What if you didn’t need money or attention?

Reminds me of "The Gift" by Lewis Hyde.

I've been reading about Greek and Roman stoicism recently. It very much feels like a good life philosophy to me, and I think your words today fit along the same line. Thanks Derek.
Absolutely! See A Guide to the Good Life. One of the most amazing books I've ever read. Great philosophy. — Derek

A Hans C Andersen query, a la Emperors New Clothes.....naked honesty, of the sort that free bird knows.
We all have the same initials, DNA. I'd start there, toward "only humane" & from "only human."

What a life! I think we should all pursue those things we would do for neither of these rewards...I think we'd all be a little more loving and helpful to one another for sure.

i would do two things: write and produce plays for people to enjoy, and start/manage a non-profit foundation to provide grants for worthy causes, primarily artistic.

As always, you nail it. Poignant and timely. Thanks, Derek.

I recently went plant-based low fat and lost 27+ lbs at 44 years old so I started a YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/wkriski - and Facebook page - www.facebook.com/willkriskiguitar . People are loving it and I get emails telling me how they're off meds, lost fat, etc. Plus all the animals that are saved from this diet along with the environmental benefits. It's very rewarding to help people.

I also have a jazz guitar channel and enjoy sharing my knowledge. I have a voracious appetite to learn and so I study jazz guitar and learn about healthy eating. I haven't worked since May and when I do it's remote. I'm about to do a one day a week gig from home to pay the bills and allow me to invest more.

But at the end of the day we only have so much time on this earth and it really doesn't matter what anyone does at the end of the day. The ego is afraid to die and no longer exist and we are afraid to accept that the whole thing is really meaningless. Humans are the only ones that really contemplate these types of things. :)

This is a very Insightful and conscious affirmation to the universe when one can, at the core of everything, follow your bliss. A wonderful quote... when you are not sure of your path, follow your passion... it will lead to your path. Remember that your passion changes. Its important to look up (from your smart phone) and look around to make sure you are following your current and most important passion.

You made me think. Gonna print this article and read it again later, and whenever i ask again this same question. Thanks, Derek!

The answer to the question for me is simple if I am at that point them the thing I must do is give back and offer a hand up to others on the journey

If money were no object... I'd take a pad and paper and good camera.. and wander around the world learning new things...and note my observations so it could be shared with others...
☺ I like that. — Derek

Thank you!

TRUTH! When we are connected to all that we are here to feed our soul's desire, our soul purpose, live a good life!!!

Derek, what a beautiful post.
Good question.

What I would do is enlighten the world. Step by step day by day. (with the paradox of it is already all there right now)
By sharing about myself and being me. By being that field of presence that simply is, and at the same time do things that flow out from that, that align.

I would keep expanding, changing, always different. Because each moment is different and the world is different each day.

I would get more things done and more things not done.

I would write, connect, inspire.

.. and you know what? I'm doing these things already! But I would do them more.

AND I would go out, into nature, or the city. Do girly things, or really cool things. Visit museums. Have fun. Walk around in the city dressed as a ballerina. Make love more. Especially to myself.

I really love the question. After giving a couple of minutes thought what I could found is, it would be great to share the knowledge with others with out expectation or ego, when I feel like no need for attention.

It's an important question. I think I would do what I'm doing now, but I would write fewer blog posts and more books. I might make that change anyway, because it changes more lives and makes me more money.

Also, I'd travel MUCH more. :-)

Hi Derek, I'm neither rich nor famous, yet I feel that I am in the position of being rich and famous enough. At 63, I'm a retired educator on a small pension and am now pursuing a long-term musical project (since 1996). Everyday I do something to advance the creation of it; it has become my meditation. And I find myself, in the words of W B Yeats, "laboring in ecstasy."

I agree completely and share you view. Thank you for the article! Your writing is always worth waiting for...

Hierek,

Personally I am not a fan of attention. Unfortunately it is part of the game. I read there's a place in Poland where you can hear Chopin's music daily and never see the pianist. That fits my style. On the other hand I think money can give you opportunities in life that 'non-money' cannot.....even if it meanly freely giving to people standing on corners with signs, and pets, and kids.
Yes! See Thirty Two Short Films About Glenn Gould for some interesting thoughts on this. — Derek

I would mentor a handful of young people to dream and develop to their full potential and then do the same for others. I'd also mentor a handful of retired boomers who don't have enough money to support themselves in the golden years. Helping them to monetize their experience and wisdom to supplement social security.

You would be doing what 80% of the world does -- living. It's possible to be of service and live an authentic life without being known. I never found the quote again and don't know if it's real but I once read that Ralph Waldo Emerson said I never really developed a following because I was too busy helping others do so.

Lately I have been pondering these very questions.

Travel, hike, sleep more, read more, love more, spend more time with my kids, camp, fish, be more migratory.
“migratory”: good word! — Derek

I think that is why tuning in to our own signals is the best thing, and defining our value by the world's definitions is so dangerous. All that can go away in an instant. You are with yourself until the day you die. Why not direct your efforts to make yourself happy? Pursuing money for moneys sake is by definition, hollow.

Thanks for this Derek. I often ask my friends that question in order to know what I term, "their truth" (for lack of a better term)

Will, the reader who left the 7th comment, mentions his jazz channel on youtube. Alas he left no link. Could you perhaps get that from him or ask him to post it? I'm a jazz student myself and would like to check out his channel.

Thanks for the insightful articles.
Thanks for noticing. I just Googled around, found it, and updated it. — Derek

Matt 6:33
But seek ye first the kingdom of God,
and his righteousness; and all these
things shall be added unto you.

We should go for what we actually 'need' versus what we simply 'want.' (No revelation there, right?) Fulfilling wants before needs is like eating Oreos and hoping for the satisfaction of steak.

I would invite my favorite musicians and tour the world with them, go play in places where folks listen and appreciate the community that music creates. I would renovate every old folks home that has hallways lined with doped up old folks, and give them air, space and make sure musicians and other folks come spend time with them and thank them for their life contributions, and ask them for their wisdom. I would find a loving home for every orphan. I would give every homeless person a place to live and a piece of land to grow food that they could share and build community with. You did say if I didn't need the money? I think I took it to mean if I had limitless money. :) Oh and I would go visit my folks at the drop of a hat, and lie on a beach with my sweetheart more often.

I've spent all my adult life working regular jobs and writing and recording music on the side. One feeds me, one feeds my soul. If I didnt have to work to feed me I would spend more time than I do now working with animal rescue, and I would still write songs, both of which make me feel good about living.

Give back and offer help to others- for some strange reason that is what it always comes back to. i think it is from gratitude from what we have already received and assistance rather than persistence to help someone else that has just started down the path. Oh yes and my kids - would give them 100% of my time while i still can, and i still can ! Thanks Derek

Ah yes, Derek-san, tranquility and the pursuit of virtue, this is what is good in life.

The bodhisattva does everything he or she does with the goal of relieving all sentient beings of suffering. Starting with that motivation, anything can be satisfying, or the wrong things like working just for money or fame can be understood as such and discarded. Finding a way to make music that is not created out of a need for recognition or money, and that somehow does more than give people fleeting pleasure (although that's already better than alot of things one could do), is a goal of mine.

Wholeness is our inherent nature. After many years of seeking out there for fulfillment, I turned inward. Another 20 years passed, and despite the Great Current of our culture, I found I am whole and complete lacking nothing.

I hardly work now and enjoy my idleness; reading, studying whatever interets me. Sitting for long hours doing nothing at all. Riding my bike or walking for the joy of it.

A consumer based society - what misery.

Thank God I am free from that.

That was beautiful. Thank you, Derek :)

I have to admit - I'm blessed. If I didn't need money or attention - I'd still do what I do - business coaching for artists and creatives. I so love it. Now I'd love to let go of many of the things that I need to do to keep my business functioning - especially FILING! And I'd love to do more writing. But the core of what I do, helping people get their goals and live their lives doing what they love - that's what I love. And ironically - this question - is one that I often ask my clients when deciding what goals we'll pursue together.

Ghost write biographies of the homeless, publish them as a way to flesh out and personalize a marginalized, de-humanized part of our society, celebrate commonality and serve as counterpoint to fame and celebrity. There would be wonderful stories there, mostly untapped. Write other stories as they come, be creative. The undertaking of that work whilst still needing money to live... an infrequently enjoyable struggle.
☺ Nice one. — Derek

Hi Derek,

Think when we know what our purpose is . . . .( mine is a motivator for positive change through communication :) ) we know that we are more than our 'job' . . and can do what we love doing, anywhere . . and we keep getting ideas and encouragement from books and people- like yourself:) - around.

I just read a book ( ebook because it's quick :) ) that someone recommended to me . . and . . . like your column . . it's helped me understand my journey more. And I have never cried so much reading a book. I think we cry when something touches us deeply- touches our souls.

I have discovered when I cry spontaneously it is when someone is becoming more of who they are really mean to be ( generally after some kind of hardship )

Ohhh this last book I read that touched me in a good way was ' The Soul of Money' by Lyn Twist ( her website is http://www.lynnetwist.com/ ) if your readers want to check it out.

I know I have learnt much from what was in the comments on your site, as well as from you.:)

Cheers!

Best,
Lauri

For nearly 50 years now I have been blessed. I have painted and earned more than most painters do in their lifetimes. And so, with no “need” for money, I would indulge myself by continuing to paint - but not bothering to sell anymore.

It would mean that I would have "enough" to indulge myself in "whatever". And that whatever would be to create the most non-profit organization in the art world - an art gallery. In this place I would display and eagerly promote the artworks of others - those incredible creatives I have encountered throughout my life in the visual arts - and yet who's work never seems to garner the respect and admiration deserved. That’s what I would do.

Gittin’ all Buddhist + Zen => ego.delete

Well when you are super busy raising children, there isn't much time to think of these things because it is all about them. You can't just leave them to pursue become whole and complete so you have to squeeze in every moment alone to do this. Money has never interested me much but if I had a ton of it, I'd share my passion and teach others to find their passion and gifts. I think the ideology is great just like living in the moment but our crazy busy lives don't allow for it. Those who can sit and contemplate and read, ride bikes and give up all that consumerism probably aren't raising children.

I would open a tech lab. Just like Dexter Lab, which i use to watch when i was little. i will start learning every tech stuff and start building and testing new projects. i want to build robots. i want to test all gadgets available. i want to meet all great minds.

Derek, Most odd.. Each person within the world, must ask who am I and just like in your email post.. So my answer is this track http://www.reverbnation.com/tommycarl/song/19479702--slow-ear-noise-vocals-by-lindsay and note as you said "We do so many things for the attention, to feel important or praised. But what if you had so much attention and so much praise that you couldn't possibly want any more? What would you do then? What would you stop doing?" Who about, just saying HI to a new person each and ever day.. Tommy

Talk to God in TempleOS. The purpose of life is to know and love God. God says, "shops 333 shepherd's penalty Speak ending neglecting shame humility Knows holden "

Praise God, then randomly open a book. The same effort you put into praising God, God will put towards talking to you.

I actually have never "wanted" "attention". I've "wanted" to make people happy or help people pursue their own dreams, and while many times that equates to getting attention, it's never been the attention that I wanted and in fact there have been many times I've gone out of my way to avoid attention.

If I didn't need money to live or pursue my dreams, I'd actually be building apps and products that I think would lead to happier and more self-fulfilled lives.

Alas, I need money so I'm stuck in a crap job that doesn't allow me to do good for anyone. I try to make up for that in my too-few off hours. (I wish I go back in time and tell myself not to take out student loans and a mortgage!)

Thoughtful post but not following logic. Isn't this like someone saying, 'imagine your hunger problem has been solved', what would you do next? If my hunger problem was truly solved then I would move upwards along maslow's chain. But if it wasn't I wouldn't be able to move upwards just by imagining my belly is full.

For those who pursue them, money/attention, etc. are rungs along maslow's chain. Don't believe their desire for such things would be satisfied just by imagining that they have it.

I'm 57 and took an early retirement three years ago from my job working as a gardner for a major city. Before my job I'd been a professional musician but got burned out with the 'industry'. After a couple of weeks of doing nothing I decided to take classes from UCLA extension in 'Counterpoint', 'Orchestral score study', 'Composition', 'Ear training' and 'Writing for orchestra'. I discovered I love being a student. I dug deeper into my piano technique and music harmony.

I also took classes in writing 'the personal essay'. I've always enjoyed writing and in many ways it parallels music, finding the rhythm of a sentence or the cadence of a paragraph.

Lately I've been studying the art of audio mixing and mastering.

None of this has made me any money, in fact it's cost money to do it, but my self-confidence as a musician has soared. I recorded a country album for a friend in my personal studio last year, and every second of the classes I'd taken became invaluable in making the sessions flow easily.

The one gig I have, playing piano for the "Healing through Music" program at Cedar Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, has really benefitted from my studies, allowing me to compose and improvise healing music on the spot.

I don't know if I'll ever make money in music, or be recognized as an artist, but I'm having the time of my life in uncovering it's secrets.

Next. Pilots license!!

My experience in a similar vein is the response I get when someone wants to record a song or idea and I tell them to come on by and we'll make it happen.
Utter disbelief that someone would take the time to professionally help them in their endeavor for free. If you love it, do it. Not only for yourself but for others as well and I guarantee you'll be rewarded.

Wow, I feel a lightness and peacefulness when imagining, "I do not need money or attention" to be _________ or just to be.

I think that I would live even more from my soul and purpose than from what others perceive or the human need to feel important to others. Love does still matter most and I think that more would be given from a purer heart..to self and others.

Giving the ultimate gifts of what the soul yearns for, creating music as an act of love, free from any thoughts of monetary gain. There would be much more of letting my spirit follow it's bliss. I would start the chamber orchestra that I've been wanting to build to share the music with as many as possible..be in nature more often, fear less, and love more.

Just finished Anything You Want, I'm inspired! What a treat to read this post today. I am grateful for your questions, you remind me to stop for a moment and think about what's important. Thank you sincerely for sharing and that picture is beautiful.

Derek, that pigeon shot is All Time! Love your photo selections.

I would be in the ocean every day. Would spread love and good cheer to people walking around with frowns on their faces...

The problem is, if everyone was out following their passions, there would be no one to pick up our garbage, bus our tables, clean our hotel rooms, or sell us a hot dog on the corner, etc. :0I

Derek, this is one of my favorite posts of yours!

Because you are asking the question that I ask myself often. I know that I help people through my art business consulting, but, sometimes it all seems meaningless when all I'm doing is helping people make money. I love money, but why? Because it makes life easier when you have it.

But, my true joy comes from teaching people how to eat and live healthier. I don't do it for a living, but I help people close to me. And they thrive from it.

If I didn't have to make money to earn a living, and I didn't have to worry about the other things you mentioned, I would donate time and energy to helping people who are feeling sick and worn out. I would help them get healthy.

Maybe one day when my kid grows up and I don't have to worry about bills anymore, I"ll do it!

These are thoughts worth pursuing, Derek. Thank you. Nineteen years ago I left a major company and a pretty successful 24-year career because money and advancement (attention) were not cutting it for me. My wife was on board with my decision. But, I found myself struggling to put food on the table and really disliked it. I have stuck with it and have been reasonably successful economically. My heart, however, is in composing. Now, I am doing more composing than engineering and enjoying it even though it has only cost me money. I had defined myself in my parents model until I lost interest and it has taken a long time to not feel like an economic and career failure. But, God has blessed me with a most-rewarding outlet for my preferred work and I am much more comfortable in this "skin" than I ever was in my old "skin". Will I ever get to the point at which I don't even want to compose anymore? Nope. Touching people's hearts with music is reward far beyond money and attention.

Einstein once said that one of the greatest things that one can accomplish in life is to escape the "self". It took me some time to understand what he was saying and years now to apply some of it to my life.

Spent the past five or so years struggling with this subject. I keep coming back from this nihilistic abyss of a question with the same thought. Every time I think I've found a 'real' world answer it turns out to be a blind alley.

In the end......I think there is only love. We all get to choose how we manifest that concept.

What gets me Derek, are people with billions of dollars who die with billions of dollars.

If you have billions of dollars it means you haven't spent your money. What's the point of money if you aren't spending it?

ok -- the discussion is excellent -- thoughtful, thought provoking -- meriting a meaningful ponder. And then the image -- certainly the pigeon is fat and satisfied -- the very personification of full. Solid, full, nothing more could possibly be needed.
But I can't see it without a smile -- a long and loud full-out laughing. Can you imagine sitting -- just you -- cozy and comfortable -- BUT situated on a bare, hardly-bigger-than-you corner of the outside edge of a building, maybe a balcony -- AND very, very, very high up over a busy, dense city far, far, far below. That's where you've chosen to settle full, cozy, comfortable.

Does anyone else see the deep down, primal humor of this picture? I for one would be feeling a most highly tuned electric zinging in all of my bones -- particularly those close by the base of my spine. It is thrilling -- I love it. But it is tautly tuned in a most exciting way.

Full, cozy, comfortable -- not exactly and not in this image. Understanding this particular sensational moment -- profound and worth a lifetime's attention. Much of it better than and beyond language.

And this could be the point of living and breathing and being that which isn't about money or attention.

thank you
☺ Thanks for noticing. — Derek

I've set up a Beeminder goal to do a little Stoicism reading (almost) every day, and I'm finding it to be an effective way to regularly reset my hedonic treadmill. Coincidentally, today's reading was from William Irvine's A Guide to Good Life, an excellent introduction that Derek also recommends, and most of my recent reading has been from Seneca. Irvine's book, published in 2009, understandably speaks effectively to modern sensibilities, but it's amazing how fresh Seneca feels even after 2000 years.

Derek, after losing both of my parents within 4 months and then my son whom I raised on my own for from 3-years-old to 12-years-old decided to go live with his Dad full time... On the other end of the country.

This experience brought my life to "Ground Zero" and stripped me down to my "Truth" where I deeply explored your questions.

I just allowed myself to be where I was, which was in "Nothingness Land" - I took a year off from all my big ideas and building my business. I surrendered all my dreams etc.

On the other side of my extended vacation, I found that there were some areas in my business that I felt inspired to go deeper into and others fell away.

The transformation that occurred for me was realizing that EVERYTHING... every business and project I had done was created out a desire to prove I had value. To prove I was worthy to be alive and justify my existence.

Now I can truly do things just because they seem FUN and I'm inspired to do them. If I get to make a difference along the way...BONUS!!!

I LOVE this quote by Byron Katie...

"Please spare me from the desire to seek love, approval and appreciation."

Thanks for sharing this Derek!

Thanks Derek! I am quoting Daniel Gilbert: "We are happy when we have family, we are happy when we have friends, and almost all the other things we think make us happy actually are just ways of getting more family and friends."
Ha! Brilliant quote. Thank you. — Derek

I love the photo! The title of your essay says it all.

I'd probably research the things I'm interested in like waste management, mycology, ecologically-sensitive building design and urban planning; maths. I'd probably write more. Take longer weekends for periods when I need to unwind a bit and spend time with my family.

But instead I have to work at whatever makes the most money even if that effort is used in the most inefficient way possible.

Derek
Although I think this exercise lives firmly in the hypothetical, I'll play along.
I suppose what would be left to drive myself would be a desire to help others.

The rent must be paid. At the same time one must be sure to take care of their psychological and spiritual well being. It seems to me most people would benefit from striking a balance between the two. But if I had no worries about money or attention I'd make the music and recordings that I truly want to make. I'm not sure my music would be any different from the way it is now. I think it was Brian Eno who said, "The best way to ruin a recording is to have too much money for the project". It zaps everyone of their ingenuity and creativity. After all Flamenco came from the poorest gypsies, and Bossa Nova came from the poorest Brazilians. Maybe being really poor also gives one the freedom of not worrying and just creating.

Derek,
I'm smiling because Nick & I recently wrote a song about exactly that.
It's called "What then?"
:)
Big hug and thank you for always posting something positive & thought-provoking!

Most people think it's the answer or the solution to their problems, but they only think that because they don't understand their relationship with money and what it really is. Money is not stationary, it's energy, constantly coming and going, and our earnings and spendings are nothing but a reflection of our thoughts and choices in life. "Money" is a resource that we create and that never ceases to be part of our lives... even our bodies function based upon the income of energy and spending of energy, and when you understand this, the old belief on the subject of money isn't very important anymore... because your efforts are now focused on the things that are really important to you, doing the things that you really care about, so much, that you are not doing it for the money or attention anymore, but for the joy of it, and so money flows constantly and easily, sometimes flowing in faster than you can spend it. However, when you don't love doing what you do, then it becomes a matter of only effort and doing it for the money. But there's something even greater than money, attention and effort, which is desire. DESIRE is the basis of all expansion. And while you may be satiated with the meal you've just eaten, you will soon have desire for more and maybe even different food. And everything anyone desires for their lives is for just one reason only: the natural belief that they will feel better in the having of it. And so, when you achieve or fulfill that desire, and now feel better, it will be just like the food you've just eaten... very satisfactory, very satiating, many times making you move in the direction to the next quest or new desire. And so we just move on to fulfilling the next desire, and the next... like being addicted to an adrenaline rush.

What a GREAT, life defining question.... and one I've been currently pondering, so perfect post for me today :) I think sometimes we forget to evaluate our pursuits and also stop realizing that it is OK that our desires change over time.

Reading these comments I realize you are all a bunch of hippies (you too, Derek) ... but that's a good thing. Makes me miss the 70's (and my soulmate). Loved the music then. PEACE

I find that when I am in my element, pursuing the things that I love and giving value to others, money and/or attention is inevitable. When I am not in my element, pursuing the things that I love and giving value to others...I am just dead.

Help people by using your gifts. If you're a musician then play to make people come together and enjoy life. If you fix cars then fix them and just help people and forget about yourself. If you do this you'll probably end up with more money and attention than ever before!

An interesting question. While partly about the delusions of personal ambitions, the bigger question is what about our culture has created such a common experience? Paper money was supposed to solve the problem of there not being enough money to pursue our dreams and be productive, now we have more money but still not enough, more efficiency and less time. Too much action and not enough thinking. The quiet desperation that Thoreau described is not so quiet anymore.

I would continue to write stories, write and play music and create art. I would also travel and learn more about the world I live in. I would do what I could to help others less fortunate.

I saw a phrase the other day that really struck me...can't remember where I saw it, but it was "Follow the Aliveness". I realized that you can do that with every decision you make - even small ones - like what to eat for dinner or what movie to see. I think it helps me tune into my body's reactions to choices. Where is the "aliveness" for you?

I'd keep making music. I've never done it for money or attention but because it fills me out like nothing else can. I WOULD quit the day job.

this si such a good reminder…'ve been there and my 85th birthday was the 16th.
Aside for all the things i do for my family,friends,church, and neighbors.
I still get such joy in my music and yes, I sponsor a concert series in our small hamlet and musicians, grand, and stars and would b's come and marvel at the stillness and of course the great reception they get.
just returned from Spain (daughter Elisaeth not only sings, but uses her talent in so many ways. I sat in the studio while while she wa narrating adocumentaryAfrician/English and cried when I heard the story. She did it so well and i found that the missionary orphanage that takes in all these young girls was jus another think i contribute to.I'm so grateful for digital downloading as well. every performer, be it instrument/singing or whatever is happiest when they know that someone is listening and appreciates the work.
again, that's to you and CDBaby for making this happen for me.I am sulfilled as an artist and as a person.
hugs, and Happy Spring

Derek,

Money should not be a problem.

It is always good hearing from you ! Your launch of cdbaby truly gave so many independent artist an outlet when there was no other. I was onboard pretty early on and appreciated you. My new book win anyway is now available on Amazon.com

In such situation I would do the same thing as Derek.

I would split my time between creating music, travel for personal growth, and trying to solve big problems that have been neglected : infrastructure/grid/veterans I guess I sort of do this now, I'd just do it freely and more.

Upon obtaining a state of plenism I find myself drifting toward a state of non-dual contemplation, and floating in a sea of bliss, until some karmic attachment to the world brings me back.

This is an awesome blog Derek! Nice work my friend and really makes one think! If I didn't need the money, and didn't need the attention, I would still write songs and make films. Both are my passions and very challenging, but I enjoy seeing a finished product so much, that it keeps me focused for many years whether I make money or not. I think all musicians start off craving the attention of others, and overtime the "look at me" factor truly wears off and it boils down to writing unique songs that others may enjoy, same with filmmaking. Thanks for making me work my brain Derek, you rock! This is a very cool picture too, I love it!
www.WhiskeyChild.com
itunes.com/WhiskeyChild
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Help others and ask nothing in return. You will find you'll be paid back at least double what you put in, just may take a while. Good luck feeling depressed or unhappy when someone is thanking you or you've genuinely improved their life.

Though I personally felt it's most effective when it's one on one and not through a group or organization. You can always think you're helping but nothing like that direct contact with a problem resolved that fills that void.

Some years ago I decided to do only things I want. Stopped watching TV, stopped searching for attention by doing things other people think that are usefull. I became vegan and work only some months a year now. I love every day.

hi Derek - good post. Kind of like being comfortable with the Buddhist concept of detachment and that all things are impermanent. A yes, success is a by-product of living fully and well. cheers, kb

Yes, money is part of today needs, as well attention-self accomplishment-love (and for all time). I try to do my work (phone sale and support) every day as someone that is there to help other small businesses owners save time and money on thier shipping cost, thus make their personnal/professional life happier.

Focusing on customer relation as a business-friend, I focus on their satisfaction instead of number of calls/revenues; money-commissions comes in naturally.

I learned part of this way of thinking in your book. Thanks Derek for being there and sharing your life experience as a simple human being.

I would create opportunities for other people who need money and attention. I'd start a music foundation for live performance, put music back in schools, open a performance space....endless possibilities. And sing sing sing (without worrying about butts in seats)....in my new performance space of course.

3 19 2014
Dear Mr. Sivers,

Good day.

Toady... maybe are aware that this day is HAPPY day, maybe...

Something that you may find helpful and do; have positive thoughts and warm feelings.

Yes, a bit simplistic, and that is the beauty of it.

You are not alone. All humans, I think, want love and to be understood.

Maybe, you are having a low mood, maybe... It shall pass.

Be well and happy.

Virginia

That's a nice dream but the sad reality of modern life is that most people are constrained by their financial responsibilities.

Some would say that the government intentionally keeps individuals struggling financially because that way they have less time to cause "trouble" for the government and power brokers. Not sure there's enough evidence to justify such a claim, but also not sure there's enough to disprove it either.

Oh Derek!

This gets right down to it, doesn't it? My body just enjoyed a 3 hour nap! I await the warmer weather, as if to dare Mother Nature to awaken me too. However, the awakening is different this time. I do not need validation of any sort; only peace. I have no need of a challenge from the world. At this end of life comfort is wonderful. I love all of those around me as well as my dog. Maybe the best thing to do is turn off the TV, etc and just see what comes from you. If nothing does, just don't worry about it.

Awesome insight Derek, as always!

That's the third time I got into thinking if I'm doing what I am because of my necessities (money, etc) or because I really enjoy it.

The other 2 times were:
- first, when I heard Steve Jobs speech - when he talks about death being the single most useful invention that reminded you that you should be pursuing what you want because you don't know when you're gonna die;
- second, when I got myself thinking what would I do if I won the lottery and how that could help my life in that specific moment.

I guess it's very hard to be able to say you are really doing what you love the most, because if you think about it, what do you love the most? Could this be a business or maybe a secondary passion would be?

Like Seth Godin says: maybe you wont turn what you love into a business, because that would ruin it (the art) but maybe you can love what you do or find something you like to do and learn how to love it.

So that kind of doubt always stuck with me and I guess with time and patience I'll be able to solve it.

Profoundly true!

I recently retired from being a university scientist, thinking how wonderful it would be to get out of the pressure and relax. What I didn't expect was an indentity crisis. Who am *I*? Not what do I do, but who AM I? My job was so much a part of my indentity and self worth that I was quite lost for a while. I hung on to the scientist title like I was drowning and it was a floating log!

Being useful to humanity IS what it's all about. Almost everyone wants to be useful, to be needed, to be productive in some way. I sure do! My research was important, it was useful to humanity, that's the part I miss. I hated the paperwork and the begging for grants and the defending my work to people who had no basic understanding of rudimentary science, yet were in charge of the funding, but I the feeling of being the only human being to know some tiny new fact, if only for a few months!

What will I do now? I don't know yet, but thank you, Derek, for making me think about the positive side of this. :)

Have always liked this variant:
"Dance as if nobody is watching,
work as if you didn't need the money,
love as if you've never been hurt!"
Most people already fail on the first one....

Excellent blog.
Love the pic. The bird does what it needs to do and then what it wants to do. This includes attention seeking at mating time...which is inate in all living things and only pathological when carried to extremes.
"To be content with little is true happiness"...someone once said.
"When you die, all you take with you is what you gave"..my Mom told me that.

I'd enjoy the wonders of the world and quietly dedicate myself to the pursuit of world peace

Once again an article that is food for thought, but your photo is amazing. I love it!

I applied the brakes on writing for myself.

To clarify - I started slowing down the process. Involving more people into the recording and production. Whether a song has been co-written or written solo, I've been running it through the ringer. Writing. Re-writing. Re-writing again. Examining the production.

The result: The first single that I've finished (as I'm no longer pursuing doing entire albums any more) has been getting such insane feedback on the positive side, that it's garnering way more attention than anything I've done in the past. The other awesome thing is that it's drawing people in that want to help make the vision fly.

The reward: Aside from people wanting to put in effort at this point, I'm going to be happy if it grows wings and takes off. There's no guarantee it will. However, based on early reaction - it's got a fighting chance. Especially when people who would normally ask for the product at no cost are instead offering to pay upon release of product.

The conclusion: It all comes down to making something you love and believe in with people who share your goal. If you accomplish that - the rest is gravy and dessert.

Human being's life is need based. If money and attention are deleted from the list. New needs will come up:
Make others happy, help others
Change the world, save the world
Learn more, teach, preach
And many more - in the list...
In any case the desire cannot be eliminated.

p.s. - I'm about to go steal some happiness by skiing a few runs before I do some co-writing with a friend. Skiing is a great way to escape money and attention.

I just wrote whole about this and what happens in your brain when you can do nothing. Turns out your brain is never idle: http://www.orbooks.com/catalog/autopilot/

Learn and teach organic aquaponic farming after a considerable woodshed period of mastering the craft myself.

Thanks Derek. Good words. Too often we fall into the trap of defining ourselves by what we DO, rather than what we ARE! We can get so caught up with the 'doing' that we not only short-circuit our own creativity, but we lose sight of why we're doing the thing in the first place. At least, that's been my experience. The problem is, this essential 'disconnect' almost always produces inner chaos, turmoil and loss of vision, if not a complete and utter identity crisis. . . which brings us back to the initial question of "who are we really?" and "why are we doing what we are doing?". The stuff we DO should be a natural outflow of who, and what, we are at our core. Sometimes I find myself needing to step back, invest some time in assessing my life, my values, my motives and my art as objectively as possible. Only then am I able to move forward with fresh inspiration, more crystallized vision and a new momentum.

Life is not just for a career and making money. There is a special purpose that has to be accomplished. Not just say you love but let your character show your love by your actions. Love your brothers and sisters as you love yourself.

man, i would make a car assembler on brasil that sells like in america, every kind of cars at 30k reais, that is like 10-15k dollars, i think its possible, and i think many would love a sedan or a coupe for this price, thats a way to help out

You can never have enough money. (17.5 trillion in debt)? Money can always help mankind by teaching them to fish. As for attention, The most fun I've ever had in my life there wasn't but two of us. Your attention requirement comes from your self-esteem which comes from within. I do not have a god complex and do not care to be an American Idol.

That being said, we all get to a point when we wonder what our unique purpose for being on this spinning ball in human form is, as this party will come to an end and all you will have to take with you are your memories or experiences. (I think that was a profound quote from Disney's lady and the tramp). But seriously, we are all here to live, learn, love and leave a legacy. Like Solomon wrote in the book of Ecclesiastes: " All is vanity". And to quote "Mortal Combat": "Knowledge is power". As for me?

I just want to be cool like Dean Martin, Respected like Ronald Reagan and die like Dale Earnhardt. (Die doing what he loved) Death Valley Scotty is known for his creed: "Don't give advice. Nobody will take it anyway. Don't explain and don't complain".

Thank you.

A beautiful picture of the city.

I implemented a Naive Bayes classifier today. I feel happy.

Now I am gonna take a bath and read a book.

Derek:

It has taken me a long time to look at life in relative terms and am still learning. Money is important only because I have bills.

Attention? I am addicted to giving and receiving attention from my wife and kids. "If I could climb a ladder and bring back the moon, it would be theirs" I have had positions that provide attention but have never really sought it out - has it hindered my personal success monetarily? maybe... but, again it is relative.

I am happy - I am able to be a decent steward in my community, but will grow in that as well.

Most profound & best of your writings. Thanks.

I would pursue my interests to the fullest.

Does that sound selfish? Or is it by definition, giving your all?

Something's bound to rub off.

Suppose it would depend on society's valuation of one's interests. And back to value...

Amazing. Lately I've found myself here. But it took a long time to get where I am (my wife & I). I was in "survival mode" and extremely unaware of my priorities. Now that I am, I am buying less and saving more. Once my basic needs are met, that's all I need. Everything after that is the gravy. I understand how the rat race works though, it's everywhere. Consume. Consume. Consume. You're not good enough until you have [insert item here].

The outlandish part of it all however, is most things we are being pushed to consume has a lifespan. The "new" car will one day be old, the "new" jeans will one be outdated, your phone...let's be honest, there's a reason we have contracts and new versions springing up all the time. It will NEVER stop if its all about the money or notoriety. It MUST come from within. No matter what you drive, what you own, how much money you "earn." It MUST come within. I decide my success. And I choose to use that success to help others through my passion.

Thanks for another amazing post Derek. LOVE!

Dream Impossible.

As an academic, I have a lot of freedom in the pursuit of scholarship, but am still subject to the behest and mission of the academy. Personally, if I were not constrained by the pursuit of money and praise, I would be perfectly happy pursuing other intellectual activities. I find the thought of a quiet retirement of (different) scholarship and creativity to be very attractive.

Hi, Derek! I know many people is on this wheel... the example you put about your musician friend and the one with the entrepreneurs are very clear examples... the question is, if you dont need money nor attention, what would you do? If the answer is startuping anyway, beginning and developing something because is fun, recalls my creativity and keep me alive.. then I find I am doing the right thing.

What if you'd do mostly what you're doing now, is that a good sign?

This reminds me of Allan Watts and some of his talks. We must gain contentment by changing ourselves and our desires.

Thank you, Derek!

I would continue to study philosophy. I lost my job late last year and was out of work for 2 weeks. Luckily I had a large savings and therefore was able to make the most of my free time in between job interviews. I began writing. I started reading philosophy again - much more modern stuff like Gilles Deleuze and Manuel DeLanda as well as finally getting around to Marx Capital Vol I. I went to the gym on a regular schedule. I ate healthy. It was an awesome 2 weeks, and I learned a lot about what I'd do with my free time and the answer is almost definitely not leisure - I learned that too much leisure drives me crazy.

In the last 10 yrs I have crossed over each of these bridges, embracing change each time. Letting go of what was once so important.
I no longer have a week of steady gigs here on Maui. In fact when I had them, I began to wonder why am I doing this?
I'm not rich, but I don't need to play three nights a week. Just like your questions this morning Derek.....
Is it the attention? Is it the way I define my self? Do I not want to be forgotten, at least locally? A few years ago, in meditation one day at the Jodo Mission, I realized I have enough.
What did I do?
I decided to focus on what I can do ( profitably ) that makes other people happy.
I now play only Singing Telegrams and weddings. Guess what? I have fewer gigs, but they pay much more than restaurant gigs. I am around happy people celebrating the best events of their lives.
I have fallen under the radar of the current "Local Music Scene" here on Maui. But I really don't miss the attention... 12 yrs of this was enough. Beach weddings on Maui are so sweet! And my reputation has grown in a new way, I get flown to the other Hawaiian Islands, to be the musician for weddings. The last 3 Cd's I have produced are all Hawaiian style love songs.... perfect for perfect weddings.
With my spare time, I now offer a free Tai Chi class for seniors once a week.
Namaste Derek san
but I am more of who I want to be.

I'm in exactly the position Derek describes, and it started last fall. I did a lot of thinking and decided to devote my life to creating music for MYSELF (and anyone else who may want to listen). I continue to practice the clarinet three hours a night, write tunes and arrangements during the day, perform when the opportunity presents itself, hire rhythm sections and sometimes other soloists to record albums, and then (when I'm in the mood) listen to my own music in mixes with my favorite recordings by other musicians.

If my recordings meet the very high standards those musicians set, I feel good. If I fail, I go back and do it again until I do meet those standards.

My music is and will be online for anyone to hear ... and in the future I may offer everything at no charge. As a friend (a genuine big shot movie composer and orchestrator) once said, if you reach only ONE person with your music it is all worthwhile. FREE is a good incentive for most people to listen. And occasionally I reach somebody.

I would be doing exactly what I am doing. Going into music with no resources to invest but my own sweat has made for a harrowing, but rewarding ride. Little financial reward, but being able to travel the world and have it pay for itself for someone from a family the most of whom have never been outside the county they were born in is something special. I have no reason to expect even a minimum wage income, but my life has already been more exciting and interesting than it was supposed to be.

Love the way you pose this question. It reminds me if how I was taught to write yiur own eulogy from the perspective of who you want to deliver it.....and more recently I have written it based upon what I would like Jesus to say if he were to deliver my eulogy....

I always think of money as a translator -- it translates the value of what I do with the car mechanic I pay to fix my car or the farmer that grows my food. If I do not think my work has value to society, then I feel I am cheating those who sell me their goods and services.

Your last line....But I find it healthy to make sure they are just side effects of doing good work, or living a good life. This is what it should always be about. Then the money to live will flow to us if you have something to offer. Most of the time this takes a while, as it is with me. Not there yet, dollars I mean! The basis of your life is absolute freedom, the goal is joy, and the result of that perfect combination is motion forward, or growth. Your goal is to find objects of attention that let your cork raise. You're never satisfied. That's what life is, it's just this ongoing, never ending vacation adventure, you see. You can't get it wrong and you never get it done! You can never end the desire or what is coming in unless you wish to cancel your own self with negative thoughts. TerryLee

I would use one year, to mature as a human, which means rid myself from all the neurotic bullshit, that the capitalistic slave society has put into our heads. After that i would use my tech savvy to help keeping the technology running, that will provide us with food, clothes and housing. Trash wouldn't be a problem, cause we have copied nature. Nature creates in abundance and what isn't used, is recycled. And i would create and share, fulfilling my purpose as a human.

I would go to France and sit with Thich Nhat Hanh.

I'd start over again. Probably in a better & new place :)

In Christian thought this is about the tension between Creation and Fall - the idea that somewhere along the way the world (and we) got broken and all is not quite as it ought to be. I am not quite my best self (or maybe I'm WAY off) and neither is the cosmos. One consequence of this off-the-mark-ness was that humans - who were ALWAYS created to cultivate and grow things - now had to sweat and toil to do so, or else not EAT.

Working to eat sucks. Working to grow beautiful things is awesome.

I'm an entrepreneur AND an artist, so I live with this tension every day. It's not enough to simply "follow your passion and the money will come" - the world ain't fixed yet, and not every passion pays the bills. It's also not enough to simply follow the money; there's something literally de-humanizing about boiling your life down to satisfying a list of needs.

The trick is to make like a new creation, to live a fully-human "fixed" life in a still-not-fixed world. I think that requires making savvy choices every day. It's the life lived wisely, and it's a creative act - an art - unto itself.

If I didn't have to live with that tension, I'd spend lots of time talking philosophy and theology and story with others, helping them work through that tension too. If NONE of us had to live with that tension, I suppose I'd just write songs and books.

Most of them would probably be set in the old days, because songs and books without tension are boring.

I just quit my wonderful job a few weeks ago. I worked with people who I'd proudly call great friends. But as inspiring as the work culture was, I was having trouble seeing the big-picture value in what I was doing.

Last week, I decided to sell all my stuff and move to Central America to make my savings stretch further while I work on Gittip, a project that I genuinely and truly want to succeed in the world. I'm fucking terrified, but actively trying to sift that through my amygdala and find the excitement that I know there is somewhere in this experience.

Maybe it's just because moving always make me emotional, but over here on the other side of the internet, your words are just what I needed to find. So thank you so much. I really appreciate you, man :)

Love it Derek! Since I love music I would most likely revisit all my music that I thought was not good enough. That would take a large part of my time. Between putting out music just for me and charity work I think I would be quite happy.

You don't need money, as long as you have the stuff it buys and you do need to eat and feel safe when you sleep. Add on clothes if you don't want that sort of attention

Attention is funny thing. An infant need attention to get others to help it survive. Most of us grow out of that. I hold that it's still there, but we've added a lot of other things to it.

If I play along and imagine not needing either, I also imaging that my thoughts on this would not be shared. I hate it when you don't read my comments. :)

When I'm in my true bliss, motivated by my self-actualized intention to serve with what I create, I'm happy in that moment. In the next moment, I'm working on sharing the good stuff with those show can benefit and my happiness is multiplied

Absolutely. I just "fired" an employer, with nothing else lined up (except for my book project), because they were making me extremely unhappy and unhealthy (stress/anxiety, zero compassion for work/life balance). It was lose-lose, so I did not stick it out, even though my friends and family advised me to (not realizing they were actually advising me to eat spoonfuls of metaphorical dog poo and die an early death). Do I like getting a paycheck? Yes, but not at the expense of my happiness. I am a free agent (a tech writer for money, if you must know) and I am good at what I do. But I do it for satisfaction and joy and bringing value to others. I provide a service. I think of all employers as clients. If the client does not think I am serving them amply, I fully accept that, but I am not willing to be abused and stepped on. Hatefulness is not part of the "contract." Sacrificing my well being for others is not fair. There has to be a mutual benefit. Everyone needs to be nicer to everyone and stop trying to exploit and get more for less. I write a lot of blog posts. I hope people read them, but if they don't, I am still going to write them, because I love to write. Writing is really how I define myself, though I am pretty good at music too. Neither one has much of a monetary or social recognition payoff as far as I can tell. But it gives me a sense of value anyway.

The comments are the best part. I always read Derek's posts immediately, in part because they are short enough to be read in 2 minutes or less, but mostly because I always get value.

I'm neither rich nor famous, so I don't know firsthand as to what I would do.

But I can guess from my observations in life so far. I think once you get rich and are famous, your circle changes. And you realize you're NOT the only one rich in the world and not the only famous guy around. So you are not as rich/famous compared to your new peers. So the motivation would be become better than everyone else in the group. In the process of achieving that, your circle changes again (you move on to more elite group), and the same cycle!

Until you reach absolute TOP, and at the helm, I guess it will be way too lonely and boring! Probably THEN would we realize "vanity of vanities; all is vanity"!!!

:-)

Rada Neal mentioned something that just reached deep into my memories.

When I was 17(1998), I went to Piotrków Trybunalski, Poland, to assist in building a place of worship. We would wander around the city on our days off, & once, I heard the most incredible Chopin playing, seemingly coming from the 5th story of an older building. There wasn't any clear way in, & it seemed shut up, but the music poured out of the open windows on the top floor. I was transfixed on that street corner until my companion forced me to continue our walk. I've always had a very personal & romantic memory of that. I can't believe that it would come back to me all these years later. Thank you, Derek, for creating this space.

I have often said that capitalism has gone astray from the original concept which is very much as you state at the end of your article. Profit is the reward (or side effect) of producing quality goods and/or services. The focus has shifted from making a quality product to making a big profit. We are now living the result.

Re: identity. Once when asked what I "was" I answered "a musician". My significant other at the time was very troubled (I was working as an engineer) After fifteen years as a working musician I still say I am a musician. What next? I don't know. I still do for fun what I do for work. That's not so bad!

This is a very thought provoking post. I personally have defined myself as wanting to be a programmer for a few years now, and sometimes wonder if I ever make a successful product or company, would I still program for fun. I think the answer is yes. Your friend who is a touring musician will still play music when they stop touring. Maybe they're touring out of fear of being forgotten, but they probably started playing out of a love for music.

That said, I do believe one should follow their dreams without too much commitment. They're dreams for a reason. Personally I think health and shelter are the most important things for happiness, and everyone who has them should be grateful.

Cheers!

I took your question to an expert. My 7 year old son looked at me with his disappointed eyes and said "I would call some friends and play". Maybe he is right. make someone else's journey better.

The "when you're ready to be useful to others again" seems the key thought piece here Derek. Goes right along with living the Golden Rule regardless of whether learned from Jesus or Confucius.

I toured all over the world for over a decade. Have all the money I will ever need from TV royalties. And have been adored more than any person deserves. Love music...but it can clearly become a 24/7 "me" endeavor. Stopped about 5 years ago. What do I do now? Work at my local alt-weekly newspaper here in Indy. Newspapers were my first love and I can give back to my local community this way. And spend more quality time with my wife. Still write/record music in the open slots of life...but much happier with a lot less me in the life monitor:)

Great piece, Derek. The same arguments apply to education and unschooling. I wrote a reaction piece on my blog Unschoolery:

What if you didn't need to earn grades or a degree? http://unschoolery.com/what-if
Love it! Thanks Leo. ☺ — Derek

Why stop there? If you're going to give up your illusions why not go all the way and ask yourself why you ever started chasing those things in the first place? So you defined yourself by your job or by the way other people related to you... But *who* really is there to relate to?

It sounds like you could do with a good hard stopping thinking. What's there when the little voice that told you to do those things is ignored? Go deeply into it.

Of all I've read to help me answer these questions I'd most highly recommend http://www.aypsite.org to anyone interested in doing the same.

For me, happiness is the act of creating things. Starting with an idea and seeing it's fruition. For most of them there is always an element of learning and so I think that since learning is without end, could that be the key?

I would write books and make self-help videos to help others achieve happiness simply by following their passions, to help them break free from the chains of desire and fear.

Go see my Sister in England! She's lived there for 30 years, She is a Nun, and has been since 1964. :)

Brilliant article. I often like to ask the question whether I'd like to obtain the thing I desire, or get to a stage where I am past the desire itself. When you were a kid, how badly did you want that CD or toy? Now you're at a stage where you don't want it and I think it's a better place to be.

This acknowledgment, this admission-to-self should be called to one's attention from an young age (along with the practice of empathy).

You'll probably find this talk interesting: TEDxSinCity, Bryan Franklin:
The Most Dangerous Question On Earth
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tClHDEoje6Y

It's pretty much what you said ;)

Nice one...it has echoes in an essay I wrote (I called it the Ten Most Important Things) for http://www.brotherian.ca/

I like the simple & clear way you say that money & attention are just side effects. Nicely done, Derek! :)

Btw, "The Most Dangerous Question on Earth" referenced above is (end of the video):

'Imagine a version of yourself that has no shame, that doesn't have anything to prove, that's already proved everything, that's gotten the validation you always wanted from all the people you ever wanted it from. Like declare yourself the winner of any game you could think of playing. No one anymore doubts you, least of all you. Imagine that you got nothing to prove. Imagine there's nothing to hide, that you've already revealed every secret you've possibly can, everything you can think of that you're subtly and not so subtly hiding every day - that's already all been revealed. And imagine there's nothing to lose. Either because you already lost anyway or anything you could possibly lose isn't real. And the ask the question,

What do you want?"

This problem can be approached, in part, by synthesis. We might begin with, “He who does not know how to use leisure has more of work than when there is work in work.” So wrote Quintus Ennius (c. 239 BC – c. 169 BC). From this we derive that ancient practice of otium cum dignitate. In this practice, some use their accrued wealth to pursue the liberal arts, others find time for charity, and so on. Others seek to find wisdom through learning or prayer or both. Saint Augustine (354 – 430) wrote, “Our hearts were made for You, O Lord, and they are restless until they rest in you.” St. Thomas Aquinas (1225 – 1274) put forward his idea of vacare Deo, "to be empty for God.” Starting from Augustine’s idea, Aquinas suggested that we use that private cell God has reserved for Himself to invite Him in. Fr. Bernard Bassett, S.J., in his wonderful novel, “We Neurotics,” points to man’s obsession with himself (narcissism,) as the root cause and even definition of neurosis. The unhappy musician might look outside herself to explore her meaning. It is in thinking of the needs of others and on God that we lose ourselves to find ourselves.

Amazing! This is so true. It has really got me thinking. Thanks for the great post

I don't need money or attention and the only things that give me satisfaction are bringing love and beauty to life, creating a wiser humanity, and a more peaceful and healthy world. It is for this that I write and share songs, and create visual art, and do the volunteer and paid work that I do.

Kinda makes me want to build things. Work with wood. Make benches, chairs, tables, useful stuff. We musicians get so caught up in ethereal things and feelings that I think, if all needs were to vanish, I'd feel this need to do some kind of a more tangible work.

I can totally see anyone not wanting the money, but I'm not sure about the attention. Many will reply to your question saying they would "share", "travel", "teach", "learn", "play", "create", "help"... But I don't see any of them not being related to attention. Some might need more, some might need less. But I think we all need some attention somehow

I have contemplated similar thoughts over the last year and have condluded that Social Innovation is the next phase. As a society we have solved a significant percentage of first world problems.

Imagine if the next decade was filled with creating Uber's designed for the inner city, Amazon Fresh's for food deserts, or integrating Google Glass for neighborhood watch 2.0 programs. I argue that these frontiers can serve as our insatiable full course meal.

There is definitely enough for all.

2 Years ago I intentionally stopped working and moved into a vehicle in an alley way for a year- part experiment, partially because I just wanted to be left alone. I made $5600 that whole year doing odd jobs and most of it went to gas and food. I ended up driving that car 2800 miles away from that alley way and now work for a hardware/manufacturing start-up as an engineer. I remain happily anonymous in the world of technology and this time around I traded big salary for big equity stake.

Honestly. I would do what I'm doing. I LOVE helping people. I love doing healing work. I love singing with my wonderful group of friends that are by band, KIVA. I love doing Lipsology events and having folks really enjoy hearing about themselves. I LOVE everything that I do for pay. Really! If I could do other things, I'd travel and do healing work and teach Lipsology abroad... it's what I plan to do if I find connections... find folks that want to learn Lipsology which is totally new to many folks. It's the art of lip print reading where folks get to hear what their lip prints say about them - personality traits, energy levels, emotions, health and what's going on with them in the moment. It's fun and playful! I LOVE doing it! I love teaching it! I would also explore the world. I'd go see and learn about other cultures than mine. I have done some of this and would love to do more. Thanks for asking!

I move a lot due to my husband’s job (6 cities in 6 years) and hence have had this conversation in my head where I've had the time and energy to fill my space with something besides the need for money. 3 years ago I made a decision to quit looking for a job in every new city I moved to and do something productive with my time besides working for money. I decided I would learn or do something new every month, I started off by teaching adults and immigrants English at the Corpus Christi Literacy Foundation and now I teach adults English and Math for free at Literacy Kansas City. I have a Masters in Chemical Biology and I did not want my education to go to waste; hence it made my decision to teach (those who wish to get a college degree) much easier. In my spare time I spread awareness for much needed humanity in our civilization and I run charitable races, volunteer at Habitat for Humanity, Harvesters and teach kids at a Sunday School. My new skill/thing for the month of March is boxing. I started off 3 years ago learning how to play the piano, since then I have tried my hand at horseback riding, piloxing, training for my first 5k, entering cooking competitions, archery, skiing etc. So to sum it up, this is what I do: I have a cooking blog, I run a 'do good campaign' to promote volunteerism, I teach, and I am a social media communications officer for the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers in Kansas City and United Muslim relief KC. Here's the link to my do good campaign page: www.facebook.com/DoGoodCampaign?ref=hl. Life is too short with too many possibilities I am on a mission to live it to the fullest!

I would have to say that if we are satiated in our money and attention affairs department then we are in a state of just being. what's the line of John Frusciante's song... I'll steal this field if i relax. Deeply philosophical reasoning. This also reminds me of stories I've read about Gandhi, where reaching a state illumination comes from a place of dematerialising. That is getting rid of all of our worldy possessions and just living, being.

Absolutely LOVE this one! Thank you.

Best,

Elli

> now she's just doing it for the fear of being forgotten

Is your touring musician friend writing original music ?

Live on in the minds of the living, you won't be forgotten ...

I realize that these are basically my motivation, I'm trying to overcome them, not because they are bad, but because I prefer to do a good job.

a.k.a. First world problems haha ;)
My answer to those questions would be to try to be as successful I can possibly be. If I ever get close to having more than enough money, then I want to invest on something completely different than what I do... and I do love new technology that makes a difference in the world. That would be my next step. There is always something to do.

YES! I love this…connected to you through Leo Babauta's blog. My husband and I have steadily been learning this new perspective (with help from Amber Rae and others in her network) and he quit his desk job and we took the girls out of school because we became so aware of how incongruent our lives were. It's scary sh** and we feel very alone at times but people like you help ease the anxiety and keep us moving in the right direction. Thank you.

I can imagine a world where we don't need money because, in actuality, we don't need money and that world is a reality. Our need for money is a very complicated, convincing but ultimately misguided falsehood. However as social animals we need attention so I find this thought exercise pretty flawed. I get where it's coming from, but if you really want to know what we'd do if we didn't need money or attention the truth is, I believe for anyone, that we'd do basically nothing. Nothing but what is needed to survive. Creativity is an act of sharing rooted in the desire to connect with others so pretty much all creativity would go out the window except what little was needed to entertain oneself. It is not impossible to truly care for others and give of oneself to them, but without the desire for attention, there would ultimately be no need to connect with others so we'd all seek solitude in order to cultivate our greatest ability without distraction: true consciousness. There would be no need to be 'productive' or 'ambitious', one would simply eat, sleep, meditate, and enjoy the wonders of creation.

CODE TO LIFE 1.0:
when needs>wants {update motivation set life_goal=meaningful;}

Everyone's definition of meaningful is different; however, it involves happiness and other people to some extent...

Thanks for the inspiration
Truly,
Super DBA :-)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZuZkhbNPjs

Take more Coursera classes.

Holy crap - I never really thought about it like that. I feel like I'm still trying to find my stride and actually get paid for what I love doing and overcoming the fear of that is still a work in progress for me. Defs food for thought … ❤

Some people would be happy relaxing or doing "nothing." I would contiue to play my guitar until I can't play any more or until I die. Sometimes I fantazise about playing for a massive audience and the music would help the people in some special way.

Word.

I believe nothing is a good place to start. Everyone needs to survive and I believe the true joy comes with giving. Helping the poor is important. When money flows from the rich to the poor, the poor rise up and give back again. Is it not that what people feel they are lacking may be security? No one wants to sleep on the streets. I am like a Maid Marian, I pray every day to make a plentiful sum, in order that I might live simply and help others to do the same with a certain amount of security knowing their people and countrymen care. I work proficiently at what I LOVE- producing music while believing in my product. Let us take from the rich and give to the poor! How we gonna do it? Sell the rich people all the music and shows. lol Persevere. Truth will prevail Aho! "FANTASTCO!"

I will add this to these two questions: What if I didn't need to "fix" something, what would I do then?
If I didn't need to fix, make money or get attention, I think I would go back to furniture design, storytelling, and traveling. Something creative, something observant, something connective. Normally, the answer to "what if you didn't have to make money?" would lead people to try to make money doing it...but I really don't want to attach money to these things directly. I don't want to be a furniture designer for money. I want to do it for fun! And I don't necessarily want to share my traveling experiences (although, via storytelling, I do) for money, either. I want to just experience it without writing about it. And storytelling...well, I do that now at parties, with friends, because it allows me to both relive the moment and create another moment by reliving it...and that's awesome. Laughter, inspiration, sharing and connecting all through telling a story. I can't imagine anything better. None of those things fixes anything directly (they might as a bonus, but that's not the original intention), either, so I don't have to keep focusing on the problems in the world that I need to fix. I imagine I wasn't just created to solve problems! Thanks for asking these questions. thepowerinplace.wordpress.com

This is very poignant, deep and challenging.

I think the ability to be present and see the fullness of everything in the moment is critical. Getting all the money and getting all the attention implies doing something to get somewhere else and not being satisfied with what is. I came across that idea some years back and it challenged me and my direction immensely and still does to this day, all for the good I hasten to add.

I think when you start to truly examine that as a subjective experience, meaning and purpose to your day to day existence takes on a different hue and becomes much more colorful. Your ability to be truly useful to others seems to be much more enhanced by this state of being, rather than looking for what you 'think you should do', it seems you almost just 'know what you should do' by default. There's definitely a natural flow that develops.

Loved your post! I have jusst been speaking withh friends today about how much morr imporrtant it is to me when people get the message without focusing so much on the messenger. That mindset makes me neither rich nor popular, but it makes me fulfilled. Thanks for the unique perspectives which you always present to us.

Good one, Derek!
I actually do have all the money, time, energy and attention that I NEED. As this becomes more and more apparent to my consciousness, more and more STUFF is leaving my life and my wife and I are preparing to go live on the road for a while in our neglected pickup camper. I choose to accelerate the departure of all these "treasures" that now feel more like anchors. We are now treasuring the empty space that magically appears every time we sell or give away something.

I love the feeling (the rush) of making money, and I don't even care (has to be legal, and I'm not interested in hurting anyone) how I make it. I just love the thrill of making money. But I have had times where I wonder "isn't there something I could do to live my passion AND make money," and now I feel like screw that. I consider myself a pretty decisive person. And yet, I found that when I made a ton of money, I'd start thinking, "oh, I need to make money in a different way." And then if you don't have any money you hate the feeling of being restricted and limited. I wasn't happy either way, there was ALWAYS something wrong, when in fact there was NOTHING wrong. I have had a good life, started it with a lot of great things most people would be happy to have. And still I could find something wrong. My point is, I could say I need $300k by the end of the week to be happy, when the end of the week came, I'd focus on some other unfulfilled desire. I could say I want to help some people by giving them money. I help the people and feel great for the moment but now I want to help more people. And so I help more people, but its addictive so I have to keep helping more people to feel good, which means I have to keep making money in order to help ;) It's all never ending. I guess its just the nature of being human. So I don't take it so seriously. Just live and do right by other people. That's what matters.

Buy a boat and cruise the Caribbean for awhile writing songs. Then start some charities for vets such as for the homeless, retraining programs, Fisher House. Give a grant to Saint Jude's and MD Anderson for research. I'd get a hold of Yoko Ono to see if I could expand what she's doing for the John Lennon foundation. Figure out something for abandoned animals. Maybe a foundation on the line of "pay it forward"...

If I was free from the pressures of survival and needing care and attention, I for one would give more. Help others (not just humans!) to live freely and contently. The process of giving would not be for attention but to fill the hollowness of being. To give freely and openly, to honestly purse the better-meant of our world is, I think, the greatest pursuit anyone can make.

Awesome post. I first ran into this thinking through Daniel Robinson (Oxford Professor) who released a series of lectures on Philosophy. In lecture 50 (Four Theories on the Good Life), he talks about "eudaimonia" -- which is popularly translated as "happiness." He explains it a bit differently as the state that is achieved when what we are doing is for its own sake and nothing else's...that point when you're past doing X for money, or doing Y for attention...exactly what you explore in this post.

http://www.thegreatcourses.com/tgc/courses/course_detail.aspx?cid=4200

Are you speaking from experience?

I'm in sort of a version of this idea. I'm on disability so money worries are not the priority (could use more, but not focused on producing it).
Because of lack of childhood attention, I've always sought attention. It was a big part of why I started songwriting. But I've slowly been letting go of attention getting after realizing that attention won't 'fix' me. Childhood holes can never be filled. So now I'm left wondering why I should continue songwriting/singing. The need for positive attention always caused perfectionism which made songwriting more painful than enjoyable. Now I'm not even sure I enjoy songwriting. The main motivation was as a way for attention. (Sorry I'm going on.) If I were rich, I think I would enjoy having a foundation and help people that way (while, of course, living in Paris :-). But as it stands, I'm struggling to figure out what I want to accomplish without it being attention getting. But now as I think of it, if money wasn't an issue (for recording, etc.), I think I would continue making music for the fun of working with others and creating cds 'I' enjoy. I would only perform if I wanted to but would be happy just creating and sending it out to the world via the net. If others enjoy my work, that's a bonus. But if I'm happy and enjoying myself, what more can someone ask for. And I don't think you can avoid bringing joy to some people through your music but almost more importantly you would inspiring others to do what they enjoy, to follow their dreams, and to live in joy. That I think is a wonderful gift to give myself and the world: learning and teaching to live in joy.

Howdy ho Derek!
So good to hear from you again. pursuit of....?? For me personally, my soul is full, and everything else in life is for discouvery under the knowledge that I am completely and deeply loved and that love wants to share itself with others.
Have a really great day Derek!
Rachel

Yeah right now I'm working half time and other time with my project or time with my children, a friend of mine told me why don't you work full time you make good money but I think that is not the purpose of my life.

This came at a much needed place, thanks, Derek. Great picture, by the way!

Studies show that those who participate in volunteer activities have lower mortality rates, are less depressed and are able to function better than those who do not. The physician, theologian, and musician Albert Schweitzer said, “I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know, the only ones among you who will be truly happy will be those who have sought and found how to serve” (Nobel peace prize, 1952).
More information on Charles Foskett’s professional background history and also chapters from his unfinished autobiography “Ashtray on a Motorbike” can be found at www.shmusicmusic.com (Meet the Crew / Charles Foskett / three pages)
www.charlesfoskett.com

I was talking with a good friend just yesterday. She used to want to be a full-time musician. She is a full-time web designer who sings occasionally in church. She said she would hate to look back on her life and all she could say would be, "I paid off my mortgage." I am a full-time musician. I don't make a lot of money, but I teach disabled kids how to play guitar, I do workshops and I tour regionally. I am so grateful for my life. Yes, I'd like more money, but I love having meaningful and worthwhile work.

Great post. Someone before mentioned stoicism - the philosophical schools of cynicism, and especially buddhism, also discuss (and glorify) the virtues of minimal living as well. Mindfulness, as I see it, is really at the heart of all this.

Coming again from the philosophical angle: is being "useful" really the end-all of good / happy living? If I work flipping burgers at McDonald's and my only use is encouraging others to form unhealthy habits, I wouldn't say that I'm living a particularly good life, or a particularly useful one at that. Is having money really a good aim too? I live quite happily on roughly $400 a month that I get from donations for my code, writing, and tutoring.

I feel like you're building up to something, and you sound like you're saying something important, but it feels like to me that you're lacking a conclusion. I'd love to read a follow up post where you spill the beans on what happiness, good work, or good living is really all about, or where you tell us why money/fame aren't good end goals, or one where you maybe tell us what happiness looks like for you. This is just empty words (aka, jerking off) at this point.
Good point. Intentionally lacking a conclusion, because I don't want to impose my conclusion on others. — Derek

I've been getting those same feelings lately, Derek. Not about the money, because I still need that, but because I retired from the motion picture biz last May and I've still been relaxing. For the past few months I've been asking myself, "What now?" I can't sit around 'til the end of my days. I've been trying to write more music but have had a terrible writers block. It could be from the drastic change from moving from a fast paced city and career to one that's "Mayberry" and NO career. I guess I'll know in time. I liked the article. Made me think.

Find a purpose in life like being a good friend, good part of the family

I'm in that position. For one year now.
I don't need money, I don't need attention.

And all it lead to was consumption and play. Yes, like a child.

Nothing helpful will ever come out of saturation. Solutions only arise from hunger. And that's where I started to do things again: I attempt to solve problems I see with the tools, skills and talents I have. In my case that's helping friends with tight, varying schedules to meet more often. Or to create a weather app that will make your day.

The yogic culture says human life is an apparent conflict between self-preservation instinct and a longing to expand boundlessly. The self-preservation instinct wants to build walls and the longing to expand wants to break them.

The longing to expand works the following way: Whatever one knows he wants to accumulate that. If one knows money he accumulates that. If one knows fame it accumulates that. If knows knowledge it accumulates that. The underlying longing is to expand boundlessly. Unless one finds methods to become boundless he or she keeps accumulating them.

That really gets to the bottom of things. For most of us, our answer should resemble what we are currently doing, but not so for many of us. It is about time I live out the answer to that question.

I've been thinking about this a lot recently. I don't currently need to work for money. Prior to this good fortune, I was full of theories and bucketlist, but now I have independence, I have less idea who I am!

Perhaps contentment feeds on challenge, feedback and reward.

I used to be a musician, but decided to secure an independent income to allow me to pursue creative enterprises without compromise. So I started a business, worked super hard for about five years, burnt out a bit, stepped back, and it now provides a comfortable above average income.

However, now I'm on the otherside, music no longer holds my interest. I can't bring myself to tackle paid work, after sacrificing so much already. I am struggling to answer the question with how to fill each day. Bitty hobbies like writing and composing can't fill the whole day.

So i'm looking to family. Perhaps all that survives of us is love.

Lovely meeting on the plane last night 😉

Regarding the above:
I have a really hard thinking that I would never work another day in my life - but is that because it's so built-in in my mind?
If I had money.....a lot of money (!) I would travel and experience what it is like to live in different parts of our world. But what kind of goals do you have if it's not Work related and to earn enough money to survive? Strange thought......Maybe my goals would be more artistic: to improve as a photographer. To teach my children to be curious and kind people and to learn them about life.....

Interesting thoughts......

Derek:
I was thinking along similar lines just today. I'm certainly not so wealthy that I no longer need to work for money. Although I don't really really have to (social security finally kicked in).
But I was thinking about people who really do have so much that they could just quit. What do you need after that first million or billion bucks? A friend of mine, with more wealth than I by far, once said that the accumulation of wealth was a convenient way of keeping score. My reply, predictably, was something on the order of "score? In what game?" Does not a healthy, loving relationship count for more than lucre? But is it a substitute for jingle in the pocket? Isn't this apples and oranges?
Seriously, though: If you have so much money that you are no longer required to trade your time and effort to feed, clothe and shelter you and yours, why DO you need to work? Do the one percent-ers accumulate wealth in the same way that hoarders accumulate old newspapers or cats? That is, they're long past needing to work (many, inheritors, have never been so desperate that they needed to place themselves in a subordinate role) , but still they continue to gather wealth long past the point of needing to.
I suppose I'll never really, down to my bones, know the answers to these questions. But If I were able to do anything I wanted, I'd probably just keep doing those things I already do, just on a more lavish and grander scale, with quite a bit more of altruistic behavior than I can currently afford. But then, perhaps if I were not so innately altruistic I'd be wealthier by far, because I would not have continued to divert my "capital" from wealth-making to altruism.
Thanks for the question.
Panama

Another lovely piece Derek. Quite frankly, I do not think I would stop doing what I am doing, I will maybe escalate to higher grounds. And spend more time with the ones I love 'cos I will be able to afford packing them along wherever I go across the globe. Thanks for posing those questions; I am still thinking about them despite this simple answer. This piece is highly thought provoking, perplexing and clarifying at the same time. A philosophical and existential conundrum, it is.

Hi Derek.
Yes..I do so many things for the money, because money is the basis of living essential; Roof over the head, food , water and so on.
I also see "money" is a ticket to freedom;
to be able to make radical decisions, and to take risks.
Dive in to the unknown when intuition tells you to do so-without having to make a decision based on financial assessment.
Yes I can imagine doing that. and that is why I do the things I do.And the things I do, I am doing so I can earn the money.
Once I reach that point, I am sure awesome experiences await.
and the memories are all you can take when you die.

Ok off to Uni~~! xoxo

Its is always focused on the art. If you believe in yourself-time and place take a backseat, you are filled with inspiration and humility for the power of your voice. It is only when it has been going on for a long time with little success that you begin to wonder, "have I wasted my life?"

Thanks Derek. A question asked by someone on the other side of those problems. I agree with your closing statement. Based upon where I am, and where I want to go, I am happy that it seems that I'm on the path to get there.

It's easy, I would guarantee life extension, fix potential problems which arise when the mind gets too old, then build the spaceship I always wanted.

I think if i had all the money i needed and the attention .I would spend my time and money helping people that didn't have either.If every day of my life if i can make someone smile and happy then i am complete.This is a dream of mine .

Create.
For me right now that would be mostly Music and Photography.
In a hypothetically perfect world where all our physical needs are met I think it would be one of the few things left that we could share with each other, and it's the sharing that gives life meaning.

Make people happy.

What's you've describe is the three root "evil" wants that drive humans:

- wanting security
- wanting control (effect of wanting security, male type)
- wanting approval/love (effect of wanting security, female type).

These wants in turn generates bunch of negative emotions such as fear and depression.

It is possible to release these wants and realize that you can create money at will and do not really need to fear the death, or fear lack of love or lack of attention any more.

Sorry for sounding self-improvement-ish - but it's a blueprint of how our mind works, what drives us to urge to make money and what eventually helps us to realize the deeper truth.

Gleb

I am a teacher in a poor urban neighborhood (which I have also chosen to live in) and I am a touring musician involved in multiple projects from hiphop to soul and blues. While there was a time when I was, in my mind, pursuing a measure of definable success in music, namely monetary success, I believe now I have become much more content and focused on development.
I want my life, my music, my vocations to all being moving toward the very edges of my capacity. In other words, I want to be as good as I personally can be at these things. I've chosen to teach because I want to make a difference in my neighborhood. I want to be the best for those kids that I can be. I've chosen to do music because I can not help but create. But now, I derive great pleasure from simply getting the opportunity to work with talented people. I look for ways to write music that fits with my values and furthers things that I care about. I allow my creativity to roam so that I can experiment with many different genres.

This means that I can write songs about the causes I care about and I have a few fans and friends that will pay money for songs I make. SOme of this money goes back into making more songs but other monies go into the causes I care about from women's rights around the world, to police brutality, and homelessness. It's a blessing to use music for things I care about and feel the freedom to do so. I suppose if my eating was directly tied to music, I may feel more pressure to simply create monetized multiple streams.

Of course, I hope that some of my projects will take off, but I'm loving every second that i get to work with talented musicians who teach me even more about music every time I work with them.

I can't tell everyone that they SHOULD live free in the way that they approach music and life, but I can tell you that if you do, you will FEEL free and the result is quite satisfying.

Its also the fear of losing which makes us not want to live in present but in future.

"We are afraid of losing what we have, whether it's our life or our possessions and property. But this fear evaporates when we understand that our life stories and history of the world were written by the same hand" - The Alchemist

Amazing great work Derek.

Love and thanks to you and your insightful and brilliantly intelligent friends who are commenting here.

Truly an enlightened flow of realization and caring.

:) :) :)

Art. Art is for art's sake. I paint because I have to...same with singing. I sing and paint because if I don't, there is a hole in my heart. I create jewelry for the colors and beauty and the challenge. I write to record my interaction with the world. I produce tongue-in-cheek videos to make people laugh. I photograph for the same reason I paint, although photography is not as personal. I never know how anyone will react to any art I create and it doesn't matter -- as I take aim, the art takes on a life of its own, so I figure that my job is to let it go wherever it's headed, maybe give it a nudge here and there...
Teach. Teach people to think and to listen and to put prejudice aside except for prejudice against prejudice. I used to teach 13- to 18-year old children and saw many of them more than they saw their own parents (one hour a day). They so much loved and needed what I gave and to this day find me on social media and thank me...I am honored, and pleased that I reached and helped improve a part of them.
Safely travel to some odd places in the world to improve my mind and expand my world view so I can mull it over and share it. So far, nothing I've done has been for money or fame -- I have seen the Big Black Hole and looked into it -- and tried to paint it.

I lived in South America for 4 years and, after a lot of alone time, moved back to Silicon Valley and joined a startup to help social entrepreneurs be successful, not for riches and fame, but because I believe these entrepreneurs can provide some of the change the world really needs. I've found time and time again given time with nothing to do, I tend to start programming on my own simply because I enjoy it. It's good to connect with that feeling!

Hi Derek and friends,
If my songs ever sold at all, and I had all the money I need, I would start in my own country Canada, and go and help the homeless, maybe write a song about the towns where I've helped people. If I ever made enough money...
My UTube page is: www.youtube.com/my_videos?o=U
My CD Baby page where I first had the pleasure of doing business with Derek is:
http://cdbaby.com/all/fizermusic where all my music is. I have a lot of songs to sell to be able to help all those people :)

Guy

I've been thinking along the same lines lately. Although we are still far from the utopic society where all will be paid a salary irrespective of work, I think one can still strive for the goal you suggest. If they limit their needs to a modest lifestyle and don't seek attention beyond few close friends and family, they can reach to the state you describe.

I have had periods of my life inwhich I had acclaim and fortune, and periods when I did not. I did the same thing through both: make more art, music and writing. That is because I do not do this for its rewards. I do it because I am, at my core, a muse-driven person. I am passionate about making the things my muse suggests to me.

It probably begins with a need for peer support and recognition, but I found that my curiosity and satisfaction getting better playing and writing music have always been behind maintaining a daily practise. It is a kind of bubble, it's true, and I can step out of it to make money with music as long as it's still there to return to. Another element is improvisation, which people like Keith Jarrett would be better qualified to discuss. Keith lasted 10 years performing everywhere with a grand piano and nothing but his imagination to fill the performance, and then he seemed to fade back into the standard jazz piano trio format, playing originals and standards (wonderfully) again. I have lost count of my CDBaby releases that were all improvised electronic world music (10+) and it got to a point where it didn't make any sense to release any more when the rest simply did not sell. But I have an instrument that cost more than my car, and is still close to state of the art, so I continue playing it, programming it, and recording improvs live. Every now and then a wave of creativity hits me and I need to hit the record button. Whether any of it is ever heard outside my studio seems secondary these days, although some recognition would give me an emotional lift, I suppose. Still, as long as I live like a recluse, this will continue until my remains will be more known by their smell than by their sound. Just the way it is.

Glad you're writing about this. I think everything we do should serve a larger purpose, even if it's just putting out positive energy into the world with each action we take. Mindful, thoughtful, kind, generous moves through life--what a lovely way to live. Just imagine if EVERYONE lived that way, it would be a much happier world.

Derek : Reminds me of "If a tree falls in the woods and there is no one there to hear it, is there a sound at all..."

I bought a cd from you a few years ago Derek, situation life by Sprung Monkey. Since then you've sent me regular emails full of thought provoking ideas like this. You even sent me a personal email giving me some advice on my business. What an inspirational human you are. I read an great quote just this week from Jim Carrey
" I wish everyone could get rich and famous and everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that’s not the answer. "

Thanks Derek, You read my mind. I'm the tired entrepreneur. I'll work on the questions! Thanks for your deep sensitivity and loving contribution.

Do What's Really deep down Inside my Soul & Heart to Do, all The Way !
What God wants for My Life, God's will for My Life.
Think I Better get under the anointing of the Holy Spirit by Praising Him for a while in an anointed Church, that worships Him in Spirit & Truth , then Read The Bible so I can Hear His Voice more Clearly.
Thx Bro You Woke Me Up !
Your a Good Man
:)
Have a Great Day !
God Blesss !!!

Do good for others. When I no longer need money nor attention I would be a silent donor to charities and to the less privileged.

Just a thought...The danger in "following one's bliss" is imprudence - the lack of caution in practical affairs.
In answer to your question, I've always acted as if money was no object and thus life's been a great ride until now; when practical affairs have returned in full.
Thanks for sharing.

Victory!
I am Pastor Marvin of GOD's Desire Ministries/GOD's Desire Music and yes, we do need money to survive but is that all to living? The focus on life should be happiness not wealth...the rich commit suicide too! If I had all I would need in this physical world; I would make sure that helping others would be my main focus. There is a good feeling deep down in my heart when I am used to bring happiness in another person's life. To me people are more important than money but I know the world doesn't think that way. It's ok we go about our lives doing what we feel is best for us. But we also need to focus on what is best for others and bringing a smile on their faces! ... www.reverbnation.com/godsdesiremusic

Derek, I have not sent you any email or anything in years. I don't want to be long with this but you have hit on a very good topic. Not to long ago I was in a band back in NYC and the project was call "Hit Me Baby" with Rodney on Drums , Derek on Guitar and vocals, his girlfriend at the time on back up vocal and me on bass. Derek became a big hit in the business of helping people get their music out to the world. The last time I can remember I saw him was at a NACA event I was with another artist and he was still pushing his music. Now I still keep up with
Derek but so do millions of people. I worked with Derek before his major success and over the years I could have use the name to help me big myself up.
I never did and most people would not Belive the story. So I had to ask the question you have here.
Will the attention bring me closer to whom I am or
Put me in some kind of place to make money.
Maybe? But then the question still remains: Who am I
And what do I need to be Me. I'm happy to say that
I have made my way in the entertainment business and
I am on the Las Vegas Strip in a Major Production Show with a 30 year plus Brand. I don't let my talent and hard work tell others and myself who I am. I just try to be the best I can be and show love to otihers.
As you have done with your work. I just want to say Hello and thank you brother.You are rare in this world of many....Hit Me Baby one more time
I would love to hear from you ...
One Love ....STRO

I will know the answer to that question,Derek,when I have an insatiable amount of money,personally I believe I will be very happy and invest in others to my hearts content.:)

There is no greater satisfaction in this life than learning. If I had no need of money or admiration, I would acquire knowledge and skills for the sheer love of it.

I touch on this in a recent blog post: http://jimter.net/learning-is-never-a-waste-of-time/

Your article comforts my worries if I am doing good things towards a good life. =)

Very thought provoking post, Derek...like most of your other ones. This really makes you take a step back (and really dig deep in terms of what matters) versus just dive right in without putting in much thought.

Here's what I would do:
1. Take a 6-month sabbatical - maybe a 1 year sabbatical (though, I don't think I'd last longer than 2-3 months of doing "nothing"). Regardless, that time would be spent with family, and traveling to 1-2 destinations on my bucket list.
After I got back, I would:
2. Pursue a singing career (maybe I'd focus on YouTube first, IDK). I'd need to work on my voice first, there's a lot of room for improvement.
3. In parallel, continue to work on my tech startup / idea, not for the money, but because I love a challenge, and I want to create an impact.

PS. Awesome picture, it made me crack up.

After I'm rich, I'll travel a lot and live for extended periods of time in faraway places. I'll continue writing and playing music. I'll probably get into farming and wilderness survival too. Build my own house.

I'm pretty sure you're at this point yourself, and you already have your own answers. Like, live in distant parts of the planet so that every day is an adventure, and work on what you're really inspired by. I can dig it. Looking forward to it.

Great article - thanks for bringing this up.

One common misconception is that you need money to live. Many people don't have any money at all and continue to live. So you actually do not need money to live.

As for attention, I'm not sure if you need that either.

If anyone would like to explore themselves at a deeper level, to try to really understand the roots of these cravings, I highly recommend Vipassana meditation. They offer free 10-day courses, where you don't read or write or talk at all the entire time. You just meditate, and they teach you to meditate. It doesn't have any religious affiliation. It's like boot camp for meditation. It's truly awesome, and gives you the opportunity for true, real personal growth. You can read more about it at dhamma.org

I have a growing stack of unfinished programming and research projects from artificial intelligence and life to animation and physics.
I don't really need attention. I only need roof, food, Internet and money for the family.

I would start a company that installs mini wind turbines and solar panels for buildings over 2 stories high, to provide just enough electricity to operate the water pump and the elevator. Too many floods these days. I would also lobby for this to become law, for safety reasons.

Kobe Bryant on his former coach Phil Jackson's return from retirement to join the New York Knicks front office:

"[T]here's only but so much meditation a person can do all day. ... At some point you got to get up and do something."

This is exactly what I face now as a retired professional. What do I do to help others and to satisfy my own needs that have always been fulfilled professionally. Those include the need for validation, the need for some power, the need to be needed. Slowing down into NOT needing these things is the hardest part... then I can think about focusing on helping others.

I would spend more time with my friends. Since high school I've been putting time with my friends after getting homework done. Now I'm close to my PhD and I'm still doing that. But it's because I want respect (or attention, as you say) from my peers and superiors in the field and department. But...I'd much rather spend more time with the people I love.

Good question, and not sure there's an easy single answer. I have many interests and desires, so I think I'd be doing "stuff" that I want to do, because it provides me with personal satisfaction and sense of achievement (whatever that may be), rather than doing what I am doing, because it's the only option available, because it pays well, or it's what I've done all my life, etc., etc.

And the "stuff" that I want to do, changes, regularly, depending on my mood, the season, the car I'm driving, the person I'm with, the number of beers I've drunk, and for many other reasons.

I think need for, or concern about, social acceptance or social conformity are other factors that need to be considered in this equation - it's not simply money and attention that drive the way we do things

Good question, and not sure there's an easy single answer. I have many interests and desires, so I think I'd be doing "stuff" that I want to do, because it provides me with personal satisfaction and sense of achievement (whatever that may be), rather than doing what I am doing, because it's the only option available, because it pays well, or it's what I've done all my life, etc., etc.

And the "stuff" that I want to do, changes, regularly, depending on my mood, the season, the car I'm driving, the person I'm with, the number of beers I've drunk, and for many other reasons.

I think need for, or concern about, social/establishment acceptance/conformity are other factors that need to be considered in this equation - it's not simply money and attention that drive the way we do things

Beautiful and from the heart Derek.

Much Love,

Eric

Perform random acts of kindness - which is something we can all do regardless of wealth or our need for attention. We can satisfy the attention requirement of others those less likely to receive any. Be more thoughtful give without expectation.

I would write code, train jiu jitsu, play video games, play board games, eat great food, drink good wine, build stuff, daydream, read, laugh at good jokes, watch good movies. I already do all these things and really love them, I would just do them in much different ratios were I free of financial constraints. :-)

Every one is different. Our DNA proves that. I don't know two people who want the same thing and achieve it the same way. Many people go through life asking questions and looking for answers. Many people read the bible and try to live like they did in those days and question every one who doesn't. Being different is in my opinion what makes us successful and continue to evolve instead of disappear like most species did. So, looking for attention or not is just another of those things that we all do in various degrees. After all how else would we know if we are doing a good job. Because just because we are in love with our own music or other skills doesn't mean other people are that excited about it. Most of us have learned that timing is an important aspect of success and industrious people aren't always very smart or skilled.

Interesting question, Derek. As humans though, I do not believe it would be possible for us to ever be fully sate. Not in real life anyway, or not in the state of reality we are in at this moment. We aren't built that way. Look at actors who have 'everything'; money, fame, family, friends... and yet they are still grabbing for some synthetic drug to make them feel better, or not feel at all. Here is an interesting personal experience that I had: The most 'sate' I've ever felt was waking up from surgery a few years ago and realizing that I felt absolutely nothing for 2 hours. There was a peacefulness and a calmness to that experience, as strange as it may sound. Maybe 'nothing' is my sate. ;)

I would live my life as an ongoing salon, bringing people , ideas and art[s]/music/food together to form style and opinion in a way that I believe improves the world by encouraging us all to be wise and beautiful.

I guess that's why I live in the mountains with all my animals, and nature. Today I cleared out a spot that had beautiful rocks with green moss growing on them and ferns just peeking out from the latest rains. I should've been writing set lists or playing guitar, but the rocks are now visible from me clearing the dry branches away, and it looks like fairies live there. Listening to the ducks splashing in the pond, and the doggies by my side,,,life is sweet, connecting with nature.

Derek..

Speaking , as one , who for most part ..has lived like that..(although not my doing - I was just rasied with abundance ) - I would say, form my life experience - Four things are different
1. "Pull Effect" on most things
How? - Feel a lot of gratitude - and freely express it - (which btw attracts more of what you said - money and attention)

2. Being Free (not just Having freedom)
How? -> by being able to laugh at myself - and hence experience freedom Not just from what others think of me but also what I think of myself .

3. Speaking my truth
With courage and compassion This has allowed "Space" for other people - friend , clients who are now friends - to also experience this - and led to "more" abundance of money and attention :)

4. Being Water
I have changed 3 professions in the last 20 years of my "working" life - Sales, IT, Facilitation (now considering designing :) ) - being in the flow - identity less - boundary less

Rhea

It's a beautiful thing you've written here. I stripped my life bare. I had been caught up in the echo chamber of tech startups for years. I gave it all up to be a full time homeless advocate. It has been the most joyous year of my life.

I think thats where faith comes in.
Whether or not we are living by faith or by fear.
There's a certain amount of risk in both...

Well, let's understand the writer (that's you Derek)... since you got 22 million from CD Baby, you could give 3 million to me so that I can build my own empire within the music world - I have a ton of connects but just don't have the capital (currently) to make certain things happen. I could create STARS out of great talent I've come across.

I could easily turn 3 million into 9 million and so on...

Don't get me wrong. I have money. But there's a big difference between "I'm well off" (for a while) money and "I'll never have to work again" money. You have that "I'll never have to work again" money. I'm working my way towards that.

But, to answer your question, I'd help change people's lives. I see certain people that, if given the opportunity, could be a HUGE impact in our world.

sell music on iTunes with www.aded.us

Great artical. Yea some people can never have enough even if they had it all. Look at Wall Street Wolf the movie thats what too much does to some. Great he came back to reality. Never too late. yea some great posts from people too not that I have time to read them all. Taking and giving is a great thing all things in balance.

I'd help make the world function better by setting up a self-funded/self-sustaining charity.

I would help build a world community by installing or upgrading a community centre in every 3rd world village.

Each villiage would be on a solar power grid and have a new well or the most logical access to clean water.

An independent learning centre where local rural people could learn to teach local children via large screened interactive televisions connected to specialists teachers in large towns or cities.

I'd partner with existing charities so as not to duplicate work already being done.

I'd drop supplies to refugees via balloons and/or remote powered mini airplanes.
I'd have a hive of portable sanitation, acres of planters with food growing in them, for refugee camps and try to normalise life for their children by installing portable schools, lunchrooms and organised sports. I'd set up a portable or suspended signal with free internet connection so people can reach the outside world, their family and get information.

The charity would buy large numbers of inner city properties and do them up properly, building a network of interconnected community centres providing job skills training, free before and after-school care...homework clubs...local, regional and inter-state organised academic, sports and music events. Finding and nurturing the most promising and talented from early childhood. I'd install solar power on all properties, removing the fear of being shut off and encouraging greenn energy by splitting payments of unused power with the tenant...the other half would go towards paying for infrastructure of the villages and refugee camps in other countries.

Yeah, I'd be pretty busy and surrounded by some amazing people to make it all come together.

I would find the little girl in me and live her dream....the one she was born with...before she understood the words "you can't".

Interesting view. (though I don't think anyone is still reading comments, haha - so I'm not doing this for money or attention ;)

I think if this view is a check, that you do now and then, it's healthy. I think if it's something you grasp as a part of you always, it's promise of freedom could be hollow because you may well replace your pursuit of money and/or attention for the pursuit of this objective.

For me, this is why my faith in Christ becomes a great equaliser. It judges my deepest intents, and it puts a good perspective on things, self, others; and balances it with a pursuit of God. I find it the most liberating philosophy because it saturates everything with hope, purpose, selflessness, righteousness and love. These are things I'm not naturally inclined to, so it has a refreshing effect on my life and perspective.

My faith in Jesus reminds me that it's not all about me, and that can be a great safeguard against money and attention, and other things not mentioned: arrogance, self-importance/selfishness, anger, unforgiveness, stingyness, dishonesty and many many other things that plague my heart and mind..

Thanks for making me think a bit this morning..
B

you need a counterpoint.
another activity or interest or demand, that can take up
all your attention for periods, so that you can return to
what you have built with renewed interest.

To serve others is what I like to concentrate on. To do a great job is what I like to concentrate on. As a performer, sharing the music is most important...and the money and attention are the extras...but I wouldn't stop working to excel or serving. Those things fill my well. Thank you for sharing this compelling question and your thoughts! :)

These are all questions of relativity. The main thing to know is that if what you are doing is miserable you need to question it and if it is a hoot, push towards it.

Money is extremely relative. If you can't make anything work because of poverty it isn't the same thing as having unlimited amounts or the middle case of having healthy savings. Then the question of what you do to make money butts up against what you would do if you didn't need the money. Some people have nothing much to replace work with and would suffer from boredom while some wouldn't mind being bored over working while a third category are absolutely electrified by what they do and would rather have little money than to abandon the magical craft which they partake in.

Fame is also relative. If you have had some then it probably doesn't matter so much if you have it unless your are deeply addicted to it. If you have never had any acknowledgement of the things you have accomplished the hunger might be greater though a zen person wouldn't care. If you have accomplished something amazing it probably exponentially increases your desire for acknowledgement if you do indeed have it. Seeing lesser people being praised also makes the sting of not being recognized worse.

Best however is to really be happy with what you have. If you are not driven to do something horrible each day and can make your world what you want it to be life is sweet!

Simply... our GOD has both conditions met at the infinite degrees (money and attention is no more His need). What He is doing then... ? Wishing/Supporting for OUR goodness, well-being and success. An easy answer to the question is: wish/support for OTHER's goodness, well-being and success.

A great question to periodically ask yourself. If I could do anything and not have to worry about money or other peoples approval, what would I be doing? That should be your guide. Because the truth is you CAN do anything if you really want to. Life is too short to do otherwise.

Some very interesting and thought provoking insights, thanks Derek. Money is a strange one. When one is in need then it seems all important, because it is. I guess what one 'needs' varies. I've found though that those most able to be philosophical about money, and in turn offer some positive hope for the rest, are those who have it. Perhaps the criteria for being chilled about cash is having it in the first place?

I think if that was the case, if I had all the money I needed, I would then be doing more, much more of the same. Then more money would probably come in, but the point is that I could then help so many more people. This is still a selfish act not doubt - I wouldn't do it if I didn't get a kick out of it. I love helping people the way I do. Anyway, all this sounds nice but who knows, maybe I would take the money and hide forever. So now I look up and whisper: "please allow me to discover the answer" ;)

The Stones have money.(do they make music only for the money?) The Stones are in the Netherland (I think over 3 month) for a concert.The Stones are at the moment 10% for the money and 90% for to make music.

I've been thinking about this a lot lately.

I've been writing songs for five years and I realized in December that I had become totally defined by that role. I also realized a lot of my obsession with the legend status of my favorite folksingers had a lot to do with my father and his ideas about what he would've liked to do with his life. So I quit for a while. But I realize that I have a natural gift for it and that I benefit people by letting my unique voice be heard. But the pursuit of gigs and the promotional side of things can be incredibly soul-sucking. But if I don't play, even if everything else is set up and perfect, I feel hollow inside. It's like a six sided scale with equally important things on each platform.

What would I do if I was completely satisfied? Probably travel the world documenting artists in various ways, breaking into the ground level art scenes in various cities and searching out the amazing people to be found there. That's what I would do. What can I say? I love art and the people that make it.

Thanks for your blog post. As always, deeply helpful.

Hi Derek, Thanks for the article! It's clear that the reason we do things is very important. I've had the good fortune to do what I do, because I love to do it. I'll soon be 73, and I'm still at it! Some money (so I didn't starve is the street) and some degrees of approval/encouragement have helped (to give me some sense that it all has a point), but that's never been crucial. As a result, I've probably not put myself forward enough and am not "rich and famous". Still, the question always seems to be: how much is enough? My experience, both as a composer and voice teacher, has been that if other reasons are involved (like too much ambition for "the jackpot", wanting to get "rich", an addiction to competition, looking for sex, needing to fulfill the imposed or imagined wishes of "mommy and daddy", etc ... ) there will never be "enough" of whatever else it might be. "The Jackpot" will always be just out of reach, there will always be someone who seems to be doing what you do a bit better, there will never be all the money (or attention) you think you deserve, the sex ... well, you can imagine how fast that gets boring, and "mommy and daddy" were usually never satisfied before, why should they be satisfied now? I've never needed lots of money. It might have helped to have a few more performances along the way just for my own development (a composer needs to hear the music and hear it with an audience - you learn a lot about what really works in the piece, because you listen then with a stranger's ears, a bit removed - sometimes for the first time; you hear the piece purely with less of the emotional thrust that went into writing the piece). Applause is nice; booing is of course ... disappointing. But I think the important thing is to have a feeling the piece is "Right", at least for me. In the end, nothing else really matters. I don't think there's a formula for "Right" in serious music. Each piece is its own force field. There are formulas or conventions for other kinds of music. If money and approval are what's important, a composer needs to write the kind of music that attracts those things, and that's OK, so long as ... it's OK! But again the question of what's enough comes up, and happiness and satisfaction have something to do with that issue. I've always thought the goal of life is to be happy, and everyone perhaps needs to find their own way to that goal. Ambition, courage, and honesty will help, but it also takes work of some sort or another. Also some compromises. Perhaps also a degree of realism, but that has more to do with survival than Art. Anyway, thanks for discussing the issue. I hope you're fine. jpt

Marcus Aurelius, Meditations .. Book 3

Hmm Yes! The Article s stirring my belly now. I have been an Art student for the last 8 months because I love doing it (Major portion of my time s spent there). IF I STOP it doing who the hack I AM ? Its kind of scary to think. So how do you explain that Derek? How did you explained to your self? what should we consider there....? I need your answer! :) :) ( Assuming you have seen this comment out of all, and decided to reply ;) )


Regards,
( The guy who illegally downloaded your book ) :D

You asked "what would you stop doing?" -- I would say we should "stop" being selfish, receiving, egoistic, greedy, cheap, self centred and instead we should "start" to give and and love. Most people, when they have money, they start helping and giving charity etc, and then they announce the world about what they did so that everyone knows, and then they think what they did was the act of love while it has nothing to do with love. It's all about satisfying their own egos.

If you love and you know that you love, then you are not loving. If you give and you know you are giving, then you are not giving. I don't know if I can explain myself well.

Power is in the hand of those who are needless and those who need no attention from others. These are people who create balance in the universe but we never see them. We think money brings power and that power brings attention! Well, what can we expect from our little miserable limited brains?!

So, I would say start giving without anyone knowing that you are giving; this would be the first step. Unconditional love is the only way that can open our eyes to the reality and can trigger the awareness to surface. I am saying this based on my own experience. I am usually against repeating what others have said in the past.

Money is the most destructive thing in this world, but if it is used as a tool to improve the world, then we have the right goal to make money.

http://www.wimp.com/fatherinspiration/

The bird on the roof is a very good choice for this topic -- No body sees the bird, but the bird sees everybody!

Guess men need to be needed.

If somehow one can shake off that feeling, then a whole new world might open up as i have been discovering since i stopped working in 2006.

There are many who tell me that they would love to do what i am doing, but haven't seen that happening except in one case. That guy had a target of INR 5C (about a million USD) and he quit as soon as he reached that.

Since i am a firm believer in the end of the world as we know it by 2030 or earlier:

http://bit.ly/bsxf2012

my target is much lesser.

This just make me realise that I love my job ... It's just the money related parts that make it stressful!

That's exactly the question I've been looking for an answer to for so long, and still haven't found it! If I'd know what to pursue, I'd start doing that good work and live that good life right now.

Until then I'm just working a full time job to earn a living and I'm volunteering to be useful to others.

The essence of life is helping others.

this question seems one about greed and vanity, Derek.
We the asian people found them very difficult to overcome, even for Buddha...
But of course, we know that our lives are very exciting because there're money and attention, and it's crutial not to overcome but to handle them.

No money, No fame - but mighty wonderful stuff.
http://www.vivianmaier.com/film-finding-vivian-maier/

I'd inspire others to Thrive after Adversity and I'm doing it but not with my whole heart yet, Thank you for that reminder!

I'm thinking about this for a few weeks now (and no, I still have to work for the money). Currently there are a few ideas which I would love to turn into my own business (with "fun" in mind, not money and most certainly without investors). But I don't have the time to do this full-time, because I have to earn money by working on projects I more or less hate.

So, if money wouldn't be necessary, I would simply work full-time on my own products and I wouldn't care if I had just one or 10000 customers.

Loved the photo - and the natural world is a great place to see life not motivated by money or attention (except when trying to attract a mate, of course).

One example. Every spring and autumn, our neighbour drives his herd of cattle along the very busy road in front of our house to pastures further up the hill. It's a pure delight. All the traffic has to stop and wait, but rather than appreciating an increasingly rare treat, the motorists are obviously blind to the bucolic nature of the scene and merely want to 'get on.' One of the motorists even hit one of the cows with his car in his impatience a few years back.

And yet what a lot these animals can teach us. They go at their own pace, regardless of what speed we would like them to go. All they need is grass and water to be happy. They don't even know what money is. And they don't need to impress anybody….

Clearly, no human being could have invented them.

Derek, hello;

Great article as always, when accepted for it's content from the perspective of those who"have".

I agree with your perspective and appreciate you and your mind Derek, as I've said before.
The following is meant as an outsiders observation. "outside" the breaks, and thus the subsequent "success" inherent with said breaks. A touch of cynicism is inescapable from such a position. There are times where I wish I were ignorant and therefore capable of achieving the proverbial bliss found therein.

All my life people have said, "you should make your living as an artist", upon viewing my art (gift). If each of those people bought just one piece , I could've done just that, and it saddens me that there are so many more gifted young people I could have helped along the way.

Sadly, from the perspective of one of those who is a "have not", it is amusing in a truly sad way.
There are found among the multitudes, those talented individuals who work "hard" all their lives to get noticed, not for glory or riches in of and for themselves, but.. truly, altruistically, trying to just give of themselves and share their obvious gifts that get noticed and ignored simultaneously, frustratingly.

Those who get the "breaks" and reach pinnacles of success only dreamed of by the sweating talented who are altruistic to degrees misunderstood by those "looking down", who now wish to complain about life "at the top".
The easy words of frustration, no fulfillment and groveling in unhappiness, that are thrust down, moldy crumbs of the bread of success, at those who would change places unquestionably, in a New York second, and trust one who knows, would appreciate it beyond such pitiful cries of discomfort with the vista from the "top".
The rewards that should be appreciated by sharing and truly giving from those lofty positions of "success", are lost, wasted, on some who are lacking an innate sense of gratitude, understood by true altruists who would seek out and find others who would be grateful, beyond such words, and feelings of dissatisfaction with success.
Altruism should be an integral and synergistic aspect of using an obvious "gift". When the altruistic aspect of being gifted is ignored it will create the problems that a gifted person finds at the pinnacles of success.
This is not meant as criticism just an observation.
Enjoyment, and true fulfillment at those peaks could be readily found in using the talents, gifts, that got you there, in acts of sharing and giving. The "taking" as a goal standing alone, can only carry one so far before an ultimate emotional collapse ensues, if one does not empty ones full coffers, so to speak, so there is room to receive more. The double edge sword of "talent", cuts harshly, a wide swath, in both directions of ones psyche. Should it be ignored, unappreciated, on it's way "up" it will decimate, emotionally, on its way "down" from the lofty heights of success. The force of destruction enhanced by the downward stroke, from such heights, gravity and momentum totally capable of absolute disaster. Hence the suicides, drug use, and other forms of self prescribed self destructive behaviors.
Empathy exists, in abundance, for those who sincerely appreciate what they have and have achieved, and show it in clear and active venues of searching to help others with gifts who otherwise are and remain the "have nots", the "breaks" horded selfishly, by the "haves", albeit advice comes easily to the lips of those who have nothing to lose by sharing words alone.
Trying, however sincere, to help the masses as a large target, ignoring the opportunity to help an "individual" simultaneously, instead of understanding that when you help just "one" you help all, by mere extrapolation. You help just one, they help two, etc. Then go help "one" other..... too simple a view of reality that escapes those who have achieved heights that blur their view of the individual that is now so far below them. As on a dartboard, ignoring the bulls-eye and just hoping, you hit the large target. Too easily we forget we were each an "individual" once upon a time. We find someone who is relatively close to the top and we try to help tip them over the top, the poor individual who needs that time so much more is overlooked, beneath us, as it were.
The almighty buck should never, never, "stop here". Pay it forward.
The reason that it is so, is that all too often among the complaining successful, there is a common denominator that is glaringly apparent to a "gifted" observer. There are those who ride their gifts to the top never truly acknowledging that their talent is just that! a "gift"...consequently they harbor no appreciation, nor can they conceive that the gift comes from a source that they refuse to acknowledge. All glory should return, rightfully so, to the giver of the gift. I know and acknowledge the source, origin, of my gifts.

At my age, and in the world as it is, I can look forward to increasing difficulty just trying to afford to eat, keep a roof over my head etc. However!....I know and appreciate where my gifts originate and there will I direct any glory for my talent. I do wish I were in a position, such as the "successful" above. to "help" others. There would be no complaints, only gratitude that I was in such a position to "help" individuals as well as the masses.

IMHO...I could be wrong!

From a "have not"
Harris...............................<><

...then it comes to living a meaningful life . As humans we are the only ones who can live meaning...all other creatures live based on instincts...
See: Viktor Frankl ´s book: Man´s search for meaning..... it will change your life! like mine..

To be able to even think of what we could have done if we were satiated, we need to find or "satiation" point. Unfortunately, this is a moving target and there is no end to the list of belongings we "need" and work for. Every day we wake up and say "I'll keep going this way just until X is fixed". We are just afraid/lazy to change the way we are being part of the world. Anyway, thanks for reminding us that there should be more important things than the quest for money :)

Hi Derek, you already know the answer to this. I am sure I read one of your articles that after you sold your company CD baby for several millions that made you a multi-millionare, you did not go mad and buy a fleet of cars and do the extravagant things that most people would do. Instead I understand that you gave your money to a Charity with an agreement that they pay you one million dollars annually. This is a smart move; a very smart move because you will be getting one million dollars per annum, which might be just right, as you would have had to part with a substantial amount in taxes had you decided to keep the entire proceeds of you company's sale. One million sounds like a sensible income for which your taxes can be offset against any annual expenditure you may encounter as a business man. I think you have made your life interesting in this way and under the circumstances, I don't think the idea of having too much attention will will be a bother. You have made yourself a great future and its hardly likely that you will have to worry about too much money or going broke. so well done.

My passion is to see others be at their best. To help them find what brings them peace and contentment. Happy is not the same as content. When I die, I will be content and satisfied if my tombstone reads; "He helped me find my way".

I've been exploring the means to having "enough" in my life, and all the things that it relates to. Still working on it, but thank you for the encouragement in terms of letting me know that others share this notion as well. Every single minute of every single day we get pushed into wanting more and wanting to achieve more, simply for the sake of "more"...but a couple of years ago, I let myself hit rock-bottom, only to begin to understand what it meant to have nothing... Thanks again Derek. Also, great photo to help illustrate this point.

Hi Derek,
I think this question has as many answers as it does readers.
In the '70's a book was released titled Illusions by Richard Bach.
After I read that book it opened my Mind to my answers.
I've lived my Life in that Space ever since.
Thank you again Derek for the opportunity to Share.

Hi Derek,

There are a lot of distinctions going on here at once: do we have or have not? Are we happy/content? Do we feel we’re doing something meaningful? Are we making a difference?

All good questions. In my experience it’s a question of balance; and the right balance varies from person to person. So it’s more of a state of being we’re moving towards (or traveling with) when we reflect on the money-attention paradigm.

Because we’re experts at constantly judging ourselves, there can be this inner tension we create that will pull us down if we allow it – I’m not creative enough, fast enough, smart enough, etc.

As we follow our dreams or our bliss, it helps to not allow our need for approval or our desire to keep up with society’s standards to affect where we want to go.
It all gets down to balance: "Live and create like you don’t need the money, but don’t suffer because of it."

If you have the drive and ambition of a Steve Jobs, look out world. But the majority of us won’t have this, and that’s okay, but that’s not a reason not to strive to to do our best work AND enjoy the ride.

Thanks for the post.

Jeff
www.JeffPasquale.com

That is a great thought and it took me a while to think myself into it.

I think I would do what most people posted here today:
I would help others find their path. I would give the help I am looking for myself.

Thanks Derek!

All I can say is thank you Derek for opening my mind with new thoughts everytime you post any. Love.

Nice one, as always. :)

Wonderful post. Still, I think it is important to remember that one does NOT need "money" to live.

I've been going through these types of thought challenges a lot lately. I recently started a new job, working for a large company where I am in charge of marketing a large tech-centered conference. I tried really hard to get this position, and now that I am here I find it lacking in work-life balance. Something I've really cherished in the past. While I like many things about what I do, I find that it isn't quite what I am happy doing.

I don't know yet what I am without my work identity, but I am learning. Every day. Trying to be better.

We all know and have met individuals who live without money. These are individuals who whether positively or negatively ride the waves and go with the ebb and flow of the tides of society. Whether through bartering or other means, these folks go about their day in coexistence alongside everyone else. The key piece that none of us can go without is that of attention. Humans are basically social creatures. We require social interaction in order to achieve self fulfillment. Most "closet" musicians make music that no one is likely to hear. But it's only when those compositions are shared that their art is "validated" within themselves because the feedback, whether positive or negative, is what allows them to grow. Even the musician who performs a piece of music in solitude to be broadcast out in the open for others to hear is doing so in the hope they'll be able to garner the attention of another person. If not to themselves directly, then to the music itself, and by extension the musician. Undertaking an activity which affects the surrounding environment where others coexist IS social interaction and therefore seeking attention for one's self or what you are doing. We know intuitively that if a tree falls in the woods it does make a sound. But it's the question of whether someone hears it that makes all the difference.

I love that you ask simple questions that inspire such soul searching. We complicate everything now a days... but the simple stuff is what seems to have most of the answers to the hardest questions in life. Thank you.

As many of my deceased rock n pop heroes discovered - fame and fortune have no lasting value. I have seen it written that business people on their death bed never say "I wish I had spent more time in the office” A lot us entrepreneurs have a deep seated urge to keep going and keep going - as each goal is reached there is another one waiting. We are never satisfied by achievements for long. Augustine of Hippo ( 354 – 430 AD) summed it up in saying "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you” We need to connect with GOD to make sense of this life ALSO we need to connect with people in a real way. In helping them to deal with their problems we are not only helping them but also ourselves

I think you have some very deep views expressed here. Made me stop to think.

It was really enlightening to realize what my answers to these questions were.

My reply would have to be .. "Don't you think then, that life should be as it is? For without the struggle, what is Life? Without the tests or trials.. what is Life? Maybe then it is best that we as a species should have something to live for and to work toward."

Excellent question and valid to so many, including myself.

If I had to literally give you an answer as to what I'd do if money were no object or worry to me..

I'd seek after philanthropic and humanitarian goals and work. I guess without so much to worry about I would like to give a piece of happiness to someone else.

Actually I am more or less in this situation, exactly. And I am asking myself this same question, over and over, and it is really hard. Honestly I cannot say I want to do anything differently. I will probably be working in a school again this year, as a teacher or even as an assistant, as I improve my German langage skills in Germany. Of course it is possible to learn on one's own but the benefits of being in a class with vastly different personalites, cultures, backrounds and thinking totally outweighs going at it alone. As far as teaching as a career, there is just about nothing more rewarding to me than helping young people grow up, giving them hope, helping them see their innate talents and helping them build confidence in themselves. It is an odd time for me though, being in an intensive language course as a student, and not actively going to work to teach every day right now. I really miss the awe I have for witnessing the actual process of learning in young people. As much as I love the stage myself and still get to play some pretty amazing concerts during this adaptive period, my purpose is also, if not more so, to give back.

To quote His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, "There is a saying in Tibetan that “at the door of the miserable rich man sleeps the contented beggar.” The point of this saying is not that poverty is a virtue, but that happiness does not come from wealth, but from setting limits to one’s desires, and living within those limits with satisfaction."

This is kind of sad. Almost every post I read here is about doing something different if they had the opportunity. I can honestly say that I really wouldn't change much of anything! I'm already living the life I love, and i have arranged my life in such a way that doing the things I love has a nice side effect of providing the money I need. But the money part is secondary, not the purpose. When people ask me what I will do if I ever retire, I just laugh and say I must have retired years ago, because I can't imagine living differently than I do now. If you are not happy with your life, then change it!

That question, "if I had everything I could ever need, what then?" is an idea, come to think of it, that is sort of a constant flowing undercurrent of positively charged aspiring energy that is, whether I'm aware of it or not, always there, influencing my pursuits. Praise is positive reinforcement. I do love to be praised, much more than being attacked or put down or "cut low" as the kids used to say in my day. I guess that's another underlying theme in me; that contradictory notion that competition, that striving to be better than someone else or some other group, that losers deserve less food and shelter than the winner who is awarded 1000 times more in sustenance and goods than he or she could possible ever consume in a life time, is the right way to be. Such is the norm, and always has been. Success; winning is a high we all enjoy. So is being loved. I have never been keen on over-powering others (lacking the desire to put forth the required effort, truth be told), and thus proving my superiority by defeating the weak of mind or of bodily strength. This aversion for conflict, or lack of desire for domination over others, didn't help me much in the area of achievement. As I look back, I see my misunderstanding of the purposes behind battling in artificially created wars fought on football fields or boxing arenas... Look at Syria, for instance. Why are people starving there? It matter NOT to me how smart those suffering there are, or how strong or accomplished they are. They deserve to live. Preferably, in peace.

What ails humanity most is that we are not of one mind. If we were, then we would eat when we are hungry, heal where we are weak, and get shelter when we need to sleep and stay warm. The need for such basics creates the greatest interference living a happy life.

Nuff said. I could go on, but I won't. In short, in my pursuit for happiness, I agree with those comments related to attaining real pleasure through freedom to pursue purpose with a passion you hold sacred.

I would still write. It took me a decade of searching to find my passion and talent. I'm leaving my 20's in a couple months more sure than ever that I am on the right path for now.

---

BUT

I would place more time and effort in my own ideas for social development for those less fortunate in my local community of Cape Town, South Africa.

We have millions living in poverty, in shacks or insecure housing, with informal or 'stolen' connections to electricity, sharing communal public toilets, and eating nutrient sparse carbohydrate dense GMO food.

I think that could be solved with an Off Grid, Sustainably 3D Printed House that aims to build wealth for a family automatically through secure expandable shelter, power generation, internet connection, and organic food growth.

A house that takes a family from 3rd World Poverty to 1st World Living.

I'm experimenting at my own home, slowly, but it is happening.

---

If I had no bills to pay, no intellectual ego-based legacy to leave, that is what I would do.

If I had the money I could help people who are suffering because of wars, disease, drought, poverty, victims of abuse.

I would continue to do what I am doing. I love giving, sharing, helping people to see the light in darkness through my voice, words and playing my guitar. I love provoking people to look beyond themselves and stretch; show compassion, help somebody in need. I love to make people smile and know that they are loved in some small way every day. That makes my soul feel good! I am successful because I know who I am - with or without money. I know my value and self worth is not determined by how much money I have or how many people buy my music or tell me how brilliant I am or how much they love the sound of my voice. I know inside my heart who I am without the validation of others. I will always create a loving space for light to gather and shine outward through my music and words whether I make one dollar or a million dollars. I am joyful knowing my worth and value is not based on other people's opinion of me but rather how much I value my work and see myself - priceless!

You couldn't be more on point with this article and the message. What most people don't realize is that when you are on purpose and doing what you love. Life will become easier, better and more rewarding. We are in post with our documentary film called "A Billion Entrepreneurs." Our trailer can be found at www.ABEtheMovie.com. I will definitely share this article.

My Physiological needs have always placed me a tad outside the standard norms. When you're sick a lot, money and attention (fame) take a back seat to health. Music grounds me, making music makes me feel connected to something bigger than my physical needs.

Were I healthy wealthy and sated ... I would live, explore, touch, and share ... breathe EVERYTHING in ... exhale and start again.

If I had reached the far shore already, I would found my Academy, to unlock the potential of the next generation of leaders.

Thanks for posting this, Derek! The timing couldn't be better! I just had the weirdest dream about this kind of thing. And this dream happened in the context of my cockmamie idea of creating, booking, organizing & promoting The HiJinx Festival Tour, (http://www.facebook.com/hijinxintheheartland/events) a traveling indoor mini-festival featuring touring and local bands, local artists & craftspeople, unique performance artists, and prizes! (By the way, we could actually use a few local bands in some of these markets... Cleveland, Columbus (OH), Burlington (IA), Wichita & lawrence (KS)... feel free to contact me through our Facebook page http://facebook.com/hijinxintheheartland ). Well, the kick-off date is tonight, and I earlier this week, I literally burned myself out on this thing... I was so overworked on getting this thing organized & promoted, I got myself sick as a DOG! Was in bed all day Tuesday and part of Wednesday as a result... and now I'm WAY behind schedule. Then, last night, I had this dream that my little sister, who was this teeny-tiny skinny blonde beauty, wanted an acting gig in Los Angeles. I told her of a few connections I had in L.A., and she went down there and with one audition, got a gig as a new character on a daytime soap! I was kind of jealous, since I lived down there for 7 years as a struggling musician, and all she needed was one phone call (and probably didn't even need the audition) and she got this amazing gig. It made me feel like it just wasn't fair... that she got this great gig with almost no effort and here I continue to struggle. It made me think, "Is there something I should be doing that will come much easier for me... am I missing something here... should I be pursuing something else that will prove to be a huge successful thing for me with almost no effort???" Now, I don't know if I'd be satisfied as an actor on a daytime soap, I guess if the money was great, I'd be all for it. But my passion is music. I'd always want to pursue music, no matter what. But it really made me think... Do I want to be a musician so I can be famous? I'm certainly not making a lot of money as a full-time musician (which I am full-time... I don't have a "dayjob", and for that, I am VERY THANKFUL). But would I be more satisfied in life if I were a doctor and I came up with some medical breakthrough? Or if I was doing something that really helped people??? Am I helping people as a musician? Well, of course I am... I'm giving them a little joy in their lives that they seek when they come out to see me play. I'm giving the world something positive. And I'm doing positive things for the music community in my hometown with some of the projects I have created. Anyhow, this just really got me thinking. Maybe that's what I need, when I get back from this tour (which goes through April 11th)... like you wrote about in your article... I probably need a week off to just think and relax and re-focus. Taking time to do that is REALLY important. Thanks, Derek... I love your articles!!!!!

Great questions, and I love how the flood gates of comments opened in response.
This comes at a great time in my life where a unexpected and unwelcome change in my career has just appeared.
Your post and many of the comments are helping to keep things in perspective.

Great insight!!

Off the top of my head - figure out how to combine the internet/ entertainment/ /music/ gamification/ or viral videos with getting life-saving 2nd chance surgeries funded for young people around the world who drew the short end of the stick in life.

For example, last week I saw a video of a young lady who's mentally ill father made her drink acid at age five. Since then she has no functioning digestive track, is dependent upon tube feeding at the hospital, and now she has no parents at all. The good news is that there's a chance at a revolutionary surgery, but it costs a lot. She's using the TV networks, social media, and a non-profit to help fundraise, but I bet for every person in such a difficult situation, this is not simple or practical.

So if there was a reliable, new, and interesting method to raise funds for such terrible situations, that could help.

Another idea of mine, is to create some kind solution for people with a tendency for health emergencies. For example, an app panic button solution for severe allergy attacks that would automatically alert the school nurse/ teacher/ boss/ hospital about the urgent need for action. It would also be cool if there was an app that could locate spare Epipens and their owners in a small radius from an emergency.

Hmmm... I will worry about it then.

Wonderful thoughts my friend.

I've thought a similar paradigm using the idea of winning a lottery with a jackpot that would sustain me for life. Then I'm left with figuring out "what would I do".

In thinking this way, I've realized I'm addicted to music. I know I have an addictive personality and I've allowed myself to let that addiction be music. So, all of a sudden, I'm put in a position to realize that even with unlimited money, I've got to play/perform/write/live/eat/breathe musicness. Yes, take time off on any given day, sit back and have good meals or relax to recharge.. but jump back in and keep swimming in music.

It's one of the few things I can be addicted to without any guilt.

Now, as time is passing and I see my friends around me perhaps making more money than me and still wrestling with lifestyles that are not their passion/addiction, I see that happiness is where it's at for me. Soul satiation as opposed to bank account size.

The ancient Egyptians, rest their souls, unwittingly proved that we can't actually take the physical riches with us.

Late IPADE teacher Carlos Llano, very appreciated in Mexico, lectured on being able to identify superfluous and necessary goods. Being the discussion a millenary debate among the greatest philosophers in history. Lecture’s conclusion was that a necessary good is the one where you can reach satiety, superfluous goods are the ones where you can´t have enough. Meaning many goods can easily become superfluous to the point of becoming ill with “pleonexia”, one of the worst epidemics of our time. So reaching a saturation point is good and means you can pursue other things. Typically people that reach this point do any of two things: a. Become desperate and seek alienating “solutions” e.g. drugs, danger, etc. anything that somehow mitigates despair or b. Become motivated and rewarded by what they can do for others, in a nutshell it is called “service” and has many pathways. It’s Bill Gates doing the charity thing, mother Theresa tending to the sick or an activist making his/her community a little bit better. Money and attention are a mere fish tank compared to the ocean of what the human experience is, seems it´s time for you to swim further.

What with my current full-time day job, I manage about 20 performances a year (as a lutenist) and one recording every couple of years. Not much time remains for other activities.

Were I in a position to quit my day job: I'd spend my mornings completing a novella and a novel, both of which were started years ago and have been percolating ever since. I'd spend my afternoons doing more recordings--one a year, instead of every other year (not for the money from sales, but to set down my vision of the relevant repertoires). The odd hours remaining would be devoted to learning more about wine pairings.

The pigeon looks happy. Probably not really thinking too deeply about life ... just living it. (Hmmm, may be some advice hidden somewhere in there.) This article reminds me of a quote from my Mom - "If you carry your fun, you own the game." Which neatly eliminates lots of potentially stressful thinking but you're on to something here, Derek ... I'd say roughly 80% of all current human activity is done purely for the money, for the financial reward. Like working in a paper clip factory, for instance. The primitive "Hunting & Gathering" society worked, on average, 7 to 8 hours a week. The rest of their time??? We can only guess, but probably dancing and playing music and swimming and ... . Thank goodness we have progressed beyond that! {*_*}

I'm there...now researching a new country in which to retire peacefully.

I have ambitions that I pursue regardless of the money or attention they bring me because of creative impulses that drive me. Alas, the pursuits are for software I can design but lack the skills or money to develop, so I end up chasing the almighty dollar in pursuits for which I am not so inclined, but for which I have the adequate skills, so that I can put that money towards ambitions for which I am inclined. Sometimes, life requires sacrifice and you hope along the way that the sacrifice was worth it.

Since when is "being useful to others" the gold standard for the "good life"? If we're confined by your terms, then what I want is a life in which I'm useful to myself. If others take value from that or derive pleasure from it along the way, so much the better!

Well u might think that i am crazy, stupid, unreal or dreaming or all of the above. But that will be a reality soon.(?) We will always need attention..you know love companionship etc. But money although we need it to live, it is one of the worse things in the world. Think about it. The drug problem that never ends and gets worse..why- money. Sex slave trade- money. Prostitution- money. We have to pay a ransom is what i call it for our rent, mortgage, and now even food and on and on..why-money. I'm not saying that money is not useful but with the exception of not a whole lot the love of money is just about the cause of every evil..hm i think somebody said that just a little different. Anyway that is what god promised in his word the bible. What ever we need we will plant it, make it, build it, produce it (music,art etc.for one another..not for the money but for the need and pleasure of one another. Please Mr. Sivers check out JW.org. You won't be disappointed.

At the end of the day I think the cause of this issue (for entrepreneurs, artist, people who choose what they want in general) comes down to two things. The first is our sense of identity and how important it is for us to feel comfortable about who we are. The knowledge that you're doing something that you chose to do lets you stay secure when everyone around you says you're crazy. Especially for those who sacrifice a lot, this is one of the only things that let them feel like it was all worth it. People naturally try to do things that reinforce that sense of security of identity.

This ties in with the second part which is about what we expect out of the things that we do. The thing about dreams and even just fulfilling societal expectations is that we think that by achieving or doing these things we will be happy, forever. Achieving these things can bring happiness but it's never lasting. This is why people who find lasting happiness in what they do don't really care about reaching somewhere. They derive happiness out of their craft; external factors often end up taking that away from them. Once people who are living their dreams find out that it isn't what they thought it would be, the sense of hollowness, of insecurity about themselves and the world start to form.

The solution? Without sounding too trite, find out what really matters and question your assumptions. Is money really all that important to you? This takes a long time and you often need people to criticize you before you realise it. And the last thing is to realize the reward is intrinsic and not extrinsic!

It took me a two to three years after some serious depression before I could really understand it. I think that depression was useful. It's a catalyst for change and it lets you know that there's something fundamentally wrong in your life and how you think. Good luck to anyone who is struggling! Make the most of it.

The Printer it's the ultimate answer...

We can now print 3d objects.

What if we print off all the parts of out printer and make a bigger printer?

A printer big enough to print out a house...plane...boat...car...

A printer that can print out what ever we need......all you need are the blue prints.
All down loadable from the internet saved to your printed out Flash drive.

Eventually your printer will become so advanced...... enough to start to print out organic matter...oh ya we already can... organic hard drives?

Well let's dial that in and print new body parts and live longer.

Food print it..

every thing you need print it???
What good is Money now?

Isn't this a wonderful thought sounds bigger than life... the mother invention of all time...

But.... there is a problem....

Like every great idea that starts off with good intent.
It will end up twisted & Evil...

What happens when you start to print off bombs & people?

Ok looks like I just created a cool movie while I stopped needing money....

I thought it first I own the copy write .....lol

Robert Irving
c2014

Robert

It doesn't really concern me because I initiate all my art forms of writing, music, visual art and stand-up comedy with the thought of making my own statement. For forty years I have created 24/7 by prioritizing what is important and what door is open. I keep my overhead down so I can create the time to create. This will be my legacy whether people enjoy my creativity or reject it. We all know art is subjective, right?

Very real Derek, I am that pigeon, growing up in L.A., (Venice Beach), I had birds, cats & dogs etc., but I AM the message...money helps us help others, and our dreams; someday br0. AL-ways.:-)

Life = do the fuck you value/believe in/makes you happy + find a way to monetize that. (because, well, we still need money)
All the rest is, as you said, just a side effect. Be it admiration, acceptance, popularity, wealth (moneywise), attractiveness, etc.

I write 2 to 4 songs a day for the love of doing it. I think I've found my peace. :)

Now that....is the question of all questions! One of the most, if not the most important that has as much to do with living as life itself. If you never ask another Derek...you've asked enough.

I would anonymously help finance those in need who are spreading the gospel.

Always so wise, Derek. Thank you for the endless inspiration you give me. :)

Working for it's own sake, not for any reward or return, is definitely a mindset we need to foster more in ourselves. Another good article Derek :)

I feel the underlying issue guiding how we live or do things...is the question of how our lives make meaning. I will refer to Guy Kawasaki's book..The Art of the Start...who clarifies that "Meaning is not about money, power, or prestige. Its not even about creating a fun place to work. among the meanings of "meaning" are to:
1. Make the world a better place 2. Increase the quality of life 3. Right a terrible wrong 4. Prevent the end of something good." So Derek, Wherever you find yourself rich or poor or etc...., your circle of friends and people you know or those who know you will be affected by the choices we make in terms of how we make meaning in our life. We are wonderfully connected...yes our lives can make a difference and can be either a positive or a negative influence on those lives around us. In the end, our lives boil down to not when we were born or when we died...but what happened in between....Live in the Present and be a friend or hand.....

Hi Derek,
Always enjoy your thoughts. Been studying Andy Shaw's A Bug Free Mind lately and, he's been going into this area. The idea of 'the Destiny' and how to appreciate the Journey and the Now for that's all we have. It may have been someone else that I heard recently who quoted Lao Tzu...words to the effect...If you live in the Past your depressed. If you live in the Future your anxious and, if you live in the Present you're at Peace.

Prologue:
My mother died last year and I promised myself and her and all my ancestors to think how I want to live and what is important for me. That includes the idea to have all I want and I can do whatever I want. Thoughts are free. That was the best idea I ever had.

I realized that most people don't have the patience to do that. They think it's enough to do that once or twice and then they switch back to complaining about their lives. One year gives you the freedom for any crazy idea. And you need some time to loose the fear of consequences because it has no consequences except for your mind.

The first perception was that I love writing and that it makes me happy (not all the time but general). I am writing since years but I make my living as a librarian not as a writer. And taking pictures. This idea was good but I needed another 5 months to take the next step. What is if I stop working as a librarian and start as a writer? I started to count my money. I want to have time for the important things in my life and I will have. I saw that I don't have time for other special things I want to do. I wouldn't get money for things that seem very important to me.

I want to hold hands with people who will die (I did that with friends and want to do that with others too). I will sing with people who suffers on Alzheimer and see what they need in their special world, take time for them that they don't feel alone in their world (I learnt that from and with my mother). I want to read books (not mine) for adults that they can slow down (I did some tests on that). I will play ball with little kids (I already do that). And I want to sing and a dog to have someone to take a walk. And have time for my friends.

I definitely want to do many things and they don't cost the world. I counted the money and realized that I can afford a life like that till I will get my pension.

The year is almost finished. I will quit my job soon (April) because I have a long list to do. The only thing that I am not able to do, is my special way of travelling to understand the world. Once a year I would wish to go on a place where I learn more about and from the earth: to a volcano or to a special forest or to painted caves. I want to write about that because it made me a more responsible person to see my part in the world and this experience I want to share. Luckily I did some of these travels and I will write about it. It is my way to show others that they are connected with this planet (not only emotional or spiritual but physical). And I hope they understand that we have to be careful. I was thinking how people can learn to lead a responsible life. I think it might help to fall in love to earth. There are so many wonders, we just need to see them. And loving is a good way to act responsible.

It is not just a fantasy and the year was good as it offered me so many possibilities.
The switch already started. I found a cheap flat and will sell my flat which gives me the money for a living and feel free to do what is important for me and what I think is important to do for the world. (this is just a short version, I made a lot of decisions to made this way liveable).

While the reality is that I need the money, should there come a time when I don't, I would still play. There was a time when I had money and freedom to do what I wanted - and I still wanted to play - even more, in fact. Having money gave me the freedom to not have to put up with so much BS., which is really all I care about money for these days, but playing is hard wired somewhere i my brain and I can't stop it. I was the oddball who never played music for the attention, in fact, that was the one part I disliked the most. These days I go out and play for the squirrels and the birds quite often, and there's nothing like it. I've been a full time, employed musician for 30+ years, and I never enjoyed playing as much as I do when I'm outside - where there is fresh air, sunshine, animals, and no people. So yeah, money so I can live with some amount of peace of mind, and freedom from all the bullying, but after that, playing for my own will probably never stop - and if it does - I'll be ok with it.

It's a little bit like asking what I'd want in a relationship if I was female. Maybe a better question is, why, with as much money and attention as you have, you'd be motivated to post this. Honestly, you're in a much better position than most of us to provide a real answer.

Life is not about being useful to other. Focus on yourself instead. Placing your prime concern within other men, the attempt to do good, is a ubiquitous misconception and a growing plague of our time. But actually it is just a personal weakness. It is attention-seeking in disguise. If you still long for the attention of others, you are a still a dependent like you were when your mother provided the food and the love. It is time to grow up. Time to be a self-sufficient man. Time to love yourself.

I don't reckon I could ever tire of life, no matter what I was or am doing. And if I don't want to do something anymore, I just move on to yet another interesting project.
There's sooooo much to chose from out there. And we only live one life so why not love living it, before it's snatched away from us. We all live for such a little while really, so don't worry too much, just cherish every day & surely no one can say they've had enough of life.

#355 ... Time to be a self-sufficient man. Time to love yourself. Time to be able to tinker all day with setting up FreeBSD OpenBSD dual-boot without remorse.

I've enjoyed your views over the years. Pondering your question I realize that the original inspiration I had 40 years ago still applies. I love the way chords are the psychology behind the melody. [Not an original quote.] I love the sweet middle...when a project is up and running but before it's done. Thanks for asking the question! Keep doing what you're doing. It has an effect in the world.

Important question to ask yourself. Find the answer and do it even if you don't have enough money and attention.

Thank you Derek - great article and I don't think anyone can disagree with it. At the same time, if I sometimes do work that I don't enjoy, but because it pays well, that's great too, because it funds the things I love to do. My wish is that soon the work I love to do will be the only thing that funds and fuels my passions :-).

Two things in life are interesting:

1) People
2) Ideas

...so if you don't need money or attention, then the following "bucket list' might be worthy of consideration:

1) People

- Hang out with friends and family
- Help other people with their problems (hand up, not hand out)
- Clean drinking water blueplanetnetwork.org
- Education, especially for girls care.org


2) Ideas

- Explore the world http://www.100placestovisit.com/
- Go to concerts or play yourself or listen to Robert Greenberg's ideas about music en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Greenberg
- Go to art galleries and museums, create something yourself. Have you ever seen the Hermitage? Been to Florence? Or seen the Antikythera mechanism?
- Learn about stuff (Google "MOOC" for resources or pay for Great Courses from The Teaching Company or surf over to TED)
- Learn to cook en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Child
- Go to the library and read critically about stuff. Was Friedrich Nietzsche onto something with his Übermensch or was he a depressed anti-religious misanthrope?
- Write about what you know by writing a book or contributing Wikipedia
- Listen to Science Friday and think about the unsolved problems of physics en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_unsolved_problems_in_physics
- Laugh at some jokes
- Watch some movies en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_films_considered_the_best
- Many others...

Great Post!

Half my fears are about money. That's a really good mindset to have so you are really pressing into areas of the business that you believe in. I'm always thinking well what if I do this and all these other things to make money. I can focus on the core of the business and have passion in it because that's what will drive the business. And that is the area that people will see and stand out.

Once again, you hit on something universal here. Miss you! Hope we can talk soon.

like. true. do.

since some years living live moment to moment. doing what is needed. feeling every day is a gift. a bonus. because i did/have all the things i ever wanted and more. gratitude in daily life which is not always easy but forever precious.

Awesome Derek. I'd closed my indie artist management business, ~NDVERSE~ Indie Artist Mgmt. & Mktg., LLC, a few years back due to health problems. I really had a great time meeting and working with those indie artists that I assisted in advancing their careers, as well as the venues that showcased their talents, and the various distribution networks that we worked with to get them out there into the society mainstream, but something was truly lacking in my life back then.

After taking a sabbatical for awhile and focusing on my health, as well as those of whom I'm closest to, family and friends, I began to refresh my perspective on my true purpose for my life. You see, about a decade ago, I was living in Tennessee, about an hour south of Nashville. I had created a non profit corporation geared to assist people with discovering what their God-given talents aka innate abilities are and help them to fine tune them to use them in todays marketplace. I'd contacted numerous private and public sector organizations for financial assistance.

My target market was addicts who were coming out of long term treatment, and prison facilities, who had a passion to break the cycle of recidivism, by getting in touch with what their true purpose was in life, and pursuing it wholeheartedly. I had a Coffee County judge, and a contact in the Tennessee Department of Corr., who were both willing to refer me clientele to work with. I just couldn't find one individual or organization who was willing to take a chance with me on this.

So, as a disabled Vietnam era U.S. military veteran, trying to get this project off the ground from a home based office in my 3 bedroom mobile home, I finally had to throw in the towel after 4 years, and contact my V.P. and Board of Directors to inform them of my decision to close the non profit and move on in my life. That's one of the hardest decisions that I'd ever made in my life at that time, and I can honestly tell you Derek... it devastated emotionally, mentally, physically, as well as spiritually!!!! So much to the point that I had to go on my very first sabbatical, ever in my life back then which lasted a year.

Then shortly after that year, I moved back down to Corpus Christi, Texas, where I met CD Baby distributed artist David Martinez, who introduced me to your blog a few years back. Within a year of meeting David, I had begun to receive enough of what was needed at that time, clarification and motivation to pursue my next big endeavor for my life. That became originally a sole proprietorship, which evolved into ~NDVERSE~ Indie Artist Mgmt. & Mktg., LLC.!

I got the opportunity to help David Martinez, as well as some other world class **** artists achieve a level of fame and success outside of their home based region. It was a great opportunity for myself and them, but as I said earlier, I still felt like I was accomplishing what my true purpose is here in life. So after closing up shop & moving from south Texas back home to Illinois, I took my second sabbatical, and I began after my healing process to seek out what it was that I'm truly here for...

I couldn't help but remember how much of an impact my pursuit of the non profit down in Tennessee had on my life, and how profoundly it affected me negatively when I wasn't able to make that vision come true. So I began to pray & meditate, seeking guidance and direction from God on my next endeavor, which is truly one of my greatest visions yet, the S.M.A.R.T. Foundation, Inc.!

The Stormy Monday Awareness Responsibility Training program is very similar to a dream I had in Tennessee a decade ago, only this time it is geared towards at risk youth and those adults who have "missed the boat", so to speak, with discovering what their true purpose is in life, and how the S.M.A.R.T. Foundation can assist in the process of helping them to discover and pursue their true destiny.

I'd love to tell you more about this project inbox through an e-mail or two, down the road sometime Derek, if you'd like to learn more about it. Please feel free to let me know if I've piqued your interest. If not, that's cool too... I understand you are a very busy man... I hope and pray that all is well with you & your loved ones!

Sincerely,

Mr. Edward A. Moore - President
The S.M.A.R.T. Foundation, Inc.

I went to sleep after doing a spiritual exercise last night with these thoughts in mind.
I have spent my life pursuing the ever evasive " making a living" acquiring huge student loans along the way, doing work (social work / counseling/ real estate sales) instead of doing the things I expected to do, was good at as a child- writing(being the next Jane Austen) and painting. Even sold a couple.
The end result is that I am heavily in debt with mortgage payments, loans that cost me more in interest than they are worth and living "hand to mouth" from month to month.
I have never enjoyed any of these jobs, least of all the one I am doing now. yet, I see no way out. My dreams show me where I am now, but sadly, no way out.
this article is so what I need to read, yet, where do I go from here?
I know the "cause" these are the effects that I am reaping.
Thank you for "catching" what I feel and know.

artistic projects that shine light into the darkness of the world and return people to the simple joy of loving and caring for god's garden/earth and the good and godly creatures we share this world with

Nice, Derek. A question worth asking. Money and attention drive a lot of our actions--right up there with food and sex, and actually, pretty intertwined with them. The things we do even without any obvious reward--those things are who we really are, our souls, though they can be seriously corrupted by too much--or sometimes too little--attention or money.

The pigeon thinks in images, and is motivated by the need of any given moment. Who knows if he appreciates the view.
Derek, raise children. You will be the giver (of money and everything else) and the giver of attention. This will enlarge you immensely, and you'll really really appreciate the moments of rest that you get.

I learned that lesson nearly 20 years ago when I left Corporate America and a great paying job to continue pursuing a college project I did for fun called Just Plain Folks. There WAS an impetus, but that's a story for another time. Now, over the past 18+ years I have worked for free, helping musicians and songwriters for free, occassionally lamenting the fact I don't have money to do something important, but mostly never missing it. It's been the best time of my life, way better than when I made a lot of money and worked jobs I disliked with people who hated their jobs and everyone else they worked with and miserable ladder climbers destroying and clawing and gouging anyone in their way to climb another rung. It was a brutal and sad existence. There have been some major negatives as there are in all things over time, but that is simply the reality of any life. It can't always be smooth riding, but the freedom you get when you aren't chasing money or fame is amazing. Ironically, I have many of the things I dreamed of BECAUSE I never pursued them (aside from money). Funny how life can work. So your little story pretty much sums up my life. But then you knew that already Derek. =) Good to see you well and still thriving!

I would still play guitar. Nothing in this world satisfies me like music. However...I I'm certain that I would devote much more time to helping Stella' Voice with the mission of rescuing orphans in Moldova from sex trafficking. That is where my heart really is: www.stellasvoice.org

Hi Derek, I quite agree. We all work hard at attaining something only to find out it doesn't always satiate you. Then what? Fortunately, or unfortunately I went through a very enlightening situation. My husband, also a musician, and I were victims of a conspiracy (real estate), and everything I was working for or thought I was working for was stolen. We were left with only the clothes on our backs. During all of this I came to realize it was all material STUFF. As George Carlin once said we are always trying to get more STUFF. Well, I finally realized that one of the things I really wanted to do in life was build a music department in a school that had nothing, and that is what I am doing. Of course that is addition to continuing to perform Blues and Jazz and educating people about Blues and Jazz, it's origins and the people that gave us this great music. So Derek, I took your advice about doing what ever you satiates your soul and enhances the lives of others. Not for the money, which we all need, but for the pure fact that you can add to the lives of others. It's so much more rewarding. Of course I get paid to do this but I go beyond what I should do regardless of the lack of enough money and it all seems to work out in the end. I hope this message is understood. Thank you again for such insightful thoughts and information. Keep up the great work.

Derek, nice write up. For the last several years I've found myself loving each and every day. I literally play in three sandboxes. Two of the three are probono. All three are about helping people without any expectations or agenda.

My challenges are my inability to say "no" and balancing. I do have "rent to pay" and work for a major firm who's intersts and values as well as time horizons, may not necessarily align with mine. My daily actives tend to drift towards those that need help the most and want help. Fortunato Vega

Hello Derek,
Hope this finds you well and happy. It's always good to hear from you because I respect your opinions and your ideas, and your questions are always interesting to me. This question is a very good one and maybe completely original, I suppose you didn't answer it because you want to hear our opinions right? Well last year I realised what the future of humanity really needs here is a cooperative system not this ancient feudal one. I also realised the perfect solution for us all (until Kingdom come that is !) is actually only one 'ok' away for all of us. That is namely ' A Great Settlement,' where every individual agrees on how much of their property to 'stick with' before a new way forward, either keep all of it or some of it. Then everyone on board can have their own cabin too! The best way to care for the whole 'ship' is if everyone has a little share of it. Then we all just get on with doing what needs to be done, and we do want we want to do! and we'll all be happier, because for the first time ever our system will be morally right, and we won't all be set against each other, we will also be doing it for the right reasons. We will have given ourselves the best possible chance of the longest future possible together and the species. I believe it would only take a few committed capable people to make this happen, well.... people like yourself Derek :) x
best wishes Si

great words. this is what the buddhists have been saying all along.
thanks.

...continue to live consciously, gratefully, humbly, and hope for a little grace at the end.

I think happiness is rooted in personal feelings. While it's good to bask in the sunshine of applause and kudos for your music, to me, it's more important to spend time with the family and do things that bring personal satisfaction. If you're not getting the same feeling from performing, why do it? As far as being forgotten, you're already forgotten as soon as the music stops. While I have not personally experienced the fame and fortune that Derek is mentioning in this article, I have not found as much satisfaction in live performances and self-promotions as I used to. I decided sharing music with others with no restrictions is much better than concentrating on what sells. That's why I've thrown caution to the wind and will now give away my music for free (although the physical CDs will still cost, to defray production costs) and I will be more selective of where and when I'll perform. I guess I'm just a hippy at heart, but I get more satisfaction from sharing my work (moth my music and my writing) than I do from selling it. Just my opinion...

This relates to a thought experiment I've performed a number of times... assuming I had X million dollars, what would I do more? How would it change my life? I don't even play the lottery, but I thought it was always a good exercise because so many people think money would solve everything. Few folks probably take the time to consider what it would do for/to them.

Most of the things on my list didn't necessarily revolve around having all that money. Most things I would do centered around being more creative, exploring my passions to feel more whole within my own self, and helping others. Spending time with family, participating in my community. Doing something with purpose. So I'd look at that list and say "I can do those things now!"

I think many of us in our 40s, who lived through the tech boom and have benefitted from it in various ways (some to larger degrees than others), are seeing that there are human/psychological costs to having that promise of wealth/notoriety. It's funny how both the tech and entertainment industries are aligned in this way. This discussion reminds me of a quote I keep on my wall at work... these words resonate with me often:

“The Paradox of Our Age”
a classic text by The Dalai Lama

We have bigger houses but smaller families;
More conveniences, but less time;
We have more degrees, but less sense;
More knowledge, but less judgment;
More experts, but more problems;
More medicines, but less healthiness;
We’ve been all the way to the moon and back,
but have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbor.
We build more computers to hold more information to
produce more copies than ever but have less communication.
We have become long on quantity,
but short on quality.
These are times of fast foods but slow digestion;
Tall man but short character;
Steep profits but shallow relationships.
It’s a time when there is much in the window,
but nothing in the room.

Derek, your comments and questions gave cause for some serious soul searching, stirring a kind of spiritual awakening. I've personally had a passion to create music my entire life, but because of some early twists in my life, I've accepted my role as a provider for my family, until such time I could act on this passion. Finally, in my mid-sixties, I feel liberated to write and to further develop the various melodic invasions within my head. However, our needs and passions are not static and, just as we can become satiated as regards to the consumption of food, our needs and passions are constantly evolving. Nevertheless, inasmuch as my attention seeking quests are greatly diminished, my passion to write and create music is as intense as ever and I look forward to riding my horse into the sunset as a songwriter.

About 30 years ago I decided to take "I want" out of my vocabulary. All that was left was "how can I help you". What a difference it made. I don't need attention or money anymore.

Q: What if you didn't need money or attention?
A: Year-long road trip around USA!

I feel like this alot, especially lately, I can dig it.

This is a great question and one that I think all of us may ask ourselves from time to time. You are correct in saying that so much of our emotional energy is taken up with just trying to "survive" and make a living. I think the main thing that I would do is take more time investing in people. There are many areas that I have found that I have gifting's that I really didn't realize until given the opportunity. I didn't realize how much that I enjoyed teaching music theory, and music and private lessons. I also like to mentor young people and try and be an inspiration to them to better themselves. I am very much into health, and living a healthy life and would love to encourage others into having a more healthy life and encouraging others to be their best. My natural tendency is to be an encourager and if I could help to encourage others to be their best that would be very fulfilling. That being said, I would also take the time to write new music daily, and produce and help others do the same. I love the creative process. I pray that someday I will have enough hours in the day to be able to do all of this and have a balance for family time.

Hey Derek. As always a great question to ponder. I think my answer would be that I would have more time to invest in people. Since they are really one of the things that will last in this life that truly have meaning. That more time we have to invest in others to help them glean from our experience and knowledge, the more that the world becomes informed. When we are informed we are then able to pass along and come along side others and help them to navigate throughout this world of trials and tribulations. The things that help us to build character also help to make us stronger. If we can pass that along to the next generation then we are making a difference in the world. To just keep the knowledge and experience that we have for ourselves seems like a waste to me. There is just never enough time in a day to help everyone we want to. This is what I would like to have more time for. When we get to a state where we are not just chasing dollars, I think our hearts will figure out what is truly the most important thing. PEOPLE

Teach. Teaching shares to others what you've learned yourself. I find arts (such as music) and crafts (such as woodworking) to be both heartwarming to share, as well as something that will have meaning and value to the person you've taught.

It is a battle to not get on the wild spinning merry-go-round called, success and recognition. We are plagued with I.M.O. "I'm missing out." Success through money or fame will never fill the gaping ache that growls for more and MORE. For me the "good" life must be found through the eyes of good. I am not good. But I believe in one who is. When things get crazy for me...I remember which measuring stick to use for my life....not one of my own making but one that is greater than mine and more accurate as to what is lasting and fulfilling. Do kindness. Be generous. Love others. And for me...this is only possible if I start with, Love God.

I started doing exactly this a few years ago. I laid things in place to get to a point where I have some money saved up, got rid of all my debts, invested in a few things which will provide me with enough to live on, so that I can stop working for money.

I'm now semi-retired and I only work a few hours every day, while I spend the rest of my free time looking for fun things to do, and trying to help those who want to go down the same route as me.

I have to sacrifice a lot of things, because my current income is not quite enough to support the lifestyle I want, but I'm much happier and feel a lot more alive than when I was stuck at work for 12 hours a day making a lot more money.

We cannot live without loving or being loved and since it is more blessed to give than to receive we are more secure in giving than we are in receiving.we cannot run out of giving but there is is a limit to what we can take.the harder we love the stronger we grow

After spending nearly twice as long as i initially anticipated for 3 years in Europe to complete a dual-degree/dual-national environmental master's degree program, and completing an additonal related post-graduate certificate programme in the process; and also managing to secure an internship on an island in Thailand, and arranging paid gigs with open starting dates any time I am ready to start after that doing the same in India and later in Germany; I put all that on hold during my post-graduation travels, and am now living in city near the ancient temples in Cambodia and have a rehersal tomorrow to play with a large band of musicians for some regular paid gigs, and am also half-way through a TEFL course which i intend to use to teach many of the disadvantaged kids here English. :)

I believe that (for the most part) happiness is a choice. I have the power to choose how I feel and if I don't like the choices to make a change for the better.

I would travel and learn to speak German, French and Italian; go to the opera in Paris and Milan, start sketching again, keep up my fitness and healthy diet, visit wineries around the world, teach voice to worthy students who can't afford lessons, study acting again, learn how to successfully train a dog, write and record songs, write a Broadway show, write a cookbook…the list is endless! Basically, I would have a blast! :)

You have raised a very unique question. I cannot speak for others, but at least for myself, I have never thought about it. I have thought about what will I do after both my daughters are graduated, well situated in life etc? But this is more deeper question than that. Right now I am getting goosebumps thinking about it. Thanks for bringing it up and sharing, I will start thinking on this line and keep this in mind when making future professional and personal goals.

It was surprisingly hard to think "what if" I didn't need money or attention any more... It strikes me now that most things I do are in search for one of those

Thank you for making me realize it.

Wow, impressing way to think about live with a picture that summarizes the whole text :-)
Thanks for that

Thanks Derek, yes well the attention I'm not fussed about but money always useful.

This is so true - I retired 8 years ago for my health (needed to reduce stress - although as a small business owner, I loved it). My wife and I have "enough" to be comfortable and travel a bit. I'm the "graphics guy" at our recreation center in Arizona - they love what I do but I do it because I like being creative and seeing what I can come up with for posters, flyers and programs. It's for me, but benefitting others. Life is good.

Life is not for make money, life is to do what their vocation tell them, no one get tyred to do what they love

The idea is beautiful, but hurts me to the core because I know we don't live in that society. I am fortunate enough to really enjoy what I do for money (teaching), but I would do different things if money suddenly didn't exist--like travel and make art. Those pursuits are parts of myself I feel I've lost. I believe I teach because it keeps me constantly learning: professional student, that's me!

Excellent thought. Perhaps this is what people need to assimilate in themselves ..this will eliminate a lot of stress in our lives..stress is the main killer in today's world.

i really love your approach into life, your integrity and your commitment to help others and share your knowledge , it's obvious you're not doing this to get credits and i salute it, deeply.
i'm totally in that same spirit, but in a much sober tone since i never had to give up any fortune to do so… hoping that your thoughts on this can reach the paths of the wealthiest. salutations. jean

Actually have thought about this a bit--I'm okay on the money (not rich, but have enough) and pretty much like the way I spend my time--playing music, walking my dogs, playing tennis & try to do a few good deeds and spread out the money I do have. If money were a non issue--I would probably try to promote a music event so I could hire musicians and have this asset to trade to play their events. I like foraging for wild food & do a little of that. If I had a little more money--I'd try to take my grown children on good vacations with the whole family at least once a year. I am trying to cut things from my life right now--and am decluttering and giving stuff away.
I want to quit knitting & quilting because although they are creative and secretly fun--they put me in the constant company of old ladies and I want to be in mixed age groups of both men and women. I am trying to play more tennis and I'd like to kayak and ride my bike more. I already do yoga.
I find I really do need more attention in almost every aspect of my life--so its hard to separate that from having enough--but my main activity that I seem to go for everyday--is that I enjoy playing music and recording regardless of if there is an audience or not.
But--I would really like to just be around a mixed group of people of all ages more--but guess that's back to attention again. Oh--I can get attention by cooking and having people over for dinner or making them a quilt, or knitting them fingerless gloves, or playing them a nice banjo tune, or giving a concert or workshop--but I still want some folks to notice me and like me for my faults rather than my skills and talents or because I might serve them in some way. Oh--and although I almost never want much in the way of material things--I really do want a couple of those fireflies flow toys with all the multiple colors and would like to dance with them even if I only got the wrong kind of attention for that. :)

Hi Derek, We 'chatted' by e-mail many years ago when I first signed up with CD Baby. I like to stay aware of your latest endeavors...and find this subject near and dear to me. I think your final sentence sums it up - "I find it healthy to make sure they are just side effects of doing good work, or living a good life."

My life has changed due to health issues. I had to leave the music world [professional drummer and then manager and agent]for many years... came back as a singer/songwriter/guitarist, but that too has been impacted by severe arthritis. I still do what I do in helping others, I make a living but most of what I do in advocacy and the nonprofit world goes unpaid...and that is okay with me.

Take care, Michael Skinner
http://www.mskinnermusic.com/
http://www.survivingspirit.com/

I was fortunate enough to be able to retire from a manufacturing career early and pursue other interests. I am not rich, but I am independent from having to earn a living. One valuable piece of advice I received prior to retiring is that you should be able to make a list of thirty things you want to do before you decide to retire (a bucket list in today's terms) or else you run the risk of being bored. After an employer occupies 50 hours of your week for thirty years, it is a shock to have to fill those hours with something else, believe it or not. I spent several years cruising the islands on my sailboat and then rekindled my interest in guitar playing, which led to songwriting and releasing a few CDs on CD Baby. I now play out for fun and continue to write and record songs. Although it doesn't really matter if I sell any, I find myself driven to do it and to book paying gigs for the band.

Sitting around doing nothing will drive you crazy and will lead to a shorter lifespan! I help the people around me who deserve to be helped (those who are trying to help themselves). I do not see any future in trying to solve world hunger or stop all wars....I am not in a position to make a difference so it is best left to those who are.

You should enjoy life (working or retired) because it is the only one you are going to have. To some, that means putting notches in their bank account, but to most, it means family, travel, hobbies, meaningful work, and good health.

Thank you for your thoughtful words. They always arrive at the perfect time! <3

I'm not sure if this qualifies, because I'm not sure if it's still attention-seeking on some level...but the time I'm happiest is when I'm listening to great musicians play & sing music with beautiful, intricate harmonies -- preferably that I wrote! I know that if I didn't need to write music & make sound for a living, I'd still do it...but I'd concentrate on the music I want to hear, not what the boss wants. It's nice that those two things are at least occasionally the same!

Always a pleasure Derek! Happy, healthy, safe & serene.

I think I would do what I'm doing. Try to connect with the earth by having a garden
to grow your own food. Make love to the family. Make music with friends and
community. Pray for the Lords mercy on our planet.

Hi Derek, I emailed you awhile back to tell you I was writing a book for graduating college students and used a similar exercise to try and help them plan their lives and understand their true desires. So many things like money and fame get in the way of knowing what we really do love and want. Thanks for your post. You are an inspiration.

I can't claim a lot of satiety in my life, but spot on - we tend to prioritize the activities that earn us money or recognition over those that are autotelic (innately rewarding). What if we did it the other way around? I have to believe we'd be more fulfilled. The ongoing dilemma, which is only compounded in the Web Era, is how to attract a receptive audience. Wearing a meat dress seems to work. I'm fervently hoping that's not my only alternative, though!

As the song in Jungle Book goes, "I reached the top, and had to stop, and that's what's a botherin' me." I think for many, we spend the first part of our lives growing, learning, developing, which brings happiness and satisfaction (accomplishing goals always does), but once we feel we've "reached the top and had to stop," we get our joy from helping others do the same, particularly our children, family and close friends. Think about God (if you believe in a God). He "has" everything, he "knows" everything. He can "do" anything. How could he possibly have joy? He creates us, and helps us get to where we also have, know and can do everything. We're just mini versions of that here, but with our children, family and friends.

HmmmmI was an RN for many years-satisfied to be helping adults and then teens at one point then not...I was also a closet singer. Now I sing publicly but that isn't enough. Service to others while exploring and bringing my creative aspects to life is where it is at for me. Excellent thought provoking article Derek. Thank you~ ps I would like to generate more money for my creative efforts however. ;)

I would travel more and enjoy my life to the fullest.

Would spend more time with family and helping them and having fun with them

I do not need $ luckly but I do feel that most people are interested in things in life that I could care less about.It feels like a privilege to not be immersed in most pop culture but I too feel best when people are moved by creative offerings of my music, "pure" food or just really listening.I wish for a world where
I could have more unity with my fellow beings but since they seem generally retarded, I am thankful to be in another world so to speak.When humanity's major focus is on violent persuits and
activities out of sync with the balance of our planet,I can hardly expect to hear Fela Kuti or SunRa
in the city streets.No I am just thankful the chemicals, nukes and overpopulation has still not wrecked everthing.I am thankful for time to wonder and I continue to reach out to my human family,
although my voice seldom is heard through the din of the industry of over stimulation.Sometimes people break through and we are blessed by a comet like Hendrix,Coltrane
or Rahsaan so their continues to be hope and joy in this mysterious
path we call life... play on... peace&gratitude,cbiii

Ps please check out our monthly podcast of music on iTunes or utube...would enjoy your feedback if you have time.....

On the nail Derek.
Scientific and technological evolution, shut down 90% of the brain!

I don't play music for money. I have an ordinary day job for money. If I didn't have to do that, I would pursue music for the sake of building community, looking for musicians who want to engage, contexts where group ventures and collaborations are going to be successful, interviewing countless people for their interests, desires and ideas with the intent to make things happen. Community. The Community, if coordinated effectively, can most effectively make a stand by example for what's most important for people/humanity in the long run.

I think there is much to be said for looking around you and being useful. On a practical side that is a path to a good business philosophy, but above and beyond that it is really rewarding to see a need and discover a path to resolve some of that need. Like solving a puzzle- but this is a puzzle that can smile back and express joy. I look forward to a time where I can keep my eyes out for ways I can quietly make a difference, and not be distracted by my own constraints. Until then, I will do what I can when I can and remember whatever constraints I might have at present to keep me empathetic when I do have more freedom. Life is about embracing the joy of being useful.

That is a great article, Derek. May I put the link to this article on my website? I think it will help a lot of people in my circle.

Hi Derek - Must be collective consciousness; I've been thinking about this topic quite a bit myself lately. My singing is better than ever before, but I never "made it" as a musician and now - in my late 50's - I'm trying to figure out what to do to give my life meaning and to make some MONEY! I am dead broke after pursuing "the dream" and working for minimum wage at Macy's selling badly made furniture that is polluting the planet while I struggle to hold onto my tiny condo. I long to get a gig in Martinique, spending my days reading on a beach and my nights singing French torch songs for vacationers at 5-star hotels. Am I sorry I took the road less traveled? NO! Because every time I sing - whether alone or in a group - I feel a surge of pure joy mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually :-) That's all for now gotta go to work! Carol

Derek,or Mr. Sivers, if you prefer.
I've been receiving emails from you for quite some time. I usually don't spend much time with them, but this one caught my eye. First of all, I see that you have a blog. Immediately I want to pick your brain on the value of such a method of . . . receiving attention. Not now, though, on a more one on one communication. The purpose, I could do a blog, and not bug people with my emails, and broaden the mass of attention givers. Let me know when and how.

Lucky me, I have always lived with the concept that the only money I need to count is that one more dollar than I actually need to spend at any one moment. I can easily carry one dollar, and it is not something I worry about losing. Nice.

Therefore, I am that guy you speak of, as my business plan has a great strategy to it: remove the $ from the creative process. Yes, I spend money supporting all of my creative endeavors, which you can view at www.brianwizard.com, or my latest at: www.hummingblade.com, but once spent I put it in the category of, "Never happened", the spending.

I do like to add the $ back into the sales equation, but when I do I find that people ignore me, and I do hate the lack of attention for my most excellent products (books, DVDs, artworks of all kinds, music, or in my case, noise.) If I ask what I consider a fair price for my talent, time, and resources, the answer to the question I am willing to ask everyone, "Want to buy some of my creative products?" is, "No." Hardly ever do I hear "No" to the question, "Would you like one of my creative products for free?"

Without the $ in the sales equation, moving product, and receiving a fleeting moment of attention almost seems worth it. Alas, it pays no bills.

In short, eliminating the $ from the equations of work and sales keeps the product flowing, and my bank account remaining steady around the 'one more dollar' balance.

In either case, more, less, wants, needs, or not, I wouldn't change a thing of what I do. I live life, not just exist in it. This approach to life, living it, might behoove the young to be taught it early in the game, along with how to control money, rather than money controlling you.

Those are my thoughts, and you asked,
Cheers, BW

Just wanted to clarify what I meant above by "being useful" - it doesn't need to be feeding Africa or creating World Peace. It can be helping an acquaintance move, driving someone to the airport or picking them up, driving a senior to a doctor's appointment... there are little ways we can help all around us that do not require great resources. Keep your ears out. Listen. A neighbor was looking for a job- I realized I knew someone in that sector and connected them so that a discussion could begin. With more resources- sure someday I look forward to doing more- but there is a great deal of pleasure in just the small stuff.

Agree whole-heartedly. Great article Derek!

In other words, false gods make the cruelest taskmasters.

Hi Derek
You have just hit the nail on my head these days with this article. I have reached a real peak in my performing and touring and find that, while I love to do that, I need to feel a real connection to something where I can feel like I am giving back.
I would teach jazz...no question. I love to encourage young students to pursue what I have pursued for years and years. There was a young student who was in my jazz workshop in South Africa this year and when it was over she came up to me and said "I want to be YOU when I have learned what I can about jazz" I looked at her and said "someday keep after that dream and you will be"
I think it is time for a career reassessment...after my next two tours anyway.
Thanks...this article was perfect.

Oh the tyranny of "need". And the illusiveness of "satiation".

Embracing a modest personal sense of "enough" is the foundation of freedom. Consume less, spend less and then... do less! Open up space and time in your life; ways to make a meaningful difference will present themselves.

That's why obtaining
contentment and knowing when you have it is more valuable then all the riches in the world . When we leave our family ,our community and our job to go to another state or city just to make 10 grand more, we find out we just left what was most important. When we are seeking the applause of man we forget about who's really important ,we forget God ,and will never ever be fulfilled without him. Was it Plato that said "we have a God shaped hole in our hearts?"

I would do most of the same things I already do, but I would be able to say no a little more.

Same work (which I love), fewer clients (ALL of whom I would like and for whom I would enjoy producing my best work).

Thanks , this is very timely for me . I 'm selling my house and contemplating moving to europe . Tim

We believe that both aspects are available when a shift from Entrepreneuring towards Philanthropreneuring takes precedence over yet another Unique Sales Position in favor of a Universal Service Profile. See http://bit.ly/PlanPFreEbook4Good

I'd be like the dove... Happy with watching the wheels go by(e).

Funny that you should ask. I'm working on becoming a writer, and as discouraging as that prospect can be–it's a hard field to break into–I've decided that I'll keep trying until I'm starving. In the process I've recently come to question some old beliefs, namely that I can't change people. To write is to live in the realm of ideas, and often they involve the way the world is versus the way it could be, with less suffering and more joy. The goal is to change people. It's about not accepting the way things are as final. And this has nothing to do with money. But if the money follows, great. I'll get to keep doing it.

I asked myself the same question,but worded differently,a few years ago.I said "If the band I was in when I was 20,became hugely successful and made me millions of dollars,what would I be doing now?".The answer was,exactly what I am doing now,creating music on own terms and releasing it as I see fit. Your question is an excellent way for people to review their lives and recognize what makes them happy. I'm glad that I'm on your mailing list.Cheers....cc

What a timely article. My story, quickly - I spent years as a writing, touring, recording musician and was able to make a buck or two. However I was constantly frustrated by mounting ego battles within the band, and a seeming distaste for art in general with the industry itself. I left the rat race about a decade ago and retired to my studio.

Since leaving the biz I have written and recorded many original CDs to the satisfaction of myself and my close friends. I spend lots of time taking care of myself in a real way - cooking, taking care of a country home, helping my friends and family with hard work. I've learned so much both musical and life related that was obscured in my life as a musician. I feel I have hit upon the TRUE life and rewards of being artistic.

I recently put the finishing touches on my greatest work to date, and believing it might be something others might enjoy, set about the task of getting back into a little marketing. The result was three months of hell as I turned my thoughts in the direction of self promotion and sales, etc. In the end, it kills the enjoyment for me. So I've recently made the decision to pull all my stuff off the internet and become a true amateur, toiling for love alone.

I would continue doing what I am doing.. Only at a higher level. A little more of this, a little less of that. I would improve my domestic surroundings and simply get back to work, with more emphasis on this and less emphasis on that...

Great question, Derek! We've already heard "what would you do if you didn't need the money" but I never thought before about the "need attention" part. The challenge is that all artists need attention because they need an audience to feed their art to. On a completely different note, I absolutely love the photo by ZeroOne in your post. It is spectacular.

I would be grateful for what already is with a greater degree of regularity and attention.

I'm starting to feel this way as well. I finally reached a point in my life where I have enough money and I don't need the attention, because I already get it. Now what??!! I have to admit, I was hoping you were going to give me an answer...

But I realized that I already have the answer for me personally. My focus now is changing. I'm focusing completely off myself and focusing on mentoring and encouraging others. I find the more I give, the better I feel. The more I pour into others, regardless of what I get in return, I feel the most satisfied and complete and whole. Yes, I'm tired when I give, but I'm already receiving from other areas of my life. My faith, my family, my friends. That pours into me. Then, I am beginning to make more focused time dedicated to giving to others.

I remember reading something at uni about the paired level of economic activity and the rate of metabolic change each worker faces. It made me think there are allusions to the idea of breaking free in your article

Compose music, record it, and perform it for friends. Post it to soundcloud. Which is pretty much what I already do when I get some free time. But between working a job for money (even though I have total flexibility of work hours and basically just work whenever I need to), plus all the music I work on for my local gigs, not nearly as much time as I'd like to spend doing this is available. Frank Zappa said "I spend 95% of my time being a bandleader, and 5% playing my own music." That pretty well describes the situation.

As for me, I will never be satisfied because one accomplishment in life only opens the mind to explore, but what if?? It is a blessing and a curse. I have never had a mission of being famous and it does not matter if people never know me or forget me, what really matters is seeing concepts/creations I seeded being grown and brought to life while I'm still here to enjoy them.

This is not the message I expected to get from you. It's strange that I should receive this message right now. An old friend and I, both in our late fifties and early sixties, have come to a similar place in life as what you describe here.

We are both college educated musicians with years of experience in the field. My friend has been a commercial composer for years, and supported himself and family through his music. But over the last few years, the financial crisis, and life in general, has forced him to consider what truly is important in life. And I, although single with no family left, have come to many of the same conclusions he has, but, of course, coming from a little different direction.

We both, about thirteen years ago, walked away from organized religion, and have both been seeking, if you will, the meaning and purpose of our existence. It has been a long and difficult road, and we have not reached the end or received the complete answers to our multitude of questions. But we both agree that we would never return to the safety, complacency, the bondage, that seems to enslave most Americans and other folks as well.

Yes, we have to support ourselves and those dependent upon us, but we don't have to sell our souls and integrity to do so. To coin a religious phrase, man does not live by bread alone...! There is some truth even in the worst lie.

I believe there are many, especially in the U.S., who are beginning to question what their lives are all about. Perhaps, the power, who or whatever that power might be, in the universe is finally getting our attention? Don't know yet, but I'm still seeking!

Thanks for bringing this up, Derek!

When I realized I'd spent 25 years in music with the essential notion that in order to survive at that profession, I must get people to like me, I stopped performing.

I graduate next month with a B.S. in Public Health. I hope to help populations - women and young adults specifically - empower themselves in the capacity to do what is most health-nurturing to feed the vessel of compassion, and concurrently, to influence the social systems that block it.
Life is short. My own ego was not worth a 25-year career.

Thanks for replying personally to e-mail last month. I like the gentle presentation of asking us to look deeper. As a successful activist, I'd been useful to the World for so long. I little by little began to feel the flames had been fired by a need to substitute for attention and feeling important that I didn't get as a child. My kids are finishing heigh school soon, so the what would or will I do question is timely. Thanks. I like your businessman turned Zen thing your doing. Your kindness in your words makes it easy to hear and process important information. ~R

To answer your question, I'd sail around delivering energy efficient LED bulbs to poor people on Islands with the most expensive electricity costs on earth. I'd SCUBA dive between deliveries. I'm collecting the bulbs as we speak, have validated interest, I haven't done a real big launch yet...I find that many of these things make me feel alone or separate from the main stream. The project becomes all that I am to people who meet me.

Climb mountains, dive, learn surfing, sky dive, do lots of sports, chill on the beach, read great books, make people happy, work out...

I do need to make money. I have ever growing bills and while I enjoy doing my things in my spare time and trying to make something happen for myself on the side the fact is that unless I win the lottery I am doomed to the slow 8 hour a day death of having a day job.

What if -- if you could take that thing that makes you dislike what you are doing and make it work the opposite for you like rearrange the whole thing?

Sleep is evil ! There is always more to do. The appetite for Art is insatiable. Gotta go...the phone is ringing and I need to finish what I started. The pursuit is endless.

My favorite thing about this blog is the pigeon on the ledge! Love it;) I love all birds.... Oh and I would sing and play my guitar and write songs, and run on the beach!! Thx Derek;)M

I think I might have missed the point of this post.

In my experience if you're driven by money or success then you never stop being driven. If you give up one thread of your life you'll take up something else to fill your time.

The examples you give are, to me, symptomatic of the materialistic culture we live. I have little sympathy for those entrepreneurs who find their ideas aren't working. If they stop they have to deal with it and join the rest of us ordinary folks who don't have the luxury of thinking too much about what we do and just have to earn a living.

When one has the goal of making it, then the game becomes making that goal. The playing of the game is what life is all about for that person. If it's a game that involves enhancing the survival of others (through art, science, or whatever), that's a better game, for sure. Where most "successes" fall down is not realizing one has achieved the goal and so that game is over; a NEW game and goal must be envisioned and started, else, that person will be stuck in the old game and will try everything to freeze that success in time. That's the biggest trap of all and we've seen countless examples of that in the media. (Of course, the "media" has a big part in the undoing of successful people, especially artists.) If one realizes who they really are as a being, what their purpose is for existing in a body on this planet at this moment in time, the playing of the game takes on an exterior viewpoint; one is no longer sucked into the trappings of the material universe. Therefore, helping others becomes far more important that wealth and material things. If I had all the money and time in the world, I'd use it to bring great music to the billions for whom the "music industry" has all but ignored.

Thanks for the topic, Derek!

RMT

You are essentially asking what is the meaning of life? Do we work to live, or live to work? And if neither then we are challenged to really live our lives large or die trying. I have chosen not to live to work, and am retiring from traditional 9 - 5 work even though it means pinching pennies and making choices towards a simpler life. I have been a composer/artist most of my life, and faced artistic guilt when I thought in my mind I wasn't practicing or composing enough, like a dog chasing its tail - not ever catching up...but after watching a video by Dr Wayne Dyer realized I was making myself miserable instead of just letting go and letting God, so made a choice long ago to pursue music only as a bliss and not a career and didn't produce another album for 15 years! Now, I record music when I am inclined, and take time away from it to follow other bliss in nature and friendships as the day brings sunshine to chase. When I come back to music I then feel refreshed with new energy and not sad that I wasn't good enough etc etc etc. who's to judge? we are our worst critic...if a tree falls in the forest the animals can hear it :)

Not that it's a problem I will have, but I'll suspend disbelief and assume that I don't need money for the moment. I could even see giving that up. But I'm a big believer in the power of social capital, and I'm not sure how that would work without attention. If I wanted to do good work that included doing for/ with others I think I would need some level of attention. Tell me I'm wrong?

I retired in 2009 after working at the University of Maine at Machias for 32 year as Coordinator of Student Activities. I was responsible for most of the extracurricular activities on campus. You probably remember playing at UMM back in the day.
My career was very rewarding although I never made a lot of money while I was doing it. I made enough to have the things I really needed and a few extras. What was rewarding about my career was helping other put together things they wanted to do and watching them learn and enjoy themselves. Now that I'm retired I have a small recording studio and work with local musicians at less than a break even rate, because I'm more interested in recording and helping musician than making a buck. I have a steady income from Social Security and my retirement fund. I also teach studio recording for UMM each spring semester. Because I'm an adjunct faculty member teaching a directed study with a small group of student (max enrollment is 8 students), I don't make much money doing that either. Again money is not my goal; I enjoy showing others how to set up a home studio and use it. I have also become involved in UMM's Ukulele Club and its radio station, WUMM, as a community member. I help out both organizations any way I can as well as participate by play baritone ukulele in the club and doing a weekly show at WUMM.
As I look back at my career and what I've chosen to do in retirement, I realize that I've always enjoyed giving a lot more than I've enjoyed getting. My answer to your question is that if you don't need an income and are finically stable and don't like what you are doing, try giving to others. I have always found it rewarding.

Peder

Reminds me of the email I got a few years back from you, that changed the course of my life at the time. It was a turning point. You listed the book "The Good Life - The ancient art of stoic joy." It was serendipity at its best. Thank you, again for inspiring and affecting my life.

Not needing money or attention. I make that to mean you got enough money to say F.U and you don't need approval. Or you have a job or bizness that money as a problem doesn't exist. The second one "approval" is a learned response, but to a degree it can be unlearned. Which to me means having a deep deep level of self love and contentment. Whoever is there and is reading this note is expressing themselves at the highest level of self expression. Whatever your belief or religion or way of being. The challenge is maintaining that state day in day out. I personally get there but haven't overcome the money aspect as to be able to focus on the second problem long enough. But it is doable.

I have thought about this a lot! In reality, I think I'd be doing the same things, but with less stress! I'm a single mom of two, and I LOVE being a "domestic engineer." That said, I am also now in a situation (for the last 6 years) of being the sole provider/bread-winner. I DON'T love that, and yet I need to do it...unless the miracle of a great partner comes into my life to share the load (a load which I actually love by the way).

Now, don't get me wrong. I work HARD. I make all of my own food...and when I say all, I mean ALL! I ferment veggies, make crackers, bake pies, cook three well rounded meals daily for me and my boys, etc. I don't eat out or buy much in the way of anything processed/pre-packaged. I don't skimp on the quality of the food either. But this takes time. Health and wellness, and living naturally are things I care deeply about.

I am also running my own lifestyle coaching business, which while I'm finally doing full time, is still in start-up phase. It does well, and yet I'm on the edge all the time financially. I LOVE what I do. Get a person in front of me and we are on a journey of transformation that is often profound. It's the "getting" that is my tough spot because it takes a lot of time to do marketing. Living the way I do, with such care around home and family and spirituality, and then trying to make money as a sole provider too isn't such fun to do on your own.

So, I'd do the same thing. I'd just feel less like I'm in a pressure cooker all the time! Thanks for the inspiration Derek. Sorry for such a long comment!

One of the most important issues for me is slavery, especially sexual slavery. I guess I would go about finding ways to help battle that, to help pay for safe houses and counseling. That's where I'd start, anyway.

Where I work I can think of three workmates in their early 60's with perfect houses and brimming pension pots. They work long hours. They are petrifed of retiring because they have worked so long that their work defines them. Work doesn't define me more than perhaps 20%. My 4 year old daughter doesn't care whether I'm a deadbeat or not, or the fact that to the outside world I'm a nobody, she loves me for who I am, how we spend time playing laughing and learning together. I hope to continue that way for as long as possible. Derek you're a perceptive man. Keep on the good work!

Derek,

I'm thinking about it; food for thought. Thanks for putting it out there.

Ernie

I think that once a person has achieved his personal goals, he either goes for new ones or expands the range of his actions further out into the world at large, to helping others and thinking more about how to help mankind. For me, I would like to see improvements worldwide in literacy, economics and drug abuse to name just a few, and so I would create efforts in those directions one way or another.

That Pigeon can just fly off to any building wants, now that's cool!

Very thought provoking concept Derek. I think if complete, total satiation could be achieved,whoever achieves it should spend their time teaching others how to do it. At least I think this is what I'd be doing if it could possibly happen to me. Thanks for the article.

Back in the "sixties" we revered those, like Gandi and others who didn't pursue money or wealth as a primary driving force in their lives. Some of us tried to live in balance with our world and doing with less was a worthy goal to work towards. Somehow, we lost sight of our pursuit of truth, beauty and balance and became a consumer driven society and the effects have been devastating. Climate change, pollution, overpopulation and generalized discontent despite the abundance of "stuff" we can buy and fill every waking hour with. There may come a time when we as individuals and as a society and a species recognize that we are the keepers of this garden and start to behave responsibly, but it may not be in time. If not then we will pay the price for out of control consumerism and ultimately, material wealth will be insignificant once again. My thoughts are this- I applaud your comments.

We've never performed just for the money or the attention, though the first is necessary in order to continue as a band in Taxachusetts and the second, I know, makes the musicians feel good. We started out as a band with a mission, to preserve the native traditions of our Andean homeland. This is as valid a reason to play now as it was when we began 25 years ago. When we see the joy in a kid's face who learns to play the pan flute... an elder in a Senior Center who closes his/her eyes as we play and somehow their aches and pains are lessened... a teacher who says that his/her students really "get it" about the Inca after listening and seeing us... When we get all this powerful feedback, we feel that what we do is worth it because it is changing people's lives, and the musical fee and the glow of the stage fall into the shadows.

I only read the very start of your post. In regards to peforming (which I do not do too much...more of behind the scenes songwriter), I had a successful open mic one time and then everyone congratulated me afterwards. It was buzzing a little bit. I found it to be a little overbearing. Yes, I was humble and VERY much so appreciated the kind gestures, but if someone is famous, it would have to be OVERBEARING. I kinda had a moment where I could see how it could truly be. I was sick of it after only a few minutes.

I don't see my life defined by either attention or money. Instead, I'm motivated by how my life intersects with others' lives in relationship. Although I am not in a "helping" profession in the usual sense, I can't understand life in any other terms except in the sense of how I am helping others. Decades ago I learned a helpful mantra: I am third. God is first, others are second, I am third. Life is not about how we see ourselves. It's not about us at all! If one looks at life perspective on a scale, there's an extreme limit where all one sees is oneself; pure selfishness. At the other extreme is a complete emptying of self so that one's life is poured out into the world. I strive to empty myself; to be a part of something bigger than myself.

And so I reject both parts of your premise, Derek. I love to perform music (trumpet, voice, piano), but I peaked piano before high school, voice in 12th grade, and trumpet senior year of college. Since then musical performance has been peripheral in my life with slight ebbs and flows. I try to think of other things I might do for attention and simply can't empathize with that being a motivator for me. Doesn't resonate with me at all. I do work for money (renting my brain to innovators who have entrepreneurial ideas). I don't have the constitution to be an entrepreneur. I don't even think I have the constitution to be an investor. I have imagined my "price" beyond which I dream of becoming a philanthropist. But that game doesn't end with me not needing money. I couldn't rest until not a single human being was in need.

IS THE MORAL OF THE STORY, do it because thats what we love to do?, do it because thats our life and what keeps us ticking?, at least thats what I think anyway as a musician, I'll carry on even if I don't make it big in this life, but I will leave something for the human race to be edified from. Thanks Derek, for your continued inspiration.

IS THE MORAL OF THE STORY, do it because thats what we love to do?, do it because thats our life and what keeps us ticking?, at least thats what I think anyway as a musician, I'll carry on even if I don't make it big in this life, but I will leave something for the human race to be edified from. Thanks Derek, for your continued inspiration.

After a successful 40 year career in music and as an entrepreneur and taking care of not blatantly purchasing everything one wants, I have reached a stage where if my current situation does not change I can pursue happiness by giving when I can and helping as many people as I can including the aged, as they need lots of help on there way to transition, and I have those skills. When one wants massive boats, aeroplanes and an estate big enough to house a thousand people ones ego is out of balance and again once achieving this and all the upkeep one has to justify if it was all worth it as new energies emerge as how to take care of it all. So happiness comes from the intelligent heart, and an intelligent heart does not want to be full of regrets, rather love and compassion when in completion. You can't take it with you, but you can transition with a loving heart and consciousness that may take you to elevated heights! depending on ones beliefs.

Derek, Great thoughts. For me in this moment, this so encourages me to keep at 'it'. I've felt a little discouraged the last couple weeks. Your article is helpful for me to feel the passion of why I do what I do! Thank you.
PS I love the photo.

If you said that I was burned out, aint to far from the truth, hard work and hard play burned up most of my youth.Now the white hair on my head, it is the living proof, I'm living in the freedom of nothing left to prove. Oh I've nothing left to prove,oh I've nothing left to prove , learning what to keep and what to remove, Oh I've nothing left to prove, oh I've nothing left to prove, burning away the chaff with the fire of the truth

If money was no object, I would locate a blighted city block to buy and develop as solid, energy efficient housing, for a community of ten to forty families. The development would employ passive solar design, rain harvesting techniques and other permaculture features to create a healthy, sustainable environment for families with common areas for recreation, organic gardening, and community meetings/events.

I would also develop a center for social dance of all types - square dance, contra dance, all styles of ballroom dance - all dance that promotes the easy interaction among people that social dance promotes.

Loved your "How to start a movement" Ted talk and I CD Baby has been a great benefit to me. Thanks

Hey Derek,

As usual , quite insightful. Astute observations. Having been a comic for 30 years – I have no need of validation anymore. I got plenty of aclaim, and had wonderful experiences with many many different people, venues, and locations.
Having retired in November – but not fiscally prepared for it – it has been a challenge to say the least. That being said, I have no desire to go back to make money – just for money sake ! What I want to do is fly a little airplane all around the country. And I am interested in finding ways to make enough money to do exactly that. But I have no desire whatsoever to go work for somebody else's dream – or even my own - that don't involve the ones I want to reach.
I have absolutely no desire to be famous – but I didn't when I was working either. I like the challenges – and the rewards. I got to raise my family fairly comfortable, we traveled all over the world, and we had a blast. Not a single thing I would complain about.
Now in my 60s, I don't have to start over again – but I do have to start again. If I want to make the small dreams I have now – that do involve money – come true. I am a renter now not a homeowner.
Social Security and my little stipend for my IRA are not enough to enable me to fly. So, do I continue to work hard enough to make flying possible? Or do I let it slip by the way? Right now I really don't care either way. But I'm leaning towards flying.
Hi Emonet stage of life – we're just waking up is a wonderful thing to do. And I've learned how to do nothing in the same way that I did nothing as a child. Long luxurious days filled with all kinds of activities that I couldn't remember at the end of the day – but I went to bed with pleasant dreams and a tired body from having fun.
And that is exactly what I do now. So have a great day, enjoyed your article. Kevin

Derek,
I have always been impressed with your life, your work with HostBaby, and everything that I have read from you.
I think you are so intelligent.
Thank you for always sharing things with us.

I think you are successful. If I could choose a mentor or two, I would choose you as one of my mentors.
I have had the same question in my mind for years. Life, in my mind is so full of impure motives. It is so full of "ego". It is so full of pride. I have long since identified these poor characteristics within myself, so I have struggled with continuing to be a musician and composer. If I didn't think music had power to inspire and heal emotions, I think I would quit because I hate dealing with pride and ego within myself, not to mention others.

Thank you for all the great articles.
If you have a chance to reply, I would love to hear back from you.

Kind regards,
Richard Young
wanyoung@live.com
Now living in China but still using HostBaby

Exactly, thanks for posting. Creating is it's own reward, the need for any outer effect is gravy. And while it's not wrong to want gravy or to get lots of it if you're lucky and good enough, it is not essential. if it is, you need to rethink what you're doing.

I have spent a lot of time thinking about just these questions, Derek. I admire that you opened this up for discussion. As an American with one foot planted in Europe, it's easy to see how driven we Americans are to be something more than we already are. It's a great source of dissatisfaction among some people, to always try to be more, get more, and we can so easily forget how to enjoy being ourselves, having what we have, not constantly striving.
My husband is Dutch, and we spent two weeks in Holland with his mother visiting all the relatives. At one point I was ill for just one day, and spent a lot of time just watching TV. I can understand a lot of Dutch, but I decided to just watch body-language on this 'magazine' program about different folks in parts of Holland. What a surprise! People's body language and expressions so clearly showed me how happy they all are to be Dutch, to live in this neat, tiny and well-organized country, how they enjoy their work and take pleasure in what they do.
Part of their happiness comes from a stable social safety net - every person has good health care, and will receive a pension at the end of their working lives.
I have been since then working on being who I am, without constantly promoting myself in conversations. It goes against the current, here in America.

It would be nice to document the beauty in our world...to make videos and soundtracks that would give others hope and joy....to distract and to pull them from edge of despair. Sometimes, all it takes is a brief glimpse of the possibilities. So the answer, I suppose, is to simply create and share.

What must be understood, is that all of our achievements and worldly accomplishments obtained are as meaningless as we are, and this life is. What is most important is finding happiness in the simplicity of the world around us, because in a moments time it can and will all slip away. We're each cast into this endless world of suffering and pain in tears, empty and naked, to try to survive from the moment of conception to death, never quite comprehending the fragility of the life we live. Our inconsequential lifetime lead, will be eviscerated in a fraction of a moment of evolutionary time. Among the billions upon billions of galaxies that exist in the universe above, if the earth and humanity disappeared tomorrow, the cosmos would not even notice that we were here.

There is something to be said for ....following your heart...learning the lessons...taking in the beauty of the present...sacred moment....enjoying...and embracing life to the fullest....with gratitude and appreciation...for all there is to be thankful for..right here...right now...Thank you for sharing Derek....Take care...

I've a always wanted to be a pilot, so I would do that, and travel to all the places in the world I want to see

Have more babies :)

A thought:

Confucius is reputed to have said (paraphrasing) that money and attention is something one should desire when one's society is just, and that it something that an honorable person should eschew when society is unjust.

We live in a world where a mere 85 individuals own as much as 3.5 billion people... or the poorest half of the entire world's population.

One should not be proud or satisfied of having wealth or fame so long as this situation continues.

Here is the source of Confucius's saying (Analects 8:13):
http://wengu.tartarie.com/wg/wengu.php?l=Lunyu&no=201

this is just what we should be thinking about as soon as we can. for me, that means trying not to "move the goal posts," trying not to change my financial goals after reaching them or nearing them. i do have enough, yet i still work part time. meanwhile, i'm contemplating how to be useful in new ways. the quest to maximize shareholder value was beneficial to me and others, but it's not what i care about now.

Some of us or me I should say who is jack of all trades from music, sports, Youth ministry, and business and whatever else you might have, and then throw your amazing spouse with 3-4 kids into the picture, have still yet to define our dream. I mean I still play sports with the kids and turned that passion into coaching, and music into playing at Church, and still running a business and asking the question everyday. Am I where I am supposed to be just to realize where else would I be? As the marriage ages and kids get older you tend to lose the attention as a Dad that you once lived for to find you are just the Dad now. The word of God has helped me with some understanding but to have a servants heart while putting others first is a blessing meanwhile your always wondering "could I do more"? Do I have destiny? Can I make a difference in this world? Do I have purpose? I believe I do and my responsibilities are just that however I am still searching for what I would love to do right now and in the future. As Derek says, "A lot of people have a lot of ideas but few execute them". Paraphrased. haha. I executed an amazing steak for dinner tonight, had a beer, and laughed with the family. Boom there it is.

Derek, I read your post about what if you didn't need money or attention. It really made me smile because I realized in the last few years that although I need those things they do not need to be my driving force. I need air even more than money and attention but How many things do I do for fear of not having air. How many nights do I lay awake worrying if there will be enough next week. I hope you won't quit reading this when you see where I am going. I am not trying to convince you, I am just honestly sharing what I think about your statements.

Jesus said " Why do you worry about what you will eat and what you will wear? Your heavenly father knows that you need those things even before you ask.

I finally realized that if God is really God, then this is really true and I should believe it and live like I believe it. Since then my life has changed.

I have had many years of experiences that I could share with you but I will just share the most recent. I was rudely told to leave the office where I had worked for 22 years. Oddly enough I was not worried about the job but I was extremely angry. During the 30 minute drive to my home, I called a couple of people who are close to me and asked them to pray about my anger. When I got home I wrote an e-mail to the two managers that teamed up on me and humiliated me in front of my co-workers. ( I should mention that the main manager had bullied me off and on for the last 21 years.) In the e-mail I said that I was not angry and that I did not want them to be angry with me. Immediately after send the e-mail I went to another e-mail account and there was a message with a job offer from a guy that I hadn't seen in 16 years. I started 3 days later as a contractor for a 3 month project. I work as hard as I could and could not get them to pay me for over three months. In all that time I did not look at the bank account because I had no way of doing anything about it anyway. ( I knew that I had an equity line that would cover whatever deficit we created.) I finally got paid and then the job ended. I decided to just spend my time doing good things, Godly things. I told my wife that I was going to do our taxes to see where we were financially. I told her that if we were in financial trouble I would pursue a job but if we were ok, I was not going to pursue a job. We were fine and I continued to do the deeds that I thought a disciple of Christ would do. Three weeks later I was called to come to work again. Now I work if I have work and do whatever I can to honor Christ in the office but when I don't have work, I use that freedom to serve others in the name of Christ. I give more, I help more, and I love more because I don't have to waste the energy worrying about money and fame or praise.

If God is really God, then when he says don't worry or seek selfish ambition, he means it, and if he is not then money and praise will never save us.

I think you've just defined making music/art. The real way.

I thought about this before answering and isn't it funny when you remove the fear of failing (because you are totally satiated financially and emotionally) that the things I would do are BIG. I would work on inventions and creating businesses... I would design something...anything... I would use every skill I ever honed helping people in their businesses. I guess I would do all of the things I wish I would do now if I would get out of my way. sighhhh

Hello,

You know, I have often wondered this myself. Personally, I think it would be a fantastic place to be because reinventing one self would be in order. Starting something new could possibly bring back excitement. Taking classes that you always wanted to redefine new ideas.....I think I would be pretty excited about it....I am excited with just the thought of that concept.

You are brilliant. Your powerful questions trigger the brain's response to find an answer to something rewarding for the person receiving the question. This particular one is very powerful. I just love you for that.

My wife and were at a birthday party for a wealthy and successful friend at the weekend, after a day sailing another friends yacht in a long race. My wealthy friend was insistent that we come and bring NO presents. I brought my old guitar, and after singing a Georgian version of Happy Birthday and Mraval Jamier with our Men's Choir, we launched into a set of covers, originals and requests. Our host was so grateful, as were the diaspora of recently arrived Ukrainians and South Americans, thrilled to hear imperfect but heartfelt renditions of Pueblo Unida and Kalinka, as well as Beatles singalongs and our orginals.
We had stumbled upon a present that money cannot buy, the attention and respect of a group celebrating being in the moment without any preconceived notions and expectations, and thus completely free. Whether performer or audience, each person gave and freely and received a gift of understanding and those other special things that music brings that are hard to quantify.
And, yes, sailing is a rich mans sport but owning a fast boat is only the beginning of the story. A boat need a crew and crews give their time and expertise in return for unforgettable experiences and comradeship, another give and take, each party benefiting from the other. So I would say - if faced with the question above, each of us can learn a skill, practice a discipline, join a team, find a choir, do something with other people just for the joy of it, never mind the money or attention...if you gain expertise or refine your skills and keep at it , you will get attention and recognition, even if only from your peers. The money will come.

Go for it! Carpe Diem.

I turn 60 in a month. In my 30's I left 9to5 behind and pursued music my soul needed full time. The thrill it gives me to pick up an instrument and play for others has never changed and I am thankful for that. Fear is the enemy and i fear i won't have time to...

I would be a local-sights travel writer -- I take spur-of-the-moment day trips and then blog them to my friends, and it would be fun to do that for a living. Or I'd learn to bake pies (savory and sweet). I'd teach basic cooking and basic sewing to people whose parents never thought they would need to learn it. Maybe I'd even teach "this is a computer" classes to old folks like me. Nothing too complicated; I'll let others take on the "advanced" class. I'm ready to retire any time, but I don't want to stop doing things, and all of those have crossed my mind.

I once heard something like this phrased as "What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?" I took that to mean that you wouldn't necessarily be wildly successful, but you could get by. It took me forever to think of anything, and that scared me. So I've been considering my options.

relative to having had enough success and being able to give back:
someone told me I'd earned my success
I said that I thought it was a gift
to use in the way, that it was intended
extend my hand to provide a lift

P.S. what you succeed at and what you give back at may be very unrelated

See this image. It says it all for me.
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_vNZ6NezI9nQ/SToTwzBnvWI/AAAAAAAAACQ/QxMrBkS3vc0/s200/FEED.jpg

Dear Derek,

Thank you for always thinking of me and sharing your
thoughts of vision. I have been there and done things
for money. That's one of the reasons why I even stopped
doing music in 2010. I told myself, "I don't want to do what
I love for the sake of money, until I make enough money
to start doing what I love to do again."

A few years went past and no money was made. By then I
had lost everything in my life, but I didn't lose God. When
I turned my life to Jesus and I spent time searching for
him in his bible everyday, he began to supernaturally
change my mind and transform me, and only then did
everything begin to make sense.

Why did I do what I did to make money? My earlier vision
and motives were not the formula. My new vision and
motives was the formula. I was wrong to think that I
would make money first and then do what I love to do.
When you find God, you find your destiny. When I
found God, I found a greater vision with a mighty
purpose.

Not only did I love to do in what my vision saw, it had
purpose that was void of self-gratification. This is what
depletes human beings of their resources. How much
can a person hold? Can a person hold the burdens of
this world all in one body? But what if you can supply
to all the bodies in this world without holding anything
in your body, but just a great vision with a mighty
purpose?

The world will always need help, this will not stop! And
if you can be a part of helping the world, you will not stop
visioning, and if you don't stop visioning, the money will
never stop coming in. Money is only a result of a decision
that is purpose-driven. The trouble begins when money
becomes the motive! Money will always be the result of
great visions. Let money be the result, that is its place,
forever!

This is the key Derek. The reason why people get so tired
easily, is because they don't have a great vision with a
mighty purpose. They certainly have the vision and their
own purposes, but that is just not enough to keep you doing
what you love to do for the rest of your life.

I've always found that the purpose is greater than the visionary
and the vision. If the visionary and the vision becomes greater
than the purpose, then people will experience extreme fatigue
and some will even stop their journey in life. When you don't
have anything to believe in, you don't have anything to live for.

That is the reason why Jesus has given people talents, vision,
ideas, insight, concepts and witty inventions. If these were
greater than the purpose, then God himself would have held
it back from us. People will always have vision and purpose.

We have seen enough of this, and the world system has failed
due to this vision and purpose of self-gratification! But when
you search for Jesus and find him, he gives you a greater vision
with a mighty purpose that gives back to the world, and this is
what keeps you ticking!

Thank you for provoking me to speak today, and share my life
with you and your friends. God bless you Derek, the world needs
you! Without people like you, the world has nothing to believe in.


My love to you my friend,
Sajjid

Always loved your thinking. It's essential to be honest to yourself about what really motivates you.

I serve the outcasts and the helpless now for little to no money I would probably choose to serve humanity to a greater extent as long as it was always hands on.
Sitting back and carving a big check to a charity you hope isn't corrupted is one thing but in the end only action leaves the marks on ones soul that will define who we were.

Revegetate the deserts... Reforest the earth. Be totally present.

What people do is not who they are. The world needs great janitors and carpenters, and laborers, as well as great leaders and artists and entrepreneurs. Generally speaking, whatever we do needs to be done out of a feeling of service. If we know we are helping others in some way, that gives the kind of satisfaction that and spiritual growth that make earning money secondary in importance. I was an elementary music teacher for 35 years. I knew that I was successful when the children were successful, and I also knew it when it was difficult to walk across the playground without getting a hug from some child. Money was barely adequate to raise four of my own children. But the job was great!

Hi Derek,

Good to hear from you. You ask very important questions about life.

In one of the early bands I played in at age fifteen, we had a drummer whose father was one of the promoters who put together the Monterey Pop Festival.

And, this drummer's parents somehow had us reading books about the spiritual life of Buddha, ("Siddhartha"), and also, "Operating Manual For Spaceship Earth," By Richard Buckminster Fuller.

These influences set my life on a spiritual path; being mindful of the crucial importance of preserving the natural earth environment; that we are a part of.

Since real, personal contentment is dependent on inward and outward balance, (as we live in spiritual and a material worlds at the same time), being of service to others is often overlooked; and is the source of much misery,(or is it miser E ?)

Hendrix expressed the idea, "I used to live in a room full of mirrors -
All I could see was me - Well I take my spirit and I crash my mirrors -
Now the whole world is here for me to see (serve)."

You are right. The urgent shift that needs to take place in the world, is the understanding and application of being of service to others, and serving their well being. It is crucial, essential, and tied to our own well being and balance.

Thank you !!!

Aaron

service ecivres receives

Hello,

Yes, indeed, what would you do? Here in Europe unequality is growing by leaps and bounds and fewer people vote than ever before. The ones that still vote are a minority and funamentalist parties are becoming more populair. I don't like it.
It seems that people who already have more money than that they or their children can spend in their lifetime, yet it's never enough. All politicians talk about is economic growth but people have lost faith and interest.
It's a sad state of affairs.
I don't know the answer but inequality has always been the beginning of
violence in the past.
So...what to do indeed?
Warm greetings,
Stella
Amsterdam

Hi Derek, I would still write and perform music. I don't have the money or attention yet and to be honest, some more would be nice, but I consider myself very rich already. I have the most incredible husband who's also my business partner. We travel around the world doing music and science programs. It's fun and rewarding. We get to help people smile and learn. When you understand you're part of something bigger, serving becomes the focus. Don't get me wrong, money and attention are awesome, but there's so much more and you can have it 'till the day you die.

Derek, I have this dream of building a few homes for the homeless in Puerto Rico. Here in Puerto Rico it doesn't snow nor we have a cold winter. We have a lot of beggars on the streets. Alcoholics, drug addicts, etc. Others are so sick that they can't beg anymore, and live in boxes or the woods.

I would like to provide a home, not for them to live in, but a place where they can come and get food, shower, someone to cut their hair, shave.., clean their ulcers (yes, many are diabetic and have ulcers) a change of clothes, medical care, beds to stay if they wish, for the night. Some prefer the streets.

We would also minister to their spiritual needs, this will be a christian home where they will hear the Gospel and have the opportunity to transfer to a rehab center if they want to.

I would also like to have a home for women, battered women that need a place to "escape" and hide from their husbands or partners that beat them. It will be a place that will help them get on their feet, get a divorce, a job, and go on with their lives, breaking free from the vicious cycle of abuse. We will get them all the help they need: spiritual, emotional, educational, financial, and all the support to be happy, confident, independent women.

Ok, well, I'm not rich, but that is my dream.

The only thing that lives on after us is the good (or evil) that we do, and others' memory of that. So, I think that I will do as much good (certainly not evil) as possible, such that some recollection of my presence on earth will last (for a while) after I'm gone. It's not immortality, but it's a way of living for a longer time than the life we're given.

I closed down my cleaning company a few years ago, realising that making good money didn't add significantly to my happiness beyond sufficiency. I followed this with the only corporate gig I've ever done, which made me much less happy again.

Since that time I've centred my work and life focus on exploration, contribution, growth and adventure. Life has been so much more fulfilling for that choice.

Recently I've been more involved with coworking spaces and tech startups, and couldn't agree more with your assessment of the zeitgeist' obsession with unbalanced living, building apps, products and services the founders don't care about and chasing investment.

Great, prescient thinking. Thanks Derek :)

Hey Derek! Great question to ask ourselves. Many people the world over are mostly not satisfied with their life, always striving for some new item, better car, home or rung on the ladder. But even in achieving these goals, life still holds no joy or meaning, ask Solomon. That emptiness inside can only truly be filled when we find our worth and identity in the one who created us. So as I learn it's not about me, really really not about me, it's about Jesus. As we glorify Him, we become the most satisfied with our lives. In whatever pursuits we attempt, using the gifts He has given us, if done to God's glory, we'll live a satisfied and worthwhile life, because that's why He created us!

Look outwardly and start to help others - use your talents to put something back - nurture , coach , support those who can't do it for themselves. Offer guidance - realise other people's potential - leverage your talents through others. Hugely worthwhile - money doesn't come in to it (thankfully!) It's what I did - gave up my 9-5 in Finance to do music - and now 12 years later - what next - so I am using my talents to run a charity - I get a very small income from it but the charity is getting a CEO for an apprentice's wage - I encourage all readers to do the same - leave materiality to destroy itself - you don't need to help !!

Thank you for asking such an important question. I have recently come to the conclusion that the ultimate purpose of life is to maximize joy. We cannot maximize joy by acting selfishly. I have spent my life as an educator helping others in third word countries to enjoy life by serving God in the person of those around us. I have a good wife who shares my passion for helping others experience joy. I spend my time now in raising funds for a Health, Wellness and Lifestyle Centre because good health is a source of joy. My business, from which I don't need or receive any income, makes Necessity brand plant-based natural therapeutic skin products that benefit those who use them. In a few days I will be 80 years old, and as long as God gives me health and strength I will enjoy helping others to enjoy better health. True joy comes from knowing Jesus Christ and sharing his joy with others.

If I had all the money I needed I wouldn't have to work 40 hours week at some crummy job but instead would compose music full time. When I get home at night or by the time the weekend comes, the 40 hour job has sucked all the life and energy out of me to leave me with nothing left for creativity.

Dealing with that now. Income from Satellite, streaming, etc has brought in a large chunk of what I live on. So, early retirement age 62 (2 months ago). SS check 940.00. Royalty aprx 5000.00 per quarter. Will it continue? I don't know. The key is to live in a place where overhead is low and stress reduced (And fingers crossed. It's been about 2 years for royalty amount).

I am left with ME. I am left with MUSIC.

Must nots: Increase TV, push music (Allow it to come), feel guilty.

Musts: Play music as it comes, exercise, meditation/prayer, time with animals, learn to TAKE IT EASY

Paul

Al above factors are good

I play Shakuhachi, Ancient Pueblo (Anasazi), and Native American Style Flutes. After forty years of playing silver concert flute and a few bands that didn't make much money, I fell in love with world flutes. While it would be great to make money at it, obviously if I had a musical business plan, world flutes would not be my logical choice. There is something spiritual and essentially human about ancient musical traditions. There are virtuoso players in the traditions, but I am a modern eclectic. All I can say is that playing brings me here and now and that place is not anything a mind can comprehend. It is deeply spiritual. I can only hope that by following my heart things will work out. I can guarantee that by not following my heart, things will already be not working out and will never work out on those paths.

I "retired" from teaching and performing to AZ in 2007, and wasn't planning to teach, but still play concerts.
To support my horseback riding here, , I did teach take few select students. I am SO GLAD I did, and here, I have taught some of the most amazing and fun students I have ever had. So "glad I kept my "hands" IN. I have always loved the piano and am still playing concerts here as well. It is what I love, and
what I do, and I just want to do it forever!

Creative reinvention is a fundamental essential. It is life.
To live otherwise, is to be other-than-wise.
It's wonderful to create that; who-you-are, this-is-what-I-do definition.
Just never stop adding to that definition that is 'you.
Growth, not unlike the unviverse,
...is about perpetually expanding.
Micro:Macro
You:Universe
Same. But of a different scale.
----
I would hope one would conceive of a way to show people just how much power and abililty and strength and intelligence, people have in them...that the world & societies everywhere need them to turn tides.
To topple some towers that aren't in the interest of people or humanity.
The few need to listen to the many.
...that would be my wish.
I would like to see so many people have the same opportunity to discover and show their wishes and vision, if given the chance.

That would be an entirely different world.
An undammed [undamned], and organically flowing world wouldn't it?

Lovely to just have the freedom to think and dream that, this Monday morning...thank you for this window.

Keep giving all that is in you, and always remain beyond definition Derek.

Fiona

I have been an entrepreneur since age 10 and I love my life. My business is really an extension of the pursuit of learning and I'm fortunate enough to have more ideas than time. I do not play the game of marketing products to make money, nor do I have investors or a board of directors. I direct my offerings and prefer to be challenged every day to help others solve their most troubling challenges. I am also in the music business and find my life and work very fulfilling. If I stopped today, I would simply find more challenges and problems to solve. Life is not about getting rich and lounging on a beach. Life is interacting with others to help one another move forward in creating beauty. This beauty is usually found within experiences shared with others including loved ones and sometimes new friends. I would continue to invent new products, continue to perform trumpet and continue to explore this amazing world of wonder!

YES! This is exactly where I've come to in the past several months. I stopped and asked myself what I really wanted and why. My husband and I decided to take money off the table. We are doing a monthly concert, with a welcoming club, and, even though we can have 100% of the door, we are making it free with a "pass the hat". We want to focus on the art, the entertainment, the audience involvement. I realized this is my "mission" not my occupation. We may need to switch this policy, eventually, to cover costs. But even then I think we will do a "pay what you want" model.

Life is about wants and desire..To have non is not a option..To become the thing that is the results of balance in dreams , pursuing them and the results of reaching them equals living in Harmony..And to understand oneself on the way is the reward ..

What a thought provoking piece. I am currently at this place in life and I have been shifting my creative energies towards helping the supportive agencies in my community. Unfortunately, sometimes these endeavors lead to much more demanding involvement, which then seems to take away from the bliss of actually creating the art that sustains me.
I've just begun this effort so I'm working on how to balance it all. I guess the happiness that I experience in the problem solving process is also a part of the joy.
That's life so I'll enjoy the ride.

Derek,
Thanks for this though provoking piece. I have been a professional musician since 1969, when I formed the band McKendree Spring. We recorded 7 albums, toured a whole lot and had some level of success. We broke up in '76, I signed with Arista Records [for the opportunity to be under the tutelage of Clive Davis, et al... and for the hopefully big money]. Didn't happen. Fortunately I'd gotten married to a very supportive and understanding woman... left the music biz for a couple of years, moved to Cape Cod, got involved with the Episcopal church, started working with young people, began playing music again and found a whole new path unfolding. Since 1984 I've been making music and mentoring young people. No guarantees, no safety net, but I do feel I have been following a call. I have done a couple of gigs just 'for the money' and they always feel hollow and disappointing. Lately, I have been mentoring more, producing, and have formed 'AwakeningSoul' with a colleague to design and host gatherings where folks will be inspired, sustained and nurtured. We've done two events to date, still very much in the red, but again, the 'work' seems to be important, timely and life- affirming. I continue to make music as a part of this endeavor, and feel a major disconnect with life when I am not somehow involved in the creating of music, and doing good work. I am now almost 68 years old, and feel I have more energy, passion and creativity than ever. I've admired your creative endeavors and am grateful that CDBaby was successful for you. It has been helpful in allowing me to continue to do 'good work!' Thanks, and all the best!

Living an Agnostic life style requires no money and attention just acceptance while experiencing the wonders of life......always Dreaming of what could be....Mars awaits!

I would launch a bandcamp of my records of me performing with various different bands and artists playing with many genres and basically trying to work as much as possible. Http://jaysharp.bandcamp.com

For many of my parents' friends, retirement was a cessation of activity. They moved from Minnesota to warmer climes, where they could sit around, play golf, drink, talk and generally be catered to. No yard work, cleaning, major cooking or entertaining. I think most of them are bored out of their skulls.

I would write, love my wife, scuba dive, and be of service.

I am not allowed to work since I was 24.
I might not have much money but I do own my own house and are able to feed myself.
Sure I am unable to go on big holidays abroad, but I had to accept this.
All I can do is relax and not worry. I do things but just for the sake of helping others I do not need or want to get paid it just gives a purpose on your existing.
Because I do not need to worry about my income I just do things I enjoy doing and avoid stress or people that do not do things in a positive way.
All I want to do is spread the love and be positive and help heal the world on a small scale that I can.

It's a great question Derek. It comes down to passion: as we get older, we tend to loose our passion and we feel this loss as a kind of existential dread. We all have this desire for desire. I once asked Phil Woods, one of the greatest jazz alto saxophonist alive, now approaching 80, what it was like to be able to play anything he can hear. He said, "Playing is no problem; wanting to play becomes the problem." As we age we have to wake up every morning and remember, as Phil put it, what it felt like the first time you played a note and it sounded good. Remember that thrill? We have to want something, to still love the feeling, although now, perhaps it's not about playing the note but recognizing and experiencing that feeling in everyday things. Good luck!

Good exercise. Find it good to question motive now and then, to figure out why I do the things I do. Thanks for the reminder.

Interesting question since performers quite often live for the attention. With no need for money, I would seriously pursue other creative interests. These would be private, introspective activities such as drawing, crafts, writing. I would take classes and become more active in community theatre - just for fun. Love the photo and thank you Derek for making me think.

My response to this post and many of the thoughtful replies is - be in action and be of service. I've spent my career in public work - the arts, community development, civic engagement and social change. I'm a serial social entrepreneur and I recently launched my 13th nonprofit/civic enterprise - The CivicLab at 114 N. Aberdeen Street in the West Loop - http://www/civiclab.us. I'm a big believer in the Commons and I call myself a Public Defender and have led several major campaigns to protect the public from privatization and public asset strip mining. What does all this "get" you? No money, that's for sure. I'm not on any short list. I don't get asked to join boards. I don't think about money enough and the CivicLab is an attempt to build a sustainable platform to build citizen serving, activist friendly community and tool sets. It could be scalable and it could generate revenue. But, honestly, like public media or NPR - it's public but not that sexy. I get tremendous satisfaction from this work - but have to look to teaching and occasional consulting gigs to pay my bills. Frankly, I look at a place like 1871 with envy - they did get millions in public funds, by the by. But we're not looking to create the next Groupon here. The TIF Illumination Project, for example, is challenging the city on many levels - not the least of which is to challenge the narrative that the city is broke. Anyhow, if people would like to talk about social change, careers, revenue for community-facing work and other aspects of the Commons or Gift Economy, email tom@civiclab.us. Maybe we can meet at the CivicLab...

I would teach music to kids in areas where they do not have the opportunity to experience it first hand.

While there's been lots of discussion lately about being asked to play for free and whether or not to do so, I feel very fortunate to be comfortable enough financially (atleast so far) to be able to give back musically. The key is to be really selective about where to give back musically. For me there's got to be some intrinsic gratification..which makes it a 2 way street. I'm giving and getting at the same time. Nice place to be.

I will enjoy considering this. Sometimes choosing the money option has led me to finding out I really enjoy something.
I decided to teach and set up a karaoke room to pay the extra rent in my house and now I have my own singing room which I've always wanted, love witnessing people get joy from singing and am excited about supporting budding talent.
I decided to sing covers to earn more money as opposed to being an original artist and it perfectly aligned with my dream of a singing sabbatical where I could learn and expand my technique.
I also know that being nervous about making money has actually stopped me from earning it.
Thanks for the food for thought. I will email you if it inspires me to change my path in any way.

Can I say how yummy it is reading the comments here. We are a community of caring people, let us all be encouraged by this feedback.

This exact thought, and almost no other, has been rolling around in my head for a quite while now. I am weary of it all, but the "what next" is the part that baffles. I love that pigeon, by the way!

Good question, Derek. I live to serve and serve to live. All the rest is details. (and making a living). Take everything but my life and I'm still the same person. I feel sorry for people who let "things" and the acquiring of things define them. There has to be something left of you if nothing else is left *but* you, if you know what I mean.

Build sustainable low cost living buildings for other to live. Hopefully they can do the same until we have eliminated need for money.

Derek,
I follow your thoughts, and appreciate your open questioning dialog.
I have been a performer and music educator for over thirty years. I'm still not completely Satiated but perhaps a bit more selective. What keeps me moving forward is the creative possibilities - and then there is cooking... Alex

Hi Derek,
If I didn't need the money or the attention, I would buy a tour bus and a tractor trailer and the best sound, lighting, costumes and stage props that money can buy and set out on a full scale frontal assault on the arena circuit in a quest to be the best entertainer ever! ...what would do?

Billy

I think there are those that are driven and those that do the driving! I'd start driving! (I'm leaving this open to interpretation!)

I, too, was a full-time, working musician in Chicago & often on the road. Then I decided to change my life. I moved to Europe at age 40. I still continued-on as a full-time working musician. As I approached 50, I was offered a Jazz Piano teaching position. I started performing a little less & teaching "tricks of the trade" a bit more to (mostly) young people. Around age 55, I decided to learn scuba-diving (having always been a "water guy"). At age 58, I became a certified scuba-diving instructor. Now, at 60, I still teach Jazz Piano & on my vacations, I teach--or just go--scuba diving. And I still play Jazz Piano at least once a week. I, too, worried people would "forget" me. But I don't worry about it anymore. Don't know what my next challenge/change will be. But like Bob Dylan says, "You're either busy living or you're busy dying". Gotta keep living!

The question presupposes a you that exists outside the realm of social construction- outside the money ( connectedness ) attention ( social cues about self). I think it is not clear how much of that you is real.

I've been thinking the exact same thing. For about 20 years. And I followed my heart. It's not easy being the only non-Mormon in my family. And it's not easy being homeless 3 different times. But I wouldn't trade the worst parts for any other situation. And thank you, D, again for such great perspectives. Thank you for all that you've done for the music industry. 'I see you'..

"The virtue of Productiveness is the recognition of the fact that productive work is the process by which man’s mind sustains his life, the process that sets man free of the necessity to adjust himself to his background, as all animals do, and gives him the power to adjust his background to himself. Productive work is the road of man’s unlimited achievement and calls upon the highest attributes of his character: his creative ability, his ambitiousness, his self-assertiveness, his refusal to bear uncontested disasters, his dedication to the goal of reshaping the earth in the image of his values. “Productive work” does not mean the unfocused performance of the motions of some job. It means the consciously chosen pursuit of a productive career, in any line of rational endeavor, great or modest, on any level of ability. It is not the degree of a man’s ability nor the scale of his work that is ethically relevant here, but the fullest and most purposeful use of his mind."

Ayn Rand
“The Objectivist Ethics,”
The Virtue of Selfishness, 26

There would be less stress in my life if I didn't need either money or attention. As an artist, it's so much about getting noticed when you are new that it's pretty much all consuming. Thanks for the article! www.neilaustinimber.com

Great article, Derek. It can't be denied that much of why we're in the music biznis is the pursuit of money and attention. But there is more to it. I played for many years before any money materialized, and sang in allot of bars that were empty, or at least uninterested. Creativity is part of being human, whether our creations are appreciated by anyone else, or not. Many of us NEED creative expression, for it's own sake, just cuz it makes us happy. It's extra lucky if what we create makes other people happy. But the starting place is the love, passion, and joy. Pursuit of money and attention is a weak foundation for building a happy life upon. You get laid and paid later!!!

I never had the pleasure of having enough money. The wolf has been at my door almost every day along with the birds and squirrels. I think I'm a little bit lazy and that's a part of my problem. I look at the TV and ask "why don't they have one channel that had great music, honest news (not 15 minutes of mush and 15 minutes of medical ads.) and even something like what we had in the beginning of TV--Steve Alan, Omnibus, Playhouse 90. I don't get off looking at Hoarders houses or Honey boo boo. Send me about a million dollars and I will give you more information on the too much money problem. Want to start a TV channel?

Yes, there comes a turning point where dreams are to be re-invented.
So what to do to get there, and what to do when arriving... I have started with being debt free. SS and my current 3 day a week gig have gotten me to that point. Thinking about the U.S. political system and the corporate hijacking of politicians, is an area that beckons FIXING. I find it a calling to give back to my country what many have died for. Then I'm torn because of the mainstream ignorance. So is this a worthy goal to spend my unselfishness and remaining years on?
I have made some efforts in some areas but with little success. Like my pro Nuke song about the new 4th generation MSR reactors that could burn up waste at Yucca Mt. , Fukashima depository,and latent nuclear warheads as fuel.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luK4mPYuXAc . Countless letters to representatives in several countries have not yielded one reply or action.
And then there's Wall St. systems that need fixing.. Why me? I dont know. Might be because im Aries, son of 1st & 2nd generation immigrants or because I know many have found success by satisfying a need. I do feel a need to have a Legacy to leave to the world but like many reads above, the answer might be to just concentrate on Love, Travel, and just spread some smiles. Edison, Tesla, DeForest , and Einstein left legacies but all of them were surrounded by controversy, and the sharks of the day. hmmm things to avoid.
So, having said most of what I know so far in my songs, Im thinking its time to turn the corner and travel, enjoy other cultures and recharge the batteries so I might be prepared to share a whole new generation of songs and philosophy with those open enough to listen. KeyWestMusic.net

I love what you wrote, Derek, and I've often pondered the same questions. Although I never made it the "Big Time" in the music biz, I have found a lot of solace in reading some Buddhism principles and also in the writings of Eckhart Tolle. Having just turned 60 and way "over the hill" in our youth-oriented culture(!), I know that I can still bring a LOT of JOY to myself and to others by continuing studying, learning, creating and performing music.

There is an exchange that happens whenever you provide effort. An unspoken expectation for the most part, I believe.

I think very few artists have recognized what they are really longing for. When they obtain the financial success they thought would fill that void and it doesn't, watch out. Depression and other unfortunate things follow.

I think its critical for artists to explore how they are wired and what really fills the void. I don't think its a huge mystery I just believe we are bent to look in the wrong place.

Love without strings attached. It's a rarity, everyone has some type of expectation that hasn't been defined.

Self awareness. Honesty. It's a risky tension but worth the journey!

Thanks for sharing your insight Derek.

c

Billy Joel, Lou Reed, or Chick Corea... 'the tonight show' and so on: boring. But THE GREAT New York is Seinfield or Bud Powell, or Woody Allen. -Who cares what I write?

Hi Derek: Your article resonated all the way through my bones. I'm living what you're are so helpfully suggesting. I'm shifting from ambition to what I call "meaning" or paying it forward. I've learned so much from my 3 careers and I'd like to pay it forward to motivate others to trust in the unfolding of life. So, although I do still need to earn some money to keep from depleting my savings, I've taken the leap off that ledge in your photo, and like the pigeon, I haven't forgotten I have wings. My other desire is to collaborate with people I admire like you and James Altucher. You're doing a "good work" and I'd love to contribute to your efforts so that the "whole" will be greater than the sum of its parts. My Best Regards, Marc

Agreed. You do what you do because you do it and it brings you pleasure. Everything else just is.

I said some years ago to a friend that all I wanted to do was make music. I love to create and write. If I could afford to do nothing but music all day long I would be happy. I am making a go at living that reality now. I have downsized and I am in a space that allows me to just create. My overhead is low so I don't have a lot of expenses. A few days after being here I wrote and recorded some 4 to 5 songs. And as long as I am able to be in that space I can continue to learn and grow and nourish myself as a human being and living spirit sans all the other useless distractions in life.

Most of my life I have done what I love, because of this I have never had much money. There was one point in my life I decided to focus on making money, in this period I became extremely depressed. Money is necessary to survive just like food. However if food is your main pursuit in life you will become unhealthy or morbidly obese. Like attracts like. Love attracts love. The people that don't love me now because I don't have money would not really love me If I had it. All things considered doing what I love is the best possible thing I could do :)

My first thought was "this sounds like the passion theory of work - find a job that follows your passion." But then, I realized that I think you are saying that even though we may have to do some work that is just for the money or the attention, try to create balance by also finding time to pursue something outside of work that you enjoy. Better yet, try to find a way to incorporate things you enjoy into your existing work.

Or even just be grateful for the work that provides you with the money to pursue other activities. A minor celebrity gave his thoughts on work in general -- "If it doesn't make you money or make you happy, don't do it." Your work should fulfill at least one: money or happiness.

As always your wisdom is exactly correct. My sentiments also.
Thank you for sharing this. It validates my own thinking and that builds confidence.

More like “Who Have You Become in the Process/ or What are you becoming in the process” This takes tons of Maturity, the Mindfulness, and the extreme Present Moment Awareness. It takes mature detachment to SEE, FEEL, and understand ALL the bottom line contingencies that are in our environment. What’s, and Who is really pulling our strings. Being an artist I think has never required so much self-awareness, or the necessity for being your own Self-Mastery Coach. Being an Artist requires a conscious dance between the past and future right in the center “of NOW, the present” right in the vortex of the fire.

I relate to both scenarios. I am both a musician and entrepreneur. I am successful at both. Music teacher, business owner (music school). I don't feel I have enough. Still reaching for more. Hoping it will add to overall happiness. Also switching from focus on teaching to filmscoring. Tough field, but I really enjoy composing. Which is why I want to focus on it. Hoping to meet filmmakers that need talented hardworking composers. If you know any directors,,, I'll send you some work

This is Iasos. I'm Happy! That's cause I'm doing EXACTLY the same thing I'd be doing even if I were a billionaire! I'm creating celestial music (iasos.com) that is uplifting to thousands of people! I'm stoked!
By the way, Derek, I often give people the same advice:
What would you be doing if you DIDN'T need money at all!
Do that NOW and figure out how to get paid for it.
Much Love, Derek, Iasos

Live your values with or without money. Exercise, love, sing, aspire, learn and travel. Eat good food, spend time with friends, family and animals. Be in nature everyday, wander, and create before you consume; my recipe for happiness.

Derek, I must say, you sure do have a knack for posing some very profound, thought pondering questions. For some strange reason, you also seem to present them at just the right moments in some of our lives.
I have to admit that at this point in my life, I appear to be contemplating the same thought process these days in terms of what I have in life at this point and what it is that I now want to do for the remainder of it. I must say, at the moment, I seem to be in a transitional phase and not really sure what direction I'd like to head, other than one of personal satisfaction which can be garnered by continuing learning, seeing and doing, in the hopes of making not only myself satisfied, but for others as well. It must be the artist in me that is never truly satisfied and is a trait or instinct if you will, that drives me to carry on with an open minded attitude to the ever changing world around me and what aids it in persevering to flourish on so many different levels.
Great thought Derek...and one in which I will continue to explore in search of the ultimate answer.
Kim

Bravo, Derek, it's a refreshing topic you brought up! Our culture emphasizes the need for ego and status; it has become the standard. For over ten years, as a full-time musician - releasing albums, getting airplay, touring, promoting my name to stay in the minds of fans - it all became arduous and that "shallow trench" Hunter S. Thompson referred to. On the up-side, for the past several years I've put my ego at bay; focusing more on my passion for sailing and surfing, the incredible relationship with my lady, and picking up the guitar for fun - and loving it much, much more - without the strife and need for fan attention. Thanks again, Derek, for bringing this up, as it's a relevant topic these days. (FYI: In 1999 and the early 2000's, my albums were placed in the incredible online company you founded!)

I have to admit I'm not at all sure what you're getting at or what the point of this is. I am 75 years old and I don't need money or attention and never really have. I need two things--health and mine right now is very good but at my age that could turn around in an instant so I plan to enjoy it as much as possible while I have it; and the woods, hiking in them alone and enjoying fully things I couldn't enjoy if someone was with me (but hikes with others are also fun) and this more than anything else would hurt if my health got to the point where I could no longer do it. I enjoy playing music, writing short stories and novels, running lights for plays, and enjoy it when other people enjoy what I've done as much as I enjoy what they've done but I have never had a frantic need for that attention from those my age. (Caveat--when I was a little kid, I wanted it desperately but, by the time I became a teenager, I decided to go my own way and to hell with those who wouldn't give me the attention I wanted. Funny thing--Now I'm getting more attention than I want and I wish they would just leave me alone.)

The reason why poor people never think like this is they don't believe in the future. There is a VAST difference between being broke and being poor.

Dear Derek, Thank you for the thoughts and questions. You have been an inspiration for me since I started selling my music, little as it may be, on CD Baby. The great service organizations of my father's generation, like Kiwanis, are hurting for membership. There needs to be more support and participation from companies and individuals to drive local activities to increase the livelihood of the masses.

Ah, Derek. Thank you for you questions.
I think it's important to have a vision and work towards it. Knowing that things seldom turn out to be what they seem. And, then there is the fact that once you get there, you might have changed in the process - facilitating a new vision, or direction.
Like your touring musician friend, I had originally just wanted to tour and perform. - And I have, but not to the extent I would have wanted. Now I don't feel the need anymore and have shifted my directions to world travel (with music) writing books and performing locally. We all need to be creative about finding what works for us and change are focus when needed, without being afraid to let go. - The alternative is not within my realm of possibilities. Yes, we need to make money to live and I believe simplicity, the creative process, and plain hard work goes along way in that department as well.
Peace & Light
Alex
www.differentdrum.us

Thank you for sharing :)

I'm a musician and engineer. I would spend considerable amount of time in 3rd world countries utilizing my engineering skills to assist the local people with obtaining clean water, proper sanitation, and education. A little bit goes a long way in those situations.
BTW: just happened across your short TED talk. Loved it. P

Thought provoking. I just finished watching "The Secret", and some of the principles in your article touch me in the same way. One must pursue their passions, and if we are fortunate, we can make a living doing it. Thinking positive thoughts helps you to get there, and the rest of life sort of falls into place after that. When the passions is gone, one's focus should be turned to something else. Right?

I couldn't agree more Derek, very difficult not to become defined by our titles. In fact it makes it hard to grow when people around you are boxing you in based on past successes. The hardest thing is to not become a prisoner of one's past achievements.

The pigeon is reflecting...he is meditating. I mean really what else can he do? I think I would write and write and write if I had all the time and money I could use. I would write blogs and help and coach people for FREE!!!

Once again you touched a nerve...of truth...does that mean I should be happy just as I am? Still needing money, and hoping I don't have to survive, eating cat food after I retire? So much to think about, and I was just going to pull weeds out of my lawn tomorrow.....

I think recognition is important, especially if you have something to truly offer to this world. I see so many recognized for what in 100 years will make no difference at all. If I ever make money with my talent I will help the earth in it's fight to survive, the animals, the plants, the air and the water. It's all we've really got...

If I didn't need money to pay for food, rent and medicine I would so much love to be a student in what poster # 22 Pam Mark Hall said what she would do:"I would mentor a handful of young people to dream and develop to their full potential and then do the same for others."

I firmly believe that this is a main part which is missing in colleges, high schools, vocational schools, etc : that is; 'a real life' training school. I've been to college and because of learning disabilities and my poor choice in major as well as failure to get great grades, I am now 27, unemployed and miserable. People at college kept telling us all 'just do what you love and the money will come". That sounds great, really but is mostly BS if you don't know how to apply yourself & moreover, if you find that your skill is not in demand anywhere nowadays. It's a sad reality but it's true for most of us, like me.

I really love this article, I agree that it deserves to be thought about often that: "what would one do if money or attention were not important?" I'd love money and 'what I do' not to be so damn important to others. What i do is not who I am. But how often it get's understood by others as being one in the same thing.

Tottaly agree, money and attention are just side efects of doing what you love, and when you do that you do things the right way.

i have come to believe that life is a matter of emptying yourself into the world

Hi Derek,
I enjoyed the article and yes I have asked myself this question many times.
Fortunately the answer for me was that I would still be singing and still writing songs for that is what still makes my heart sing.
Cheers,
Kate
Loved the pic..where was it taken ?

If I had money and attention or was satisfied I would do for others and find a way to make other people happy because to see smiles other peoples faces that needed help would give me a joy that any money in the world could give.

that's what I would do.

What a lovely, deeply, provocative question!

I would be traveling and giving talks and writing tons of short easy-to-digest books to guide people as they plan and embark on their life's journey in my country.

I'd find ways to help my people who are living in poverty find the means to get out from their present condition.

And I really hope I could do these things in the very near future=)

Thank you, Derek!

If I didn't need money or attention, then I can just be whoever I want to be, do whatever what I want to do - absolute freedom and joy.

I decided to live this question out by leaving a well paying, but busy job. I enjoy reading your posts, and hope that some of the posts subconsciously played a role in my choice to test the waters. I am 31 years old.

My answer to "what I would do then (am doing, rather)?", after ~2 months of leaving the money and attention behind: remain curious, learn and remember, retain daily order, strengthen personal relationships, and maintain a semblance of a plan for the future. I recognize that many of these activities are selfish. It may be a while before I understand the true joy of giving.

An interesting off-shoot question that I hope to eventually understand is: "why is it that the desire / yearning to maintain life balance is stronger / more frequent than life's balance itself"?

I do believe that every one of us is destined to a different path in Life, as part of a large mosaic, aimed for the better to all mankind. But i do not believe in Destiny as an excuse or a response from somebody to another, like some sort of a settling answer to a problem etc.. Because depends on the case and so an adequate response should be considered accordingly. Having said that, i do believe that certain likes and passions, like for example, one who likes making sounds and music, passion for science fiction, space etc.. that are carried since childhood, will perhaps always remain with us, even if we try to modify things. Therefore i do think that the most important thing, is to be able to combine all the things that you still have passion for ,( hopefuly healthy ones :-) , therefore , with the new path, that one is considering to undertake.Hoping that all this, will lead to a much more valuable result not just for the person himself but to others as well. ~ Brian

It is kind of pitty people here did not or could not leave links to their work (whatever: youtube, FB, blog etc.).
To answer your question: if I've got my primal needs fulfilled, I would turn around and think about the milions or problems world needs to solve to thrive. When I say world I mean it from the smallest unit, like say my own consciuosnes, my community, nature, globe, universe...
Enjoy my limited time in this realm, thinking about everything and trying out different practical modes of solutions. If there are ones, that is.
Oh yeah, just in case here, is my blog: http://www.sashamrkailo.com/blog

Derek, I just wanted to say than you. As a gay man, who happen to be HIV poz, and live in chronic pain, I really really appreciate your comments and words. There are days that are incredibly difficult for me, trough all of that, I always manage to keep creative with photography, singing, blogging, etc. Anyway, just to say THANKS, for me is very important to do this. You can find me in facebook trough my whole name Jesus Heberto Guillen Solis, and check out my creativity. One day, this single guy, hopes to find a good man who will like what he sees on me. BE WELL...and THANKS AGAIN.

Hi Derek,

I spoke to you a while back after I read your book. I doubt you remember, but my friend Brian and I had a struggle taking a chance and moving away from home to Florida to pursue a career in Insurance. It's gone great actually and financially I think it will provide me with what I want in my future.

If I didn't need money? .. I don't know. I used to love music I remember sharing some of it with you. But I've sort of lost that passion, traveling excites me. And this job will give me money to do that, other than that it's a tad disappointing that I don't know what my passions are! Thanks for the article.

TJ

And just in case I didn't send the music or if anyone else on here likes hearing the underdog:

http://youtu.be/xExLkzE8mCE

http://youtu.be/Mri5YeourpI

There ya go. Thanks Derek!

Well I love this Derek. And first off thanks for sending it !! Since everything I've done in my life hasn't been for money, I can first hand admit that it felt great ! The things I cried myself to sleep at night over were not what I was doing with my time, but what I wasn't able to do because I gave everything away. I followed my heart and it wasn't worth a dime. So now, 20 years in the making, I'm learning how to make money. How to find my self worth. And that beautiful thing I received from spirit "When peace makes money, the suffering will stop. " Now that is worth striving for :) Love and light, may people follow their hearts. Love you Heidi Little

It's a so complicated topic... but, I think if it wasn't super rich people in the world that rubs us and take away so much opportunities from us,normal people,
maybe we've never had this strong need to get so rich as we could do all we love to do, without stress that it won't bring us money...

If I had no need for money or attention or fame, I will sit on a mountain with deep valley view or a green patch of grass with the sun lightly shine towards me seating in a comfortable meditation mode.
And then what? — Derek

I would travel, hands down. After that? Probably more travel. When I'm ready to start being useful to others? Okay, I'm really selfish, and you're making me realize that. :) I'd probably teach in one form or another. Maybe not in a traditional classroom, but in my own way.

http://www.kevinsweet.com

I would be able to help others through my practice full time and with complete focused energy. Certainly still my dream….. Blessings!

yo.im in middle crisis. my son doesnt like school ...like forever, found you in the unschoolery blog....... i find myself in middle of ....ye,,,unsetteldness?... If i wouldnt have attention for myself.,,, hmm an money? whaaaat? that is just bullshit. moneyt? a freaking illusion, so what if i hadnt the need of money or attention,,, hmm wats left is the reality. the only me. the truth . the feeling that we are not educated to, the feeling of being alone. to have to think for yourself and be honest about your feelings, not just fulfilling a role. in society's positions,,, dory i dont make sense,,,,,

Walk without destination, wake up without expectations, read a lot and write more, try things without the fear of failure and criticism, live without fighting to get past benchmarks. I would live a lot differently.

To be more honest, I don't know what else I would do because there are a lot of things that money and need for recognition stops us from doing them.

I think we often choose to look far into the future to try to plan out our lives. Or at least focus on the financial aspect of it and lose sight of life itself. The excitement of taking one step at a time and exploring to see what happens. Most people have others depending on them or trying to control them so it keeps them from being able to breath and live in the present moment. Even if we do find ourselves in a situation that is not so easy to shake off, I've discovered that there are so many worlds to discover that are right in front of us. Sometimes it can be as small as observing the behavior of ants or watching the cloud pass by and daydreaming. You don't need money to do these things. But you do need free space inside of your head to allow them to capture your attention. It sounds so simple but it can really do wonders for a person. That little bit of free time could open up ideas on how to alleviate money problems or maybe not. But at least its a moment away from your own world and into something else. It doesn't benefit us to be so immersed in our own world that we lose sight of everything else around us. But its just a small step. Sometimes we need to take small steps without having invested a lot or expecting anything.

For the past few years I have been ill, suffering from chronic pain and fatigue and hubby works hard to pay the bills..so in a way i have not needed money because I do not shop or buy things, only groceries. I have not bought clothes or shoes. The old ones are just fine and I have a hard time in the shops. I am home alone all day just trying to get well, making sure I eat enough as to not loose more weight and that I get enough nutrients to heal.( it is hard to cook and eat in pain and fatigue).so that one day i will feel better. I do not get attention or praise or a paycheck for a "job well done" I have been just trying to stay alive.
And what have I learned?

Not having any attention or praise leads one to severe depression.
The few moments where I feel well enough where I would like to play music or paint or write are so far in-between what I create is just enough to keep my feet wet, give me hope..
What will I do when I am better?
perhaps help people who are ill..spend time to lift their spirits

I have heard people complain about this hollow, empty feeling before. Like getting jaded after like seeing it all. I'd suggest breaking out of it by re-inventing yourself with the word of GOD. The holy spirit teaches wonderfully about how to create products and services in such a way that the market begins to pursue you instead of the other way round. This way there's no boring moment. Shalom!

Last word; cool pix.

PEACE THIS IS ORIGINAL B I HAVE GOOD MUSIC LOOK HELP ME HELP YOU MY MUSIC IS ON REVERBNATION.COM "ONE DAY" BY ORIGINAL B. HAVE MORE HITS TOO!

I would spend a lot of time in the bush because it's where I am most at peace. But I suppose that's relaxing. I'd run more, do more big international marathons, train for an Ironman triathlon.

I'm from South Africa and so many people can't get an education that could change their lives. The irony of their situation is that the very education they need to break the poverty cycle is one they can't afford.

And it's tough for them to get good grades and bursaries or scholarships because their living condition aren't conducive to studying and doing well.

So if I didn't have to worry about money, and I prefer to keep to myself and don't like attention anyway, I'd try give underprivileged South Africans an opportunity to break their own poverty cycle.

You can feel that it's written from the heart. I feel so too. It's only when you stop needing something to fulfill you that it actually works out, in way that makes you truly joyful.

We spend much of our lives looking for our selves. Attention from others tells us we exist, and may be important, for a moment. Good work also gives meaning and helps us feel good about our selves.

Who am I? Why? These are enduring questions.

Dave

Unfortunately, people will die for recognition & die for money. Unfortunately also, most have to try & test this for themselves before they realise that you are spot on Derek. Wouldn't you agree that people simply need to take time-out to ascertain exactly what "doing good work, or living a good life" is for them?
Or time-in. ☺ — Derek

Great question and food for thought. I would love to build an amazing house then with those skills help others by building their homes.

Reminds me of the recent podcast episode of Radiolab - 'The Fix'. When one's identification with self is formed around and throughout a form of substance abuse (could be heroin, alcohol, money, sugar), quitting that substance is akin to breaking down all that you feel is you. The abuse of money in this case is particularly squirly.

Money or attention ... hm.... i know this is an old post but I just found it and started thinking ...
Money really never motivated me after I had enough to pay my bills (but never enough to feel rich) ...
and attention always had made me shy ... so I suppose my answer here is really that I now have time (recently retired) to explore myself which is something I tried back in the 60s but had no direction ... so now I'm looking to figure out how to grow and direct my future ... I will not give up until that last day ...

If money were no object. I would travel and build beautiful real estate developments around the world.

If I had no need for money...

(already have an abundance of attention, thanks to the ridiculously kind people who call me friend, one in particular who now calls me Mrs., and a ton of work with my own head and heart, to now find a good friend in myself)

...I'd do what you just did in your interview with James Altucher:
I'd give out my email (and mailing) address and people could ask me whatever they want or need to know.

I was a therapist for 22 years. Left that work to write, evolve and contribute in a different way... to see what I might do to evolve that profession, too.

Discovered I suck at entrepreneuring. A reluctant entrepreneur? No, more like a racalcitrant entrepreneur.

What I love is listening and responding to people's stories, especially when I have the chance to contribute, even in some small way, to making their life greater.
That's the BEST. Sometimes, it's just the listening, the bearing witness, and the laughing that matters the most. Man, I can listen all day long, but I wouldn't do it with a therapist hat on for one more minute.
Just not who I am. It's good to know that... if not challenging at the same time.

When I wasn't answering emails and letters, I'd spend time with my fam and friends, and walk and sing more, too.

I never want to retire - want to work until I fall over dead. I enjoy working now as much as any vacation.

Want to be useful, learn a lot, have a laugh, make cool stuff, do what I can to make a difference, keep loving this life and see if I can figure out how to love everyone in it, and then die.

I love this question, Thanks for it.

After years of touring, and performing in the rock world, I started playing solo in yoga classes. I loved it. I could improvise, I did not perform/seek attention. I did it for free. The musical experience was very intimate, and in the end people sought me out to purchase my music. Eventually I was signed as a New Age artist. This is nice reminder for me to do what comes naturally.

A brilliant question. I would do the same things i do now. Helping my family, helping others when they need it, teach my students and live with a heart full of gratitude for my life.

Wow a great framework to decide next actions.

Too depressing to think about because I couldn't do those things and have to earn money and that will always be the case as far as I can tell.

Derek your thoughts somehow always "hit home" for me. A few months back you replied to my email. My email was about my start up
Stupid ME
life about learning experiencing and growing...its about Giving.....how much do we need? and this article..wow..whats NEXT...to truly be useful...I would say its the most important question

after all- shouldn't we be "leaving this place" better when we go?

Tommaso

apparently im about 2 yrs behind but im going to share anyways... i would keep trying to learn everything i possibly can about the past(i love archeology and history)about the present (healthy eating/living,meditation,the human condition) and the future (protecting the enviroment,so myself and others can continue to do all of the above plus many good things i havnt mentioned). i think the ability to learn and grow is the greatest gift any one can receive or give.

Attention is over-rated, the more people can move away from needing this the better. Don't forget, when you die you die alone - it's just you. All the people you craved attention from will be a million miles away then.
That's the first step - lose the need for attention, then start doing things to help others through local small charities where every contribution you make impacts less well off people positively.

And you know what - you do't need to financially independant or whatever to start doing that - you just start giving.

Well, I ran a recording studio for ten years
And loved it but when the money stopped
Coming had to get a "real" job and so stuck
In a dead end programming job just trying
To stay sane by squeezing little
Training and no time for anything else .

I can't ask myself what I would have
Done since I'm trapped like the majority
Of people on this planet and cannot see
A way out. Rant over

I would do most of the same things I do now. I run two businesses and plan to start more. I feel that they give value to society through the services and products we offer and I create jobs for other people to be employed. It also helps I have time and money to travel and pursue other enriching things.

I'm from China.
I read this article for improve my spoken Enlish。
Then，I love this article deeply。
It makes me think more about my life。
TKS，Derek

I love that photograph :D

Thank you

Nice! Helping others for free (who really want the help) feels great. I even like to do that once in a while and I'm not completely free of the need of more money! (Shh, don't tell anyone).

I just read the article because it was promoted by Leo Babauta here:
http://sett.com/unschoolery

I think it is really fascinating! Recently I think a lot about why I'm doing what I do or why I quit doing things I did all my life.

If YOU have no benefits from something or an activity...why would you do it? Of course, because we need the money. I need to pay my rent and obviously I need something to eat every day. These are not my only expenses (hell no..) but I am actually trying to cut my expenses. So I go to work every day for the money. I would love to do something else but I have no money to finance my ideas and I have no interest in credits.

What now? If I quit my job right now I have enough money for a few months...that's it. Then I'm poor...forever...

Very powerful message, very constructive.

What would I do then? I would read all the comments to this article.

Derek,

I have been following you for a while now after listening to you on the Tim Ferris podcast. I just wanted to say thank you, I really enjoy your perspective on things. This article really spoke to me. I am a 33 year old real estate investor and I am getting very close to early financial freedom. I have been putting a lot of thought into what I should do with my life once I no longer need to work for a living and your perspective has been helpful. I really enjoyed your book (Anything You Want) also.

My thoughts related to this article: Like you, I spend a lot of time reading. After reading Dan Gilbert's book “Stumbling on Happiness” it really made me think about the end game. I definitely think that contribution and personal growth are the biggest keys to living a fulfilling life. There have been a couple times in my life where I felt stagnant and those were the least happy times for me. I am not sure if you follow Tom Bilyeu (Founder of quest nutrition and impact theory) - but he says the meaning of life for him is to acquire as many skills with utility as possible and to put those skills to use in service of something bigger than himself. I like that philosophy :),

Thanks again,

Thank you,
Ian Reeves

Answer? I don't know...

But I am chuckling over the time at my weekly toastmasters (public speaking) club when we went around the room for the "introduction question" stating why we were here. Everyone would stand up and say a nice paragraph long answer... about learning leadership, and how they were applying their communication skills.

I simply said, "I'm here because I like to get attention" and sat down.

This article inspired me to finally create my first podcast, which I did last week (Psychology America With Dr. Alexandra) and to finally publish my first children’s book (this week!). Thank you!

I need both of them money and attention
As attention makes you or help in your business while money make the business work.

Wow! What an awesome article. This really opens our eyes to doing what we really love. Forget money. Forget fame.

What would I do if I had every hour of every day to do it and the tools to do it?

I wonder. Is there any space for usefulness to others of you, yourself are not also driven by some type of need.

Without need, there really is only relaxation. This is why monks spend decades in caves.
Exactly! I agree. — Derek

If you didn't need money or attention, then you'd probably be viewed as the average American voter by the Republican Party.

I’d do a lot of the same things I’m doing now. My response to Covid has opened up a deep well of discovery and creativity. I’d continue on this path for sure.
But being aware of where I’m doing things for the money and/or attention is a worthwhile consciousness upgrade.

And I love this idea of inviting real-time response to the book’s ideas.

I have toyed with this question in my mind several times. Several answers pop up: I would love to teach, mentor and coach young and underpriveleged people from any and all parts of the world. I would read a lot more that I currently do. I would travel the world and discover new cultures and people - experience them like a local, not like a tourist. Oh my bucket list!

love it!

I would simply enjoy every moment observing, interacting and engaging with others who are relaxed. There is far too much anxiety in our systems and aspirations. Just live and breathe, wow! How delightful life could be. :)

Then I could spend more time learning! And more prime time for beautiful things! And generally making stuff I want to make, to make lives more thoughtful and beautiful (my particular flavors of usefulness) and give it away. Because whatever of that I do now, with more time and money available I could do more.

Thanks for the nudge.

I would continue to grow my current business to a point that the company can grow itself , with all teammembers in the company having their own self-reflection system to continue to develop their skills, doing what they are passionte about doing. the profit will be donated back to the community to help students in poverty passing the test and migrating to their dream countries - canada/ australia or studying abroad. Then, I will go to another adventure, starting an e-commerce business that Ive always been curious about just to learn the skills to build an e-commerce busines, applying the same principles I learnt in current business, building it to a point when it can self sustain, then I will move on to the next businesses. I really like the question you asked, I never thought I do not want to SELL the current business, but to end it in this way (never end). This is just the lesson I learnt from Chapter 1 of Hell yeah or No. I've already known reading it will be very deeeep self reflective journey as your other books did to me. Thanks again for puttng out ths book and keep sharing simple but thought-provoking ideas

play music

This is what I have learned over the years. There are so many people who needs what we have: Money. As a Director of an Orchestra, I would support the members with income to help feed their families. Now with COVID on the run, if I were a money magnet, I would still pay the members because I have all I need. I have found, it was never about me, it is about others. But there's more! I love the fact that you donated to your favorite charity. How awesome is that? Understanding how money works is so important. Unfortunately there are so many who does not understand what you just said or did!

In terms of content, I wouldn't change anything. I would continue to support people to find their own answer to the following questions: "Who am I? What is my job in this world? How can I actually implement it?" I would do that. I've worked a lot on this over the past few decades, found some useful tools and shortcuts, and I love doing that. What I would change if I didn't have to take any more money would be to scale the whole thing up so that more people could help other people with it.

Everything I have ever done in life has been for wealth, fame or because someone said so. (including living abroad, learning languages, creative arts etc.)
I am near middle aged and I think this is a common.

What would I do without that need for wealth and attention then after relaxing? I have no clue...

Other than achieving enough fame and wealth or forcing material sacrifice on those who depend on you, how would you figure it out?
Good question! ☺ — Derek

I got my hardcopies of the books you sent me yesterday. I started Hell Yeah or No tonight, Thanksgiving, after eating a pantload of vegan African sweet potato peanut stew (our house is a safe haven for turkeys). So it was kind of coincidental that the first paragraph of the book talks about eating until you can't anymore. Salient and timely. I could feel that passage in my gut, literally. Great read thus far. Thanks, Derek. -Joe L

Hi Derek,

Just finished your book, Hell Yeah or No and loved it. So many good questions. I'll be retiring in a couple of months and the question posed in this essay had perfect timing. Thought I'd share my answer:

1. Get a part-time job just for me. I have a favorite independent bookstore that is close to my home. I'm in there almost weekly and plan to ask them for a part-time job just so I can be around those people, those books and learn something new. Wish me luck.

2. Going to be a 1st time grandma in 5 months, so plan to take my new granddaughter one day a week for just she and me time. I listened to you talk about unhurried time with your son and that is exactly how I plan to spend time with her. Unlike raising my children, I want lots of open time to just enjoy her company, doing things she likes to do with no deadlines.

3. Learn. I'm going to learn photography, maybe improve my French so I can live there for a few months, grow more knowledgeable about yoga and meditation, go on some yoga/meditation retreats. These are hobbies I currently enjoy but I want to do deeper dives.

Thanks for asking such good questions and sharing your answers. I always learn something.

Warmly,
Julie

Derek, I have been putting off reading Hell Yeah or No for some time. It’s been sitting on my nightstand for a few months. I guess today is the day that I’m supposed to start. I enjoyed reading this first passage and it is something that I think about from time to time.

What if I had enough?

Enough attention. Enough money. Enough everything.

Luckily, this day may arrive soon. But then who will I be?

Who am I if I’m not toiling? Working? Creating? Pushing?

I think I do these things in order to avoid answering that fundamental question.

I really liked reading the passage in the book, and then having you read it to me in the audio version above. Thank you for doing all this.

Jim
Thanks Jim! — Derek

I would drop the idea about work in corpo with computers. I love to be outdoor, feel totally free, breath with fresh air and avoid LED - light. I will travel and write and talk about, to inspire others and encourage them to follow their dreams. Not for attention, but to share something meaningful.

I'd buy a 200 year old house that use to be a stagecoach hotel on the Delaware River, restore it, then invite artist, creatives and families to conect, reconnect,and create.

Oh yeah, that's what I'm doing right now.
☺ — Derek

I would go around the world playing songs for people, writing songs with people and sharing stories from all over the world in songs. Jamming with musicians of all styles and just meeting people, trying all the foods and ales and wines.

I would also try to master as many different instruments as I could and I would paint even though I'd be rubbish but I would love it. I would use my hands to paint awful portraits of so many things.

Thank you for this, it was such a nice moment.

IT is so good. I like it

Absolutely great listening to this, Thank you for prompting me to look within.

Would people be jealous of you? How do you think someone would react if they just get infinite money?

I think for one of the few times in my life, I would be able to be present to myself. Do you know the poem by May Sarton, "Now I Become Myself?" I would feel like that speaker. I would no longer have to adopt the beliefs of others to get along. It would no longer feel as though I were living a contrivance.

더이상 돈이 필요하지않은 위치가 된다면
요가와명상을 즐기며
독서를하며 돈을 쫒으며 사는 사람들에게
당신도 할수있다는 용기를주며 살고싶다
진심!가능할까!

기부. 남을 도우면서 살거야. 돈을 기부하는 활동도 할거고 직접 몸으로 움직이면서 도와누는 활동도 할거야. 생판 모르는 사람도 도울거고 친한 사람 가족도 다 도와줄거야.

Challenge there's no Risk. I should do whatever I want

Live my life for God, and follow his commands. Love one God and love my neighbors. And do fun programming projects along the way if I get a chance. Live today, as it was given to the fullest, or atleast try.

Hello, Derek!


I am a 25-year-old woman living in Korea. Thank you for creating a site like this. The place of communication always makes me feel like we're living together.



To answer your question, I'll travel around the world to see great scenery and record it. 
I will use social media to inspire others and console them about the hard parts of their lives.
This is also my final dream.

I hope you are always healthy and happy.
Bye!

I'm going to farm with my family.

So that no one will be sad, I want to disappear forever like I never existed

회사를 은퇴하고 새로운 여러 취미활동들을 해보며 인생을 보낼거같다
제빵도 해보고싶고 악기도 배워보고싶고 프로그래밍공부도 하고

나 스스로가 행복한 삶이다 라고 말 할 수 있도록 다양항 경험을 쌓아보고 싶다 타인이 아닌 온전히 나를 위한 경험들을!!!

I will go to travel a round the world. Go to diving, surfing, do yoga. And meet a lot of people and write book. And take pictures of nature.

As for money, I plan to donate it to people in need. As for my attention, I will do other things that are not challenging for me... But if I have a lot of attention it can be tiring, so I want to go somewhere quiet and live with my love.

Hello,
I am from Jeju Island, South Korea.
I am reading your book in Korean on Millie, the app for ebooks.

So, what would I do I have got all attention, praise, and money I wanted and needed?
To be honest, I am living in that moment these days.
I studied hard to achieve my two dreams, which were going to Harvard or Princeton and traveling around the world. I graduated from the University of Utah and traveled 14 countries so far.
I got the attention and praise from family, church, school, and society by participating in many activities held by them. I felt meaningless. I don’t participate in the activities anymore.
I gained enough money to study further and travel in the Philippines currently. I am currently enrolled in MA in Counseling Psychology at AUP. Of course, my money was not enough, so my family is supporting me.

Even though I have worries about my future, my present is fully satisfying me. I can read books, eat food, go to cafe, and meet friends. I have no more wish. I just wish this ordinary day continues. This ordinary day is too sweet for me to concentrate on studies and works though 😅.

I want to travel around with my husband and make blog / books for traveling.
I want to learn how to draw and paint, and apply to art gallery.
I want to visit all art museum all countries.
Since I am a nurse, I can use my knowledge to go mission trip to other country and help people who in needed.
Also I can open free Korean cultural center and teach Korean to foreigners in Texas (I am a Korean).
I also want to live Korea around 2-3years and want to come back.
Also I want to live other countries for 1-2years and learn about their culture and food and make a book /blog.

미의 추구

기분 좋은 절망이네요!

삶에서 가장 절망스러울때 책을 읽는 버릇이 있었어...
아마 행복하지 않거나 삶이 절망스러울때 다시 미친듯이 책을 읽지않을까 합니다.

절망수준이 극악일때는 하루20시간씩 책읽고 중간 중간 기절하듯이 잠들고 책읽었서~
현재는 절망수준이 하루5~6시간 책읽는 수준이라 생각할 여유가 있습니다.

부자여서 삶이 무의미해진다면~ 그삶을 탈출하기위해서 다시 책을 읽지않을까 합니다.
그때는 내가 가장좋아하는 분위기에 독서방을 만들고 책을 구매해서 원하는 만큼
읽지않을까요~

그 이후에 어떤방향으로 설정될지는 현재건강상태로써는 모르겠네요~

I want to feel happy. To make it, I try to keep learning what I want like instrument, phycology, exercise and so on. The feeling that I grow makes me happy. And I want to share these things to others to make them happy.

데릭님의 질문은 저에게 사회에서 시키는 일이 아니라면
어떻게 하겠냐는 질문으로 들립니다.

저는 목숨이 위험한 일 빼고는 뭐든 다 해 보고 싶습니다.
저는 하고싶은 일을 잘 모릅니다.

다만 제가 즐겁게 살 수 있을거라는 확신은 있습니다.

그리고 저만의 사회를 구축할 겁니다.
데릭님이 말씀하신 그런 사회가 온다면 저 뿐만 아니라 다른 사람들도 마찬가지 일 겁니다. 더 이상 유행이나 군중심리 같은 건 없을 것이라고 생각 되기에
저와 생각이 맞는 사람들과 소통하며 지내고 싶습니다.

Hello, I'm reading your book in Korea. When money or attention no longer interests me, I will have time with my family and experience many things with them. I want my family to be free from work and pursue their preferences across the world. Examples can be traveling other countries, eating delicious food and staying home watching Netflix. HaHa

That's an impressive question. As I dream of a new beginning, I find myself questioning more deeply what I really want. What would you do if you didn't need money or attention? What I enjoy most right now is learning English, people, and discovering and bringing out my potential.

Thank you sincerely. 🙏

An around-the-world trip with my family until I'm tired of it.
I really feel thrilled when I imagine it.

First, I'm going to quit my job. I'll live my life without thinking about career paths and instead learn things I want to learn one by one.
I'll go to book clubs a lot and spend money on learning and experiencing various things.
Afterwards, I'll spend time with my girlfriend/wife. If my partner wants to build a career, I'll support them as much as possible. I want to support everything they want to learn and do to relieve stress.
I want to support my family to do what they want. I want to set up a music cafe for my dad, give my mom a card so she can take taxis everywhere and counsel freely, tell my brother to quit his job immediately and support my sister in the US while he takes a break, and encourage him to find a job there or study.
I want to support friends who are struggling. There are so many things they want to do but can't due to their circumstances. I may not be able to do everything, but I want to support them so they can at least avoid the minimum amount of stress. I'm not sure what form that support will take, though.

나는 유기견 보호소를 차려서 세상에 자기 한몸 편히 뉘일 곳 없는 강아지들과 고양이들에게 쉴곳과 먹을것을 줄거야. 그리고 그들의 가족을 찾아주는 일을 할거야.

집이 필요한 사람들에게는 집을,
교육이 필요한 사람들에게는 교육시스템을,
음식이 필요한 사람들에게는 먹을 것을 나누고 싶다.

I want to throw away my everything and live only for others.

I want to learn a lot.For example, horse-riding vocal training.And I'll observe the surroundings.I don't know what kind of help the people around me need.If I need money, I will pay for clothes, buy clothes, and if I don't know letters, I will teach you letters

I'm just come to realisation that I've lived by others' wishes and expectations - and I don't know where to start again to feel like myself. Everything in my life seems to be out of control. But I know that I'd love to learn - anything and everything. Travel, as well. Hopefully one day.

I want to help people, dogs, and cats.
I want to heal them and make them feel loved.

안녕하세요 :)
새로운 일을 시작하기 전에 소명과 욕망을 어떻게 구분하시나요?

First, I want to build my house on the mountain. And I wanna see the stars every night.
Second, I want to study about astronomy and psychology.

If I don't need the money and others' attention, I wouldn't do anything.

And then after that, I would do anything for anyone who doesn't want to anything in their life. I would make some community for those people who don't want to do anything and relax together by doing anything impromptu such as traveling, reading, having delicious food etc.

Hello! I am Noah in Korea.
Im studying to be a Middle school Music teacher. but it’s hard to concentrate one thing all day in a year. im really improvised person and seek to immediate happiness. I know that’s not that big problem but nowtime is concentrate to one thing, study.

Today, I went to bookstore to buy other book. But your book catched my eyes and makes me take it! There are many advices and topics that makes me think about my life. Also, The thing you like to talk with your reader is interesting. this is my first time that i connect with Author. Thanks to share these idea!
I want to talk with you about every topic and woder others thinking too. If i had enough money,, i will make a plan to spend wisely. there many problems around us you know.
maybe I will support a childern who have dreams but have to give up because of financial probelm. I wonder your thinking.

Dear. interested reader, Noah
(by the way, i’m sorry about my poor English😅)

I will live by making picture books or cute accessories. And I will travel freely😺

I want to read loads of books. Different books every day with a nice cup of coffee. Then share thoughts with people. Have good dishes. I value relationships. I want to spend time with my family and friends. Go to exhibitions, parties, and trips all over the world. But these will become less interesting in three months maybe. Then I want to study. I always wanted to study biology and economics. Those two things don’t seems to be matched but after studying, maybe I will find out what I’m interested. I like art. Actually I’m studying art restoration now. But I wasn’t sure if I want to make this as my job/career. I want to study art too. Art is an area where I can rest. I might write too. I know I’m a writer rather than a painter. I feel myself when I write. I will do these things in English. English was always part of my life. If I need to choose one thing that I want to do, it will be English. But I don’t know what to do with it. I want to study more to be independent throughout the world. To break the barrier. Sorry it’s not a good writing to read. But it helps me to think what I really want. Thanks.

I will make a Book store on an vacation spot. I'm gonna make a note that visitors can write on about "How do you flirt?" Or "How do you relieve stress?".

여행을 다니며 자연을 느끼고 싶다

난 우선 내 건강을 챙기기 위해 운동을 할 것이고, 아이들과 더 의미있고 돈독해지기 위해 무엇을 할 것인가 구상을 하며 계획을 짤것이다. 여행계획
그리고 나 자신을 성찰하고 책을 읽고, 영어 공부를 하며, 내 미래를 위해 세무사 시험을 준비할 것이다.

I will use my money to help animals.
I would like to donate for homeless animals and ill help some animals that need some moeney for surgery

I would like travel all over the world. It's such a waste of my life to stay in one place and die.

I would start artistic projects with musicians and visual artists. Make music videos and create a community around music, art and life coaching.

전 세계를 여행하면서 모든 것을 경험해보고 싶다

I will travel around the world to do missionary work😀

Surfing, travel, study

이 책의 앞 부분을 읽습니다. 진짜 좋아하는 일을 시작하려고 책을 붙잡고 읽습니다.
QR코드로 소통하는 책이란 점에서 신선합니다.
한 챕터마다 적용을 해보려고 합니다.
지금 배부르게 밥을 먹어 보러 나갑니다.

Hi Derek,

I hope everything is going well on your end. I want to thank you for your book, Hell Yeah or No. It’s one of the best books I’ve ever read!

I’m 17 years old and I aspire to be a great programmer in the future. I’ve started learning basic programming languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python. I even created a website called “DocSchool” for students from 6th to 12th grade to help them organize their school documents. This is just to show you how motivated I am.

I aim to attend universities like MIT or Stanford to achieve my dream. What do you think about that?

I got so tired of my earthly possessions that I walked away from them all and more. My home and it's contents, my car, my job, my bank accounts, my freinds. I got so full of it all!

If one had all the attention and money they could ever want, Islam would encourage them to use their resources and time for acts of worship, service to others, the pursuit of beneficial knowledge, and caring for the Earth. All of these actions would be done with the intention of seeking God’s pleasure, which is the ultimate goal.

kalau misalnya attention itu gadiperluin/enga ada mungkin gue akan menjadi diri sendiri. diri sendiri dimana gue engga dependent dan gue bisa melakukan apapun. Attention adalah salah satu harga yang valuable, tapi at the same time juga kita enggak tau harga itu berapa, apakah kita bisa beli, atau mungkin ini itu. Gue adalah salah satu org yg engga bisa hidup tanpa adanya attention. attention seeker is my thing. and it was SO hard to actually not getting attached to it. mungkin masi ada crush gue yg selalu gue "caperin", mungkin masih ada suatu temen yg emang kita perlu kasih attention itu.


tapi attention at the same time adalah sesuatu yg kita perlu jga. attention ngasih kita spotlight kalau misalnya "oh ada loh org namanya ozi", "oh dia tuh orgnya begini, begini, begini".

oke, mungkin cara curenya adalah kita lebih dependensi kediri kita sendiri rsther than keorang lain. tapi kalau kita pikir lagi, kita hidup disekitaran org org yang dimana susah kita unattached. mereka pasti bakal selalu dateng ke kita. dan... karena mereka temen kita, akhirnya kita harus tetep menjaga rasa pertemanan itu dong? salah satu hak agar pertemanan kita lebih dekat adalah.. being nice to them.

heres the catch, kita engga TAU apakah kita emang beneran "nice" ke mereka atau kita "nice" bohongan. kalau kita emg blgnya kita being "nice" to them brrti kita mau attwmtion mereka kalau kita itu baik, kita itu good.

BACKTRACK, SEMUA ORANG MAUU KELIATAN BAIKK DIDEPAN BANYAK ORANG!!!. they dont want to show them the "worst them". merrka gamau memperlihatkan ke orang baru kalau mereka iitu unintrested. kita pasti bakal memikirkan masa depan dan apa dampak orang ini ke kita. gila kan?

Jadi, kalau kita enga perlu attention, gue mau ngasih kedalam dus konteks:
1. gaperlu attention karena gue udah banyak attention
2. gaperlu attention karena gue gaperlu attention

Jawabaan:
1. Gue bakal lebih fokusin ke sesuatu yg lebih individual. Enga berkelompok, dan lain lain. Gue bakal fokusin ke suatu hal yang gue suka. gue sayang. dan sesuatu dsri gue itu.

2. the same.. thing?...

1. I think I would take better care of my health.
2. I would do a lot for abandoned dogs.
3. Since I have a lot of money, I would travel extensively (abroad).
4. I have some mental struggles, so I would work hard to overcome them and invest significantly in research related to those issues.
5. I would buy many things for my parents (since I’ve never given them a proper gift before).
6. I would read a lot more books (self-development).
7. Honestly, I can’t give up seeking attention. I like attention more than many others, so I think I would work on improving my appearance (through dieting and cosmetic surgery).
8. I think I would invest in research to slow down aging because I really dislike and fear getting older (I want slow aging!).


One question that comes to mind is:
Is it okay to use all that money?
Or should I not use it at all and instead focus on something spiritual that doesn’t require money?

If I had enough money to no longer need it, I would experiment with poverty. I like the US, and I like Korea because I am Korean. It would be more impressive to experiment in Korea, a society that is running at the extreme of capitalism. Polarization is so severe that it has the highest elderly suicide rate and the lowest birth rate. Education provided by a fairly famous private elementary school in Korea is provided free of charge to children in the bottom 1% for whom education is a luxury. Of course, we also have to solve the problem of food and sleep, so we will provide dormitories and provide quality meals every day. Everyone will learn at least one instrument, exercise, and participate in various artistic activities. We will invite the most famous Nobel Prize winners from around the world to give lectures, hold monthly performances and exhibitions by artists, and meet and work with artists in person. The school facilities include a swimming pool, a performance hall, a skating rink, and a library on each floor. We discuss humanities and philosophy every day, and we also receive STEM (science) education including foreign languages ​​that meet the IB standard. We also provide etiquette education and various volunteer activities on a daily basis. I wonder what kind of career paths these children, who have been educated like this since kindergarten or elementary school, will choose when they finish high school and enter society. And how many of them will go on to the world's top 100 universities, including Ivy League schools? And how will they contribute to society based on the education they have received? I wonder if they will be able to overcome poverty through education. I am very curious about whether they will make efforts to solve poverty for others. I would like to try this kind of project. What do you think? Do you want it too? Wouldn't it be fun? I just imagined it without doing anything, but it makes me feel good. Do you want to do it together? :)

Traveling abroad with family or alone
Going to a baseball game every day

돈이 필요하지 않을 정도로 많다면 저는 일단 하고있는 아르바이트를 그만 둘거 같아요. 그리곤 학교를 자퇴한 뒤 일단 세계 일주를 떠나 세계에 있는 모든 것들을 경험 하고 싶어요

제가 만약 그런 상황이 펼쳐진다면 저의 생활습관이나 태도를 나태하지않고 꾸준히 노력하는 인간으로 성장하고 싶습니다. 지금 국운이 좋지않고 경제가 기울어 망해가는 상황속에서 이 책을 읽고 생각하고 기록하며 제 자신이 정말할 수 있구나, 해낼 수 있다는 자신감을 키워나가 스스로에대한 사랑을 진정으로 느끼고 내가 하는 일에 성취감과 만족감을 느껴 사회에 이바지할 수 있는 사람으로 거듭나기를 바래요!

I would write a book and travel with the people I love.

더 이상 필요하지 않을 정도로 돈이 많다면, 저는 다른 직무에서 일을 하기 위해 노력할 거 같아요. 아동 발달에 대해 대학원에서 공부하고, 그 지식을 바탕으로 아동 발달 치료사가 되고 싶아요.

만약 내가 돈을 더이상 벌지않아도 죽을때 까지 놀수있게 될정도로 많아지게되면, 또한 아주좋은기업의 주식 배당금, 월세 등 자동 소득이 계속들어올경우 라면 웰빙으로 무한히살수있도록 젊어지도록 노력하고 . 음 또한 자식도 여럿낳아 해피한 인간으로살게해줘야줘 별거없네요 더욱 인류진보를 위해 다음 세대로 이어나갈듯하네요 너무 평범한가요

If I have enough money to play until I die without having to earn any more, and if I have automatic income like dividends from a very good company or monthly rent, I will try to stay young so that I can live indefinitely in well-being. Also, I should have many children and live happily. It's not a big deal. It seems like it will be passed on to the next generation for the advancement of humanity. Is it too ordinary?

억지로 웃지 않겠다

이돈으로 주변사람들이나 아니면 힘들게 살고있는사람들에게 기부를 하고 도움을 줄 것 같아

Thanks for sharing. David felt the same way, "my cup runneth over"...

I love motorcycles. I honestly don't know if I will be useful to others or not, but if I have all the money and attention, I would most probably travel around the world on my motorcycle and live with different communities.

세계•국내 여행을 다닐겁니다
그리고 내가 어떻게 많은 돈을 벌게 되었는지 책을 쓸겁니다
학교에 가서 강연을 할겁니다 어린시절 방황하던 나와 같은 친구들에게
좋은 영향을 주어 그들의 인생을 바꿔주고 싶습니다

내가 살아 보고 싶은 나라의 도시에 가서 살아 볼 거 같아요 아침에 일어나서 블랙퍼스트를 먹고 종이신문을 보고 산책을 하고 여유로운 생활을 하지 않을까?

Hi Derek,

I recently read your book Hell Yeah or No: What’s Worth Doing.
The first question really made me reflect on something I’ve been thinking about for a long time—how I want to help change the world.
Thank you for writing such a thoughtful and inspiring book.
I’m planning to start a social venture to support young people aging out of foster care as they become independent adults. I hope it’s okay if I keep in touch while I continue reading your book.
Thank you again for sharing your best work.

Sincerely,
Minseong

Well, If I have a plent of money in my account, I will start cooking for my meal.
Of course, I can eat out for dinner. However the dish that I want is not always prepared.
So I have to go to the grocery to find out the local and seasonal veges and plan for the menu.

Sometimes mess-up is cooked for wrong selection of the ingredident. But I dont mind to try another recipe.

I’m so sorry,I’m korean.i can’t english well.so pls understand it.
I think money can’t change the world but it can change me.so if i get a lot of money,i will review my life. And i will change my thinking of the world. I will understand the world only my sight and change the world main character to me. In summary,i do not want to live life worrying about other think. I want to listen only my story. I look forward to your reply. Thank you for reading this comment.

삶은 물질적 가치, 혹은 타인의 가치적인 판단으로 인물 자체를 정의할 수 없다고 본다. 사람의 진정한 가치를 알기 위해선 그 사람이 무엇을 배우고 느꼈느냐가 중요하지 않을까. 그래서 더이상의 관심이나 돈이 필요 없어졌다면 그 일로 인해서 못했던 일들을 하거나 배움을 찾아 나라는 존재를 좀 더 완성시키려고 노력할 것 같다. 그 완성의 단계도 끝났다면 사랑을 위해서 살아갈 것 같다. 그 대상이 어떤 것이건. 사랑은 나누고 받고 배풀수록 아름다운 요소라고 생각하기 때문이다. 이 사랑의 정의에는 늘 한계가 없다. 그래서 이 마음의 요소를 정말 좋아한다.

Commenting to actually reflect on what I read, not just consume.

I am making a big move with my girlfriend to Austin, TX. It's going to be my first time out on my own, and turning 25 soon, I am excited.

I think if I had all the money, I would still do the same things, but travel more. I would like to go to Japan. But otherwise, I like my work and my girlfriend. It would remove the money stress.

I don't want the attention.