Photo courtesy of Fabio Pinheiro So I Quit My Day Job - Holy Cow! I Took the Plunge
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. - Mark Twain
I’m officially a ProBlogger now.
Yesterday morning, I turned in my resignation from my day job (I work with U.S. military veterans for the Guam Legislature). OK, it doesn’t actually take effect until the end of next week, but still.
Woo hoo!
It’s pretty liberating. And very very very scary.
My Dream Come True
Well, to be honest, this hasn’t been a lifelong dream. I never knew that I wanted to be a full-time blogger until just last year (2007), when Zen Habits began to do really well (March, April, May). I started to realize: it’s crazy, but I might actually be able to do this full time!
Blogging on Zen Habits was then, and still is, so much fun that I couldn’t believe it could actually become a full-time thing. But it became a dream of mine, and I thought: maybe by this time next year, I could quite my day job!
So I created a mantra for myself. It was one word: Liberate.
This mantra was repeated every day. Everything I did was geared toward that mantra — blogging became a way to liberate myself. New projects were steps along that path. And it has been an exciting and rewarding path at that.
So now that dream has come true. A few months early too.
How I Did It
I thought you might be interested in hearing about my path to make this dream become realized. Now, this should be obvious, but I’ll stress it here: this is what worked for me. It won’t necessarily work for any other human being on this planet. I share it only because I know I like to read the success stories of others — sometimes they’re instructional, and other times they’re simply inspirational.
That caveat aside, here are some of the stepping stones along my path to liberation:
1. Blog from the heart. I decided early on that while I would draw inspiration from many other blogs, from Lifehacker to Get Rich Slowly to Lifehack.org to The Happiness Project to 43 Folders to Dumb Little Man to ProBlogger and many more …. that inspiration would be simply inspiration, and not copycatting. I wanted my writing to be my own, true to myself, and from my heart. As a result, many people have commented that they enjoy my writing, which is gratifying … and even better, I have enjoyed doing it immensely. Writing this post for example … it’s pure joy.
2. Be insanely useful. My goal with every post is to be as useful as possible to my readers. Of course, I don’t always succeed, but it’s been a worthy goal. And I think the usefulness of many of my posts is what attracts readers, and attracting readers has been the key to the growth of Zen Habits.
3. Focus my efforts and my writing. This won’t be any surprise to you guys, if you know me, but simplicity has been central to much of what I’ve done. My goal is always to keep things simple, to focus my efforts on those things that I love the most and that pay off the most, to be able to focus on my writing instead of the money or the stats or anything else. Time with my family is very important, so I’ve had to make sure that I eliminate unnecessary tasks and projects so that my work doesn’t overwhelm my family time.
4. Ask for donations. A few months back, I told you guys about my dream to become a full-time blogger, and asked for your help. You came through, big time. In fact, I still get donations, and each and every one of those donations have helped bring me closer to my dream. I couldn’t have done this without you guys. Seriously. Thank you. (Btw, donations are still welcome!)
5. Write and sell an ebook. To ensure that I had multiple income streams, besides the ads and the donations, I wrote and sold my Zen To Done ebook. It turned out to be extremely successful. Again, your purchases have helped my dream come true. With the success of the ebook, I was able to finally eliminate my debt — see below for why that’s important. Again, thank you guys!
6. Focus my ads. I’ve been experimenting with different forms of advertising all year long. I’m still doing so. Basically, I have been continually dropping ads that don’t do very well for me. My goal is to have just one set of ads, to keep things as simple as possible. If you’re interested in becoming a Zen Habits sponsor, you’d be very welcome.
7. Interact with readers. Readers should be the focus of any good blog. Your interests, your needs, your comments, your emails. I try to make time to respond to comments and emails, although I have to admit that I cannot always keep up with the volume of comments, questions, requests, and emails. It’s very important to me, though, and I do my best.
8. Transition from day job. I decided, from the beginning, that I would do a gradual transition from my day job to full-time blogging. Slowly, I’ve increased my blogging income while making the day job less important. I’ve reduced my work at my day job so that I can focus on my writing. Today, that transition is complete.
9. Get out of debt, save an emergency fund. These two financial moves were prerequisites for me. I wasn’t going to quit my day job without getting out of debt first, and without an adequate emergency fund. It’s why I didn’t quit several months ago, when my blogging income was sufficient. I have a family to worry about. I have since eliminated my debt and saved a decent emergency fund, though it’s not as large as I’d like. I plan to continue to add to the emergency fund all year.
10. One other big thing I can’t announce yet. Something else big has happened in the last month that sealed the deal for me, financially. I will announce it within the next week. It’s big, for me at least. And while I could have quit my day job even if it hadn’t happened, it made it that much more sure for me. I can’t wait to tell you about it.
Where I Go From Here
So now what? What happens now?
Well, not that much will change, for Zen Habits at least. I plan to continue to focus on putting out the best content I can. I plan to continue to interact with you guys. I won’t be increasing my posting frequency, mainly because I don’t want to overwhelm you, but also because I have other projects planned.
I will announce two of those projects in the coming week. But my focus, as always, will be on writing. I don’t want to overwhelm myself either.
Financially, if nothing changes, I will be just fine. If anything changes, I anticipate it changing for the better, and if so, I will be making investments this year. But if it changes for the worse … I will always be able to find another day job. That safety net is always there … I know the market here on Guam well enough to know that I can easily get a job in a half dozen places … and I know that there are opportunities online that my success here at Zen Habits have opened up, so that’s a possibility too if necessary.
It’s scary, being self-employed. For the first time in my life, I don’t have a boss, and I don’t have an editor to answer to. I am my own boss, and my own editor, and I can do whatever I want. Failure and success are dependent completely on me.
Scary, yes … but amazingly amazingly liberating!
To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe. - Anatole France
If you liked this article, please share it on del.icio.us or on Digg. I’d appreciate it. :)
- Posted on 16 January 2008 in Aboutzenhabits, Finance & Family, Goals |
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Comments (260)
Shankar Ganesh Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:02 am
BEAUTIFUL!
Wish you all the best in the journey ahead.
Keep rocking and rolling =)
Naomi Dunford Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:03 am
CONGRATULATIONS! That’s wonderful news — I’m so happy for you! I want to think of something more to say to take up 50 lines and leave a trademark comment so long no-one will ever read it, but this is all I’ve got.
Well done.
mari Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:05 am
I am so happy for you! This is one great blog and I can’t to find out about the new projects. Take care and congrats on making your dream come true!
Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:10 am
This is so brilliant and we’re all thrilled! Also, I can’t wait to find out what the big news is (I’m guessing it’s a print book in the works…)
Well, it’s always great to read about people who had the guts to follow their dreams. I’m constantly reminded of a quote from Success Built to Last that goes something like this: “It is dangerous not to love what you do. It is dangerous not to be fully engaged. You must choose a path that you love, for better or worse. If you don’t love what you’re doing, you can be sure someone else will.”
Congratulations again! You really deserve it!
Sabrina Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:16 am
Congratulations!
I love the blog and I’m happy to hear you’re doing something you enjoy so much.
david Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:18 am
Kudos! It is so awesome to see someone be able to do something that they REALLY love — and when that thing is blogging, well…icing on the cake.
Continued success and bes wishes!
Dee Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:24 am
Congratulations Leo!!
Travis Wright | Cultivate Greatness Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:26 am
Congrats Leo, you are an inspiration to many. We are proud of you and you are a beacon of light to the rest of us, who are trying to make it happen.
Best of luck, sir.
Lodewijkvdb Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:28 am
CONGRATULATIONS! That’s wonderful news to hear Leo. I love it when people make their dreams come true, and I love it to see people do what they love to do most. You’ve found the golden combination of both and forged it into a profitable passion. Well done!
BinderDonedat Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:53 am
Congratulations, Leo! I took the plunge about two years ago and it’s been the best two years of my life.
I’m now using Zen to Done principles to take my online business further.
Thanks for your great work and best of luck!
Tina Su - Think Simple Now Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:54 am
Wow Leo! Congrats! Thanks for being an inspiration to people like me who are in your shoes (sort of) from March,April,May and is now looking as your blog as a source of model and inspiration. :)
I know it’s scary. But hang in there, it is and will be worth it.
Warmly,
Tina
LeftCoastMike Says:
January 16th, 2008, 1:56 am
Way 2 go!
You’re a real inspiration, Leo!
Stay well!
Dennis Bjørn Petersen Says:
January 16th, 2008, 2:08 am
Excellent! Congratulations!!!
I envy you alot ;)
Chris Bennett Says:
January 16th, 2008, 2:15 am
Congrats, I remember my last drive home from the office I called my friend who had quit a month earlier and said, “I wish I would of done this sooner.” It has been 2 plus years for me and it only gets better, and it is so much less stressful than having a job.
Congrats again
Darryl Heron Says:
January 16th, 2008, 2:32 am
Leo:
This is great news. I’m very happy for you. I wonder what kind of things you’ll do now that blogging is your day-job.
Darryl Heron
http://systems-overload.blogspot.com/
Warren Says:
January 16th, 2008, 2:42 am
Liberating Indeed. I am so happy to hear that Leo! I began reading a while back and was always rooting for you to make it to this day. Congratulations! You have inspired so many people.
Goal Setting College Says:
January 16th, 2008, 2:43 am
Congratulations Leo! I’m really glad you answered your calling!
Cheers,
Ellesse
Shawna R. B. Atteberry Says:
January 16th, 2008, 2:52 am
Congratulations Leo! I can’t wait to hear about your new projects.
Sam Says:
January 16th, 2008, 2:53 am
Congratulations Leo!
Kelly Rigby Says:
January 16th, 2008, 3:12 am
I am so happy for you, leo, and I can’t wait to find out what the news is. Isn’t it the best when you look back 12-18 months and you see that your life has taken off in new and exciting ways? I love that feeling. And it’s even better when it’s related to becoming more authentic, more true to yourself. Not only will you benefit from this change, but your family will too. Whenever we take flight those closest to us fly up high with us.
Congrats my friend.
Kelly :)
Marley Says:
January 16th, 2008, 3:18 am
Way to go Leo!!
Can’t wait to see what you come up with now that you are unshackled from employment!
Marley
yudika Says:
January 16th, 2008, 3:26 am
my dream : become problogger like you in two years from now. hope i can realize my dream, wish me :) …
Ivan - www.blatternet.ch Says:
January 16th, 2008, 3:27 am
So, you finally did it! I already read it yesterday on facebook. Congratulations! All the best for the future and I’m excited about the news! May your dreams come true!
Mak Says:
January 16th, 2008, 3:51 am
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you!
Nez Says:
January 16th, 2008, 3:59 am
I salute you, sir.
After poring through your many posts (I only discovered your blog in December), I can only say I have utmost confidence that you shall do well as a professional blogger.
Your style, honesty, insights and thoughtfulness, as well as sincerity come through your posts in spades.
If I can only even achieve a fraction of your success in a year, I’d be pretty happy.
All the best,
Nez
Mrs S | A pocketful of pixiedust Says:
January 16th, 2008, 4:00 am
WTG! That’s brilliant news - I’m so glad this worked out and can’t wait to hear your other Big news :0)
mercurial scribe Says:
January 16th, 2008, 4:00 am
Congrats! It takes a lot of courage and preparedness to do what you’re doing and for that, you have my admiration.
Can’t wait to see what else is in store!
Julius Says:
January 16th, 2008, 4:21 am
I have to congratulate. You made come true the dream of most of us. I also liked the way you have managed donations and ads, as well as open sourcing your great content. You are a great example to follow.
Donald Latumahina Says:
January 16th, 2008, 4:37 am
Awesome, Leo! Congratulations! I can’t wait to see how much more contribution you will give to the world.
Christian Says:
January 16th, 2008, 4:42 am
Major congrats, my friend! You’re truly living the dream.
Armin Says:
January 16th, 2008, 4:49 am
Leo, that is great news. All the best and keep up the terrific work!
WAH(web)Mommy Says:
January 16th, 2008, 5:02 am
CONGRATULATIONS! I’m another one with that same goal (well, to go full time freelance… not a full time blogger, lol) - and I’m always saying “Hopefully this time next year…”
It’s motivational to see other people who have reached their goals. Congrats to you! :)
metroknow Says:
January 16th, 2008, 5:20 am
Congratulations! Having ties in Guam I know how hard it can be to find work that is rewarding, steady, and pays what you need for a family. What a great solution!
Ricardo Rosado Says:
January 16th, 2008, 5:27 am
Hi Leo,
long time reader (I mean, almost as long as your problogger dream), first-time commenter. Just wanted to congratulate you on your liberation. Zen habits has been a source of inspiration for me, and most of my email contacts have gotten at least one or two of your posts in their inbox to prove that. Best of luck!
Robert Says:
January 16th, 2008, 5:31 am
Congratulations! That’s a big step for you and I’m sure you can do it. Keep up the great work!
LesW Says:
January 16th, 2008, 5:43 am
Leo this is EXCELLENT.
I was one of those that donated and I did so because of your energy, enthusiasm and the sheer fact that your writing is unique and not some mashup of other offerings on the web.
I first saw this site in May last year and took the June challenge and from that time I have been avidly reading your pearls of wisdom. There is one thing that you missed off from being successful, and that is determination and passion. You have loads of it and because of this you will succeed.
All the very best of luck for you future
teresa Says:
January 16th, 2008, 5:53 am
Thanks for sharing! I almost envy you for having such great topics in your blog, and i’m very glad that your dream has come true!
I wish you all the best of luck, for the other projects too, i’m so curious i can’t wait
Lily Says:
January 16th, 2008, 6:01 am
Congratulations and all the best! :-D
I’m going to quit my regular job too.
Nick | Put Things Off Says:
January 16th, 2008, 6:26 am
Congratulations! That’s terrific news. Very best of luck, and look forward to hearing about book deals and seeing you on the cover of Time (it pays to think big). :)
For anyone else thinking of going pro, I wrote a post about my own experience here:Quit Your Day Job the Safe Way.
Tinu Says:
January 16th, 2008, 6:27 am
Congratulations. As hard as it is sometimes, I’ve never regretted it in the five years that I’ve been totally free, nor in the three years of half time that led up to it.
The only thing I wish I had done, besides number 9, is to go beyond working for myself and into owning a shop where other people work with/for me a lot sooner. If you’re not going to do that, set aside a certain amount of money in investments or create some kind of residual income for yourself, such as a membership site. I can’t tell you how important that is in times of lean. I got really sick at the beginning of ‘07, and I’m still recovering from the down time.
wai Says:
January 16th, 2008, 6:47 am
Leo, congratulations!
THAT takes guts. I’m ending my Ma now and I know someday I’ll probably find myself where you’re at now. Very inspiring!
Best of luck to you. I don’t think you’ll ever regret it. :*
michael Says:
January 16th, 2008, 7:24 am
I don’t think you neeed luck as I’m confident you will suceed. You also will never have the “what if” question hanging around.
BTW what was your day job?
Flint Says:
January 16th, 2008, 7:24 am
Awesome Leo, well done. You’ve come a long way and you’ve helped and been a huge inspiration to many of us along the way. I pray that your good fortune continues, and that you are constantly rewarded for all that you have done for your readers.
Helen Says:
January 16th, 2008, 7:39 am
hey that’s absolutely brilliant leo, way to go!!!!
I read your e-book from cover to cover this morning and was so inspired - thanks so much for putting that together - it’s so well done.
This morning I was looking something up here and you had 32700 subscribers, then I come back tonight and you’ve got 32900!! With growth like that you’ll be doing a 2 hour week eventually - forget FOUR!! :-)
@Stephen | Productivity in Context Says:
January 16th, 2008, 7:53 am
Congratulations, Leo! I am so excited for you. Of course you have done this in your typically meticulous and thoughtful way.
I look forward to some big things now that you do not have the distractions of a day job, and perhaps some outsourcing! heh, I’ve got a little time to do some grunt-work.
I became a de facto pro-blogger when my wife took the new job in Maine back in October, and there is apparently no work for me. I do have something lined up for April, a seasonal gig at a shoreline resort. Back into the Hospitality biz. Until then, it’s nose to the grindstone on my own blog project.
djuro Says:
January 16th, 2008, 7:56 am
As I said to a dear friend of mine, who just quit his job at my brother’s firm - Congratulations! I wish you all the best on your independent path!
Denise Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:00 am
Good luck! :-)
Balfour Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:05 am
Congratulations! We’re all watching you for further inspiration!
Jack Kennard Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:17 am
Congrats, Wishing you great success and happiness. I would like to do the same. Even though I work for a great boss and company that supports me, I still need to create the structure for the income. You have a great site and your articles are a great inspiration.
Craig Harper Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:24 am
Congratulations Leo!
“Life comes down to a few short moments. This is one of them!”
You deserve it!
Barry Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:28 am
Congratulations, Leo!
ActiveEngine Sensei Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:40 am
Congratulations. You continue to inspire not only with the blog but also with how you apply these lessons to your own life.
Good luck! Keep us “posted”. Sorry, couldn’t resist.
Jacklyn Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:50 am
Congratulations! I’ve only been reading your blog a few weeks now, but ever since I found it, I’ve been addicted. Thank you for the excellent posts, keep it up!
Joshua Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:51 am
Congratulations man, that’s fantastic news! As with anything in life, I’m sure this kind of change can feel a bit daunting at first, but I’m sure in time you’ll grow ever more comfortable with it and certainly take solace in the fact that you’re making a living doing what you love. Kudos! :-D
Michael Kaply Says:
January 16th, 2008, 8:59 am
It’s amazing how being out of debt and having an emergency fund can allow you to purse your dreams easier.
Awesome!
Edward Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:05 am
Congratulations Leo,
I mirror the shared happiness and good wishes of so many other people.
Your work is an inspiration.
Deb Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:22 am
Congrats!!! It is an awesome feeling to know you are following your dreams. Four and half years ago I left my job to start my own business and I have never been happier. I know you will do great!
Dominic Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:29 am
Well done. Congratulations. You have my best wishes and my envy.
Dori Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:32 am
Wow!! and Congratulations!!
Very very inspiring indeed
Jeniffer Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:39 am
Wonderful!
I hope that the something big is a book deal (if it is, I want one!)
Best of luck, regardless.
Now, if only I could become a full time blogger…
:-}
Courtney Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:42 am
congratulations! This is wonderful for you and very inspiring for the rest of us. . . best wishes!
Filipe Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:42 am
Yesssssss!!!!
I’m glad you made it! Congratulations!
Good Luck and keep that wonderful job.
THANK YOU, LEO! :)
april Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:42 am
Leo, I’m proud!
now back to business how much are ad’s on your place???
You have my e-mail so let me know!
Kevin @ Change Your Tree Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:43 am
Awesome! What a great story and I can’t wait to hear what big thing you’ve landed!!
Great job.
Hunter Nuttall Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:47 am
Congratulations, Leo! I’m so glad to see this happen for you.
Ann Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:53 am
I’ve never posted before, but I’ve been reading for a while and I had to say Congratulations!
How wonderful to turn your dream into reality. Your writing is such an inspiration to so many, including myself.
There is so much negative on the Internet, but who wants to be a part of that when you could spread joy and positive vibes like you do!
Paul Ehrenreich Says:
January 16th, 2008, 9:57 am
Congrats Leo!
It’s always good to see someone accomplish their dreams.
D. Amorrae Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:05 am
That’s totally awesome. I’m going to quit my job too………OH yeah I don’t have one. Self employment rules!!!!!!
Morgan Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:06 am
Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go. - T.S. Eliot
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit. - Emerson
Congrats! May your ventures continue to soar. : )
- Morgan
Keith D Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:13 am
Good move Leo. Congratulations. (Note: my typing is so bad that congratulations came out mangled as congradulations. Maybe that is not such a bad word). Stepping out is admirable. You’ll do well.
My thought is that liberation and scared are two faces of the same coin. A natural condition. Liberation as opposed to a controlled, provided, other-employed lifestyle, is always more on the edge - dependent on your full self-responsibility, creativity, self-promotion, initiative, confidence.
Fifteen years ago my boss came to me and said he was selling the company, knew I did not get along with the prospective buyer and asked what did I think I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Friends had encouraged me to consider going on my own, but this was the impetus that sealed my fate. I could have looked for another job, but we talked it over and he encouraged me to proceed. He thought I could do it and gave me the leeway to develop. I took 3 months to transition out. My wife, on the other hand, I don’t think has ever forgiven me even though I have become one of the most well regarded and successful small contractors in my field regionally. She was terrified of going broke. We had two kids and a mortgage. The first year we went through all our savings, but started to make a living. I have gotten better at both my profession and at the business side of things. The last couple of years have been phenomenal. I don’t know about blogging, but business goes up and down and I’ve learned that cycles are nothing to fear. You just have to live through them confident in your abilities and that there is better coming.
Thanks for your ideas. I am thinking seriously about brushing up a manual I use for client training. I have been writing and expanding it since before going out on my own. You encourage me to publish it as an e-book and put it out there. Thanks.
Keith
Trixi Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:33 am
Excellent! I’m truly delighted for you, Leo! Congratulations!
And many thanks & kudos also to your wife ~ I know without her support this would not have been a viable option for you. (I’m talking emotional support here, not financial.)
I came across your blog only a couple months ago, and it immediately became my only daily *must-read* site. Sometimes I read here several times a day, as I try to catch up on reading your previous posts ~ such a vast treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration you have created in only one year!) While prior to this point I’ve both donated and purchased your e-book, I’d thus far refrained from subscribing ~ after all, I’m trying to keep my inbox empty, you know! ;-) But knowing how ad income is usually tied to subscription rates, I will now subscribe as well. (After all, thanks to you, I’ve become very good at deleting e-mails rather ruthlessly!)
I wish you much continued happiness and financial success as you continue on your chosen path ~ and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing with us all so generously! I am deeply grateful.
love & peace,
Trish
Sam Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:36 am
Congradulations Leo! I knew you could do it. I excited to hear about your upcoming projects. Keep us informed.
ny seo Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:37 am
I am glad you did and seriously hope it works out.
Fellow Readers:
We can help by clicking on Leo’s ads more and by sending “Stumbles” and links to zenhabits, if you can afford a donation.
Never the Same River Twice Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:54 am
Many congratulations, Leo! You’re a great inspiration to me as I work toward my own financial (an intellectual) independence.
Rob Schultz Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:58 am
Congratulations! I did the same exact thing just a little bit ago. If you’re ever interested in chatting send me an email. Like you, I’m home all day! :) Best of luck!
Chris Tolley Says:
January 16th, 2008, 10:59 am
Congratulations!
Your writing has always been honest, genuine and truly useful.
You are one of the few bloggers where I feel I really do know the person behind the blog. Reading Zen Habits has been a great opportunity to watch your journey - you are a true inspiration.
All the best.
Alex Blackwell Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:03 am
Congratulations Leo. Best wishes for continued success.
Shiraz Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:08 am
Here’s the continued enjoyment of life, making our dreams and goals come true. Play!
Kebap Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:13 am
Yeah dude! That toally rocks!
I just found your blog the other day and thought to myself, hey, that is one great inspirational source, and seems to be a nice blogger, too. I wonder, what he does besides that. I wonder if you could life from this type of work, doing exactly what you please. And now, you deliver! You write this long article about just how you did it the last year, your steps to becomming a pro-blogger. Wow. I want to do sth like that, too! :)
Rock on!
Julia Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:26 am
Congratulations on having the courage to quit the day job. I’m one of the buyers of your ebook - love it!
MC Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:32 am
Congrats Leo and continued Success and Liberation!
Etavitom Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:45 am
Congratulations Leo! Your Blog is without question my favorite on the entire web. Every post is insightful and I wish you huge success.
Looking forward to reading more in the future.
All the best,
Brad
Zhongyi Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:46 am
dude, i really like reading your posts
it’s also my mantra this year
keep things simple
that’s the way to be truly happy
nice work with your blog!!
thanx for the inspiration!
Andrew Galasetti Says:
January 16th, 2008, 11:49 am
Congrats Leo! Can’t wait to hear what the BIG news is about.
-Andrew
Maan Ashgar Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:04 pm
First, I’d like to thank you Leo for this great blog. Your posts really bright my morning every day.
Second, I’d also like to think you for the courage that you keep giving me. I’m a Software Eng graduate in Saudi Arabia, I can easily get a job in many companies (and had many offers). But early in college, I was infected with the passion for Video Game Programming (Which doesn’t exists in Saudi Arabia). People keeps telling me that its a silly dream, and its REALLY hard to get a job at an entry-level while you are not in the same city of the game studio and has no experience.
But I still have my dream. I’m young, work a part-time job that pays well, not married (but I have a family that loves me). Your blog keeps giving me courage whenever I consider backing out and settle for a normal job.
The Mark Twain quote you have up there is exactly the kind of encouragement that I love here. So thank you, and congratulation on reaching your dream :).
Have a nice day,
Maan
David Lano Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:20 pm
Leo, I am excited to hear you took the plunge! I have been a long time reader but have never actually commented - awful I know :/
I have greatly appreciated your posts and am looking forward to reading your upcoming articles. Thanks for all of your hard work and dedication in making each post thought provoking.
smoother Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:23 pm
That is awesome! I started visiting your site back in April of 2007 and I don’t know how I got here but I stayed. It’s great, good job.
Gene Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:26 pm
Congratulations! it’s good to see when someone is passionate about what they do are able to strike on their own and do what they love!!! keep up a good job.
Jack from eyeflare.com Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:28 pm
Amazing, many congratulations to you Leo! 2008 looks to be a fantastic year.
Ralph Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:30 pm
quitting my secure, yet totally unfulfilling job years ago was the scariest and best thing I ever did, more power to you brother
Josh Buckley Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:40 pm
Congratulations leo!
I am very happy for you, this is an amazing blog.
Bamboo Forest Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:44 pm
Congratulations Leo! Becoming a professional blogger is a great accomplishment.
Debby Says:
January 16th, 2008, 12:46 pm
I found this blog a month or so ago and it is now one my favorite blogs to read everyday. When there isn’t new content, I get disappointed.
Your blog is awesome. I guess you are going to keep me in suspense to find out what else you have in store.
