Today’s question comes from Tina Su, who in August of this year, did what so many of us say we’d love to do, but so few of us actually do: quit a great job to pursue a greater dream. In Tina’s case, this dream includes running Think Simple Now, the website for which she is the self-described Chief Happiness Officer, and which is packed full of a unique kind of inspiration: practical advice you can start acting on today. For an example of Tina’s work, check out her recent piece on why our obsession with doing too much is often what stands in the way of achieving what we want.
Carrie says: At this moment in time not much. I work intensely, eat well, get enough sleep, exercise and give thanks.
Danielle says: FINALLY get to Zumba dance class to shake my booty.
Tina says: Cleaning up and removing the clutter from my living space.
I recently moved into a new living arrangement, and have just returned from a trip abroad. All my things are in a semi-unpacked state in boxes and suitcases. Clutter gathered on every surface.
The task seems so overwhelming that I’ve been making excuses not to tackle it. Meanwhile, it’s been affecting how I feel. My outer state is a reflection of my inner state, and right now, my inner state is quite cluttered.
The solution is so simple, yet I’ve managed to avoid it for several weeks… until now. I’ve just created a plan for organizing my new living space and have broken the job down into manageable chunks. I will start executing the first chunk tomorrow. By taking baby steps everyday, I know that success is just a matter of time.
Tina Su recently left her corporate job to focus on her passions full-time. Tina writes weekly at Think Simple Now (which recently celebrated its first anniversary), focusing on personal happiness and wellbeing. If you haven’t done so already, we highly recommend subscribing to Tina’s site, not least for its combination of inspiring content with practical, real-world advice.
We caught up with Tina recently as part of our series of interviews on people who have successfully transitioned from thinking about their dream to actually living it every day.
“True terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country.” – Kurt Vonnegut
Carrie says: On the outside I was one of the popular, athletic, pretty McCarthy twins. On the inside I was shy, yearning for creativity and my own voice. Age and wisdom is such a gift, found my voice, I am creating and adore being a twin.
Danielle says: The artsy smartsy go-between cliques girl with double shoulder pads, very big earrings, and a hankering to get outta town. Save for the shoulder pads, not much has changed.
Carrie says: Book stores and art galleries in any city!
Danielle says: Eat a veggie dog on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery and watch the street performers. I also adore the Illuminaries Festival – the lantern parade – that my neighborhood has in the summer.
Give thanks for democracy, and always cast your vote!
Carrie says: Listening, learning and letting go while guiding an intention. There can only be one leader.
Danielle says: I believe deeply in Servant Leadership, leaders who, as Robert Greenleaf puts it, “make sure that other people’s highest priority needs are being served. The best test, and most difficult to administer, is: Do those served grow as persons? Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants?”
Jonathan Fields is a reformed hedge fund lawyer-turned entrepreneur, yoga instructor, published author, blogger, father, husband and all around great guy. We caught up with him and were inspired by his experiences of trading a live-to-work existence for a quest to make a living from doing what he loves.
You’ll find Jonathan’s answers after the jump, and for more about Jonathan, not to mention countless tips for living your dream, don’t forget to check out his truly excellent blog, Awake at the Wheel.
“And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – Marianne Williamson
Carrie says: I have very little fear of doing things. The fear of hurting or disappointing a few people in my life stops me from telling the truth.
“So you think that money is the root of all evil. Have you ever asked what is the root of all money?” – Ayn Rand
Carrie says: I feel anxiety mixed with opportunity. An opportunity to see if my expectations are aligned with reality, an opportunity to create new beginnings and the opportunity to be grateful for my health, family, and friends: H&A, Kim, Grace, B&D, Nance, Shan, John S, Bec.
Danielle says: Dread and divinity. I feel that ultimately, the strife is an opportunity to find some equilibrium in a crisis of over consumption and turning outward for love and satisfaction.
On your mind, your favourite new favourite, gotta tell everyone about it…
Carrie says: Kundalini yoga, I went to my first class last week and felt heavenly during and after. I am usually a power yoga chick but the grace and intensity of Kundalini is perfect for me. Thanks Kimmie!
Danielle says: I’m currently worshiping the music of Antony and the Johnsons. Antony is part man, part angel sister, and I think his lyrics are divine transmissions.
You already know Pearl from her regular wisdom doses on our blog. Our resident Relationship Coach always gets us thinking deeper and bigger…
Carrie says: Curiosity is the key to creativity. Asking: How does this work? What if? Wonder what? I yearn for more creativity, this question reveals how I’m suppressing my curiosity. If I let myself be more curious I would be savoring daily delights with people and creating beauty in my life; photos, books, food, fashion and home, well…everything!
Danielle says: I’ve stopped being actively curious about each of my parents. Sigh. I take their history for granted, as if I know the whole story. If I engaged in some memory-lane questions about their own stories, who knows what I’d find…softening, sadness, affirmation, some wicked laughs.
Pearl says: I have started to think about this question more as I watch my two teenage boys move swiftly into adolescence. In the time it took me to go from packing extra cheese sticks in my purse to making sure their cell numbers were programmed into my phone—my boys have gone from “But, why?” to “Yeah, I know.” Their curiosity about everything and anything was certainly trying at times but it was my constant reminder not to take anything for granted. It was also a reason to pause and ponder. It prodded me to find things out and connect to new people and ideas. When we stop being curious we start to get cynical and close ourselves off from the wonder of the world around us. So I started to examine what I have stopped being curious about. The longer my list, the closer I got to some pretty core issues in my life. Here are a few things from the beginning and end of my list. I have stopped being curious about…
Who my new across-the-street neighbors are?
Where the recycling collectors on our street go home to?
Who is wearing the clothes I donate to the Vietnam Veteran’s Association?
What makes my husband laugh when he is watching TV in the next room?
Why am I keeping myself so busy?
What relationships have I let slip out of my life?
Your descendants shall gather your fruits. – Virgil
Carrie says: I would like to pass down beauty. In wedding dresses I designed, ideas created, words shared, gifts given and time spent with loved ones.
Danielle says: Sizzling realism in every form of media – especially books, books, books! Conscious birthing and parenting inspiration. Effective philanthropy. A child who fully lives his freedom. Kick ass dance moves.
This is a mantra that I take to the streets with me. It comes in particular handy when someone races ahead of me in traffic, or butts in front of me in line, or doesn’t return my “hello” when passing by.
“I don’t know what you’re going through.”
It’s an instant dissolver for feeling pissed off and put out – an amazing equalizer of judgment. A magical mind-stretcher that makes me wonder if someone…
This book review was sent in by Heidi, one of our readers. She’s been recommending it to all her girlfriends and thinks you might enjoy it too. Thank you for sharing Heidi!
. . .
I just wanted to drop a line to recommend the book that I’m currently obsessed with. It’s called 9 Secrets to Bedroom Bliss: Exploring Sexual Archetypes to Reveal Your Lover’s Passions and Discover What Turns You On by Jim Herriot, though the title is a bit deceiving. The title makes it sound like this is a book for someone who isn’t satisfied in the bedroom, but it’s really about finding out what kind of archetype you most relate to in bed, which archetype your partner most relates to and how to explore other types and enjoy multi-dimensional sex. (If you’re not familiar with archetypes, an archetype is like a basic character that exists for all of humanity, and you can chose to play one for variety, but everyone has one that is their “home” archetype and feels most comfortable too.)
She doesn’t have a crystal ball, but if anyone can teach you how to clear your plate so you can make way for the best, it’s Gina Trapani. She’s the founder of one of the most successful weblogs of all time, Lifehacker.com, and the author of Upgrade Your Life: The Lifehacker Guide to Working Smarter, Faster, Better. Maybe you can actually plan for greatness…
What’s the feeling you’re usually trying to achieve? What helps you get that?
I always want to feel like I’ve made something useful. It’s probably the obsession with productivity my job requires, but at the end of the day, if I can point to something I made or written and feel like things are better because of it, I’m happy. Usually I get there by working on the things I want to work on because I’m interested and excited by them, versus the things I feel l should work on because of some expectation.
What’s the advice that you’re always giving people?
I always give people the advice I need the most myself: to relax, to listen to your gut, and to try.
She doesn’t have a crystal ball, but if anyone can teach you how to clear your plate so you can make way for the best, it’s Gina Trapani. She’s the founder of one of the most successful weblogs of all time, Lifehacker.com, and the author of Upgrade Your Life: The Lifehacker Guide to Working Smarter, Faster, Better. Maybe you can actually plan for greatness…
Carrie says: To wake up in the morning next to my husband knowing all is possible by living true to myself.
Danielle says: Ooo! I know! Thursdays I write from home. I relish my music blasting, a candle burning by my orchids, a pot of Yogi Tea (Lemon Ginger) and the space to just crank from the heart. And then, I’ll take my kid to his circus class and almost weep from the cuteness factor. And who knows, maybe a magical phone call or breakthrough idea could nearly top all that best-ness.
Gina says: I’m going to wake up next to someone I love dearly. Doesn’t get much better than that.
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo da Vinci
Carrie says: Not be responsive to other people’s discomfort. To be aware and sensitive and yet not absorb their stuff would give me freedom and power throughout the day.
Danielle says: Rather than shopping for, and wrapping, and mailing a birthday gift, I’m emailing a friend a music play list for his birthday. Easy breezy.
“Look at us, said the violets blooming at her feet, all last winter we slept in the seeming death but at the right time God awakened us, and here we are to comfort you.” - Edward Payson Rod
Ms. Daisy. Mademoiselle Tiger Lily. Mister Iris. Missy White Tulips…
You are a flower, don’t ya know?
We ask a whole lotta poignant questions in a Style Statement session. You might be amazed at the questions that give us the most insight into someone’s truest nature. Like this one:
Flowers have an expression of countenance as much as men or animals. Some seem to smile; some have a sad expression; some are pensive and diffident; others again are plain, honest and upright, like the broad-faced sunflower and the hollyhock. – Henry Ward Beecher, Star Papers: A Discourse of Flowers
Carrie says: Peonies: full, lush, elegant and casual. They live a short life with passion and power then fade.
Danielle says: As I wrote in Style Statement, I think my favorite flower is “yet to be discovered…it grows deep in the jungle somewhere and only blooms on a full moon.” But other than that Sacred Dramatic-ness: heavy white orchids in terra cotta pots. They last for ages. Durable but particularly sensitive.
…that is, if you want to cry your eyes out, feel connected to the immensity of the human family, and get inspired to get over your petty wounds and invigorate your own life and community with a sense of greatness, courage, and celebration. So…if you’re not up for that, then just head to the romantic comedy section at your local video store.
War Dance is a large, visually poetic, socially-relevant documentary, Oscar nominee and Sundance Festival winner for Doc Directing. It’s scope goes to far Uganda and to the depths of suffering and the heights of the human spirit.
THE STORY:
Acholi tribe children from the most northern war camp in Uganda prepare for the national musical and cultural competition in far-off (and far-safer) capital of Uganda.
The things you do to calm your nerves and cool your jets. Today’s question comes from a bonafide Zen (and karate) mistress, Mary Jaksch. Who, when she’s not meditating or wielding her black belt, heads up GoodlifeZen.com and is Editor-in-Chief for WritetoDone.com. THAT’s life balance.
Carrie says: For moderate amount of stress I go for a run, talk to my sister and feel better. For Intense stress I hibernate and sleep. Most importantly I give myself permission to be alone, ache, and return.
Danielle says: I cope with stress in two ways, in equal parts, with equal intensity. Step 1: retreat. Step 2: dial soul sister. I’d be lost at sea, utterly adrift and nutso, without my precious, loving, all-seeing, hilarious girlfriends. And because I’m so sonically-wired, it actually helps me to hear myself talk sometimes. I also find 70s rock highly tranquilizing. Nothing like some Led Zeppelin to put things into perspective.
Mary says: When I’ve got too much on my plate and feel strung-out, I go to a yoga class. All my worries disappear for a while when I’m trying hold a difficult yoga pose.
Usually, I like to write a lovey intro to our Inspired Interviews to set the stage for our guest and really convey our admiration for them. But Mary Jaksch is such a rare bird, I’m going to let her swoop in with her bio in her own words. In my words: wow!
“I have achieved quite a few milestones in my journey through life: I’m a Zen master, psychotherapist and author. My book Learn to Love is now translated into five languages and I have recently published an Ebook called Overcome Anything: Finding the Light after Darkness. I’ve been awarded an MA in Religious Studies, hold a 4th Dan Black belt in karate, started my professional life as a flautist, and love dancing Argentine tango in skimpy skirts. That’s quite a strange mix, isn’t it?”
(Mary, I’d love to know what your Style Statement is!) Read to the end this interview to get a free copy of Mary’s e-book, Overcoming Anything.
And we’ve got more stars lined up: Life Hacker founder, Gina Trapani just around the corner and the remarkable Rebecca Walker with a heart-melting question this month.
So who would YOU like to see on the Daily Q&A? (No, we can’t get Oprah…yet).
Let us know about your favourite bloggers, authors, and creative inspiring types, and who knows…they may magically appear in your in-box in the near future.
I came across this on Rebecca Walker’s blog (she finds the best jewels.) No matter who you vote for, this is a magnificent song full of visionary passion. This is political artistry at it’s best, and it reminds me that artistic expression is a mighty, mighty force for raising conscious and opening hearts. Hopefully it inspires the change that that is required…the change that the future is praying for.
Do NOT get a tattoo. Just don’t do it. Nine times out of ten it’s a regrettable act of stupidity. Resist the urge.
You’re still reading this?
STILL hankering for some ink?
Good. You passed the test.
If you insist (and you had better want a tattoo enough to INSIST on it, then proceed to #1.)
8 THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN GETTING A TATTOO
1. Tats are a big damn deal. They last longer the many marriages and all mortgages. Be thoughtful. Please, I’m saying this as a minister of inspiration and authenticity: get something that actually means something to you. Is Mickey Mouse on your ass or a unicorn on your ankle the best moniker your Higher Self? That tribal arm band…what tribe you from, sister? If you’re getting a tat to be cool, as a right of passage—okay—I get that. Just dig deeper than the flash art available in most tattoo parlors. Good rule of thumb: think about a specific tattoo design for one year. If you still LOVE it, go for it.
“A friend should be a master at guessing and keeping still.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
Carrie says: To be honest I’ve been a rather poor friend lately, too much work, too much about me. My friends would say I am thoughtful, helpful and brave.
Danielle says: Wise cracking at all times. Especially useful at births, weddings, funerals and break-ups. Especially useless at house painting, moving and cleaning (but I’ll do it…begrudgingly…maybe…for free pizza and beer). Private, but honest.
In the lead up to the American Presidential Election, the WiseUSA ‘08 event encourages and supports collective, global prayer and mediation for the “emergence of wisdom and compassion in ourselves and in America”.
The event includes a series of teleconferences and audio webcasts featuring spiritual leaders from around the world. Each teacher will share what a wise USA means to him or her and will guide a subtle activism practice, such as a meditation or prayer for collective healing.
Lovely article today from Seth Godin about your art, the practicalities of money-making and quite simply, generating pure passion in your life. I couldn’t agree more with his perspective: create happiness.
Here’s a snippet:
Maybe you can’t make money doing what you love
…I think it makes sense to make your art your art, to give yourself over to it without regard for commerce.
Carrie says: From Bruce Mau’s Manifesto, “Don’t be cool. Cool is conservative fear dressed in black. Free yourself from limits of this sort.” And a practical shopping tip: buy three times as many tops as bottoms. Money tight? Get your eyebrows done, your eyes are the windows of your soul!
Danielle says: Tapered pants should be outlawed. NO ONE looks good in them. One size bigger is very often better. And…of course, having a Style Statement is the foundation of a great wardrobe.
Speaking of getting your eyebrows done, ever heard of “eyebrow threading”? Learn more about this ancient art form and watch Carrie getting hers done.
Tina Su recently left her corporate job to focus on her passions full-time. Tina writes weekly at 
Jonathan Fields is a reformed hedge fund lawyer-turned entrepreneur, yoga instructor, published author, blogger, father, husband and all around great guy. We caught up with him and were inspired by his experiences of trading a live-to-work existence for a quest to make a living from doing what he loves.
Carrie says: Curiosity is the key to creativity. Asking: How does this work? What if? Wonder what? I yearn for more creativity, this question reveals how I’m suppressing my curiosity. If I let myself be more curious I would be savoring daily delights with people and creating beauty in my life; photos, books, food, fashion and home, well…everything!
Carrie says: I would like to pass down beauty. In wedding dresses I designed, ideas created, words shared, gifts given and time spent with loved ones.
Carrie says: Peonies: full, lush, elegant and casual. They live a short life with passion and power then fade.
Danielle says: As I wrote in 
My book 
In the lead up to the American Presidential Election, the 
In a recent Daily Q&A, our guest Patti Digh asked, “
