Help Me Write My Book
“I get by with a little help from my friends.” - Lennon and McCartney
OK, guys, I could use a little help from all of you — I’m in the middle of writing my book, the Power of Less, and I’m getting close to deadline. While I’ve done some writing, I really need to focus and go into overdrive.
So here’s how you can help me:
1. Be understanding if I lighten my posting schedule this week. I’m going to really focus on the book-writing this week, and try to get as much done as possible. That means that you won’t see as many in-depth posts from me. However, don’t unsubscribe or go anywhere! Instead of running only one guest post this week, I plan to run two. And I will still be posting myself, but I will probably be doing a couple of shorter posts and (I hope) one longer, feature-length post. So there will still be content, but just not as much of it from me. Next week, I will try to resume my regular posting schedule (while still doing book-writing), but I may do one or two more of these “light posting weeks” next month if need be. I’m only asking for your understanding, and that you don’t go anywhere. I’ve become addicted to having you guys around.
2. Hold me accountable. Two of my most oft-repeated principles in achieving goals are to make a big public commitment and to be accountable to others. I’m going to put those principles into action now, and make a commitment to you guys: I will not write a post (short or long) or even publish a guest post until I’ve done at least two hours of book-writing. It doesn’t matter how many pages I’ve done, as long as I’ve sat down for two hours to write my book. The writing will get done if I do that every day. Secondly, I will report my progress, at the bottom of each post, each day, to ensure that I’m accountable to you guys. If you’re not interested in my progress reports, just skip this section — the main thing is that I know I have to report to you guys, so I will make sure to follow this commitment.
3. I might ask for your stories or tips. I have plenty of material for the book, but sometimes it’s interesting to share stuff from other successful and insightful people (and that’s you guys), so I might do an “ask the readers” or something like that in the next month or two to solicit your input. I can’t guarantee that I’ll use any of it, but at the very least it will be inspiration, and ideally I’ll choose a good selection of material to share in my book.
So that’s how you can help. I appreciate your continued encouragement, as always — it’s been my driving force in everything I’ve done in the past year. Thank you, all of you!
Oh, and to add to the insanity, I’m running a marathon this weekend! I don’t have a time goal — I just want to run a nice, relaxed pace, finish, and have a blast. Wish me luck!
- Posted on 24 March 2008 in Aboutzenhabits, Goals |
- Digg |
- Del.icio.us |
- Stumble |
Comments (117)
Andrew Galasetti Says:
March 24th, 2008, 17:48 pm
Hey Leo,
Go get ‘em! I’m sure everyone will understand. It’s better to post less than to post less quality articles.
-Andrew
Vered Says:
March 24th, 2008, 17:56 pm
Good luck with everything. Sounds like you are going to be very busy - in a good, productive way. I heard from several people who managed to publish books that their secret was to write for a couple of hours each day, first thing in the morning, before they did anything else. Tackling the important stuff first thing in the morning is always a good idea, regardless of what it is. So your plan sounds great.
I think it’s just wonderful that you are letting your blog readers know what’s going on. Personally, I have no plans to unsubscribe. :)
alex Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:04 pm
Good luck! You can do it = )
Don’t let anyone pull you down.
Stick to your goals, Just do it!
Val Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:08 pm
Hello Leo,
For the last couple of day I noticed, the “slower” pace of the posts, Thank you for making things clear, You should definitely concentrate on the writing of the book, If anything helps, try to think about it’s importance to you and to your readers, and I will be sure to read your update on the progress of the book writing, I’m not going to wish luck, because this is you and you can do it.
Val
Israel
(p.s sorry for english)
Derek Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:10 pm
After just putting together a post that features a few posts on writing, I have to say that your approach to block out chunks of time will be a great approach to getting your tasks done.
Best to you with the marathon and the progress on the book, I’ll still be here reading whenever you do publish.
Albert | UrbanMonk.Net Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:12 pm
Go for it Leo! Nobody will abandon you (I think) I certainly won’t - you provide far too much value. Best of luck with everything!
Cheers,
Albert | UrbanMonk.Net
Modern personal development, entwined with ancient spirituality.
Duff Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:13 pm
Best of luck with the writing and the running. You can do it, Leo! You inspire me.
LivSimpl Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:16 pm
I certainly understand crazy schedules. Of course, I can’t speak for anyone else, but I’m not going anywhere! Take your time and make sure you’re happy with the outcome.
Best of luck with the book and the marathon!
- Dave
Jeff - ScienceSays.net Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:16 pm
Take your time man - we’ll still be here!
I’m sure you don’t have time to put together super-organized posts, but I’d love to see some reflections on the process and how one goes about putting a book together.
Might be a good way for you to stay active here without losing track of what you’re up to
Karlyn Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:34 pm
Hello! I wanted to wish you good luck with your run. But most of all, have a great time!
Karlyn
Sean Kelly Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:35 pm
Good luck on the marathon and on your book! One of my goals is to run a marathon one day…I’ve been running consistently lately, thanks to being inspired by this blog :)
Cheers!
~SK
grace Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:35 pm
Biographer, David Mucullough said the best advice he ever received was to write four pages everyday.
Kelly Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:40 pm
Behind you all the way, Leo!
:)
Kelly
Tim Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:42 pm
out of interest Leo, what happens if you miss a book deadline?
Wendi Kelly Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:43 pm
I am not going anywhere! This was the second blog I ever started reading and my favorite! I’ve been a long time reader, long before I was a blogger myself. I will be as supportive as possible in any way.
I am looking at my marathon medal as I type. Slow as a turtle, but one of the best experiences of my life.
When I crossed that finish line I thought, “If I can run a marathon, I can do anything.” It is an amazing feeling.
I’ll be sending you running vibes this weekend.
Good luck!
Wendi
Life’s Little Inspirations
Brett Legree Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:49 pm
Leo - as someone with four kids (not as many as you), working a full time job as a nuclear engineer, just started a blog a while ago, and also writing a book (no book deal yet) - who isn’t planning to run a marathon this weekend - I sympathize.
We’ll be here for you.
Tad Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:55 pm
Good Luck Leo. Don’t worry about it. I will be praying that you meet your deadlines.
Iris M. Gross Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:57 pm
You remind me I need to update my own website. I wouldn’t dream of unsubscribing you from my Google Reader…this blog is like a very slow-paced soap opera!
Best of luck!
@Tim, I think when you miss a deadline, you get to pay back any advance you may have received, plus forfeit future payment, but I could be wrong. We’ll see what Leo says.
Amber Says:
March 24th, 2008, 18:57 pm
Leo, I am so happy that I discovered your blog. You are an inspiration! Good luck with the marathon,the writing, the parenting, etc. I loved my runs on Guam…and I’m curious about your marathon route!
Oh…and pick up a bouquet of flowers for your wife when the week is over! :-)
Go get ‘em!
Tom Stine Says:
March 24th, 2008, 19:18 pm
Go Leo, go! Good idea to let 45,000 people hold you accountable. I think it might help. :-)
Tom : Tom Stine dot com
Spirituality, Consciousness, Awakening
Madrisa Says:
March 24th, 2008, 19:23 pm
As you can see, we’re all rooting for you, Leo!
Your generosity of spirit and the excellence of your blog is coming back to you now. We’ll wait — just get the book done! (I’m in the last stages of a dissertation, so I know what it’s like!) Your community is behind you.
Dasha Says:
March 24th, 2008, 19:29 pm
Honestly, I have no idea how you manage to come up with great content while posting so often. I’d rather have less content but maintain the great quality than the other way around, so don’t feel pressured to post just for the sake of posting! There you go, the power of less, put that in your book :)
Marelisa Says:
March 24th, 2008, 19:30 pm
Leo: Sounds like you feel like I felt when I was studying for the NY Bar (at one point a friend was coming to visit and I had to open my apartment door and see the number written on there to be able to tell her what apartment number I lived in). When you really want something all of the work and the stress are worth it. I’m sure you’ll do a great job, you’re a wonderful writer!
Nick Cernis Says:
March 24th, 2008, 19:30 pm
Good luck with the book, Leo! You have a lot of support here — I’m sure we’ll all help you any way we can. :)
Donna Says:
March 24th, 2008, 19:46 pm
Leo:
First and foremost-best of luck with the book and the marathon. I have just found your blog within the past week and if ever I needed it, it was now. You are telling me all of the things I have been trying to say to myself for the past couple of months. Thank you for that and for your inspiration.
Donna
Silent gratitude isn’t much use to anyone
Gladys Browyn Stern
kate Says:
March 24th, 2008, 20:03 pm
all the very best! you totally deserve to have a lighter week…we’ll manage! if anyone goes anywhere well they just don’t get you in the first place :-)
Hugo Says:
March 24th, 2008, 20:08 pm
That’s a good question Tim is asking, what if you miss the deadline? How much are you willing to give up to reach it? Writing a book and this blog at the same time seems like a lot of work, does one influence the other?
Interesting stuff.
Good luck with the book Leo!
Hilton Says:
March 24th, 2008, 20:26 pm
Run For Your Life
All You Need Is Love
Paperback Writer
“and in the End, the Love You Take, is Equal To the Love You make”
(all, Lennon and McCartney)
Do what you need to do, see you on the other side…
I’d never leave this Long and Winding Road…
Hilton
Carole Fogarty Says:
March 24th, 2008, 20:30 pm
May the writing gods infuse you with the creativity and productivity to meet your deadline.
I’m envious. I wish I had a book deadline.
One thousand blessings
Carole Fogarty
Emily Says:
March 24th, 2008, 20:33 pm
Good luck at the marathon! Hope to hear all about it soon. And good luck with the book deadline as well, we’re here for you.
Phil B Says:
March 24th, 2008, 20:57 pm
I love reading this blog, and always look forward to your posts, so I appreciate the heads up.
You’ve done a remarkable job of running a remarkable blog and those of us who’ve been helped by it will be here. My feed for Zenhabits ain’t going nowhere.
Focus down to the bottom of the well. Focus and write!
ioahaij Says:
March 24th, 2008, 21:19 pm
Zenhabits.net have become my daily must-visit website. To me, this website serves as a motivation for me! so I guess I am not going to abandon the website anytime soon.
Now that you know, go and focus on your latest book!
Erelen Says:
March 24th, 2008, 21:50 pm
Wow! You sound very busy!! I read that and I don’t even know you personally but I am so proud of you!! What you are doing is great. I love reading your posts. It helps me get thru my day, which is often very stressful.
Rob Jensen Says:
March 24th, 2008, 21:59 pm
Good luck and willing to help any way I can. Love the blog and looking forward to the book!
Leo Says:
March 24th, 2008, 22:02 pm
Wow, thanks for all your encouragement, guys! See, you are really the best readers in the world. I’m a very lucky guy.
@Tim: What happens if I miss the book deadline? Well, according to my contract (which I really should have read before signing), four things will happen:
1. I will be publicly castrated. Literally. That’s not as bad as it sounds, as I already have six kids and don’t need any more, but the public humiliation part of it isn’t very fun. Also, I imagine it will hurt.
2. I will have to return the sizable advance I’ve been given. That will be very difficult to do, as I’ve already spent it on a sizable amount of booze, technology, and other sin. I cannot go into details about the other sin spending, but it isn’t pretty. As I no longer have this money, my contract specifies that I will either have to forfeit a pound of flesh or my first-born. Since she’s probably going to make enough money when she grows up to support me in my old age, I’ve already selected the body part that has an extra pound of flesh. I wonder if fatty tissue counts in the pound of flesh — the contract doesn’t specify.
3. I will have to surrender this blog to my publishing company. They are really good people, so I think you’ll be in good hands, but just to give you fair warning, they will change the name from “Zen Habits” to “Really cool books you should buy Habits”. Not as catchy, but probably more honest.
4. I will have to change my middle name to “HarperCollins”. I don’t mind this as much as the other three items above, but I don’t look forward to the tattoo of my new full name (”Leonardo HarperCollins Jose Babauta”) on my rear end as the contract specifies.
As you can see, I really need to read fine print more. That’ll be my goal for my next book contract.
But no worries. I’m not even considering the option of missing my deadline. I have complete confidence in myself, and in you guys to hound me to the ends of the earth if I don’t write my 2 hours a day quota. Which I’ve already done today, hence this long and playful comment.
Jason Evans Says:
March 24th, 2008, 22:36 pm
I won’t unsubscribe, since I don’t use that feature to read blogs, but I will take Zen Habits off my list of blog bookmarks.
I was initially attracted by some of the ‘popular posts’, but I’ve been disappointed by subsequent posts. There seems to be a lack of ‘new’ thoughts or ideas. I expected quality and quantity to increase when you became a full time blogger, but it doesn’t seem to me like thats happened.
And please, learn to take better pictures of yourself to improve your image. The dark shadowy picture coupled with the admission of the wasteful “sin spending” doesn’t reflect well on a personal development blogger. Yes, we all know that you’re human too, but it still doesn’t inspire confidence to readers looking for advice.
Karl Staib - Your Work Happiness Matters Says:
March 24th, 2008, 22:39 pm
Making yourself accountable to your audience is a great way to motivate. I’m going to use that technique in the near future.
banji - LessonInLife.com Says:
March 24th, 2008, 22:42 pm
That must be one huge advance you received if you have to change your middle name when fail to deliver :) jk
Anyway.. no worry, we’ll still be here. In fact, besides your excellent post, I think my favorite part of ZenHabit would be “Ask The Reader”. So much wisdom to learn.
Posting less frequent but at better quality is definitely an application of power of less at its best :)
Michael Henreckson Says:
March 24th, 2008, 22:46 pm
I sympathize with you. I hate writing deadlines. Good luck with the book and the marathon.
Christopher Says:
March 24th, 2008, 22:46 pm
You’ve already made up your mind, and all that is left is the “effortless effort”, to write down what you’ve already written.
This is the best blog on the Web, bar none, and no matter what we are all rooting for you. Go Leo!
Kelly@SHE-POWER Says:
March 24th, 2008, 23:35 pm
Leo, of course we’re not going anywhere. I think as long as you post quality articles, it wouldn’t matter if you published 5 a week or 3 a week, people would get used to it.
It’s so exciting about the book deadline coming up. that means soon you’ll be a “PUBLISHED AUTHOR”! (I’m saying this in a booming voice like it comes from the heavens so I hope you’re feeling the weight and significance here).
So, get writing!
:) Kelly
Leo Says:
March 24th, 2008, 23:42 pm
@Jason Evans: First, Vered is correct … I was just joking about the sin spending. I actually spent most of it on bills. Second, I will readily admit to being a very bad photographer — this was just taken using my iMac’s built-in camera. I apologize for my lack of photo skills. This is why I’m a writer. :)
As for your other criticism, I appreciate the feedback. I will admit to not having “new ideas” … there are very few of them these days. What I write about is what works for me in different areas of my life — stuff I’ve learned from others, and from my experiences. I don’t claim originality, but hope that it’s still of some use.
I will, however, try my best to improve the quality of my posts, especially once this book writing thing is done. Thanks again!
Shilpan | successsoul.com Says:
March 24th, 2008, 23:48 pm
Leo -
I don’t think that you need to worry about readers leaving your blog as you are a celebrity blogger, and that for a good reason.
Only advice on the book writing is to remember, simplicity is the key. Mr. Hemingway’s legendary success revolved around making difficult subjects simple enough for average reader to understand. My hopes and prayers are that you someday can claim equal stature with the legend.
Good luck,
Shilpan
Denise Says:
March 24th, 2008, 23:53 pm
Way to go!
Nose@grindstone.com!
WRITE LIKE A MOFO!
(as it were ^_^)
get back to writing!
David Safar Says:
March 25th, 2008, 0:13 am
Leo,
I’m a fairly new reader, but have quickly grown to enjoy your blog a great deal. Thanks for keeping us “posted” on the reasons for your light posting week, and I’d like to add my own to the many voices of support above. I look forward to seeing your updates on the writing!
-Davi
Maulik Says:
March 25th, 2008, 0:18 am
Hi Leo,
Just don’t worry and go ahead with your book. We are all here to help you. We understand that you might be busy in your life. You might have many more commitments - just like we have. We are all with you.
Daniel Palmer Says:
March 25th, 2008, 0:26 am
All power to you! If you write like you do on your blogs, it should turn out to be a smashing success! You wouldn’t believe how much of your advice I’ve been putting into practice.
ARC Says:
March 25th, 2008, 0:37 am
Leo -
Have a great time at your marathon!! And I know I’ll miss your posts during the time you’re writing your book, but I have a ton of your old posts to go through anyway, so it’s all good :)
pheen Says:
March 25th, 2008, 0:47 am
you can do it! i like that you let us know what you’re up to - it’s very exciting. think of all of us cheering you on and here to lend a hand if you need it. i feel so very much that we must support those who have found professions/ work that they truly enjoy - as in your case. so you have all my support, best wishes and gratitude for your previous entries.
Christophe Says:
March 25th, 2008, 1:27 am
Hello Leo,
Given the good preparation you have been going through for the marathon, it looks like you are ready to have a great time this WE. Have fun and don’t forget that the people around you make as well one of the most important part of your race’s experience. Enjoy!
-Christophe.
Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:
March 25th, 2008, 1:34 am
Trust me…after all you’ve given us, we’re not going anywhere!
JEMi | Tips for Life, Love, You Says:
March 25th, 2008, 2:49 am
Oh we’ll be here Leo! Best of luck on your book!!!
(( hugs ))
Nicla Says:
March 25th, 2008, 2:52 am
Hi,
thanks for all the info I have recieved the past days. I was wondering if your daughter would like a penpal. We home educate our kids (just moved from Ireland to France) and one thing the kids we have 4 kids) love is to wirte letters all over the world.
My daughter is 11 turning 12 and is called Shawn.
SO, best of luck - we say in Scotland “don`t keep the pubs empty”
Nicola Smyth
Putta Says:
March 25th, 2008, 3:09 am
Leo:
Best of luck to you. Rooted for you and wish you go all the way….
Liara Covert Says:
March 25th, 2008, 3:35 am
Sounds like your heart and soul are in the right place to complete this meaningful project. Wheer you have the will and inclination, the discipline and everything else comes. As you send out motivational writing, the universe sends back experiences that are compatible with where you are.
Santosh Says:
March 25th, 2008, 3:58 am
Leo : All the best for the Marathon & the Book. Ur blog is a great inspiration, i always look fwd to it. Hope u finish everything before ur deadline. We are all with u !!! Have fun.
Tranquility Says:
March 25th, 2008, 4:37 am
Leo,
I applaud you for giving us a heads-up - no surprises that way. You are amazing fitting it all in with your family, etc. Well done.
You are one of only three blogs I have subscribed to so far in my google reader. You set my standards high. You also inspired me to try my own hand. Only one post so far - everyday posts seem a long way away.Thank you for the great example.
I look forward to your book. Have you thought of offering an autographed version through this blog if your contract allows?
Kacper Says:
March 25th, 2008, 4:52 am
I’m not going anywhere:)
You know what to do - one thing at time. Now it is time to focus on your book.
Keep doing great work.
Brian Says:
March 25th, 2008, 6:33 am
Leo,
I recently discovered your site and have found it invaluable.
May you have a wonderfully productive week of book writing.
-Brian
elizabeth Says:
March 25th, 2008, 6:36 am
The Power of Less.
Is less really more?
Leo Says:
March 25th, 2008, 6:58 am
@elizabeth: No, less is really less. But I’ve found it to be more effective and more desirable than more. It’s about quality rather than quantity, and focus rather than taking on too much.
Jonas Says:
March 25th, 2008, 7:34 am
I’m sure you’ll get through if you stick to that plan! So, where was the progress report? :-)
Harmony Says:
March 25th, 2008, 7:35 am
All the best Leo :)!! No complaints here if your posts are thin for the week as I’m still catching up on my backlog of printed Zen Habits articles 0_0
You’re such an inspiration. I’m looking forward to your next book too!
Joshua Says:
March 25th, 2008, 8:36 am
Leo,
No worries man, all will unfold as it should. As far as your troubles in working on your book, what area are you struggling with? Content? Structure? Let us all know and I’m sure we can all chime in with something to inspire or motivate you :) You do phenomenal work and have inspired many of us; we’d be doing you a disservice not to show you the same courtesy!
Dot Says:
March 25th, 2008, 9:24 am
Go for it! No problem — it will just add to your subject matter when you get back to blogging more. I do worry that you’re over-extended. This is both a worry for you and a personal worry, because being over-extended can lead to burnout, and then I might not get to read as much Zen Habits, which has become a part of my life now.
jdp Says:
March 25th, 2008, 10:16 am
Rooting for you. How are you doing? :)
skyz Says:
March 25th, 2008, 10:38 am
the real power of less is it allows for the awareness of how powerful you (generic you) really are - we are all profoundly powerful but we waste ourselves in a million trivialities which form an impenetrable tangle - a hindrance to our greater selves our greater good and our greatest bliss -
jaybirdladybug Says:
March 25th, 2008, 11:56 am
Remember, do only one thing at a time and do it well!
simplicity is the key. you teach us all so well.
Good luck.
allena Says:
March 25th, 2008, 12:42 pm
Hi Leo, just wanted to note that the booze and tech and other sin thing made my day! we think alike. I got a new pink blackberry. Did I need one? No. I just like pink. Oops, this is antiithetical to your book isn’t it? Sorry, I’m not good at zen yet. Ask all my “fans” :) OHMMM
Jasko Says:
March 25th, 2008, 13:08 pm
the great Nobelist writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez was writing his greatest novel - One hundred years of solitude - in a complete isolation for three years so it is completely understandable that the great task require more sacrifice. Good Luck!!
SpaceAgeSage Says:
March 25th, 2008, 13:18 pm
I do not know why your site is so appealing and motivating, but it I appreciate this energetic energy you send out into the world. I am sure the same energy will come back to you and your writing to sustain you in your drive toward completion.
Neo Says:
March 25th, 2008, 13:49 pm
All the best with your writing!
Coop Says:
March 25th, 2008, 14:00 pm
Leo,
Just think of all that “quiet” time you’ll have while running the marathon.
Hopefully you will clear your mind, while your heart, lungs and feet deal with the stress.
Best,
Coop
Leo Says:
March 25th, 2008, 15:32 pm
Thanks so much everyone! Your encouragement means the world to me.
@Jonas: Thanks for asking for a progress report! I did 2 hours of writing yesterday morning and finished an entire chapter. Will try to do the same today.
@Joshua: Actually, I’m not having any problems with content or structure … the book is coming along fine … I just need to focus more and get it done! :)
Greg Says:
March 25th, 2008, 15:42 pm
We’re here for you! Good luck on your marathon. I finished my first marathon last year in Chicago. Getting ready for this year’s! Hope it’s not as hot.
Leah Whitehorse Says:
March 25th, 2008, 16:05 pm
Look at all these lovely messages! Everyone is right behind you Leo! Good like with the book and the marathon. Hope you got your two hours in today :-)
Mark - Creative Journey Cafe Says:
March 25th, 2008, 16:24 pm
Go Leo! Put it out there - that’s the way to do it!
Leonard Klaatu Says:
March 25th, 2008, 17:07 pm
Turn off:
1. The phones (all of them)
2. The TV
3. The radio
4. The Internet
Then,
WRITE.
That’s my encourage. Of course, I could come over and kick your a– if you think that might help!
MrPositioning.com (Stanley Bronstein) Says:
March 25th, 2008, 18:06 pm
Good luck. I recently completed my 3rd book, so I know what you’re going through.
Just think how great you’ll feel when it’s done.
Mr. Positioning
Stanley F. Bronstein
Attorney, CPA, Author and Professional Motivational Speaker
oakling Says:
March 25th, 2008, 18:14 pm
Kudos for finding clear, simple ways to hold yourself accountable while strengthening bonds with your audience and for finishing off another chapter!
beansprout Says:
March 25th, 2008, 18:43 pm
Wow, you are brave!! So much good energy is with you in everything! Maybe the time spent running will enlighten your writing…
~ PEACE ~
Brian C. Says:
March 25th, 2008, 20:19 pm
Good luck with the book/marathon. Which marathon are you running? As it happens I’m also running a marathon this weekend - my first one! Your writing has been a source of inspiration during my training. Keep up the great work!
Kristin Says:
March 25th, 2008, 21:40 pm
I think it’s great that you are humble enough to admit your situation and ask for help from your readers ~ that alone should be a lesson in itself to everyone…
Wish you the best of luck and will definitely be patient until your posts are back in full swing!!!
~K
Leo Says:
March 26th, 2008, 0:37 am
@Leonard Klaatu — you’ve outlined my strategy exactly! However, I’m not so sure that you kicking my a** will be very productive. I will consider the offer, though. :)
Marc Says:
March 26th, 2008, 0:52 am
As has been mentioned by most of the above commenters, don’t worry about us, we’ll wait for the posts! :)
Good luck on the marathon, the book and all your future endeavors.
Looking forward to reading your book, as I am trying to simplify my life by doing, thinking and worrying less. “Power of Less” - sounds a bit like “Power of Now”, which I am currently reading.
Jeroen Says:
March 26th, 2008, 7:09 am
As a new fan of this website I wish you success on reaching your goals. I just love your work. Will surely buy your book :-)
Greetings from Holland, Europe!
Richo Says:
March 26th, 2008, 7:41 am
Enjoy your marathon on the weekend, good one you for doing it!
I always find that when I’m inspired, I can work the best. Find some inspiration and you’ll get your book finished.
Why don’t you have a competition for the best poem or something to be posted on Zen Habits? That way you can get inspired for your book by your readers poems and have something to post on your site. Win, win. :-)
Greg Says:
March 26th, 2008, 10:16 am
@Brian C - I’m creating a Web site for first-time marathoners. Would love to get your story as motivation for others.
In fact, if anyone on here has run a marathon, would love to get your story too! Reply to gldawson@gmail.com with text, photo or video about your marathon experience.
It will be posted on http://www.finish-first-marathon.com under “motivation.”
Leonard Klaatu Says:
March 26th, 2008, 11:12 am
Leo, good ’cause I doubt I could kick anybody’s a** anyway. Hope you’re making good progress.
LK
Pamela Kirstine Says:
March 26th, 2008, 12:26 pm
WOW what a neat place this is and with such nice folks!!! I am just starting my book and that is why I am here: Looking for inspirational people to inspire me and did I ever find it here. You have already helped me so much with my fears and doubts. I know my book will never get done if I don’t get inspired and do it. I plan on doing mine all in calligraphy which I am learning now, so my book is going to be done in the old style of writing. I am REALLY old fashioned truth known about it, but I think I can do it seeings how you are doing all you are doing and making such a good go of it.Thanks dude for the inspiration and only the best of luck to you. I plan on coming back as a regular now, hope that is cool!!!
Margi Says:
March 26th, 2008, 12:55 pm
I’d wish you luck, but you don’t need it. You send fantastic energy and karma out into the world.
I, for one, am swamped myself, so fewer posts will help me get my work done too! :-)
All the best, Leo. (When are you going to Thailand?)
99ppp Says:
March 26th, 2008, 13:29 pm
I would imagine “The Power of Less” would be a short book with such a title. ;)
Chris Says:
March 26th, 2008, 19:57 pm
Write. Every day. If nothing comes to mind, write about it. Write in your blog. Write on the back of an envelope. Write, write write. It’s like taking photos: in order to take a few good pics you have to take lot of bad ones. In order to string a few good lines together, sometimes you have to write a lot of mediocre ones. But you already know that. Write all the words, good and bad. Then write some more.
Chris
http://www.ChrisMoreau.com
Julie Tajalle Castro Says:
March 26th, 2008, 22:11 pm
Leo,
Think positive and you will succeed. I have so much faith in you. Keep me posted as to the completion of the book so I can purchase several copies. I am very proud of you.
Julie
Saint Helens, Oregon
Dominick Conte Says:
March 26th, 2008, 23:11 pm
Leo,
The less I write, the more time you have to focus on your book. I took on the challenge of an Ironman last spring and finished. The experience forever changed my life. Keep notes of your metal experience during the race and remember all you need to do is keep moving forward. Pushing limits is what life is all about. Kudos to you.
Dom
San DIego, Ca
Patrick Says:
March 27th, 2008, 12:02 pm
Wish you all the best. The most important thing when faced with a daunting task is to believe in yourself and don’t care too much for the end result.
Anthoney Grigsby Says:
March 27th, 2008, 14:24 pm
Good luck with the book!!
I’ll be willing to help out and submit any stories if needed.
april Says:
March 27th, 2008, 15:59 pm
way to go!!!
So How did you do this week???
DEBORAH Says:
March 29th, 2008, 18:25 pm
I AM VERY INTERESTED IN THE BOOK U R WRITING, ALSO IN ZEN HABITS. THEY SEEM TO COINSIDE WITH MY CHRISTIAN BELIEFS MUCHLY. I HOPE U ENJOYED YOUR RACE AND DID WELL.
Herdi Says:
March 30th, 2008, 2:45 am
Hey Leo, I just posted a new post on my blog concerning un-controlled pornography as one of the roots of problems that distort our minds and I questioned why hasn’t many self-help gurus talked about the subject.
I was wondering if you talk about it or even go in depth about the subject on your new book?
BeaFan Says:
March 30th, 2008, 2:45 am
The original line is “I get high with a little help from my friends.”
Jonathan from JonathanMead.com Says:
March 30th, 2008, 14:35 pm
Way to go Leo, I completely support you and think that’s it’s noble of you to make a post like this.
I wish you all the best with your book!
Leo Says:
March 31st, 2008, 20:25 pm
Thanks everyone for the continued encouragement!
@Herdi: I don’t address this problem directly in my book, but I think having a problem with pornography would be very similar to just basic Internet addiction, and this is something I will be addressing in my book. Great question!
jack Says:
April 30th, 2008, 5:30 am
You seem to be posting less and less lately. Is it the book, or is it something else? You’re not getiing bored with ZH I hope?
