian Express today (23rd Nov 2007)!

Great job on the site! :)

CJ Says:

November 23rd, 2007, 11:22 am

You are my hero!!! Thanks for showing us how to handle life, family and career. Your new rules and the way you presented them are first class.

Steve Nguyen Says:

November 23rd, 2007, 15:56 pm

Hafa Adai Leo: I just wanted to thank you again for taking time to help me refocus my blog. I appreciate the time and thought that you put into your feedback to me. I’m also glad to make a connection with someone in the vicinity of Saipan, my former second home!

BeyondBehaviors owes you a HUGE debt of gratitude for its new focus about following your heart, believing in yourself, and transforming your life.

Wishing you and your family all the best. -Steve

Rich Says:

November 26th, 2007, 17:53 pm

I would like to humbly point out that the majority of people will not follow your wishes and will continue to email you; it’s just a fact of life that people won’t pore through a site looking for different contact methods for different things.

That having been said, if you remove references to your email and replace with the relevant links, you’ll do better. Don’t give your readers instructions, just make it difficult for them to do anything but what you want.

Cara Says:

November 26th, 2007, 23:02 pm

I am just visiting your website for the first time. I am amazed at the wealth of insightful information. You are like the Ben Franklin of modern times!

Thank you for providing this to the world. I look forward to reading every page!

Blessed Be, Cara

Leo Says:

November 27th, 2007, 15:01 pm

@Cara: The Ben Franklin of modern times! Wow, that’s probably the best compliment you could give someone. Thanks for the uplifting comment!

And thanks to everyone else as well.

@Rich: You’re right, of course … I should really remove my email address completely … but I just can’t bear to do so! I will just have to have faith in my readers, and deal patiently with the ones who didn’t read carefully through the instructions. :)

Shell Says:

November 28th, 2007, 0:08 am

Oh my goodness … this website has to be my find for the decade. I’ve often mindlessly surfed the net looking for websites that were (1) worthy of my time and (2) would add to my life rather than simply steal time away from me. There were times when I found a website that appeared to be on useful or important topics but later found them to be rather shallow or completely useless - yours is most certainly neither of those things! Thank you for taking the time to share your own and others’ Zen Habits.

Shell (Sydney, Australia)

Leo Says:

November 28th, 2007, 17:46 pm

Thanks so much, Shell! Your comment made my day (there were some negative comments on another thread that got me a little down). Thanks for that!

hubert Says:

November 29th, 2007, 19:39 pm

Hi Leo,
fantastic content, very happy to have your blog !
May I ask you which theme you used as a basis for your wordpress ?
Cheers !

Leo Says:

November 29th, 2007, 19:58 pm

Thanks, hubert! This blog’s design was custom made by a professional … a good friend of mine. :)

JP Says:

November 30th, 2007, 13:12 pm

Leo, am wanting to link some friends to your e-book and for whatever reason (maybe I’m just being dense on this Friday morning) I can’t find it.

Also, to echo some of what’s been said here, I’m very happy that I found your site when I did. Yours is one of only 5 RSS feeds that I have in my Google Reader, and is at the top of my Must Read list. I haven’t had time to explore past posts, but your recent posts and your e-book have kept me coming back for more. Thanks a bunch for everything, and especially for the book., I’ve carried it with me to/from work daily since I bought it (and printed it, creating a cardstock front and back cover, and having it spiral bound at Kinkos *grin* - so yeah, it’s a permanent fixture).

Keep up the great work!

lulubird6 Says:

December 1st, 2007, 13:20 pm

I just purchased your e-book after reading your blog for some time. So inspiring! Thank you! I have a small suggestion. If you could make your e-book into an audiobook, I would most definitely purchase all over again. I find that listening to inspiring things while working helps to keep me on track and makes me more receptive to the ideas. Especially since I re-listen if it’s good content to keep me on track.

Lorraine Says:

December 3rd, 2007, 12:28 pm

Dear Leo:

As a huge fan of your blog, I’ve long intended to tell you how meaningful, touching, helpful and motivating I find Zen Habits.

I finally have a compelling excuse: I recently added a recommendation—and link to—your blog from my copywriting website’s “Free Resources” page.

While Zen Habits is not a “copywriting blog,” it is so useful and inspiring I know it will benefit site visitors.

What makes Zen Habits so special?

You, my dear Leo. Your gifts as a communicator—and human being—are unique.

I’m astonished by your ability to consistently turn out thoughtful, useful articles and blog posts.

Even more inspiring, you manage this feat while you hold down a full-time job, live frugally, stay fit physically and spiritually, abstain from smoking, do housework, nurture a relationship with your wife and six children and—as we copywriters say—much, much more.

While it’s tempting to think of you as superhuman, you constantly remind us of your humanity. You share yourself with us—your struggles, hard-won wisdom, boundless energy, and deep empathy.

And you speak to us in a warm, conversational voice that invites us into your world and makes us care deeply for you and your family.

Thank-you, Leo.

Ibrahim Husain Says:

December 3rd, 2007, 22:19 pm

Hey Leo, thanks again for a free copy of your ebook, I will definately pay it forward. The design is this ebook is wonderful. If you are at liberty to tell, I was wondering what you used to make the ebook. I am writing a book of my own, and am considering making it an ebook, so that I can distribute it easier and cheaper. If you don’t mind, I am just curious as for how to go about doing this. Thank you in advance. Due to finals (college) zencollegelife.com launch is being delayed. It should be ready by january 1, 2008, and I would love to have you check it out. Alright, I think I’ve bothered you enough for now. Peace be with you, Friend.

Ibrahim Husain

ford Says:

December 8th, 2007, 14:24 pm

I only discovered this site today, although I may have come across your Zen way of applying GTD because months ago, I was collecting various ways people are applying the system and yours was one I cut and pasted in a text file and kept in my PDA (a Palm TX that I lost in one of my meetings a few days ago). Anyway, I want to congratulate you on your very fresh yet profound take on GTD. I especially liked your post on kindness, how humanity thrives on it, and that it is not uncommon nowadays as one might think. Very insightful. This made my day, for your info.

Salamat! In Tagalog, my native tongue, that means “Thank you”.

ilke Says:

December 10th, 2007, 7:59 am

Thank you for your blog. It’s been educating as well as motivational for me for a period of time. But after you’ve switched to new outlook I had problems of viewing the page. I can only read the story in my feedsreader but I cannot click on any link to open via firefox. And I do not use the site itself since my default browser is firefox. I just wanted to inform you that it’s a torture to find out the link you refer agian this time in a different browser. And I hardly ever do it.

Thank you for your concern.

Brandon Says:

December 11th, 2007, 4:40 am

Best Blog on the interne!

Jesse and Kat Says:

December 11th, 2007, 14:05 pm

Thank you so much for doing this. We have used this as our homepage for a few weeks now, and what a refreshing change to sit down with a coffee or tea in the morning and read, not the latest politics or disaster news, but reminders of how to be kind to ourselves and others. Thank you for your time and your effort.

Paul Says:

December 12th, 2007, 18:27 pm

Warning: criticism ahead!
I was just looking through ‘25 Killer Ways to Boost Your Confidence,’ and it occurred to me that often the same thing strikes me and repels me from your articles, and that is that they contain too many ideas. That you know of 25 ways to boost self esteem is great, but when you read through such a list it is overwhelming and intimidating, and I often think “Oh dear, look at all the tasks, there’s too many to do, I can’t possibly do that.’ Of course, I know I can pick and choose from these ideas, but sometimes its a downer thinking of all the things I don’t do that I should be doing!
If this strikes you as true, then I would suggest being choosier, picking the best ideas and focusing on them in more depth and detail.
Either way, please keep up the good work.

Mark Dykeman Says:

December 14th, 2007, 9:12 am

Just checked out your site for the first time. Your mental decluttering article looks great. Thanks!

anii Says:

December 14th, 2007, 13:22 pm

How do the 30 day challenges work?

I can’t find a link leading to a description.

Thanks.

Veronica M. Torres Says:

December 17th, 2007, 9:34 am

There’s lots of valuable information here. Thank you! This has become one of my favorite sites.

Barry Ogletree Says:

December 17th, 2007, 11:33 am

Leo:

I thought the ideas in “15 Can’t-Miss Ways to Declutter Your Mind” were very good and wanted to have them immediately available, so I printed them. I had the following problems:

Page 1: Lots of white space at the top (space for the zenhabits graphic, which didn’t print?)

Page 4: Some “background print” overlaid the article content (Feeling Stressed and Thought-Blender)

All pages: excess white space at bottom of each page.

Didn’t see anywhere else to leave comments of this kind.

Thanks!

Satheesh Says:

December 20th, 2007, 2:33 am

dear friend, i am very much impressed on your blog design..can you please tell me what is the wordpress plugin that you use to display the “popular posts” below your page…thanx

Dominick C Says:

December 20th, 2007, 3:18 am

Nice site. Good stuff on the site. I am also a runner and triathlete. Keep up the good work.

kamal Says:

December 20th, 2007, 4:48 am

Leo,

Been reading Zen Habits off my Google Reader so haven’t been to the site in a while. Just did and saw the “new” design. Nice job. Keep up the great work.

Cory Says:

December 26th, 2007, 2:28 am

Great site!

However, as someone who’s been dealing with depression for years, I have gotten to the point where I’m, in a way, afraid to try changing things about my life. Have you or anyone else here dealt with feeling scared to change yourself (regardless if you have/had depression). Basically a lack of motivation because you’re worried that it might go wrong and you’ll feel worse about yourself.

I apologize if you have already written information on this topic. I haven’t went through all of your articles yet! :)

Thanks for the fantastic tips!

AJ Says:

December 28th, 2007, 1:32 am

I just wanna say thanks for your wonderful website. This will help me aid in my resolution to living a simpler life.

Kishore Balakrishnan Says:

December 28th, 2007, 16:40 pm

http://zenhabits.net/advertise-on-zen-habits/ contains

“contact Leo at zenhabits at the gmail.”

Please make this clear

Is it leo AT zenhabits AT gmail.com ?

Leo Says:

December 28th, 2007, 17:34 pm

@Kishore: Sorry about the confusion … the email address is “zenhabits” at gmail. With a dot com at the end. I don’t like to publish it on this site just so the spammers have a harder time finding it. :)

Kishore Balakrishnan Says:

December 28th, 2007, 17:47 pm

I understand why the at is being used.. But the usage of 2 could be changed like

contact Leo by sending email to zenhabits at gmail

Harsha Says:

December 29th, 2007, 23:57 pm

Leo,
I have just started reading Zen Habits & just wanted to say I love it. Very informative, thanks for all the great posts!

I do have a question though –> Is there any particular reason all the text in your blog posts in gray in color? Given the completely white background of your site & the font you have chosen, gray text makes it hard to read & strains the eyes on wide-resolution monitors. Would you consider changing the text color to black?

This is not a completely unqualified concern; I design websites & do know what I’m talking about. Cheers & keep up the good work!

Happy Says:

January 1st, 2008, 12:26 pm

Leo - I just found Zen Habits and I’m enjoying it very much. Your work is thought provoking. 2008 is off to a good start thanks to you.

Gregg S Sewell Says:

January 1st, 2008, 14:46 pm

Thank you for what you’re doing. I benefit from your posts. My life is a bit better for having read them.

Patricia Thompson Says:

January 7th, 2008, 9:30 am

I am trying to declutter, because I agree that the clutter around me is making my brain cluttered. I appreciate the advice you give, but I’m running into a difficulty. Most of my clutter is papers. I have swept piles of things into boxes to get them off the table, etc., but the real work is going through them. It takes so much time to look at everything and decide whether I need it and file it appropriately. I know that if I had the appropriate places set up well ahead of time,and put the items in those places as they came in, that they would not pile up. But getting to that point is difficult because of the backlog. The whole process is overwhelming.

Mike Russell Says:

January 9th, 2008, 9:09 am

Just bought Zen Habbits and thought this quote from one of my favorite books would be right up your alley.

“Now if I survived verbs and prepositions and onomatopoeias of my English grammar class I could break through the willows into wide-open life. Whatever that was. Mr. Standle, one of the new teachers, said any life I chose would need grammar, but he was a States person, and it sounded like they spent too much of their lives doing the paperwork, getting prepared to live.” -Ordinary Wolves

So here is to live not just doing the paperwork, getting prepared to live.

Mike Smith Says:

January 10th, 2008, 16:52 pm

Hi Leo,

I would love if you had time to create a post outlining some recipes that you use weekly when cooking. I am not wanting to become a TOTAL vegan, but I’d love to learn some healthier meals.

Thanks,
Mike

Vincent Capo Says:

January 11th, 2008, 13:04 pm

GREAT site!!!! Content is awesome and I like the simplicity of the design. Who designed the site? I would love to hire them for my future blog!

Terry Says:

January 12th, 2008, 0:02 am

Hi, Leo!

First of all, I’d like to say you have a very uplifting and inspiring blog. Second, I was wondering if you could please tell me who designed your blog? It looks gorgeous and I wanted to know if it was a template or if you had it made.

Thank you.

Adam Snider Says:

January 13th, 2008, 14:28 pm

Hey Leo,

I just wanted to let you know that I saw your URL mentioned in a short newspaper article about “Zen habits” today. Congrats!

And, it looks like something that was pulled off the wire, and not just written by someone at my local paper, so it’s probably printed in several newspapers across the continent.

Hopefully, you’ll get even more readers as a result!

Brad Murphy Says:

January 16th, 2008, 7:55 am

Leo, I’ve been following your blog for as long as I can remember, but I don’t think I ever read that you lived in Guam. I was stationed at Anderson AFB from 1999-2001 with my wife. She was a RN in the NICU at Guam hospital. We met so many amazing people during our stay there, and we are still in contact with many of them today.

I just wanted to say that I love your site, and good luck going full time with your blogging. Seeing that you live in Guam brought back a ton of great memories for my wife and I. Keep up the great work.

Kevin Cox Says:

January 16th, 2008, 15:12 pm

Hey, Leo! I used to live on Guam (Tumon, then Mangilao), and now I work at McCarran Airport in Las Vegas. Are you related to Ed Babauta? He is our main IS guy. Anyway, I read your posts as often as I can. Keep up the fine work. Hafa Adai!

Kevin

SR Abel Says:

January 17th, 2008, 12:23 pm

Just to say thank you for the thoughtful and thought-provoking articles. Hope you can keep writing as long as you would like to.

Coop Says:

January 18th, 2008, 23:36 pm

Hi Leo,
First of all congrats on being able to blog full-time. I’m very fortunate too in that I get to do what I love each day. (personal training).

Second, I just finished going through your “Zen to Done” and I absolutely love it.

I read it late last night and just knowing that I would be waking up with a plan made my morning incredible.

I’ve set my goal for the year (buy my dream house in Buzios, Brazil) and I will begin work as your book describes.

My sincerest wishes for incredible health (good knees for your running) to you and your family.

Best,
Stephen Cooper

Tim Says:

January 20th, 2008, 15:45 pm

Hi leo,

I found your site through technorati and I spent a few hours on it last night. Although I absolutely would love to live in a minimalist home, I find it impossible with only 3 kids. Since you have 6 kids, can you advise me on how you keep your home neat and simple? Also, do you allow your kids to be kids and have fun things or is that part of living that lifestyle, do you make them sacrifice?

Regards,
Tim

WordPress Modder Says:

January 23rd, 2008, 13:24 pm

Hey there,

I just started a new WordPress related website and have added a link to Zen to Done on my sidebar.

Thanks for all you do!

Sincerely,

WordPress Modder

Peter Says:

January 24th, 2008, 3:25 am

good job on the design - would like to know who did it so i can consider them for future work i may have.

also, we need the rss shortcut icon in the location bar.

Bill Wallace Says:

January 24th, 2008, 4:44 am

Hi Leo, great blog (as you know) what got me is that you’ve been at it for only a year. That is amazing and something you really should be proud of.

I was beginning to think those who have been successful have been around for ages, and some have, but you are a different type of inspiration, one who had an idea, pursued it, gave his all and succeeded. I thank you for that.

. . . s k i n Says:

January 24th, 2008, 7:50 am

Leo,

Just a thank you, as Zenhabits - particulairy your entry on ‘The 10 Key Actions That Finally Got Me Out of Debt…’ - got me aware of the necessity of having one’s personal finances in order.

Not to mention the general pleasure it is reading Zenhabits and learning from it.

Thanks!

plonkee Says:

January 25th, 2008, 8:53 am

Feedback Suggestion:
It would be helpful if you had an “email this post” as part of your social bookmarking tools.

Helge Says:

January 25th, 2008, 14:30 pm

Printing:

I’d like to read your blog when I’m travelling to and from work on the underground. But there is sometimes a problem with printing the pages.

With Firefox on Linux, one or two stories came out at about 98 pages, but there was only text on the first two or three, the rest had only page numbers.

Then I tried Internet Explorer, and found the Print link. The page changed view, and only the story was printend, not the comments. I think the comments are valuable too.

When I tried the print link with FIrefox, a mostly blank page was written, and the browser was stuck loading something.

These problems can be seen without printing, by using the Preview function of respective browser. I hope it can be fixed.

Apart from that, it’s a great site!

Luke Says:

January 26th, 2008, 19:20 pm

I must say: this is one of the best blogs i’ve read in a long time.

I started reading in September after I found it on del.icio.us, and I haven’t stopped since. It’s inspirational, really.

I’ve followed your ‘Zen Slim’ post, and I’ve started to cycle around a local park (with a perimeter of about 3 miles) around 5 times a week, and i’ve made a few changes to my diet. I can already see changes in myself, and that’s all thanks to your advice.

Ryan Says:

January 28th, 2008, 7:58 am

Hey Leo how’s it going mate? Wow been an avid reader for well over a year now and today was the 1st time that I decided to drop in, say hi and thank you :( Thanks 4 the awesome lessons and inspirational/motivational stories that you have given me since day 1. Also I’m loving the new blog of yours (and this latest Zen theme although I think you need to make it more zen-like with water, nature imagery or colors). Finally just wanted to say that I love your feedback system and FAQ page, it’s a great system.Cheers

Will Potter Says:

January 29th, 2008, 11:21 am

Hi Leo. I love your site! If you have a moment, would you mind telling me if you’re using a plugin or other tool to create your photo captions for your posts?

I love how you include something visual with each article AND give proper credit, and I’d like to do the same but haven’t food a good tool.

Thank you! Will

Steve Clements Says:

January 30th, 2008, 4:20 am

Hi Leo,

I’ve been a reader of the site for some time now, enjoy it and find it inspirational. Recently I have had a problem in that the text at beginning of the article flows into the blue background and that make it hard to read - and I wouldn’t want to miss out on anything! I’ve tried the site in IE and Firefox and looks the same in both.

Thanks
Steve

Harmony Says:

January 30th, 2008, 20:14 pm

Hi Leo :) I’ve noticed there’s already some comments on this page about the printing problems with this site and I’m getting exactly the same problems (99+ page count, loads of white space, pages just not printing at all or printing out one blank page and that’s it).

Also a little print icon / button at the top of each article would be terribly useful if that’s something you have the time / inclination to do.

The search function also seems to be a bit poor, I actually use Google now to search for your articles by name as the in-site search is not very accurate.

Other than that though, perfect site and even better articles :) I hope this is helpful.

Gus Says:

January 31st, 2008, 7:25 am

Dear Leo,

Firstly, thanks for your excellent blog posts. I really enjoy checking out your website and getting your feeds in my inbox.

In fact, not only did I liked the article about decluttering your mind, but I thought our readers could benefit from reading it- So I mentioned it and left a link to it in our blog, The Possibility Virus. You can check your mention here (http://www.possibilityvirus.com/blog/category/the-possibility-hunter/). Thank you!

Seeing as our readers can benefit from of your wisdom, maybe some of yours could benefit from ours. Our blog is available here (http://www.possibilityvirus.com/blog/), but we’re particularly proud of our two movies ‘The Eight Irresistible Principles of Fun’ (http://www.eightprinciples.com/) (couldn’t we all use more fun?), and ‘Five and 3/4 Questions you’ve been avoiding’ (www.fivebigquestions.com) (Think Looney Toones meets Meaning of Life). .

So thanks again for the great work.

Gus

The Possibility Hunter
http://www.PossibilityVirus.com

Tom Callos Says:

February 1st, 2008, 13:44 pm

http://members.tcallos.com/index.php?option=com_myblog&Itemid=999999

You were mentioned in Tim Rosenelli’s BLACK BELT journal this morn!

Tom

Mitch Says:

February 3rd, 2008, 11:58 am

Hi Leo — I found out about your blog just yesterday and I think it’s great! Congratulations on the book deal! It’s inspiring. I’m proud to see that a fellow islander has achieved his dream! Best of luck and I look forward to seeing your book on the shelves here in the States and when I go back to Guam!

Rod Hart Says:

February 9th, 2008, 15:41 pm

I’ve awarded you a golden “E” in Excellent Blogging.

Jonas Says:

February 10th, 2008, 4:56 am

First of all, i appreciate your work very much. It helps me to discover long forgotten, never accepted or completely new methods.

Then I got a small suggestion:

Encourage your readers not only to share your posts on digg or delicious. I always read the “share-line” at the end of the post and then hit “shift+s” in GReader…
Don’t rely on the big services, add something as “share it on your favorite social linking site”.

I hope you and your guest writer won’t stop telling us people to get the most out of our lives, sometimes I need this extra-voice outside my head ;)

EllieBiscuits Says:

February 11th, 2008, 14:57 pm

Hi: Love this blog and your new one, WriteToDone. I link to your posts on ZH frequently from my site at elliebiscuits.com (it’s new). But I’m curious to know how long it takes you write a post.

Robyn Greenspan Says:

February 11th, 2008, 15:42 pm

Just wanted to let you know that we featured your post, 17 Unbeatable Ways to Create a Peaceful, Relaxed Workday, as a resource in Executive Insider — ExecuNet’s biweekly e-newsletter that goes to 300,000+ executive subscribers. We also included multiple links back to Zen Habits. Here’s the link to the latest issue: http://www.execunet.com/e_resources.cfm

Julie Says:

February 11th, 2008, 21:58 pm

Thank you so much for your site! I was wondering if I could post your article “17 Fitness Truths To Get You In Great Shape” on my acupuncture business website, with proper attribution, of course.

If not, I understand.

Thanks for your consideration,

Julie Luker

Steven Says:

February 12th, 2008, 2:19 am

Hi, Thanks alot for this site. I was wondering if you can write something about conservation of resources and environment-friendliness. Afterall, this is a major part of what 禪(Zen) is about. Thank you from the deepness of my heart.

p.s. It’s great what you have already written and I’m a fan of your blog.

Leo Says:

February 12th, 2008, 4:28 am

Thanks Robyn!

@Julie, yes you can … see the Uncopyright link at the top of this page.

@Steven: Great suggestion, but I really don’t feel that I’m the best qualified for that. One of my favorite blogs on this topic, though, is The Good Human (google it).

Eric Says:

February 12th, 2008, 11:39 am

Hi Leo…
I’m not sure if anyone already gave this suggestion, but I would like to recommend the implementation of a more traditional ‘archives’ list of blog entries pervasive on all pages.

Although I think I am web saavy enough to figure out how to find older posts etc., I realized it might not be as easy for less web saavy surfers - It was when I recommended the site to my parents that I found it might be a little confusing for them.

Anyways, keep up the great work, I’m a huge fan!

:)

Leo Says:

February 13th, 2008, 1:13 am

@Eric: Awesome suggestion. I agree — it would be useful to have a regular archives. Do you know of a good archives plugin for WordPress? I’ll try to implement this in the next month.

Julie Says:

February 15th, 2008, 12:46 pm

Hey Leo,
Thanks for the response, and the uncopyright. I will link back to your page from mine…

Julie Luker

Faith Says:

February 16th, 2008, 20:00 pm

Leo, it was a thrill today to see your blog recommended in the latest issue of my favorite magazine - Real Simple. Even better yet, I read the magazine at my local library. In my efforts to live more simply and frugally, I cancelled all magazine subscriptions and turned to the library instead. A month ago, I requested that my branch library get a subscription to Real Simple, and whaddaya know - I found it there today, and with Zen Habits listed as one of the top blogs!

Go you!

Sean Says:

February 18th, 2008, 11:24 am

I just found your blog by way of digg.com’s link to 20 Things I Wish I Had Known When Starting Out in Life. Your article is very indicative of some of the things I’m going through now that I probably can change. Thanks for the wake-up call, Leo.

tringyokel Says:

February 18th, 2008, 19:13 pm

Found your site tonight from a link on MoneySavingExpert in a thread on simplifying your life.

I’ve spent a fair bit of time here and I am impressed.

I already drive slow and am following the slow eating movement more and more these days. But the items relating to decluttering - wow! I just have to reduce the amount of “stuff” in this house. Of course, I knew this all along but it sometimes takes an outside prod to spur me into action.

I hope this isn’t seen as procrastination but I am going to bed now (early to bed …) and will do a fifteen minute stint in the morning. I am aiming to rise about twenty minutes earlier than usual.

Thanks for the time you have spent in creating this resource.

Ibrahim Husain Says:

February 19th, 2008, 0:15 am

Hey Leo. Just wanted to thank you again for the great posts. I can’t get enough, I check multiple times a day. Your writing is truly inspiring.

I finally started ZenCollegeLife.com. Feel free to give it a browse when you get a chance. Your feedback would be most appreciated.

Sylvia Says:

February 19th, 2008, 1:29 am

LOVE your blog. Read about it in my favorite magazine and found lots of interesting articles that will help me regain control and improve my life. Keep up the great work.

Argancel Says:

February 19th, 2008, 11:50 am

Here is my review of zen habits and your acheivements fo:
http://ceclair.fr/developpement-personnel/zen-habits-une-reussite-spectaculaire-631

It is in french but if you are not comfortable with the language, you can just translate it automatically by clicking on the links in the right.

Enjoy!

Paolo Says:

February 19th, 2008, 17:09 pm

Hi Leo, I’d just like to thank you for writing this blog. Sometimes everything gets hard and reading your posts help very much.

Being a dad myself I appreciate your posts where you talk about this. Great work :D

Sam Says:

February 20th, 2008, 3:54 am

I really like your blog. Looking forward to having a happy Happiness Thursday!

sari meline Says:

February 21st, 2008, 15:59 pm

Dear Leo,

I am a spa director in Park City, Utah. We send a monthly newsletter to a handful of our regular guests, and this month I would like to include snippets from your ‘20 ways to eliminate stress from your life.’ May I?

Thank you for your website - it is a wonderful inspiration.

joe bruzzese Says:

February 22nd, 2008, 10:31 am

Leo, your recent post on Parent Hacks, shared some brilliant ideas for busy families. As a blogger writing for the middle school parent niche I talk with parents who struggle to maintain positive relationships with their kids during these years. Your post inspired one of my own. http://thinking-forward.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/02/finding-time-fo.html

Regards,
Joe Bruzzese

VeNoMmx Says:

February 22nd, 2008, 21:05 pm

Hello there Leo, i would like to deeply thank all the things that you have done. You have influenced me to make major changes in my life and in my way of living it. And I just wanted to tell you that I read your blog from Mexico, im a 24yo male and this is the best blog I have read in my life. I even started my own blog as a way to spread the word from Zen habits.
Thanks for everything Leo!

Manuel Says:

February 26th, 2008, 16:55 pm

Hi Leo,

I like your blog, all of it, and that includes your posts and the comments. But although I can come back and search in the posts I am not able to search on the comments, and you know that you do not always know when you are going to need something you read.

Is there any reason why you do not allow searching within the comments? Would you consider changing that? As an example, I sometimes want to read more comments from some one which I find interesting.

In any case, thanks for the blog. I’ll keep coming back here

Gina Says:

February 27th, 2008, 19:32 pm

Love the blog but have you considered changing the background? The blue background makes it incredibly difficult to read.

Leo Says:

February 27th, 2008, 21:18 pm

@Manuel: Excellent suggestion … unfortunately I don’t know anything about it. I had someone else code this design (after an excellent designer friend did the design) and I don’t know how to make the comments searchable. Any suggestions?

@Gina: The background for the text of the posts should be white … the blue background should be just for the sidebar. Are you seeing the text of the posts on blue background? If so, what browser and OS are you using? It’ll help me fix any inconsistencies. Thanks!

Jeremy Latham Says:

February 27th, 2008, 21:23 pm

Love, love, love the new site design!

Jeremy Says:

February 28th, 2008, 9:32 am

Hi Leo,
The content on your site is great! The problem (for me) is that sometimes i don’t have time to read your more lengthy posts. I know, I know, time management and productivity…
I’d like to suggest the possibility of some type of thought provoking “quick tips” section where posts take

Stephen Says:

February 28th, 2008, 22:47 pm

Howdy Leo, just found your site today and have read through a bunch of articles. Really enjoy your style and will keep checking up on the site, keep up the great writing! :)

JeffreyR Says:

February 29th, 2008, 6:07 am

After reading your “Uncopyright Statement” I bought your book. I am a lawyer and have been involved in copyright issues before and your “uncopyright” is truly a breath of fresh air. I look forward to enjoying your work.

Althea Jones Says:

March 1st, 2008, 18:29 pm

After reading your interview at retireat21.com, I browsed your site. I am in the construction stages of building my own site. I am excited about your views and practices. I was quick to put your site on my favorites. I definately want to come back and absorb some of this content.

Cappie Says:

March 2nd, 2008, 21:00 pm

Hi there. I just found your site and have been reading your two books. I’ve had some goals pop up recently that seemed insurmountable but reading your posts makes me realize that it won’t be as hard as it seems. Just wanted to say thanks!

Mihaela Says:

March 3rd, 2008, 16:18 pm

Hello there.
I am one of the subscribers to your blog’s feeds and I am asking for permission to translate and adapt the post “20 Money Hacks: Tips and Tricks to Improve Your Finances” for my blog (in Romanian). This post is very interesting and my readers will find (some of) the tips useful.
Thank you!

Leo Says:

March 3rd, 2008, 20:29 pm

@Mihaela: Feel free to translate! Just give credit and link back if possible.

@JeffreyR: Thanks! I’d love to hear your thoughts on my uncopyright in more detail. :)

@everyone else: Thanks for the great feedback!

Faz Says:

March 4th, 2008, 1:17 am

Dear Leo -

thanks for your quick response to my question. I value your advice and I am glad that I am now on this journey to discover myself. I linked your blog to mine and as soon as I can work out the machinations of international funds transfer, I’m thanking you via donations :-) in the meantime, thank you for adding meaning to lives.

Best,
Faz

Erik Says:

March 4th, 2008, 8:57 am

Hi Leo,

Just wanted to say that both your methodology and your example are very inspirational. And I’m confident enough in both to have bought your e-book.

I’ll let you know how I get on.

Cheers,

Erik

Shawn Says:

March 5th, 2008, 13:23 pm

I just want to let you know how much I absolutely LOVE your blog. I only chanced upon it last week, but already its been immensely inspiring and helpful! I have already noticed a shift in my life simply by incorporating a few of your tips here and there. I really love the content of this site; it all seems to go together…I am always kind of looking for ways to simplify and better my life and I can find it all here! I really appreciate your sharing all of your valuable insight and tips… Please keep it up!
Best,
Shawn

Zenator Says:

March 5th, 2008, 23:08 pm

Thanks for everything LEO! Just wanted you to know I again added your site to my new venture Zenator.com (http://www.zenator.com).

All the best,

Brad Newman

Satheesh Kumar Says:

March 6th, 2008, 2:29 am

Dear friend,
I am a doctor from India. I noticed your blog since you have completed 8 months of successful blogging. thereafter I became a regular reader of Zen habits.
Your blog gave me an inspiration to start my own. You can see it at http://www.drflop.com. Now I am running short of resources and I have joined google adsense. There is not much response from it. Now I feel that it will be better to join blogads.com. Unfortunately it was “invite only”. Can you please invite me to join Blogads? May God bless you.

digitalips Says:

March 6th, 2008, 10:55 am

Hey you mentioned using Geektool. Your screen shot showed you using leopard. I went to the Geektool site and found them saying support only for panther and tiger. Is this indeed working for you in leopard?

thanks leo

stephen

julie Says:

March 6th, 2008, 11:48 am

Your blogs are wonderful. Thank you for what you do.

Leo Says:

March 6th, 2008, 19:14 pm

@digitalips: Yep, definitely working on Leopard. :)

@Satheesh: Sorry, I don’t have any invitations left. :(

LE. Says:

March 8th, 2008, 5:36 am

People need more than blogs to live and be happy. People need God. Do you believe in God? If yes, than do what He says in His Word, turn to Him and follow Jesus. If you don`t believe, well then you`d better think again…

Scott Says:

March 11th, 2008, 8:43 am

Hi.

I like a lot of your blog, but I’ve got one problem! It’s getting so full of guest posts and huge long lists of items that recently it seems to be getting diluted. At one time I enjoyed reading your blog daily, but now I’m having trouble with the amount of information. Is there any chance you could create an RSS feed that’s just your own articles and thoughts, maybe including snippets and your comments on guest articles you find interesting. I’d really enjoy a snippet or concise bit of zen like advice that I could read every day that would keep me thinking positively and keep me on the right track. Currently it’s depressing me that I can’t keep up, and reading your blog is actually starting to feel a little onerous. I’m sure that’s not your intention.

Regards, and keep up the good work.
-Scott

Leo Says:

March 12th, 2008, 6:34 am

@Scott … I appreciate your feedback. At the moment, I don’t have an option that would do what you want. It’s something I’ll think about though … I’m not exactly sure how to implement it.

I could tell you what I would do if I were you, though, and was only interested in some of the articles of a certain blog. I’d subscribe, and just skip the guest posts or other posts I wasn’t interested in. There are a few blogs I subscribe to that have posts I don’t care about, but if they have 1 in 4 articles I like, I stay subscribed. I just skip the rest, and mark them as read in my feed reader. I open the ones that interest me and read those. No extra time spent! :)

Scott Says:

March 12th, 2008, 8:56 am

Thanks for the advice Leo. I also might try focusing on your ‘best of’ articles.

Zen,
-Scott

John Says:

March 12th, 2008, 16:27 pm

Leo,

Whoever made your blog template (if you) just wanted to say great job! I hope to be able to make one as nice with some more earthy tones! :)

Take care.

John

David Airey Says:

March 13th, 2008, 8:02 am

Hi Leo,

Good news, the Zen Habits logo has been nominated for a Logo Design Love Award, and is currently accepting votes:

Best of luck in the competition!

David

Albert Says:

March 14th, 2008, 12:03 pm

Leo you have some great articles. Unlike some of the other bloggers out there, you seem to put 110 percent into each of your articles. I just wanted to know how much time you spend on average blogging each day?

Cathy Says:

March 16th, 2008, 14:26 pm

I found this blog recently through Real Simple magazine and am slowly working my way through it for motivation and inspiration. Thank you for all your good, positive advice, I am putting a lot of it into practice already! My husband and I own a restaurant and have two school-age children, and I get completely overwhelmed by paperwork for the restaurant — payroll, tax stuff, and just keeping on top of the receipts and bills. Filing consists of putting stuff in boxes. I’ve just started paying bills as they come in, which helps, and I’m learning to immediately get rid of any paper that I don’t have to keep. I’d love more good ideas for filing systems and keeping up with the filing.

Thanks again so much for this terrific blog!

Franz Erasmus Says:

March 17th, 2008, 0:16 am

I thought I write you a quick letter saying how grateful I am that you started writing about how to “live life”. I have always been struggling to come to grips with “this” life and even from a young age I realised that things you want to achieve are much harder than the after-life. Your blog is like an operating manual for the “me” product and fits in beautifully into my outlook on life. Thank you for finding the energy to do what you’re doing! From what I can gather from comments left on the site other people across the globe are also feeling your impact on humanity.

Btw I’m Franz and I live in South Africa. I used to live a very imbalanced lifestyle and was constantly stressing out. I realised that there must be more to life when I broke down one night after receiving a HUGE debt bill in the post. I started looking for answers on the internet and came across your site. Since that event I have restructured my debt started frugal living, and declutterfied my home and will be completely debt free (except for my mortgage) in two years! I am blogging about it currently. Hopefully there are some people in my country that reads it and see it as a beacon of hope too. I read your blog every morning as part of my life skills improvement hour.

I wish you nothing but success with your new book deal and you can be assured that I will be buying a copy as soon as it hits the shelves (or Amazon ;0)
Keep up the good work!

Beth Says:

March 17th, 2008, 9:34 am

What a great site, Leo! Thanks for keeping it going. I’d like to start a blog and I’m wondering who you use for webhosting zenhabits.

Andre Says:

March 18th, 2008, 16:37 pm

Leo

Thanks for simple yet effective life strategies
that actually help to make life less complicated :D

This philosophy is nicely backed up by the clean yet beautiful
design of your website.

Best wishes

Leah Says:

March 18th, 2008, 18:25 pm

Leo,
For the first time in ten years of teaching, I have a clean desk every day when I leave. It’s so wonderful to come in the morning and see that waiting for me. I also now capture all my thoughts and appointments in a small notebook and have gotten so much done! Thanks!!!

Maggie Weiner Says:

March 19th, 2008, 13:22 pm

Leo, you are indeed a real inspiration. I am glad to discover your site, and for this opportunity to thank you for your example and all the informatin you so generously provide as well. I have been greatly blessed by Fly-Lady Marla Cilley, and I can see from some of the links you provide, she has blessed you too in some way. I really think all the changes you have made in such a relatively short time must have especially amazed your wife and the older children!.

May all continue to go very well for you and your family.

hyrcan Says:

March 19th, 2008, 14:56 pm

internet chaos
on-line bhavana
zenhabits thank-you

Nico Deblauwe Says:

March 20th, 2008, 9:56 am

I just found (by coincidence) that your blog is also translated in the language of the east; check it our yourself at http://www1.worldlingo.com/wl/services/S1790.5/translation?wl_srclang=PT&wl_trglang=zh_cn&wl_url=http%3A%2F%2Fzenhabits.net%2F2007%2F02%2Fpurpose-your-day-most-important-task%2F

Travis Says:

March 20th, 2008, 19:20 pm

Leo,

Just wanted to share with you an email I got after I commented on your “12 Essential Rules to Live More Like A Zen Monk” post. This is from a dear friend who lives on the opposite coast from me. She moved to NY about 10 years back and we have had very tenuous contact since.

“Hmm, was that you…

who posted a comment to the blog zenhabits.net - 12 essential rules to live more like a zen monk? Just a shot in the dark, but the writing reminds me of you, and you know, there are only a couple of travis’ out there…. :)”

That is the internet making the world a global village in action!

Cheers!

Blake Escritt Says:

March 20th, 2008, 21:14 pm

Having a pipe (|) symbol in the title makes saving an article to the hard drive for later viewing fail… until you think to try saving to a filename without the pipe.
An n dash would be nicer.
Just thought you should know.

phraedus Says:

March 23rd, 2008, 4:13 am

I’ve read Zen habits for a while, and would like to offer some critical feedback to think about on your trip.

The articles you write are well written and the formula for writing is simple and clear. The philosophy behind what your writing is also quite important to circulate.

However, many of the posts repeat the same numbered points. They have different blog titles, and are slightly differently written, but seem to overlap.

I’m aware this is the nature of blogging, but I also think this is something you know can be overcome.

If you also feel this is true, I’d suggest the solution is to go deeper into certain topics. Flesh out individual ideas such as awareness, rather than have it repeatedly appear on a list.

Regards,

Phraedus

Leo Says:

March 24th, 2008, 7:06 am

@phraedus: I truly value your critical feedback. It’s something I’ve thought about myself. The reason there’s overlap is that some of the same concepts apply to different areas. I hate to repeat myself but I’d feel remiss if I didn’t mention the key concepts for those who might have missed it in earlier articles (and there are more of these people than you might think).

I will give your suggestions some thought and see if I can go into more depth on some of these repeated topics. In the meantime, if you can overlook and excuse the overlapped areas, I’d appreciate it.

Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment!

Sushee Says:

March 24th, 2008, 18:48 pm

Hi Leo, I just really want to give you my thanks for all of your excellent posts and basically your life style. I’ve completely changed my life by taking your tips and using them in my life.
Though, not all of your tips don’t work for me, because I’m only 14, but I plan on putting the ones I can’t use for well um… future use.

I don’t really have any criticism about your blog because every posts is just so freaking meaningful. LOL.
The thing I have to say about your blog is that, with some other blogs I tend to skip a lot of posts because they don’t mean anything with/to me. But, lots of your posts are designed for pretty much everyone.

One last thing I have to say is that, I greatly enjoy your success stories. They give me a lot of inspiration to change my life.

I just really want to say that I greatly appreciate you helping sooooo many people out, and giving sooooo much to all of your readers.

Paul Says:

March 25th, 2008, 2:45 am

I’ve really fallen in love with this site… I’ve spent the past couple of days looking over 2 years worth of entries. Thanks for sharing your wisdom.

Wendi Kelly Says:

March 25th, 2008, 15:35 pm

Leo, in the spirit of thinking about you, cheering you on as you write your book and run this weekend, I just read this quote and you came to mind right away. I hope you are writing well today, I am here with you in spirit.

We are made to persist. That’s how we find out who we are.”
– Tobias Wolff

Better and better,

Wendi
Life’s Little Inspirations

S N Deepak Says:

March 26th, 2008, 6:25 am

Really nice and I am inspired to be simple. Thanks.

Phraedus Says:

March 26th, 2008, 8:23 am

Leo,

I read your post earlier about constructive criticism, and accepting it well and your living it well, nice work.

Your right that it’s important to repeat the points if they are applicable. I do hope that your able to visit these topics in more depth, it would be interesting and worth the read.

Regards,

Phraedus

Dillon Says:

March 26th, 2008, 11:04 am

I wanted to say thanks for providing this inspiring resource. Cheers

Melissa Harrison Says:

March 30th, 2008, 21:57 pm

Hi Leo, I love your site- thanks for writing! I also love getting the emails, but when they come to my account, I can’t read them all the way across, my yahoo email cuts them off on the side and I can’t scroll over for some reason. I only miss a couple words on the end of each line, but it bugs me. I don’t know if it has to do with formatting on my end or yours, but just thought I’d make you aware. Thanks!

Oh and one other thing. I get daily emails from a lot of my favorite sites and first thing in the morning I like to read one or two that I choose according to their subject title. Do you think there’s any way you could title your emails rather than just all of them saying Zen Habits? Like Friday’s could have been: Notes on Life: Mantras, Small Things, Lists, and Such . Just some feedback. :) Thanks. I appreciate you sharing your insights.

Caroline Says:

April 2nd, 2008, 8:39 am

Dear Leo,

Just a quick word to say hi (from France) and to say thanks. I have stumbled on your blog by chance one day, I was impressed. Your tips on keeping a house clean is posted on my fridge (it’s the only thing on it with a pretty postcard, so no clutter there). I couldn’t believe you were a man — when do you open training classes so I can send my boyfriend? :)

More seriously, I just wonder — your blog has so many valuable tips on it, how are you going to keep posting without creating too much information for us to find the good older articles? I’m new on the site but it already feels like there is already a lot, so if you keep adding, then how is the current valuable advice/content not going to be overflooded by the mass of new content being added all the time? This is something I’ve wondered about good sites in general, not only yours specifically.

Ah, and last but not least — your site is *beautiful*. It’s the first thing that made me stay on your site when I stumbled on it by chance. I love design and your blog’s is elegant, soft-colored, and just a pure pleasure for the eyes!

Bonne continuation,

Caroline

Holly Says:

April 2nd, 2008, 12:36 pm

Hi Leo,

Apparently you are really on to something when you say we should focus on only one or two big goals at a time. There’s an article in today’s NY Times that made me laugh out loud and say, “Leo is pretty smart!” The article is titled “Tighten Your Belt, Strengthen Your Mind.” Here’s the link: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/02/opinion/02aamodt.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Nicole Says:

April 2nd, 2008, 21:49 pm

Hoping that you have seen this already! You made the #4 spot on Top 100 Productivity and Lifehack sites.
http://www.collegedegree.com/library/college-life/top-100-productivity-and-lifehack-blogs/
Love your site, Leo! (and it bugs my husband a little when I say things like “Leo says…” because he thinks I’m talking about a real friend, but I kind of feel like I am.)

Ruben Says:

April 3rd, 2008, 10:04 am

i just starting reading your article about being content with your life. i agree about the basic idea of it, i often think people should be more content with their life.

but, already very soon the article made me angry. it seems that you are very content with your life, and i’m happy for you.

but… what a simplistic picture of life you paint! you talk about removing conditions that make you unhappy. did you ever think that maybe you are a lucky person whose conditions were easily altered, but some people are getting born into conditions that are nearly impossible to change?? like extreme poverty, a horrible family, or what to think of your genes and your character? you can’t change these things.

think about this please…

Erin Says:

April 3rd, 2008, 10:23 am

Hello!

I have a question about the design of your blog. I love it!

Can I ask what software you use? Is it based on a template?

Thanks!

Erin

Christa Says:

April 3rd, 2008, 10:57 am

Leo
I started reading your blog a year ago. At the time, I was bogged down by a lot of clutter in my home, finances, mind, life etc…. I had infant twins and two small children and on the borderline of becoming clinically depressed.
Since reading your blog, I purchased the Elaine St James books and let go of too many things to mention. My life has become as simple as it possibly can with 4 children. My way of thinking has changed and I have become a happy and more content person with the life given to me.

Thank you for starting me on my path towards simplicity and contentment. I don’t think I could have taken seriously anyone who didn’t have a large family, but I knew because you did that so could I.

Ezio Says:

April 3rd, 2008, 12:44 pm

I stumbled upon your blog a few months ago and have enjoyed all the feeds.

Your last post really has come handy.

On April Fool’s I was laid off (you can read about it at my website for the post on April 1).

I’m very new to blogging, and being able to write a post about my experience really has helped me deal with my recent layoff. Any feedback is greatly appreciated & I’ll put you on my blogroll if you don’t mind.

Keep up your work…I think you’re doing an invaluable community service here.

Thank you!

Joe Says:

April 5th, 2008, 9:35 am

Leo,

I’ve been going through a particularly rough time this past two weeks due to some work issues, and Digg pointed me to your “Contentment” article. It helped me change my negative thinking and completely turned around my attitude. I am now an avid fan of your site and blog. Thank you.

Steve Upstill Says:

April 5th, 2008, 17:15 pm

One more decluttering tip: put your house on the market. My wife and I have been getting our house ready to sell for two months now, and it’s never looked less cluttered. PLUS, keeping it ready for view is dangerously close to establishing the habit. Very enjoyable.

Okay, maybe you only need to pretend to be selling your house.

Malama Says:

April 5th, 2008, 18:21 pm

Hi there!
I just wanted to congratulate you for putting this thing up! Great website with a lot of valuable information!
There came a time when I decided to declutter my bedroom and I was surfing the internet for ideas and I came upon this website. So, I started reading and now I am trying to incorporate the zen habits in my life!
You’re an inspiration!
Keep up the good work!

Malama
Athens, Greece

Stephen Montagna Says:

April 5th, 2008, 22:18 pm

Just wondering if you, or any other visitors here, saw the NYT piece about the perils of blogging:

In Web World of 24/7 Stress, Writers Blog Till They Drop

“Two weeks ago in North Lauderdale, Fla., funeral services were held for Russell Shaw, a prolific blogger on technology subjects who died at 60 of a heart attack. In December, another tech blogger, Marc Orchant, died at 50 of a massive coronary. A third, Om Malik, 41, survived a heart attack in December.”

Yikes! These folks clearly were not adhering to a zen-like mentality; what’s your thought/reflection on this new form of career, and potential new healthcare concerns among information workers?

John Says:

April 6th, 2008, 8:23 am

Leo,
I saw an interesting Yahoo Group discussion on GTD for Writers and they referenced a Web site by Antony Johnson and “Geting Things Written”

http://www.antonyjohnston.com/gtw/

I thought you would enjoy this for your Write to Done Blog

Keep up the Great Work!

John

eva Says:

April 7th, 2008, 12:04 pm

you are fabulous.

Richard Gay Says:

April 8th, 2008, 6:28 am

Style… I like style, and I like yours. But please, please darken your primary font. It’s difficult to read, even when I make it larger.

Thanks…

Anita Says:

April 10th, 2008, 11:05 am

Leo, thank you for finding the time to put all this wonderful stuff on your website! I find myself coming back again & again :)

SpaceAgeSage Says:

April 13th, 2008, 10:01 am

You have probably had people send you this cartoon already: http://www.savagechickens.com/blog/2008/04/time-saving-device.html — a very funny take on what you could probably call the Westernization of Zen. It would make a funny image for a post for you, too.

Hepabolu Says:

April 14th, 2008, 3:49 am

Hi Leo,

love your blog. So much so that it’s becoming part of my ‘morning routine’ to start the day with motivation and inspiration.
Fiddling around with my new Nokia N95 I noticed that I can’t read your website on it. It simply refuses to load. I hope you can add a simplified version for these mobile browsers, because it’s really a great way to get me starting in the morning.

AL Says:

April 15th, 2008, 10:06 am

I was planning on ending my life just prior to reading through zenhabits… glad i didn’t alot has changed for me… thank you

linlu Says:

April 15th, 2008, 12:12 pm

Do you have any banners for linking to your site from a blog? I would like to add a linked image to your site in my blog’s sidebar. Unfortunately, I cannot find any authorized images to use as banners to link to your site. Would you consider adding an image that I can either (a) download and upload to another image hosting site or (b) directly reference on your site?

Thank you ^-^

Vincci Says:

April 19th, 2008, 13:42 pm

Wow great blog! Useful tips in a simple format that is easy to read.

Thanks!

Ed Propst Says:

April 21st, 2008, 0:35 am

Hi Leo,

Love your site. Would you be interested in writing for our magazine, MP? It is a high-end magazine from the CNMI.

Regards,
Ed

Michael Droste - Educator Says:

April 21st, 2008, 9:57 am

Earth Day on Tues 22. two teachers try to save the planet - I have been on the mac since ‘92 :) - (I know you like macs) and read your columns. I just wanted to share this with you.

-Mr. D
Educator

http://www.SaveThePlanetSong.org

Leo Says:

April 21st, 2008, 21:53 pm

@Ed Propst: Thanks for the offer, but unfortunately I don’t have time for freelance writing at the moment. Best of luck!

matt Says:

April 25th, 2008, 7:29 am

Dear Leo,

I am interested in advertising on your site, but I do not understand about gmail. Could you provide me with details of your advertising rates, etc or let let me know how to contact you through gmail. I have signed up for a google mail account, but I’m not sure if this is the same thing.

Thanks,

Matt

Danny Says:

April 25th, 2008, 13:33 pm

You have inspired me to try morning wake ups. Always pondering on thoughts, I am, but this was pretty easy. You listed out all the benefits and I’m instantly hooked.

I’ve been trying to get the word out on what I was doing so I would have my friends and family to back me up, but soon did I find that most people turn away from the idea of waking up early. One person I talked to told me to stay away from such actions and enjoy the time off from work. Another told me that it was just a “dumb blogger”. Although the criticism is hard to take from family members I believe the true meaning is to make me a better person. Have you had to deal with the ‘naysayers’, so to speak, from your own family? If the answer is yes, please give me some advice on how to take them on because there are very few people I’ve talked to that back me up on this issue.

Your article on organizing your (email) inbox spoke wonders for me. I had over 1000 messages and what I’ve done all morning was sift through these. I honestly feel twice as good as I did yesterday from following your strategy.

Only have I read three or four articles and already I am on my way to becoming a better person altogether.

VJ Says:

April 27th, 2008, 6:16 am

seen this article?
Alison Handmer and her family accept the ultimate packing challenge on a long trip: cabin baggage only.

http://www.theage.com.au/news/tips/the-ultimate-packing-challenge/2008/04/23/1208743038765.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap2

Jhay Says:

April 27th, 2008, 9:27 am

Can you please add a “print article” option?

[Awesome site content btw - keep it up!]

Leo Says:

April 28th, 2008, 22:15 pm

@Jhay … there is a “print” link at the bottom of each article. :)

@VJ: Thanks for the article link!

Gabe Says:

April 30th, 2008, 10:11 am

Hi Leo,

In the spirit of an old post of yours about showing gratitude (which I still have bookmarked in a prominent place on my browser toolbar), I thought that the least I could to was stop by and say thanks for your site and your Zen to Done e-book. Although I’d heard of many of the techniques in it before, your book motivated me to actually build habits using the 30-day method. You really showed how simple it could be — I think probably the whole reason I never picked up a book on GTD or any other productivity system was because most blogs make them sound so complex and multifaceted that I could never work up the motivation to get started. Yours was different.

I’m happy to say that lessons from your book have stuck with me for a long time (I bought it when it first came out). As a 23-year old grad student, I’m not sure if I’m your target demographic, but just wanted to let you know that people of all ages are getting a lot of mileage out of your writing. So to sum up, thanks! I’ll continue to keep a close eye on your blog in the future.

Paula Says:

May 3rd, 2008, 3:24 am

Just discovered your blog and am loving it! I see you have six kids. I do as well, and funny thing, my youngest is named Leo. :-)

kosignlady Says:

May 7th, 2008, 19:53 pm

I did it! Just finished reading GTD, and found it insightful. Just printed ZTD article, and love the site. Thanks for the boost or jump start toward goal achievement. Here’s wishing you continued prosperity and success!

Doug Says:

May 13th, 2008, 5:26 am

Are you still blogging?

Ryan Neumann Says:

May 14th, 2008, 14:41 pm

Leo-

Your website has given me the motivation and desire to do more with my life and the tips and methods to do it more simply. I’ve decided to ditch my blackberry, and the past 5 days I have felt completely free from anything I might be missing out on. I am applying the information I have acquired here to my daily life, and I am loving the results thus far. Thanks for being a source of relevant and much needed information, and for devoting your time to help others. Look forward to a donation in the not-too-distant future.

Sincerely,
Ryan Neumann

Ian Says:

May 15th, 2008, 1:07 am

Hey Leo

Some random Triathlon stuff that I find inspiring/useful

In list form of course…

1. For good reads Check out:
Total Immersion by Terry Laughlin
Triathlete’s training Bible by Joe Friel

2. For Inspiration - Watch Team Hoyt (Rick and Dick) on
Youtube or google John Blais the ALS warrior poet.

3. Websites:

Beginner Triathlete Website - Training plans and logs
Gordo Byrns website - good blogger

4. My only unrequested advice: Stretch. LOTS The only injuries (tendonitis, ITBFS) that have laid me up came down to flexibility or lack thereof.

I love and try to live your site.

Ian

Felix Fegurgur Says:

May 15th, 2008, 21:31 pm

Hafa Adai Leo! I just came upon your blog today! I must say its pretty good Chel’u! I just started blogging I can admit it can be addicting. lol

Anyways,

Just wanted to say a quick hello! Are there any other chamorros blogging out there? Take care Chel’u and keep up the great work! Can I put a link of your site on my site?

Felix

Mark Says:

May 16th, 2008, 9:51 am

I wanted to say thank you for the posted titled, “A Letter to My Son, on Starting Out In Life.” As a Father of two kids - 6 & 4 - you took the words right out of my mouth!

The letter is beautifully written. If humanity adopted this, the world would be a better place!

Carolyn B. Says:

May 19th, 2008, 15:49 pm

I just wanted to mention that — because I find Zen Habits useful and interesting — I mentioned it and linked to it in a blogpost of mine. The way I managed this is a bit different than the usual link love; it’s in the form of a fairytale. If you’re interested, first see the explanation here: http://snurl.com/29mi7 . Then you will understand how your blog’s mentioned in my blogpost, which is here: http://snurl.com/29mie . This is just for fun, so fyi.

Best regards! - Carolyn Bahm

Zissou Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 2:35 am

Thanks for your blog. My wife and I both work as a trainers helping people improve their wellbeing. We have five chidren. Your blog serves to remind and inspire me/us. I sometimes share your thoughts with my clients (most of whom do not speak or read English). You make a difference.

I will be linking to your site (if thats OK with you)

A giant hug and love from us both.

Paul Says:

May 27th, 2008, 4:28 am

Hey Leo,

Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts and wisdom. I have already learned a lot from your article on motivation, and I plan to explore your site further.

Your newest subscriber,
Paul

John Ainsworth Says:

June 4th, 2008, 14:39 pm

Hey Leo,

I wanted to say thanks for writing Zen to Done - it’s a great book and has really helped since I set up my business a few months ago.

I’m just in the process of re-reading it and thought I should say ta.

John

Richard Says:

June 6th, 2008, 5:26 am

Tonight was the first time that I visited your site. When I read your article on why you were releasing copyright I was very impressed. This is a bold move and one I applaud. I will have to start reading your blog and finding out more about your work. You appear to be a very interesting and though provoking person. I even purchased your ebook. However, I was unable to download it.

Mercedes Says:

June 6th, 2008, 19:39 pm

Hey Mr. Island Man!!
Just reading your short intro I got jealous! Ah, to be laid back enjoying the island breeze again….. don’t get me going…. LOL Anywhos, Just a quick question: Can I join your website to have it delivered to my email? That would help with my “jealous issue” I got with ya!! : ) Laters

Amy Says:

June 12th, 2008, 12:19 pm

Leo,

Thank you so much for your posts.

I overheard my 15 year old son mention your blog in relation to “decluttering”, an endeavor I’ve been striving to master for years. After reading that first post, I was hooked.

Now, several weeks later, I’ve followed your advise to use TDP to keep track of what I eat (atrocious!!) and my activities (boy, I sure don’t get much exercise), and have started a plan to run a 10K in December. Prior to starting my training, I told my husband about it, even though I was very concerned he would laugh at me. Much to my relief, he not only didn’t laugh, he offered to run it with me!

I did my first installment of the “Couch Potato to 5K” training program this morning, and I feel so great! Well, sore, but motivated and proud. Thank you for your encouragement and advice - I don’t think I’d be doing this if you hadn’t planted the seed in my brain.

Leo Says:

June 12th, 2008, 14:17 pm

@Amy: Thank you for sharing that! It feels good to be an inspiration for something so positive. :) Congrats on starting to run — be sure not to overdo it! Small and gradual changes will get you there. Good luck Amy!

@Mercedes: You can come live on an island anytime you want! :) But yes, you can subscribe to this blog via email — look at the top of the page, next to subscribe, and click on the “email” link.

Jen Says:

June 12th, 2008, 19:44 pm

Thank you, Leo for everything you are doing. I am reading your articles on de-cluttering, and I am going to print it & tape it to my fridge (and remove two things I have on my fridge while I am at it).

Your article about depression also struck me- lots of people feel that depression is completely a medical issue, but I do believe (as a sufferer myself) that behavior does play a huge part.

So as a newbie to Zen Habits, I would just like to let you know how much I appreciate what you are doing here! I will spread the word, I know lots of people who would enjoy your site!

Take care,

Jen

Marianne Says:

June 24th, 2008, 12:35 pm

Hi Leo,
I love reading your blog in my inbox everyday. I even have a folder in my email to save my favorites. I was wondering if I might ask if you could use your post titles as the subject line (I don’t know if this is possible, as I don’t have a blog and not sure how the subscription works). I ask because my folder full of zen habits emails are all named the same, so it;s difficult to find the ones i am looking for to re-read.
Again, just asking….. keep writing, i love it!
Marianne in Denver

Matt Says:

June 24th, 2008, 22:15 pm

Leo,
I have been reading your blog since I went to college last fall and I have been an avid follower, though I’ve never posted any comments before. This is my first time ever posting on any blog. I want to thank you for the great content because it has helped be stay motivated in my drive towards a healthier life-style as well as a more productive life. Thanks and keep the great writing coming!
Matt from New Hampshire

Earl Says:

June 26th, 2008, 5:07 am

Leo -

I’ve been an intermittent visitor to the site for a long time now: whenever I’ve had a moment or needed a breath of zen I pop in to see what you’re doing.

Recently I was given the opportunity to pursue my dream of filmmaking on a professional basis. Money’s been extraordinarily tight in these early months, but it’s just now beginning to settle in that “yes”, I am doing this for a living now.

Thanks so much for your inspirational site, and for teaching by example rather than platitudes. As soon as I have two nickels to rub together, I’m picking up Zen to Done.

Thanks!
Earl from Florida

Jillian Says:

June 27th, 2008, 13:45 pm

Love-love-love Zen Habits. It has brought a lot to my life in the past several months. I have a suggestion for the site itself: it would be awesome to have a “notebook” feature of sorts where I could log in and bookmark my favorite posts. I suppose I could create a folder in Safari and save each page individually but I still think it would be a neat way to expand the site. You could also add your own version of Joe’s Goals, etc.

Rob Hill Says:

June 27th, 2008, 15:38 pm

Leo,

Quick note to let you know that the Search of the site has a flaw. I discovered your site through a serendipitous route from culturedcode.com. There is an article on your site on weekly GTD review (http://zenhabits.net/2007/02/weekly-review-key-to-gtd-and-achieving/). When I came back later, directly to your site and typed into the search text “Weekly Review” I got everything but the GTD article. I then expanded the search by typing “weekly review gtd” but still no luck. I then went to Google and typed the same phrase and your article was the top hit!

Lauren M. Smith Says:

June 28th, 2008, 9:48 am

Oh-My-Gosh!

I was driving myself crazy with organizational websites, books and media!

When I read your site, I knew I was most definitely making things more complicated and I was certainly focused on the wrong things…I had made simplicity a full time job!

Now that I see (clearly) the error in my ways, I feel I am no longer paralyzed by the thought of changing my life by simplifying. Rather, I feel free from trying to manage all of the craziness I had created.

Bless you in so many ways…

Stephen Smith Says:

June 28th, 2008, 11:12 am

Thank you for the great comments, I will make sure that Leo sees them upon his return.

Malcolm Says:

July 4th, 2008, 23:27 pm

On

http://zenhabits.net/2007/06/15-ways-to-create-an-hour-a-day-of-extra-time-for-solitude/

it says “…Ways to Dross an RSS Feed” in the similar articles section, rather than “Drop”

If you care…

Eric Says:

July 7th, 2008, 14:57 pm

I LOVE the look of your site! Did you do it yourself? or did you hire someone to create it?

If you hired someones, can you please give me their contact info? I would like to use their services as well

Thanks,
Eric

Nicole Says:

July 8th, 2008, 12:56 pm

Thank you so much for this site! It’s been a great support in the past month as a lot of my friends and family have “laughed” at my desire to go vegetarian (even though I don’t like veggies), get out of debt (even though I love to shop), keep my house clean (even though I hate cleaning), get up early (even though I’m a night owl).

I realize these are all radical changes, and I’m going about them slowly which is why I think I’ll be successful. No one is discouraging, but no one is encouraging either.

Which is why this site has been a blessing. All of the tips make sense and are really in tune with where I want my life to head. So thank you thank you thank you! When I get out of debt I’ll be sure to donate some money your way.

damali ayo Says:

July 9th, 2008, 20:18 pm

Hey I just wanted to let you know that I have personally found your site so helpful that I put it on the links page of my new company CROW Clothing.

We are an eco-style clothing company with a web-cafe that helps people find ways to expand and improve their lives. Your blog is a great fit for our customers.

So thanks for what you do!

damali ayo,
CROW Clothing

Shelley Says:

July 14th, 2008, 4:43 am

Leo-

I absolutely love Zen Habits! My life has certainly become more productive, healthy, and de-stressed since I started reading. I’m a lot happier and calmer than I used to be. I think it’s amazing that you write this blog from our tiny, yet absolutely lovely, island and people half-way across the world read it and get a little closer to zen because of it. Thanks a bunch, and keep up the great work.

-Shelley

The Crazy Colombian Says:

July 14th, 2008, 23:09 pm

Hello Leo,

this is a short message to say Thank You:

1. For your inspiring writing
2. For Uncopyright-ing it
3. For being a role model

I also thought you might like to know I have put an article with my most popular posts AND my favourite internet writers. You came in second place, only because Bob Cringely (number 1) has been on my RSS reader for a far longer period of time; and like you, he continues to deliver top quality every time.

Keep up the good work; and best of luck with Zen Habits!

Rgds,

Diego
The Crazy Colombian

Ps/ You can find the article I mentioned at http://crazycolombian.com/2008/07/14/ccfavourites_asof_jun08/

Elena Says:

July 17th, 2008, 12:33 pm

First off, I want to say THANK YOU for your incredibly helpful and inspiring site. You have inspired me and the gang at Miomarmo.com to take on your Edit Your Life series, and to do it together as a group, and so keep each other on track (and honest!)

Basically, we’re a group of friends and coworkers from varied backgrounds, each doing our take on saving the planet.

We’re in the middle of Week 4, editing our work spaces, and while originally we were all fighting it, we’ve come to love and appreciate the serenity that comes from having peaceful, orderly spaces around us. My family has seen me cleaning up, and where at first they watched with bemused smiles, now they jump in and help too. I can’t tell you how many lost treasures we’ve found, and how many things we gave away because we don’t truly need them anymore.

Thanks again for all you do!

:) Elena and the Miomarmo gang

Stephen Smith Says:

July 17th, 2008, 12:40 pm

Thanks Elena, I will make sure Leo knows!

Writer Dad Says:

July 21st, 2008, 12:44 pm

Hi Leo,

I just wanted to say thank you. I have been reading your site for the better part of a year, and it is you more than anyone other than my wife (who has been saying the same things for the ten years we’ve been together) that it’s time for me to get over my shyness and become the writer she’s always known I am.

Thank you for your words of wisdom and constant inspiration. You’ve set quite a standard, and a consistent guiding light to follow. With six kids, I think it’s amazing that you manage so much. My wife and I run a preschool, but all of those children leave at the end of the day, making our two feel like a cinch. I don’t know how we’d do it with six.

The fact that you have done it, is proof it can be done. Thank you for everything,

Writer Dad

Kool Aid Says:

July 25th, 2008, 13:27 pm

I just found you when I was searching for frugal tips for my own blog. I haven’t had a chance to really read much, but I linked one of your posts to mine because I really liked your ideas and think they’re great.

I’ll certainly be back for more!!

Aimee Says:

July 29th, 2008, 8:59 am

Hi Leo,

Just wanted to thank you for the e-book, I just bought it and printed it off as a gift to myself. Your site has been a livesaver for me at the moment; I’m studying at night school (to hopefully become a doctor) while holding down a full-time job as a nursing assistant and I’m finding the level of commitment and organisation really hard going. Thankfully your site and your great advice is really helping to turn things around for me.

Thanks A LOT!!!

Freddie Says:

July 31st, 2008, 7:40 am

Hi Leo, I’m a 18 year-old student living in Northampton, England. I’ve been reading your blog for a fair few months now and I’ve found it incredibly useful, so thanks! I was just wondering if you’ve read/heard of the book ‘The Rules of Life’ by British author Richard Templar. So many parallels can be drawn between his Rules and the points which you discuss in your posts and there also some differences which make both the book and your blog essentials for me! I’d highly recommend reading it if you ever get chance and can get hold of a copy.

Ricardo Bueno Says:

July 31st, 2008, 15:25 pm

Leo: Thank you for the shout-out on tumblr! I’ve never really used delicious before so it was an interesting experience…

Avatar Says:

August 1st, 2008, 1:10 am

Elegant in its simplicity,
Valuable for its authencity.

That’s how I would describe this site.

Thanks for sharing. Hope you don’t mind if I add you to my blog’s blogroll.

I just wanted to share it with my readers.

Rgds

Pat Metzger Says:

August 1st, 2008, 12:20 pm

I just sent my huge thanks via email, THEN read that the thank you’s go here…oops. THANK YOU for this awesome website!!!

Seb Says:

August 3rd, 2008, 14:29 pm

Hi Leo,
I’m a 19 years old student from Poland, so please forgive my Engrish.
I’d been your reader back when ZenHabits had old graphic design, then I had a break and finally I came back and I’ve been reading your blog once again for a while now.
Recently, I’ve seen a forum thread ‘people who changed your life’. It took me a few days to realize who were the ones who truly changed my life. It took me another few days to realize I haven’t thanked them yet.
So, (as corny as it may sound), by this post, I’d like to really THANK YOU, as you are one of those people who changed my life. THANK YOU for everything you’ve done maintaining ZenHabits and writing lots of nice articles which all led to changing my life. I’m truly grateful!
Keep up the good work.

Yau Says:

August 4th, 2008, 8:52 am

Thanks for creating such a great site and releasing it for ‘uncopyright’. I will probably feature a few of your posts from time to time on my site Promise Aid because they are so good and relevant.

I’ve made a small donation.

Yau

patrick Says:

August 4th, 2008, 23:22 pm

i like your blog, zen habits.
Please consider reconsidering the very long list posts - such as 10 ways to…, 20 ways to… They seem a bit antithetical to the simplicity of zen.
I know it would be hard, but I think simplifying the “20 ways to” do something down to ‘2 of the most important ways’ may teach people to look for the most important things in life an strive to make changes there.

thanks,
Patrick

Charles Says:

August 7th, 2008, 11:14 am

I love this site and I find many things I can use and apply to my own life. There is something however that has escaped me for quite a long time, and I suspect has escaped many other people in our society today.

I do not have a dream; a dream for myself. How does one grab hold of a dream? It seems like such a foreign concept to me and when I ask others what their dream is, they really have no answer unless it involves other family members or friends - nothing that points to themselves as individuals. How can one regain the ability to acqurie a dream as a adult? Dreams seemed so plentiful as children…

Charles

Chris Pereira Says:

August 8th, 2008, 12:29 pm

I’ve been reading your blog for a while now and I didn’t even realize that you were from Guam. I am actually from Mangilao, Guam and have been living off-island for a while. Thanks for the great blog and information that you continue to post…

Mom2TnT Says:

August 11th, 2008, 18:06 pm

I have been reading your blog for about a year now and I love it!Lots of simple, down-to-earth, good advice. I’d love to be able to link your posts directly to my facebook account — any chance that is in the works?

Leo Says:

August 11th, 2008, 19:51 pm

@Chris Pereira: Hey, hafa adai! Great to hear from a fellow Chamorro. :)

@Mom2TnT: Thanks for the nice words! I don’t know how to link my posts to your Facebook acct, but there is a Zen Habits Facebook app — look for the link in the sidebar to the right.

@Charles: I just did a post on finding work you love — that might be what you’re looking for.

@patrick: That’s an interesting suggestion and I’ll try to take it into account. It’s difficult to keep things to such a short list because I often feel that leaving out many tips would be less useful to my readers — sometimes the 2 tips I think are important don’t apply to their lives, while the other tips I would leave out are more applicable to them. So I try to have something for everyone. But I hear what you’re saying.

Irchans Says:

August 13th, 2008, 9:58 am

Loved the Steve Jobs graduation video!!!

Writer Dad Says:

August 18th, 2008, 2:10 am

Hi Leo,

Please feel free to delete this comment, as I know it’s off topic. I’m not asking for a mention or anything, but you’ve written thousands and thousands of words that I’ve really enjoyed over the last year. I think I have about eleven hundred that you might like if you have a moment. It’s on Writer Dad, and the post is called “The Eighth Wonder of the World.”

Thanks, Leo.

MatC Says:

August 19th, 2008, 14:42 pm

Hey. Some good stuff, but I’m dropping it.
My suggestion would be: smaller bites.

If you feel like doing another “20 things…” post, consider trimming it to 10. Think quality.
50 books? come on, dude. Less is not less, y’know?

-mat

Ethan Steckmann Says:

August 19th, 2008, 22:34 pm

You mention excising a lot but you don’t give any advice on ways to work out. I think you should do a post on different work out routines.

Thanks,
Ethan

Tomek Says:

August 20th, 2008, 6:35 am

Hi Leo,

There are two small glitches on your blog.

1. The blue RSS feed button on the top of the page is rendered incorrectly when viewing the site in Firefox 3 on Linux.

2. The “ads by NaturalPath” banner is hardly legible and looks very bad. I guess that you shrunk it to be less obtrusive and they got so in the process. Perhaps you could consider making it less ugly, even if it means making it a little bit bigger.

Btw. when is your next book coming out?

Regards,
Tomek

Kate Marshall Says:

August 25th, 2008, 14:43 pm

Hi Leo,

My name is Kate Marshall and I do digital public affairs work at Edelman, a communications firm in Washington, DC. Just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for allowing Greenopolis — one of my clients — to advertise on Zen Habits. We purchased ad space through BlogAds earlier this month, and appreciate you allowing us to connect with your readers!

If you’d like to know a bit more about Greenopolis, feel free to visit the site: http://greenopolis.com/. Our goal is to make the site a one-stop shop for information about eco-conscious living, and we welcome your feedback and ideas as to how we can make Greenopolis as useful as possible.

Thanks again!

Best,
Kate

sunsail Says:

August 26th, 2008, 11:19 am

Hi Leo,

I don’t think your search button is working. when I typed in “to do list” and hit search, it took me back to the main page.

Mr. H Says:

August 27th, 2008, 10:14 am

Your blog is so inspirational. It always seems that you post the topic I need with perfect timing.

Bobby Rio Says:

August 27th, 2008, 11:05 am

I know this is a question… but how do stay so creative with your postings… your lists are amazing.

I’d love for you to write a little bit more on managing relationships…

i can teach guys how to find a girl… but i think your advice will help them keep her.

thanks

Gisela Says:

August 27th, 2008, 23:36 pm

Again and again, i keep returning to your blog by accident (serendipity?). I’ve enjoyed the posts I’ve come across by accident over the last year+ but have not frequented Zen Habits because of time constraints (which are 4 years old, 2 years old and 5 months old!). Tonight it was surfing the net for help with GTD and now i discover ZTD, which of course rocks.

Thank you, thank you, for writing. If you’re familiar with the Buddhist term “bodhicitta”, your blog is a true example.

If you and your lovely family ever get a chance to travel and choose to visit the U.S., and if you end up near Madison,Wisconsin, it would be an honor to host a visit to the Tibetan Buddhist monastery nearby (www.deerparkcenter.org). Feel free to contact me by email and please tell your wife I bow to her! Mothering six children is no small feat.

Off to buy ZTD now. Many blessings to you and yours.

Mark Mangarin Says:

August 30th, 2008, 0:54 am

Hi, this is Mark and you more than likely don’t know me, I’m a 16 year old high school student living in NYC.

But I would just like to let you know that I have been reading your blog for years and that, without your guidance my life would’nt have been what it was now. I used to be a gaming slob who was failing classes, and when I found this blog and started following it it gave me inspiration to be something better. And while it isnt what i want it to be yet, it’s getting there with major improvements with every week. So with this, I am greatful for the advice that you’ve not only provided me, but the rest of your readers as well.

Thank you, Mark.

Jennifer BB Says:

August 31st, 2008, 22:13 pm

Just a note to say I love your blog and blogged about you on Blog Day 2008. You can check it out here: http://jbbsyracuse.typepad.com/cookin_in_the_cuse/2008/08/blog-day-2008.html

Many thanks for all you!

Jennifer

Srini. K Says:

September 2nd, 2008, 2:26 am

Hey Leo,

I’m Srini from India. I have been through the same kind of things that you have mentioned in your story. Probably a little less excruciating as you have gone through or maybe not. It’s theory of relativity afterall. But just like you I’m a blogger and traveller and of course have written a book for which I’m still working on the ending and hope to publish it as well. Just like you I got into debt, and got out of it. Now I think of needs more than wants. I also believe in organizing and decluttering and many other principles. The only thing is I did not know this was so simple and ZEN philosophy was so simple for that matter. I used to do it day in and day out and after reading a few of your posts I felt so proud for doing the things which you have mentioned already.

Lately I read 101 ZEN stories and I am thoroughly inspired by ZEN and wish to achieve a time in my life when I won’t be clinging on… to anything but my soul… I hope that you achieve your dreams as well and as soon as Iam able to I will definitely make a donation and help you for your cause as well. Peace be with you!

Misty Gibbs Says:

September 4th, 2008, 14:48 pm

Hi Leo, I recently launched a women’s online portal called my inspiration lounge - http://www.myinspirationlounge.com. It is an aggregation of useful and inspiring websites to help women efficiently surf the web. Your site was so inspiring and concise that I’ve included it several times in various sections (nourish mind & body, get entrepreneurial, change the world) and in my recent blog posting :)

Please explore when you have a moment and thank you for sharing your wisdom globally!

Cheers, Misty

Gypsy Says:

September 5th, 2008, 5:54 am

Hi Leo, I receive Zen Habits via email. I was wondering if there is a way you could make the post title the subject of the email rather than it saying Zen habits.Having the subject in the subject line would make it a lot easier to refer back to.

Thanks for the time you put in!
Gypsy

Julie Says:

September 6th, 2008, 23:07 pm

We have created a website just like the social site you described “Random Acts of Kindness.” Sentfromebove.com is an online service that will connect people in need to those who can help. Anyone can post a wish for free and tell their story and when you give, as a way of thanking people for participating, we offer free advertising on our website. Everyone wins! Check out our site. Too much to write about, but it is quite similar to what you describe. It’s official launch date is October, 08.

E Says:

September 10th, 2008, 10:35 am

Leo

I just wanted to say a big thanks. So much of what you have written resonates with me and it’s helped me make some changes in a big way.

When I get through a bit more I’ll drop you another note, in the meantime please take a few moment to realise how much what you have written and do on this blog helps more people than you could imagine.

E

Tiffany Says:

September 11th, 2008, 13:24 pm

Leo, I see you are getting closer and closer to 100,000 subscribers. Do you have anything planned when you get to that incredible number??

Edward Says:

September 19th, 2008, 23:04 pm

Hi Leo,

I would just like to say that I am a 15 year old, and I love your content!

I particuarly admire the ‘uncopyright’ stance you have taken, you don’t get enough of that sort of thing anymore.

Also, do you have any tips for me, as a 15 year old growing up and trying to discover myself?

Anyway keep up the great work here! = )

jes Says:

September 22nd, 2008, 23:52 pm

Hi Leo,
Your words are inspiring to me, and the other day I came across the site wordle.net, which creates art from words. I used the URL to zenhabits to create a page, and this was the creation: http://wordle.net/gallery/wrdl/179587/zenhabits

I now have it as the wallpaper for my desktop. :) Just wanted to share. Thanks for the great site!

Mark Sisson Says:

September 23rd, 2008, 13:49 pm

Leo,

Thank you for the Prison Workout link in your Sep. 17th post on Minimalist Fitness. Keeping workouts, diet and life in general simple and as stress free is something that appeals to me and resonates with my readers at Mark’s Daily Apple.

I know you’re a busy guy, but if you’d ever like to get in touch for a guest post or any other networking opportunity feel free to drop me a line. Thanks again.

Cheers!

Mark

Pete Says:

September 26th, 2008, 0:51 am

Hi Leo,
Have just embarked on the blogging journey, and even though I have a whole lot to say, I thought it be ok to leave a link to your stuff, as I find much inpiration here.

pwinding.wordpress.com

HP Says:

September 29th, 2008, 7:27 am

Hi Leo, just want to thank you! Great blog!

Maarten Says:

September 29th, 2008, 15:36 pm

Hi Leo,

By chance I found your website (someone posted a link
to your site on the Dutch websiteguide on frugal living: http://consuminderen.startpagina.nl/). I already read a lot about how to simplify life and getting things done, but your website is simply the best! Thanks for all your tips. I bought both of your e-books to read while riding the train to work (I ditched the car. Gasprices are around USD 12,00 a gallon in Holland). Last but not least I would like to let you know that you motivated me to start running again.
In March 2009 I hope to run my first Ultra (60km/40Mi).

Maarten, Amsterdam, the Netherland.

Nick Says:

September 29th, 2008, 20:06 pm

It would be really cool to see where your inspiration flows from, like what books, movies, writers etc you love.
Love your blog! really like how your content and user experience are as great as each otehr.. really makes a difference.

Sanal Kumar Says:

October 3rd, 2008, 13:25 pm

hai…

great blog…promising content too..

i too am maintaining a blog for tech, i would like to ask you if you could pls send me a blogads invitaition. Hope you can arrange for those as you are an important figure in the blogsphere.

I would like to have blogads as i find it difficult to manage or sustain my blog finacially and an invitation could help me lot.

Thank you,

Sanal

Alan Lewis Says:

October 4th, 2008, 18:01 pm

Hi Leo

Just wanted to thank you for sharing so much of yourself. Zen Habits is a wonderful site - and an aesthetic delight.

My partner Vanessa and I have in the last two weeks launched http://www.zenmoments.org - “the great power of small things”.

It’s a site about the magic that happens when extraordinary awareness meets ordinary situations.

We launched it quietly a month ago, and in the last couple of weeks it has taken off already and received 200,00 page views. It seems to have struck a chord.

Zen Habits is one of our principal sources of inspiration.

We would like to welcome all Zen Habits readers to come and visit http://www.zenmoments.org.

Warm wishes,

Alan & Vanessa

jhOy Says:

October 7th, 2008, 3:18 am

keep up the good work! this is a very nice blog to stay :)

Grace Says:

October 12th, 2008, 15:23 pm

Hi Leo,

Not sure where to put this, so I hope this is the right spot. Just wanted you to know I am a big fan of your life style and am trying to integrate some of what you are doing into my own life as well. Thank you!

I’ve put a small link to your site (as if anybody out there doesn’t know how you are by now :-) in a post I did about rewriting.

The permalink is:
http://facetothesun.com/2008/10/writing-book-reviews/25-ways-blog-post-rewrite/

Keep writing! You are appreciated.

Grace

Adrilia Says:

October 14th, 2008, 10:45 am

Leo,

I enjoyed your Oct. 13 article on productivity so much that I referred to it and to your site when I posted a comment on the Wall Street Journal’s “Juggle” blog yesterday.

http://blogs.wsj.com/juggle/2008/10/13/instilling-an-entrepreneurial-spirit-in-children/#comments

Best wishes!

Hoai Doan Says:

October 15th, 2008, 9:30 am

Leo,

Just wanted to say a simple thanks. Reading your blogs have been one of the larger influences that helped guide me to make a significant decision in my life — to quit my full time job to pursue my dreams full time. From blogs on finding your passion, anti-hacks, living up to your potential to blogs on your top favorite youtube videos, all these combined managed to put my life in the right perceptive to take the big leap I needed to. The road went from certain to unstable, I don’t know when I’ll find solid ground, but I know it is the path I should be taking.

Thank you for your wonderful blogs. I’m sure you have and will continue to impact the lives of many others.

-hoai

MOmo Says:

October 16th, 2008, 11:27 am

Something for you

http://www.ponunavela.com/eng/vela.asp?pidvela=1897

Simplify Me Says:

October 19th, 2008, 10:40 am

The popup fabreze ads are really annoying

Leo Says:

October 20th, 2008, 20:19 pm

@Simplify Me: Where are you seeing the popup ads? I haven’t authorized any popup ads so if you’re seeing any, something is wrong with one of my ad networks. I haven’t seen them yet but I’m very concerned about this.

@everyone else: Thanks so much for the kind words! I really appreciate all the encouragement.

Eric Says:

October 23rd, 2008, 10:26 am

Love the website - thank you - BUT

Today, Oct 23 I hit your homepage and realized how UN-zen-like it has become.

Music started playing and a animated dog popped up for a Febreeze advertisement. It took me a few seconds to realize where the music was coming from but when I finally saw the dog I closed down the ad and then went back to reading the blog.

I understand why you need advertising on your page but this was a little too much. Reminds me of the song “Signs, signs, everywhere are signs…”

Seems like it conflicts with your message a bit.

Eric Says:

October 23rd, 2008, 10:30 am

Sorry about my post, just saw that someone already mentioned it!!

I took a screenshot of the dog if you’d like to see it

Rachel Says:

October 24th, 2008, 12:33 pm

Thank you for the beginner’s guide. Alot.

Steve Says:

October 25th, 2008, 16:52 pm

WOW.

This blog has really opened my mind! As a zen-range buddhist, I find all of the information here enlightening and helpful.

Also, thank you for opening copyright. I am going to highlight entries of this blog in upcoming videos. I think that these are good things to highlight, and a video would be the perfect thing to do so with! The link is above, but again its youtube.com/captainsteveshow . I hope to see your subscription, and that I do your entries justice.

Sincerely,

Steve JM “Captain Steve”

Rob Says:

October 28th, 2008, 10:56 am

You have become my motivational guru and mentor for my path to return to being an Ironman Triathlete and great dad.

Daniela Caporali Says:

October 29th, 2008, 7:42 am

Hello there, I am from Brazil and I am trying to subscribe to Zen Habits but everytime I put the letters on the check box they ask me again another letters like I am spelling wrong, but I am not… could you please help me? I really want to subscribe and receive everything by mail or RSS :)

Cosmo Says:

October 29th, 2008, 10:58 am

While doing research regarding becoming a vegetarian, I found your blog. I’ve started reading your Beginner’s Guide and it has struck a chord with me. You put alot of yourself into your posts and truly care about helping people.

I hate to be redundant, but thank you for taking the time and sharing. The positive vibes radiate from the monitor!

Val Says:

November 1st, 2008, 11:45 am

Leo,
I love this place! A true oasis against human warmth deprivation… Obrigada! :)

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” - Leo Buscaglia

XOXOXO
Cheers

Francis McGrath Says:

November 1st, 2008, 18:34 pm

Leo
I really enjoy your posts and you teachings. I have a question based on a query from a friend that I referred to your blog subscription. He is Dyslexic and has difficulties reading.
Do you have an audio version of your blogs that he/anyone could subscribe to?

Bud Says:

November 2nd, 2008, 6:44 am

Leo,

You are my hero. Your purpose, and passion inspire me beyond words. I read your blog every day, and has impacted me a great deal. I am an aspiring journalist/author, and what you have done, gives me hope. I truly am grateful for coming across your blog, and reading the many insightful articles that you have wrote. I just want to thank you for the inspiration that you have given me to start my own blog, and follow my dreams.

Elad Sherf Says:

November 3rd, 2008, 13:34 pm

Hello Leo.

We never met, but I am a big fan of your blog.

I value my time so I will try respecting yours as well by getting right to the point.

I recently wrote an e-book describing some of my thoughts about the tricky road to excellence and happiness in life. I just uploaded it to my blog yesterday. The first thing I am doing is sending a link to a number of writers who, among other things, inspired me to write it (see page 99 of the e-book for more on this). You are definitely on that list. So, I decided to reward those who inspired me by letting them know first about my e-book. as youe requested, i am not sending you an e-mail. I am posting about it here. This comment is a kind of a thank you note for inspiring me. I will be greatly honored if you read it.

Thank you and enjoy.

You can find the E-book in the enclosed URL: http://comparativeadvantage.wordpress.com/playing-it/

Elad

Michelle S. Says:

November 3rd, 2008, 20:19 pm

I just read an article that you wrote about finding your passion in life — I’m so glad that I found your article and your blog! I am 21 and I have felt so lost lately. I’m about to graduate from a major university with a degree I wish were something else. I thought I loved to write, but now I just find it a boring chore to pay the bills. This is definitely a problem since my major is in journalism. But I love art and I love to travel and now I’m thinking that becoming a tour guide in Italy may be my dream come true…still researching though, taking it slow…

Thanks.

Neil Says:

November 7th, 2008, 17:02 pm

Hi Leo and fellow zen-habiters,

We recently created a website, http://ichange.com that has a lot of the same goals as Zen Habits. We even created a Zen Habits user and made a “20 Motivation Hacks” ChangeRecipe based off the blog post.

We’d love to get everyone’s input and we’d be happy to pass over the zenhabits user to you Leo.

Cheers!

Trish Says:

November 12th, 2008, 6:20 am

Hey Leo,

My friend sent me a link to your site the other day.At 42 I’m training for my first marathon.How Exciting! Completed a Half in Sept and only began running in May.I LOVE IT.

I already have the goal in mind of doing a triathalon after the Marathon.

So you can imagine how excited I was to learn a little about you.I feel a bit like a mini YOU but a lot slower at learning similar life lessons.

Happy to make the connection.This site is clarification for me that I’m heading in the right direction.I’m sure I’ll visit it often.

All the best to you and your beautiful family.

Om Shanti- Peace,love and light to thee.
Trish :-)

Juana Says:

November 12th, 2008, 18:33 pm

You totally inspire me. My life, full with four teenage boys, the youngest being disabled, a awesome husband, friends, family, etc.. is out of whack. I crave “zen”. I’m up to no good and ready now for great change, This year will be the best year, ever!! You’re awesome.

Aquaman Says:

November 14th, 2008, 13:27 pm

good luck on you recent venture to become a triathlete, sound like a lot of hard work. My friend and I have been training for awhile so I know how hard it canbe. Thanks for sharing your stories. love your blog and thanks for the inspiration!

Keith Says:

November 15th, 2008, 11:17 am

I just finished reading ZTD and wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it. I have noticed a huge difference in my productivity, focus, and clarity of mind in the past three days. I was a Franklin Planner junkie. I liked GTD, but missed the prioritization of the Franklin system. The concept of doing three MITs every day has really reduced the stress in my life. Thanks, Leo.

Chuck Says:

November 15th, 2008, 16:02 pm

Dear Leo,

I’m a fan of your blog and I nominated you to the Top Ten Positive Thinking Blogs on Blogs.com. I link to your blog and feature some of your posts on my blog. You can see the Top 10 list here: http://www.blogs.com/topten/10-best-positive-thinking-blogs/

Thanks for the inspiration,

Chuck

Sarah Turner Says:

November 24th, 2008, 12:30 pm

Hey there
I’ve been subscribing to Zen for a while now but I haven’t had any posts into my inbox since the beginning of November :-(
Any reason? Do I need to subscribe again?
Sarah

Hannah Says:

November 24th, 2008, 19:28 pm

Hi Leo

I just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading your articles. Over the last year or two, I’ve been gradually moving towards a simpler, more purposeful lifestyle, and your site has certainly helped inspire me, and at times, kept me moving in the right direction.
Just wondering where you find all the lovely photos you use in your articles?
Thanks.
Hannah

Sean Says:

November 25th, 2008, 15:58 pm

Just read about how to keep in touch just now. Yes this way is better …especially with all your committments..ignore my other email:0) Thank you for a well written and lively blog Leo. Kind regards to you and family.

Rich T Says:

November 29th, 2008, 22:22 pm

Hafa Adai from Seattle Leo!

I’ve been meaning to send you a picture I took. It’s you, published in MacLife magazine. I think Bestseller on Guam carries it. If you haven’t picked up a copy, I still have the picture. Good job with the blog. It’s an enjoyable read.

Oliver Ruehl Says:

December 2nd, 2008, 6:27 am

I’d like to keep it short.
You made my life easier.

Trish Says:

December 12th, 2008, 16:04 pm

Best Wishes for your marathon Leo,
In such a big race you’ll feed off the energy of the crowd.
I live in Australia and will do my first marathon at the Gold Coast in July.
Perhaps you could come and experience a Marathon in Australia sometime.
My first Half marathon I got to run accross Sydney Harbour Bridge and finish at the spectacular Opera House which was AWESOME!!!

All the best again :-)

hannibalsfather Says:

December 14th, 2008, 18:02 pm

Hi,

thx for the great tips and a year long subscription of enlightenment & awesomely developed habits with your help.

I was just wondering if it was possible to put the subject of each of your emails in the subject bar instead of simply zen habits as I catalogue all your tips and it would be easier if I knew what each email contained.

Merri Christmas/Happy New Year!!!

Trish Says:

December 16th, 2008, 16:14 pm

CONGRATULATIONS on your marathon LEO!!!!

I’m sooooooooo Excited for YOU.
Off for a fast training session with a smile in my dial :-)

Martin Wildam Says:

December 17th, 2008, 16:32 pm

I like the quality of your blog posts hence I have added you to the collection of related external links on my blog http://1-2-solved.blogspot.com/.

Victoria FERAUGE Says:

December 19th, 2008, 4:17 am

Hello Leo,

A few weeks ago I left a comment saying that I had quit smoking after being inspired by your 10 Tips….

I really appreciated your encouragement and I am very pleased (and proud) to say that I just passed my 1 month smoke free milestone. Thanks again for helping me get started.

Best,

Victoria

Danielle Says:

December 22nd, 2008, 21:58 pm

In January’s issue of Self Magazine your “The Power of Less” is listed as one of the best self-improvement books to read. I’m sure you probably already know this but I was excited when I recognized the authors name! I’ve been reading your blog for awhile now and I just love it. Thanks for keeping me inspired!

Chris Says:

December 23rd, 2008, 12:36 pm

Leo…

I am very excited about your book release for “The Power of Less”. Have you considered making it available for the Kindle? The Kindle is part of my simplifying project to cut down on the number of books I have.

Thanks

Slava Says:

December 26th, 2008, 19:58 pm

Leo,

I just have read your ebook you gave for free.

Thank you for expanding my horizonts! There are a lot of challenges lying in front of me in the 2009, though looking forward to succed! ;-)

Be great. Slava, czech republic

Matt Says:

December 27th, 2008, 23:28 pm

I just finished reading your ebook, which I loved, but there’s a typo on page 16, on the first line of ‘cheaper food’. I’m glad I could give a little bit of help for someone who’s totally revolutionized the way I’ve approached school and life!

Bill Hennessy Says:

December 28th, 2008, 19:43 pm

Leo,

You have written one of the most important books of 2009.

I just finished “The Power of Less” and it companion ebook, “Thriving on Less.” I hope everyone–and I mean everyone–reads these books before the end of January.

Why are these books so important? Because life changed in 2008. The commitments we’d made as individuals, families, communities, nations, and the world called the markers. We had biggest margin call in history, and everyone from plumbers to Harvard MBAs (especially the MBAs) lacked the capital to pay the bill.

As a result, we can feel something unsettled inside of us. There’s a voice telling us to slow down, to demand better instead of more, to raise our standards for living.

“The Power of Less” crystallizes those murky feelings into clear, undeniable truths. You cannot read the book without realizing–on page one–that you have too much stuff on your desk, in your house, on your mind, and in your life. And most of that stuff has little value or quality.

Congratulations and thank you. You have given me direction. Many others will surely follow.

Quyen Arana Says:

December 30th, 2008, 10:23 am

Leo, can you have your book available in secure eReader format? I like to read on my iPhone and look forward the “The Power of Less”.

Sidney de Koning Says:

January 2nd, 2009, 10:13 am

Hi Leo,

Does the offer still stand from your post “The Power of Less” Has Launched!? I just caught up with all my email from the last couple of days, and i’d love to blog about it.

I hope you can get back to me, my email is in the comment.

Thanks in advance,

Sidney

Matt Says:

January 2nd, 2009, 11:58 am

Hey Leo,
I’ve been following you on your blog for over a year now and I’ve read all your ebooks. I finished your book, the Power of Less yesterday, and I plan on doing a full review on my blog; I’ve written a mini-review for now. I loved it!
Reading your blog and ebooks have helped me immensely over the past eighteen months or so and your book is really a great way to, as Bill above said, crystallize a lot of unclear feelings we all have and provide us some great direction.
Keep up the great work!
Best Regards,
Matt

ratta Says:

January 3rd, 2009, 8:16 am

Hi, I’m your big fan from South Korea.
I had blog too, but couldn’t do enough blogging for several years because of my day job.
And now I’m thinking to be a full time blogger like you.
So I have one question for that.
Do you design all the graphics for your blog by yourself? Or Should I learn the Photoshop for image processing ?
And how about CSS or HTML? Do you handle all the coding things by yourself or outsource them?
I have lots of questions. But I’m gonna stop now for you;-)

Thank you for your lots of amazing posts.

Tom K. Says:

January 3rd, 2009, 16:31 pm

Leo, I’ve just finished my first read of your book and have found it to be Simply Fantastic. I very much enjoyed the style, insight into why people often run into problems with xyz, and most importantly offering suggestions on tried and true methods to overcome them. Too many books miss the last point altogether.

KUDOS and many thanks!

Sarah C Says:

January 4th, 2009, 2:28 am

HeyLeo!

I read your blog as much as I can, and I just wanted to say thank you for all of your wonderful work. I really appreciate what you are doing and I love it a lot! It just makes me happy!
Thank you and all the best for 2009!!!!!!
Sarah

Evan Says:

January 5th, 2009, 2:44 am

Leo,

Thanks a ton for writing these articles and maintaining this great site. I was in Barnes & Noble earlier today just browsing and I saw your book! It was a cool experience and I even thought to myself “Hey, I know him!” Obviously I don’t really know you, but I had a connection because I’d been reading on here for a while. Just thought I’d share that cool story and say thanks for all you do.

-Evan

(and yes, I did buy the book)

Christina Says:

January 6th, 2009, 17:05 pm

A close friend of mine suggested I read your website. About 7 years ago, I turned my life around and began to make my life a world of challenge and goals and to this day, I am amazed with what I have achieved all by just putting my mind to it. Since that time, I have run 2 marathons, a 1/4 of an Iron man triathlon, competed (and won) a state pool tournament and I have lost 70 pounds and now work out daily and have committed to a life of health and happiness. My friends look up to me as an inspiration and after reading your blog, you have truly inspired me to continue down this path in life and to help inspire others along the way. Thank you.

There is nothing we can’t do if we just put our minds to it!!!

Magnus Wood Says:

January 10th, 2009, 13:54 pm

Leo,

I have been looking across the web to find the best sites to help people in their journey to fulfil their life purpose and live an enriched, happy and meaningful life. I found your site and found it inspiring. I look forward to your posts as an inspiration to make me better.

I am at the beginning of my journey in blogging at http://www.lifeausersguide.com - I’ve added a link to your site on mine and I hope that going forward we inspire each other, as well as the people who read and contribute to our blogs.

Best wishes for a fabulous 2009!

Magnus

Ann Orman Says:

January 12th, 2009, 5:58 am

Brilliant site…well written…and not your usual motivational mamby pamby!

I discovered I by accident…but as we know…there are no accidents while re-considering a big move - from Paris to back to NZ - to restablish myself and launch my own business..finally.

This site reminds you of the essence of life - to stay focused on you and to strip away the unimportant things…something I have been doing for many years now.

Love your work and your writing…

Ann

Charles Says:

January 13th, 2009, 15:09 pm

Really pumped to read Career Renegade: How to Make a Great Living Doing What You Love.

This is exactly what I need to be reading.

Thanks!

Chris Gillis Says:

January 14th, 2009, 11:58 am

I was homeless, I was heartbroken, and abandoned at 20.

I never thought I would be “that guy”, but this blog and your writing has turned my world upside down, changed me as a person, and helped me find happiness and meaning.

For that I am ever thankful.

audrey Says:

January 14th, 2009, 19:40 pm

I stumbled upon this blog and after reading just a few posts, it has become a favorite.

As someone who has battled disordered eating, I especially appreciate your articles on balanced health, both physical and mental. This sight has helped me in just one day and I look forward to reading more.

Thanks,

Audrey

jana Says:

January 15th, 2009, 15:00 pm

really interesting website - lots of food for thought and doable tips for improvements of various kinds.

Gennaro @ Enduring Wanderlust Says:

January 16th, 2009, 15:28 pm

Great work, Leo.

Just wanted to let you know that we’ve linked Zen Habits on our travel site. The philosophy fits well with our readers too.

I’d love to see a ‘zen thru travel’ post on Zen Habits in the future.

Martin Wildam Says:

January 19th, 2009, 5:11 am

I downloaded this interview to my mobile phone and listened to it on the way home:
http://zenhabits.net/2009/01/exclusive-interview-leo-talks-with-tim-ferriss-of-4-hour-workweek/

The problem I had with it: It is quite low volume. Even setting my phone to highest volume, I could not hear what was said, whenever I crossed a street with high traffic or while in a tunnel with the train. So I would welcome if further interviews are recorded in higher volume. Thanks.

Kris Says:

January 19th, 2009, 13:26 pm

I am a relatively new reader of your blog and I really enjoy everything you have to say. The problem that I have is that I want to incorporate all that I have learned from your tips and I find it overwhelming…which then reminds me that I should make gradual changes. Anyway, thanks for all of your words of wisdom.

Do you have any posts about epiphanies? Was there any specific thing that led you to the zen lifestyle?

Viraj Sawant Says:

January 19th, 2009, 13:57 pm

Thanks Leo for a great interview on my site.
Though I am a newbie, the interview with you has helped me immesely with networking with other bloggers with ease.
They are like, wow you have interviewed Leo..thats great we are ready to help you in whatever way you want.

Thanks for sending me some cool traffic, but most importantly helping me plunge me into the blogosphere.

Anne Gilbertson Says:

January 20th, 2009, 21:28 pm

Great article about compassion for animals! More people need to hear your message and think about the source of their food and clothing, too. Good job, Leo!

Bridget Says:

January 21st, 2009, 17:40 pm

Sorry if this has been said before, but your website would be much more user friendly if you made different topic pages along the top. Eg financial, simple living, etc. I forget what that’s called in webspeak. I have just discovered your great site and it’s time consuming to have to scroll down to the bottom of a post to find a new content area.

hope that makes sense.
Thanks for this great site, I am calling you my new web mentor!

Mike Says:

January 21st, 2009, 18:39 pm

I think your article about how to instill the love of reading is brilliant. It’s your one post which has resonated the most with me, because I love reading so much.

For me, happiness is a good book. I think, in a previous life, I’d have been a storyteller or something similar.

Larry Johnson Says:

January 21st, 2009, 20:17 pm

I just wanted to thank you for your post about compassion toward animals (above and beyond the two comments I left there). I try very hard not to be self-righteous or obnoxious about my veganism, but I’m convinced that if visiting factory farms and food production facilities were part of our education system, there would be a lot more vegetarians and vegans out there.

You have an excellent site. In fact it’s one of the best.

Nina Says:

January 21st, 2009, 20:57 pm

Leo,

I absolutely love your site. It helps me get through my day. Better than any multi vitamin available out there.

I might have found you through Gretchen Rubin. So I’d like to thank her too. I love you both.

Please keep doing what you are doing.

hugs,

Nina

dave Says:

January 24th, 2009, 15:05 pm

I’m so happy I found your blog, I just wish I’d found it sooner. I love GTD, but ZTD adds some useful hints. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Steven Sisler Says:

January 26th, 2009, 13:11 pm

Who built your website? I would appreciate knowing…

Steve

Ryan Says:

January 26th, 2009, 21:53 pm

Just finished your book - great stuff.

Also - I loved the blog about compassion towards animals. Thanks.

Mike Says:

January 28th, 2009, 12:30 pm

Hi Leo,

Nice site, and a great outlook on life.

One comment about exercise, especially stretching.
I used to stretch in the conventional way, until I came across a book by Bob Cooley, called “The Genius of Flexibility”.
It is predicated on the concept of “resistance stretching”. Whatever stretch you are doing, you need to provide resistance in the opposite direction.
Ever since I have been doing this, I have not had any injuries.
Check it out!
All the best,
Mike

Paula Says:

January 28th, 2009, 14:10 pm

Hi Leo,

I need to report a problem on your New Year’s Challenge forum. I had signed up, posted my new habit, been reporting my update daily, and after the update by Leflora I cannot log in or post on the forum. I thought maybe my membership had maybe just gone away so I tried to join again and they said that my user name was taken.

Can this be fixed or do I just need to sign up under a new user name? I have enjoyed the support of the forum.

Thanks,
Paula aka lahondaknitter

gina Says:

January 29th, 2009, 18:55 pm

Hey Leo!!! Congrats on the growing popularity of your site and your books. I just saw a reference to your blog on NEATORAMA. Wow!!! To me, in my internet world, that’s making it to the Big Time! Keep it up. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be on Oprah…or has that already been done?

PS…you make this fellow Guammie proud :)

Bea Says:

February 1st, 2009, 12:07 pm

Hi Leo,

I stumbled upon your blog today, and boy am I glad! It quickly climbed up my list of favorite websites. I have read several articles and am very excited to read more.

Keep it up!

Bea

Varuna Janardanan Says:

February 1st, 2009, 14:50 pm

Hi leo, great website. Just a small suggestion, I think next to each post there should be a small thumbs up/down window, showing how many ppl like/dislike the post. I think that would help a lot of ppl nd get you better feedbak as well. And btw please dont let the word DIGG come ny near ur homepage!! thx.

La Says:

February 3rd, 2009, 1:02 am

Great website..

Check it out, you are quoted in Oprah.com.

http://www.oprah.com/slideshow/spirit/pwalsh/20090123_oaf_pwalsh_2

Between work, raising children, managing household chores and taking time for yourself, your everyday life can easily leave you overwhelmed and exhausted. Leo Babauta, author of The Power of Less, offers seven steps to quickly de-stress your life.

C.J. Says:

February 5th, 2009, 13:21 pm

Thanks for this informative sight… I think your generosity and sense of humor (suggesting to add swear words to your content and then attribute it to you) is a great highlight of my day. Your site is one that I read every time it populates in my reader, and I’m so glad you post it.

Wilfred Joseph Says:

February 5th, 2009, 13:23 pm

Leo:
First I want to thank for being. You have made a wonderful difference to so many hundreds of thousands of people. The ideas in your blog, your openness and the simplicity with which you write is a joy and an inspiration. I said to you before that I have been in the transformation business (taking course and having and being a coach) and here you are an inspiring example to behold. You practice what you preach and make the difference. I have bought your e-book and will buy you other books, because I want to support your choice of lifestyle and also it spurs me and reminds me of what I know.
I know I gush, but so have many before me and there will be many more.
I want to remember what you said, keep it simple.
So, thank you.

Joe Wallace Says:

February 10th, 2009, 12:23 pm

Great post on frugality…dropped you some Twitter love on it here:

http://twitter.com/MrCheapToday

A shame you aren’t taking guest blog posts at present, but would LOVE to have you guest on the CheapToday.com blog some time. If you’re ever interested, drop me a line, would be great to get some more Leo wisdom on frugal living…

Nicholas Powiull Says:

February 10th, 2009, 20:53 pm

What do you think of this: http://consciousflex.blogspot.com/2009/02/purposeplan-of-consciousness-reason-for.html ?

Katie Says:

February 11th, 2009, 3:08 am

Thank you! I’m not sure what it was about reading your article on open source blogging, but somehow it motivated me to get my own blog started. I can be incredibly indecisive at times, like trying to decide what blogging service to use, etc. So, I looked at an article on the top 100 blogs to see what they were using and zenhabits caught my eye.

I now have a wordpress blog where I intend to open source my brain or at least try and clear out a bunch of ideas, opinions, and random thoughts. If I give them away, I’ll have less in my mind and get more done, right?

Anyway, thanks again and I am looking forward to reading the rest of your posts, but not tonight. I’m going to try and get up early tomorrow to make my 2nd post.

John Robertson Says:

February 12th, 2009, 9:05 am

As a father of three and busy executive who travels I appreciate you posting your work here. There is alot of great stuff which I will use and reflect on everyday. Thanks for the inspiredeggs.

Cheers

Jmann Says:

February 12th, 2009, 20:03 pm

Just finished The Power of Less, and started my NEW morning routine of eating breakfast everyday…
Thanks for the inspiration, continued createive solutions, and the simplicity of such a potentially complex world.

-jm-

Ellen O'Donnell Says:

February 15th, 2009, 9:41 am

Leo, thanks so much for The Power of Less. I just read the first 40 pages or so and can’t wait to get back to it!

This is just what I need; I find myself working 10 and sometimes 12 hour days, then wanting to eat healthy, exercise, and de-clutter at home…but who has the energy?

My first goal is to leave every day when I am due to go home! That one step alone will make a big difference in my life.

The whole concept of setting limits in this world we live in - what a great process for ending the madness!

I am getting my coffee and back to the book!

Thank you!

Ellen

Mel.Ken Says:

February 19th, 2009, 10:37 am

Congrats on the book, Leo! Since I make it a habit to collect autographed books from proud Guam authors (I already have one from a high school pal who’s penned a wonderful arts and craft read!) — I hope it won’t be too much to ask if you could sign my copy? :)
* I can send it thru the Tangs, perhaps? *

~Mel

Choi Says:

February 20th, 2009, 5:26 am

Hello,
I’m reader of Zen Habits. This site is really awesome!!!
I would like to promote your blog to translate with Korean(I think it must be nice and many Korean will love here)
I read your ‘Uncopyright’ menu. However, I want to remain the this comment for you. Is this OK? (I hope so :) )

Have a nice day and be the greatest Zen Habit!!!!

행복하세요~

Lisa Says:

February 20th, 2009, 22:41 pm

Leo- A friend turned me on to ZenHabits about a year ago when we were working on a Congressional campaign together. Since then, I have been an avid reader and love receiving the ZenHabits daily blogs.

This week there have been a number of posts on the blog, culminating with today’s message from Jonathan Mead about “Dream Killers” and how to reclaim your dream. I am getting laid off from my banking job in three weeks and am so excited to use this as an opportunity to “reclaim my dream” and start a business that I’ve wanted to start for 20 years.

Thanks for all the positve thoughts and insights!
Lisa in Columbus OHIO

Anthony Bartoli Says:

February 21st, 2009, 0:11 am

Have you considered selling The Power of Less as a PDF file (like Nick Cernis’ Todoodlist)?

I really like e-books, and I don’t have a Kindle.

Leo Says:

February 21st, 2009, 1:07 am

@Anthony Bartoli: The Power of Less is available in several different ebook formats at the usual ebook retailers online. If you mean just a regular PDF, I don’t think my publisher would allow that at the moment but I’m working on it!

@Lisa: Best of luck pursuing your dream! It’s an exciting time.

@Choi: Yes, by all means, translate Zen Habits into Korean!

Joe Says:

February 22nd, 2009, 10:57 am

HELP - the text is too small. - One suggestion - use a text font that can be expanded by brower option “text size” - the editor comment can be expanded, but the text cannot. Great site and well organized.

Brandy Says:

February 22nd, 2009, 14:41 pm

Leo,

Just wanted to send a quick thank you for this website. I was feeling incredibly overwhelmed by life and just “stuff” in general when I found this blog on Google. I really love the daily reminder to put people before material posessions. Thanks again, keep up the great work!

Best to you and your family,
Brandy

Taylor at Household Management 101 Says:

February 23rd, 2009, 23:10 pm

Leo,

Thanks for your great blog. I wrote a blog post listing you as one of my favorite simple living blogs. Click my name as the link if you are interested in reading it!

Thanks,

Taylor

Jonathan Younessian Says:

February 24th, 2009, 5:06 am

Thank You… really. You saved my life in the toughest of times. My story is boring but if you wish to hear it email me. jon.youne@gmail.com

Michael Bungartz Says:

February 26th, 2009, 20:15 pm

Leo,

First of all, like so many others, you’ve got a great blog. Thank you for the inspiring posts, keep up the good work.

Secondly, I was having some problems getting my Gravatar image to work on your site when making comments. I checked with support at Gravatar and after a few emails and head scratching, I found out it wasn’t working because I had used caps in my email address on the comment form to distinguish my name (MichaelBungartz@Gmail.com). I tried using lower-case (michaelbungartz@gmail.com) and it worked fine.

DK at Gravatar suggested I let you know:

Demitrious Kelly

Perhaps you can let the site owner know? They should be lowercasing all email addresses before making the gravatar link.

So I wanted to pass that on to you. It may be a wordpress issue, I’m not sure but wanted to let you know. *Feel free to delete the comment after you’ve received it.

Regards, Michael

David Moreen Says:

February 28th, 2009, 1:20 am

I was wondering how much it costs per month for advertising?

Love what you are doing, keep it up.

- David

Tracy Says:

March 1st, 2009, 0:26 am

Hi Leo, I love your blog and was very inspired by “The Power of Less”. I wanted to share with you that I was motivated to start what I call a “Go Group” on my site’s forum to provide a place for our members to journal their efforts to start new habits and get support and encouragement.

Thanks for the powerful words!

betye Says:

March 3rd, 2009, 13:05 pm

I have just discovered Zen Habits and am enjoying it very much. However, I watched the “funny” cat video on Stumble and was upset by some things I saw. Most of them were funny. But there were some in which the cats were clearly victims of cruelty: the owner throwing the cat up on the ceiling, and the poor creature being spun around and around. How terrifying for these animals. And can you imagine how many viewers will try these “cute tricks” with their cats? Please reconsider posting something that condones animal cruelty. Thanks for listening.

Vanessa Says:

March 4th, 2009, 14:42 pm

Thank you very much for writing these wonderful articles. I start my day with your site and I always enjoy it.

I wonder if you could do a post about letting go & not getting what you want. I’ve found that it seems like in life, the harder you try, the more it pushes what you want away from you. This would be an interesting dynamic to explore.

Best wishes to you & your family.

Seeking Lemonade Says:

March 8th, 2009, 13:19 pm

Nice site. Good intention.

Question (I asked this on another page but maybe you didn’t notice it.):

Do you “sit zen” at a zen center, or have zen teacher? What school/tradition?

(I think it’s appropriate to ask, given your use of ‘zen’ in the title of many of your works.)

L.A. Says:

March 10th, 2009, 15:40 pm

Rather than reading, watching or hearing about the news while I’m having my morning coffee, I check my email and read the day’s Zen Habits. It starts my day on a positive, inspiring note, rather than the downer of hearing just more bad news. THANKS, LEO!

fossfor Says:

March 10th, 2009, 18:12 pm

thank you so much for for this wonderful blog,every time I visit it makes me feel better and more in control of my life

yusoff Says:

March 11th, 2009, 21:52 pm

Hi Leo,

Hope u r in d best of health.

I have been trying to downshift and downsize.

I wish I could start fresh.

I made a mistake of acquiring too much stuff. Stuff cost me money to acquire it, cost me money to care for it, and now it cost me money to get rid of it!

I want to live a backpacker-style life, with minimum possession. But it’s very difficult, especially when the family doesn’t understand. When we go to the store and see a shirt that I like, I want my wife to tell me, “You don’t need that. You have more than enough shirt”.

But sometimes, the response I get is “You work hard. You deserve it”. Or, “You need it because you keep wearing the same shirt twice a week”. Or, “If you are not buying it. I’ll buy it for you for your birthday/father’s day/whatever day”.

I have sold, donated and giveaway a lot of clothes, books, magazines, toys, furniture and I still feel I have more to give.

Lois Says:

March 13th, 2009, 10:08 am

Ways to save money: ride a bike or take the bus, rather than drive. Hang your laundry to dry, rather than run a dryer. Turn down the thermostat at night in the winter, and let blankets keep you warm. Exercise so you’ll stay healthy. Eat fresh fruits and veggies for the same reason. Being sick is expensive. If you have a garden, get some worms and compost your veggie garbage to make your own fertilizer. If you drive a car, keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure so you’ll get the best mileage. Shop for clothing at thrift shops. Don’t buy clothing you don’t really like or need. When you grocery shop, scan the ad first, make a list of what you want to buy, including sale items. Then stick to the list when you are at the store. Impulse buy items can really add up. If you are going to travel, use Priceline and other websites dedicated to finding low-cost tours. If your favorite country has a national airline, subscribe to their list. Qantas often has specials for subscribers who want to go to their destinations. Saving money doesn’t necessarily mean doing without. It often just means delaying a purchase. Save up for what you want. Don’t buy on credit and pay interest. Where you can arrange barters, do so. Not only do you save money on the actual service, you don’t have to pay tax on bartered labor. For entertainment, read a book aloud with a friend, check movies out at the library, go for a walk, go to museums on free and discount days, find free entertainment — often you can go to a play rehearsal free, or serve as usher instead of buying a ticket. Saving money is about getting what you want at a price you can afford. The keys are knowing what you want and knowing what you can afford.

Kimmy Says:

March 14th, 2009, 9:06 am

Hello Leo,

I featured one of your posts on my blog. I am amazed by your writing, and just purchased your book!! I cannot wait to get it.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Kimmy

R Elliott Says:

March 18th, 2009, 15:03 pm

I read your posts via Google Reader and am on your site as well as your “guests” nearly everyday; thank you for your time you put into making readers’ lives simpler.

Instead of a donation, I bought two of your books to give to clients and prospective clients as “warm up.” Hope it works.

Regarding the TimeSvr link, do you use it? Do you own the company? Please explain why you have it on your site.

Cheers,

REJ

EJ Says:

March 23rd, 2009, 12:50 pm

I don’t know if you’re aware, i.e. whether you have control over your own banner ads or not but I keep seeing an ad for dianetics.org. I love your blog and all the guest posts and links, but that book and associated organization (you know the one) have little to do with the perspective about which you write.

Rexpresto Says:

March 24th, 2009, 12:43 pm

Leo,

I read one of your recent articles that was sent by Write To Done on blogging.

You talk about appealing to a wide audience to build up your site, but I am curious about what to did to attract people to your site. What steps did you take to get traffic to your site?

Thanks for any information you can provide.

Dehra Glueck Says:

March 25th, 2009, 20:24 pm

Thank you for the outstanding book!

Belton Lubas Says:

March 26th, 2009, 14:16 pm

Hi there Leo,

HAFA ADAI!!

I left a comment earlier and then I believe I got “timed out” from the wireless network I was on. SO excuse me if this is a repeat comment. But I just wanted to connect with you briefly as I know you are a very busy person.

I am from Guam and went to JFK, graduated ‘94, ended up at Oregon State and now am up in Seattle in a partnership business with another Guamanian graduate from FD (1993). I basically had one question…

“Do you have a mentorship program, and if not are you open to one?”

I have been looking for a mentor and the “Universe” led me here…

Thank you for all that you do and keep on keeping on.

Belton

Gary Says:

March 27th, 2009, 10:24 am

Personally, I dislike your blog simply because it has a misleading name. All you have done is further the western misconceptions on calling everything zen when it has nothing to do with such. Please try to remember that zen is a real way of live for millions of people, and that using it in such a bastardized way is rather insulting and disrespectful.

_/\_ Amituofo

Adrienne Says:

March 31st, 2009, 9:51 am

I love this site! I found it while searching running advice for beginners. Before I knew it, I was checking out other blogs. Top-notch indeed!

Renee Says:

April 1st, 2009, 15:10 pm

Leo:

Do you conduct workshops? If you don’t, please start to do so.

Renee

Paul Says:

April 2nd, 2009, 5:27 am

Nice site, I love the layout. I added this site to my list of blogs and interesting stuff on my page, hope you don’t mind.

Curtis Goodman Says:

April 4th, 2009, 22:14 pm

Hello,

I thought you would find this article interesting:

“Why goofing off boosts productivity”
http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9131066

I really enjoy your work with zenhabits - keep it up!
Cheers

Hendrie Weisinger Says:

April 5th, 2009, 13:34 pm

Hi,
I really liked your book. I want to send you a copy of my new book, The Genius of Instinct: Reclaim Mother Nature’s Tools for Enhnacing Your Health, Happiness, Family and Work. Is there an address?
I am sure you will really find it useful and fit with your beliefs.
keep up the good work
hank

Matt Liljequist Says:

April 8th, 2009, 10:13 am

Leo,

Thank you so much for writing this blog. You have inspired me to compete in my first triathlon this summer!

Thanks and continued success!.

Matt

Prathiba Says:

April 10th, 2009, 12:00 pm

Leo:

You are truly an Inspiration to me and many more who read this.
Your words have Passion, Wisdom and above all its Simple.
I have undertaken a monthly challenge and often come back to your blog for motivation.
Thank you so much.

Prathiba.

Adam Walsh Says:

April 11th, 2009, 8:59 am

I added you to my blogroll. I hope you don’t mind. I really respect your blog and get a lot of value out of your suggestions for a happier life. Namaste! :)

Peter Says:

April 11th, 2009, 11:17 am

Leo,

I enjoyed reading your ebooks, and your blog is great, tey have helped me a lot.

In the spirit of trying to help, I want to suggest that you might want to give further attention to the photos you attach to your blogs. The commercial stock images of highly posed and styled models doing things around the house seems both impersonal and also lends the impression that you don’t value the blog enough to take the time to venture beyond a single source of material.

Your blogs are like gifts. Just like wrapping a present nicely makes a nice touch for a loved one, a well thought out text that took hours to write, deserves a well thought out and more personalized photo to go with it.

Anyway, this is a minor criticism to an otherwise outstanding blog. Keep up the good work Leo!

Peter

Mits Says:

April 13th, 2009, 7:34 am

Hi Leo,

I would like to see a post on how to discern a true calling, so for example how do you know it’s a calling and what do you do about it? I feel that many blogs don’t eve try to attempt to ask the question, was wondering if you can provide some tips or a helpful blog post on this topic

bee Says:

April 13th, 2009, 15:48 pm

Hi Leo, just wanted to say an enormous thankyou for your incredible site. I’ve just discovered it, have spent the weekend trawling through your archives (every page I read leads me to a handful of new links opened in more tabs, it’s kinda exponential so I guess I’ll never get to the end!) and bought all 3 books. Simply, the most insightful, useful and totally on-target ideas and advice, I’m so grateful. I came to your site from a link, after spending time with GTD and trying to get a grip on my work-stress. Your site helped me realise that organisation isn’t my problem - it’s focus. Your ideas resonate so strongly, about simplification and editing committments and your ideas about how to make space for the MITs and the big rocks - these are what I needed to learn. Thankyou, and I’m really looking forward to more inspiration in the future - more power to your blogging elbow, and I’m thrilled that you get an income from your valuable work. Thankyou for giving me the chance to contribute to it!

Rich Says:

April 15th, 2009, 2:42 am

Leo, I love this site and hope I didn’t overstep my bounds, but your domain name expired about 2 hours ago. I had a lovely conversation with Svetlana at LiveSupport for your registrar ( at which I also have an ISP account for SSL Certificates ) and she allowed me to use my funds to renew your domain name. I subscribe to your RSS Feed and read your posts all the time, so I actually should have donated a while ago. I’ve been a huge fan since I found the site. PLEASE go to your registrar ( which I won’t name ) and set up zenhabits.net to AUTO-Renew.
If I shouldn’t have done that for whatever reason, I am truly sorry, but I didn’t want DNS Caches all over the world to poison. If you meant for the domain name to expire then you can decrease the TTL For the DNS Records to a couple of hours, and they’ll all expire again. If I can help you in any other way, let me know.

Take Care,
Rich

Angelina Says:

April 15th, 2009, 11:14 am

I have been subscribing to your blog for a few months now and really feel inspired.Thank you for conveying the reality of balance and integrity. I just read this mornings post on how not to be a jerk…. I have to say, with three boys of my own, this is the number one thing I try to instill in them, as was instilled in me. I grew up in quite the dysfunction, however, one thing that was always really taught to me was putting yourself in others shoes, listening to the voice of “right and wrong” within, and manners. I think compassion is in general, being lost. Putting others first, as well. Thank you for this post. I believe that all else should be secondary in raising the next generation.

Paul Dickinson Says:

April 15th, 2009, 11:26 am

Hi Leo,

I want to trackback some of your blog posts but I can’t find the URL anywhere! Could you let me know how to do it! Thanks.

Laura Erdman-Luntz Says:

April 16th, 2009, 10:03 am

I have seen the: The 6 Questions to Ask Yourself to Get the Most Out of Life everywhere! Are you the original author? If so, may I have permission to use it on my site? Of course I will give you all the credit.

Tom Says:

April 20th, 2009, 0:58 am

Leo -
Great site. It has been very helpful - a real shot in the arm. Thank you. Tried to make a donation tonight but dealing with Pay Pal was a real hassle. Maybe my fault; I’ll try again later. Gotta get some sleep. Thanks again for all.

Tamara Says:

April 22nd, 2009, 22:00 pm

You may already know, but your blog was named in the Top 100 Blogs for Freelance, in its category “Freelance Lifestyle Blogs.” Congratulations!

http://www.odesk.com/blog/2009/04/top-100-freelance-blogs/

Tamara Says:

April 22nd, 2009, 22:01 pm

You may already know, but your blog was named in the Top 100 Blogs for Freelancers, in its category “Freelance Lifestyle Blogs.” Congratulations!

http://www.odesk.com/blog/2009/04/top-100-freelance-blogs/

katy Says:

April 23rd, 2009, 20:51 pm

well this is a bit disheartening to see that this is the only communication… because i was having trouble leaving comments. is there something more specific i’m supposed to do for making comments? were mine just denied? does this site have issues with firefox? i guess if this one shows up it was just a glitch (that strangely happened at least three times) or i won’t have those questions at all answered because it will never show up.

what a funny little catch 22.

katy Says:

April 23rd, 2009, 20:53 pm

*sigh*

*bangs head against wall*

Jim Says:

April 27th, 2009, 8:42 am

Bravo on your stand on the privitization of the English language. As a computer programmer we have suffered through the same nonsene like when a newbie patents code or algorithms that were standard in the industry since time immemorial.

Unless we refer to someone’s book title, that has some catchy phrase, or use a quote of someone directly, we should have the right to say or print anything we want without fear of retribution.

So enough already!

Victoria Says:

April 27th, 2009, 8:59 am

Leo — Right on about the copyright issue! I’m an attorney as well (uh, dare I say, one who understands intellectual property law better than Jacobs’ lawyers) and you are in the right. Actually, one cannot claim as one’s own intellectual property that which is already in use in the public forum. Oh, and BTW, I loved your quip about using your material! Keep up the inspiring work!

Jack L Cooper Says:

April 27th, 2009, 9:02 am

Re: so called trademark/copyright infringement. I am am 58 years old went to Sul Ross State University from 1968 to 1972 (out in the middle of nowhere). One of my professors used that same phrase. How in the world does this Dr Whozit think she can claim that as her own? My goodness can you imagine the tangle in the courts if someone attempted to claim every expletive uttered when on hits their thumb with a hammer? I guess I would be in deep trouble.

Ellen Says:

April 27th, 2009, 9:47 am

Yes, love this post! The idea of copywriting a phrase baffles me! Of course I have had this experience in my profession and industry members continue to comment on this. Thanks for sharing this! You ROCK! Your work inspires me and my clients!

Camille Says:

April 27th, 2009, 10:51 am

Leo - I loved your post about not giving credence to those who want to trademark and copyright the English language. I just read a headline this morning that Oprah is suing an insurance company because she wants rights to the phrase ‘aha moment.” Are you kidding me? It’s so sad it’s almost funny. Don’t they have anything else to spend their time worrying about?

Thanks for all of your posts on the blog - I am inspired by your passion and joy for life and what you do. More people need to feel that.

Annette Says:

April 27th, 2009, 11:04 am

Hi -

Really like the site a lot - thank you.

I completely agree with you on the language privatization thing - ridiculous and beyond.

benjamin Says:

April 27th, 2009, 12:20 pm

Susan’s Jeffer’s lawyers can’t do anything to you. It’s complete bullshit. Im glad you’re taking a stand. I can’t believe they don’t have anything better to do. Its a god damn free post, why not sue the guy who posted it on twitter in the first place?

erika Says:

April 27th, 2009, 13:58 pm

Hey Leo, just wanted to thank you for this page. I’ve been reading it for a while now, and it’s always proven to be worth the time. I sent a donation, it isn’t much, but i hope it helps. Thank you again and have a wonderful day.

erika Says:

April 27th, 2009, 13:58 pm

Hey Leo, just wanted to thank you for this website. I’ve been reading it for a while now, and it’s always proven to be worth the time. I sent a donation, it isn’t much, but i hope it helps. Thank you again and have a wonderful day.

matt harrison Says:

April 27th, 2009, 14:20 pm

I am the most cynical man in England yet I have to say that I have found your site really uplifting and it has given me renewed energy, particularly this page with all the comments from other visitors. Please don’t tell anyone.

Tina Says:

April 27th, 2009, 15:15 pm

Leo - thanks for posting the message regarding Susan Jeffers and your “infringement”. I adore books, and buy them often - but now, there’s no way I’ll spend money on anything she writes. Since I’m on your side on this issue, I’m sure my money would be just as offensive to her as your act of thievery. (wink)

Keep up the good work - I recently purchased one of your e-books and very much look forward to reading it.

Charles Says:

April 27th, 2009, 17:24 pm

Just wanted to say about the ‘Feel the fear’ debacle.
Here is a book from ‘1900′ that uses it. So you are right in stating it’s been around even before both you or Jeffers was even born.

http://books.google.com/books?id=hZTTy6SLKzcC&pg=RA3-PA14&dq=feel+the+fear+and+do+it+anyway&lr=&as_drrb_is=b&as_minm_is=1&as_miny_is=1800&as_maxm_is=1&as_maxy_is=1970&as_brr=0&as_pt=ALLTYPES&ei=Jh32SYv3KIjaNbX_4J4G#PRA3-PA13,M1

Ed Says:

April 27th, 2009, 20:52 pm

@Charles
Actually, the book you reference is from 1990, not 1900. Check the copyright page from Amazon for that ISBN number. (C)1990 and (C)1994. Google Books has an error.

@Roadtoad & @RechargeYourMind
I really don’t think that we disagree. My point is basically that let’s not be so quick to blame just the lawyers. The lawyers zealousness is the product of greed. Maybe she’s responsible. Maybe it’s her publisher. Bottom line someone greedy is pushing this issue based on a weak claim at best. Oftentimes even if lawyers ask if it is right, they are obligated to go forward anyway.

Either way, it misses the point. If you start your view of the world that there is a scarcity of some thing, some product, some readership (in this case), you inevitably come to the position that Jeffers lawyer is taking…. basically that of a 3 year old shouting “Mine!”

If, however, we individually choose to change the culture, to change the way we think about the world and “things” as being abundant rather than scarce, you wind up with the position on copyright that Leo has taken. I’m sorry if my post wasn’t clear on that point, but it’s way too easy to forget why “system” is the way it is…. it pays to be that way. The system is all abut maximizing profits, and along the way we’ve tacitly agreed to exchange the rush of consumerism for simple moral values. This is just one example.

As to whether Jeffers is sum, I think Leo is taking the appropriate position by choosing the high ground by choosing to not attack her. Her position is legally ridiculous in my opinion, but peppered with just enough legitimacy that it would frighten people who didn’t take a broad view. I don’t believe that it would stand up to much scrutiny before a judge or a jury, but it is on its face technically correct. She does currently own six copyrights on that phrase.

Should she? Should the trademark protections she has extend to a blog such as this? Should phrases be trademarked? Should lawyers learn to fire their greedy clients? Those are the discussions each of us should have every day, not just when someone craps on a worthwhile blogger like Leo.

I just think we get blinded by only considering whether something affects “me”. Maybe I’m a bit more conservative and feel that we should also consider whether something affects “us”.

Ed Says:

April 27th, 2009, 20:59 pm

@Vics
Great idea… Doesn’t really change the culture yet, but I give you kudos for simply using the system she’s trying to exploit against her.

Solo500 Says:

April 28th, 2009, 9:44 am

Here is the message I just sent Susan Jeffers via her website:

Your “trademarking” of your book title is frivolous and attempting to enforce it is lame.

It contradicts the valuable message which you otherwise espouse. I would encourage you to revisit this policy and the thinking which led to it and move to a more positive policy of accepting the free flow of information and opinions.

Respectfully Yours,

Solo500 Says:

April 29th, 2009, 22:02 pm

Twittering software, mac/win recommendations:

Try Ada, very simple cross platform Twittering software. Twhirl is more fully featured, also good stuff.

Valerie Richardson Says:

April 30th, 2009, 9:21 am

I’ve enjoyed my Zen Habits e-mails since I subscribed a few months ago, but today’s on mindfulness for the super busy was truly excellent.

I’ve been involved in mindfulness practices for more than a decade. Several years ago I read a meditation on mindfulness and housework (I wish I could remember the title). The day that I learned to use housecleaning, commuting, and running errands as mindfulness practices was the day my life became infinitely richer.

Best, Valerie

Rex F. May Says:

April 30th, 2009, 16:45 pm

I was just charged on PayPal for two transactions with you. I never authorized them. Any orders you may have received that seemed to be from me were bogus. Please do what you can at your end to cancel them.

Marcus Says:

April 30th, 2009, 19:40 pm

Hey Leo,

I’ve been following your blog for about a year now.

Online consumption habits are changing and I think your service would benefit from a Facebook Page. I noticed there is already a page on facebook called zen habits, but I don’t think the content has been updated recently. I would certainly follow your page (as I’m sure others would) and your latest posts would go right into my homepage stream.

Hope you take advantage of this opportunity so I can get some zen on my facebook homepage!

Thanks,

Marcus

Rex May Says:

April 30th, 2009, 19:53 pm

Disregard my post. Just found out that my wife made an order and forgot to tell me.

Phil Says:

April 30th, 2009, 22:53 pm

Leo, thanks for all the work you put into the site and the books! It’d be great if I could get Zen Habits on my Kindle. I suggested it to Amazon, and they said I should ask you directly, too. It would be wonderful to have the posts magically appear with my news….

Suzy Says:

May 1st, 2009, 14:14 pm

Thank you for your terrific posts. As a way of reducing paper clutter, I often copy & print articles in PDF format for my own use. I did this with your post entitled “A Guide to Beating the Fears That Are Holding You Back.” Before retiring from the workforce, I was a writer, editor & desktop publisher, so now, just for fun, I give myself “jobs” such as creating professional-looking PDF files from excellent articles like yours. I might e-mail the PDF of your article to some friends … it’s clearly attributed to you and has a link to this site. P.S. I subscribe to “Write to Done” and “Goodlife Zen,” both are excellent. Kudos and keep up the good work!

Julie Says:

May 1st, 2009, 15:26 pm

I just finished listening to your book, The Power of Less, and I wanted to thank you. Maybe it was just the right time, or maybe things were just finally said in a way i could really implement, but the tools you write about have already started to make a difference in my life. Thank you. :-)

Spencer mack Says:

May 3rd, 2009, 14:11 pm

hello good sir, thankyou for your advice and free information. I saw you talking about creating financial success online through internet marketing and just wanted to know if there are any particular sites you recommend. There are so many people out there claiming they have the way and i would appreciate it if you could point me in the right direction. THANKYOU=)

Sharon Says:

May 5th, 2009, 12:44 pm

I’ve been following your zen habits site for a few months now. What is your opinion (since you have 6 kids) about this (if you have time to answer this).

I have a 7 & 9 yr old (7 boy and 9 yr old is a girl). We have never had cable tv (only bunny ears) but don’t watch it besides renting movies here & there on the weekends. They’ve never had video games, but I let them occasionally try out pbskids.org or other games online.

My 7 yr old boy has recently been more social and at other children’s homes and they ALL HAVE VIDEO GAMES, mostly the Wii. He loves it and has a great time visiting due to playing games. Now he wants me to buy him a video game system.

I’m not ‘against’ it per se, because I know that I would limit it and only allow it to be played in a structured way (after homework and chores etc..etc..) or on wkends only.

BUT…as a zen habits writer, and being about “simple things” and simplifying life in general (which is my view as well)..do you have any thoughts on this since today’s kids are all about technology, video games, internet, twitter etc….?

thank you

And if you read this (and are not Leo) but want to give feedback, please do. I’m really on the fence with this: wanting to keep my kids modernized to a point…but also wanting them to always be entertained by natural ordinary delights.

Kathleen Blanc Says:

May 5th, 2009, 15:34 pm

Leo~

I am very much enjoying your expressiveness. I like the way that you speak as much as what you have to say.

How often do we get to read about someone putting their money where their mouth is, and making a decision of integrity out loud? Almost never….but there you are today telling us that you are actually wanting, well willing, to take a cut in income to express your own beliefs through your blog design. Thank you. Thank you a lot!

My experience is that when we align ourselves with our own truth and integrity, the Universe finds a way to prosper us. So, what feels scary and like a loss, actually is not, in the long run and sometimes the short. Results, aside, doing the right thing and witnessing someone do the right thing is INSPIRING. So, thanks again.

I think that President and Michelle Obama are holding the BIG space for each of us to feel that integrity is doable. This is a great gift at this time for everyone on the Planet . I am grateful to them and to you and to the Father Spirit and Mother Earth of us All.

Kathleen

Simon Says:

May 5th, 2009, 17:40 pm

Safari (3.2.1) doesn’t like this site; it renders as a blank page. No problem with Firefox.

Albert Krabbe Says:

May 7th, 2009, 11:51 am

I love this blog, but I’m having trouble signing up for the email newsletter - which I prefer over RSS feed. Not only that, but this is the only place I can find to discuss such a problem.
When I click the email link and put in my email address, I get a notice telling me I’m already subscribed. But when I get the email to confirm it says it cannot find my email address. I really want the email so any help would be great!

Pablo Says:

May 7th, 2009, 13:34 pm

The content of your blog is very interesting and should reach also non english speaking people. I offer you my collaboration to translate it (and your books, eboks, etc) into Spanish. I’m native from Spain.
Pls let me know
Kind regards

Antares Says:

May 13th, 2009, 18:38 pm

Great site: you’re helping “save” my life! :) I wanted to also point you to a site I found called Joe’s Goals (www.joesgoals.com) - a super simple tool for keeping track of one’s daily (or otherwise) goals. And thanks for pointing me to Todoist: it with Joe and you are going to get this disorganized work-at-home-mama a little more structured!

antoine Says:

May 14th, 2009, 16:24 pm

Hi Leo,
many thanks for your so valuable work :-))
your blog is really top !!! I’m half my way int the power of less, excellent and useful+++

For your new page books why don’t you use iframe, is is very clean and we will stay in the graphics of zen habits have a quik look at http://www.cs.tut.fi/~jkorpela/html/iframe.html
an iframe without borders would be perfect !

Keep on blogging ;-)
Antoine

Clay Hebert Says:

May 14th, 2009, 21:37 pm

Hey Leo,

Huge fan. Thanks for participating in our fear.less e-book. It will help millions of people overcome their own fears.

I gave a nice plug to your phenomenal blog on my own blog, DailySense.com today

http://dailysense.com/?p=697

Keep up the great work!

Albert Simler Says:

May 15th, 2009, 10:58 am

My daughter Lisa Cauley just visited us from Carmel Ca. She showed us your web site. Very interesting. She said she is having a visitor in a few weeks by the name of Shannon Murphy.

sally Says:

May 21st, 2009, 17:13 pm

Thanks so much for all the inspiration…..I often share with my friends.

Is it possible to link a particular daily Zen you’ve written to one’s Facebook (as is possible with delicious)?

Sean Wilkins Says:

May 21st, 2009, 17:30 pm

I’ve been reading your blog off and on for the past year and love it, and the book too.

Anyway, I haven’t been by in a few weeks and was surprised by the new layout. Well done. A single post per page, keeping it focused and clutter free…excellent job.

Cheers and keep up the great work.

James Lusk Says:

May 22nd, 2009, 4:25 am

Hey Leo,
I’m a bit behind and just saw your google features article, and noticed that you are a Mac user. Didn’t know if you use apple mail or not, but if you go to your settings, and select rules, you can create a lot of the features you wanted to see. This includes automatic responses, and sorting your inbox, or applying a color scheme so you can instantly recognize the sender, or the fact that it might be ‘fan mail.’

Buz Says:

May 22nd, 2009, 9:12 am

Love the new layout. It is crisp and clean. The content is definitely the focus. Awsome and thanks for all of the content. Always gets me thinking.

Lisa Says:

May 22nd, 2009, 21:55 pm

Hi Leo!

I’m a huge fan of your blog and would really like to donate. Im on a student budget though and can not afford it. I’ve noticed you use stock photos for your blog. I got some for sale at an stock agency, but would be more than happy to donate photos to your blog for free as a thankyou for the life wisedom you share. Don’t hesitate to contact me (use the form on the stock page) if you see any photos you’d like to use!

Alistair Says:

May 23rd, 2009, 7:07 am

Have to say I’m not a fan of the new layout overall. I think it is too stark. The previous dark areas provided a good frame to anchor one’s eye, and to guide attention. Now there is simply too much white space on the page for my liking.

The focus on one item is in some ways an improvement, but I didn’t mind the previous layout where you could pick and choose between the last few posts, based on what took your fancy. I don’t read this every day, so I like to go to what catches my interest first, then check out the others.

Just my 2 cents worth. The content is stil great. Just not, for me, as attractively or accessibly packaged.

Lydia Peever Says:

May 24th, 2009, 18:40 pm

Hi Leo!

I read your blog nearly every time you update, and often find myself recommending ZH to my scatterbrained friends - heck, I recommend you to all of my friends! Even the zen ones! :)

I listed you on my Bookmarks section of my blog along with all my other daily reads.

Thank You for a stand-out blog that has reinforced my past habit changes and encouraged all my latest ones!

Cheers!

Tamara Says:

May 27th, 2009, 14:50 pm

Just wanted you to know how much oDesk appreciates your take on life. We just linked to your “Freelance Switch” guest post called “8 Simple Ways … ” in our new weekly “Work From Home Tuesday” series of blog posts, calling it our “recommended reading” for the week.

http://www.odesk.com/blog/2009/05/work-from-home-vol-one-distractions/

ZensMommy Says:

May 28th, 2009, 9:50 am

I come to your site when I need a boost or advice. Your articles are so inspiring, and right on point with my spirituality at this time. Sometimes I wish that I would have found out about Zen Habits a long time ago, but I know that all things happen at the appropriate time. You are such a blessing and make many of my most stressful days, calming. I often put your words up on our bulletin board here at work, and I send them as forwards :-)

ChrisK Says:

June 9th, 2009, 13:32 pm

A quick thank you for your blog. I check in now and again and always find at least a tidbit of inspiration. If I wore a hat, it’d be off to you!

Ellen Barone Says:

June 9th, 2009, 21:43 pm

Just wanted to say I love your blog! And now, hopefully a few more people will too. http://bit.ly/EdMQF

With gratitude,

Ellen Barone

PK Says:

June 12th, 2009, 8:36 am

Hi Leo. Thank you for this site and all your effort for each post. While not every post hits a nerve, but the ones that do, really do! :)

In fact, I have made Zen Habits my homepage. Just looking at the word ‘Zen Habits’ every time I open my browser reminds me the priority of personal development in my life. It has made a world of difference to me.

Thanks again, and keep up the great work!

Terri Says:

June 12th, 2009, 15:48 pm

Hi Leo,
I thought you’d enjoy a little story about your book.

I have a friend who needs “simplifying”. She knows it. I’ve tried to get her to jump on your site, but she doesn’t feel real comfortable with a computer and has never visited.

I went to lunch with her today and she brought me this GREAT NEW BOOK she got from the library that she’s going to HAVE TO BUY!!!

“The Power of Less”

Thank you from both of us!
Terri

Jimmy Says:

June 15th, 2009, 18:11 pm

I am new to your nice blog. I have a silly question: How should we pronounce your last name? Thanks!

MaryAnn Aquino Campbell Says:

June 16th, 2009, 22:26 pm

Hafa Adai Leo! (Cousin maybe???)

I just wanted to say thank you for your recent article on fitness. Just the other day I was sitting there thinking….”Ok..there’s the Atkins diet…tonz of protein. Then there’s the other diet…all vegetable and no meat. Which way!!!?? I don’t know how to eat!”

Your article was so true. The sad thing is that my husband has told me the same things. I should listen! LOL.

Thanks again.
MaryAnn

PS: My uncle Ben and his wife Esther are Babautas. When I saw your last name and saw that you were from Guam. I was thinking, “Relative!!” haha.

Blessings!

Millie Says:

June 23rd, 2009, 14:47 pm

Hi, I just wanted to say thank you! I have been reading your posts for a while now, and I have been implementing them. My house is now clear of clutter, and it is the best feeling ever. Thanks again!

Doz4 Says:

June 28th, 2009, 7:06 am

I just finished your book - The Power of Less. There were several good tips I picked up that I’ll definitely be applying to my daily life going forward. Thanks!

Lee Ann Kleinfelter Says:

July 3rd, 2009, 12:34 pm

Leo,
My college intern, Grezelle has spent over 8 hours researching a blog for me to follow and comment. Yours has come to the top of the pile many times. A huge thank-you for your insights, generosity sharing your thoughts and practices. Kudos to you as your information applies to all whether in or out of the work place.