This post was mentioned on Twitter by TheRealFarlow: Reading @zen_habits http://bit.ly/mm7rh
Question: Could you establish ritual six? (45 min of Twitter at a time)…

I enjoy reading your Zen Habits each morning as part of my daily links when I connect to the world. I appreciate your efforts with Focus and would love to get your take on some things.

This set is all about “Focus” and how to get the most out of each day. It’s about maximizing individual potential, encouraging creativity, and getting more done with less…

You center around work productivity. I would be keen to read more, especially about the larger picture. This is just one aspect of life and how to allow for the richer experiences of nature, family, and friends. Focus helps one pursue and attain their dreams and goals, whatever they may be… but I want it taken to the next level.

For instance, let’s take clothing and attire. Many people buy new clothing each season and it is often last minute or not always very critical. I may very well be the exception, but I strive for multi-purpose / functional wardrobe staples that can be paired with other clothing to dress it up for any occasion – from the beach to a nice dinner, or even a classical concert. At one point years ago, I owned 56 button downs. Of course I had collected them through 8 years of prep school, but nonetheless, that was absurd. I am now way, way down.

Two small tales that I admire:
One – Years ago, I went on a two week bicycle trip with other riders. We were obliged to pack minimally. Every item had a purpose and approximate number of times it would both be used and washed… all calculated by organization. One of the leaders lived this mantra: Everything that you own should fit into a Patagonia Black Hole Bag, except books, because those should not be limited. (As he moved up the corporate rung, he since bastardized his once pristine lifestyle, owns a Burberry raincoat to blend in and drives an X5 just because.) So, living arrangements aside, all of his belongings could fit into one bag…

Similarly, GQ recently published 10 tips on packing for business trips. The list broke down and explained why you should take several button downs, one tie, a second jacket, and a pair of dark jeans so that all occasions could be accomodated. (I can send you the link / screen stills if interested.)

Two – An anecdote that I like – Once Paul Newman was honored for his lifetime achievement award, he burned his tuxedo and paired down his wardrobe, much to his happiness. His lifestyle took to jeans, t-shirts, and cashmere sweaters.

I constantly ask myself and distinguish between things that I want versus need. Then, I answer whether I should get it.

Focus calls us back to our roots and suggests that humans take the reins in the digital age, as opposed to being tethered by and with them. You discuss happiness and fulfilling activities… I would love to see a fuller holistic view. Maybe, more of you and things that you have learned.

Arthur

p.s. Are you on FaceBook? How do you correspond without email? How do you send book drafts to and from you editor? Or, have you again enlisted with the masses?

My spirit is lifted, yes, but my consciousness is also refocused to that which is most important. My mind becomes clearer, and I also become detached from the distractions around me. Thus, making it easier to return to a task with renewed energy or to start something new with purpose, enthusiasm, and focus!

Prayer helps.

Rituals inspire deeds. This is the three-word essence of their value, using the principle of “Ceremony”. Rituals are an extended form of etiquette, using familiarity as the source of their power. They work equally well on oneself or on groups if properly designed.

The brain creates synaptic junctions around repeated behavior (for better or worse), strengthening often-used pathways and gradually losing those that are not regularly employed. Wrapping specific sorts of activities in well-practiced rituals strengthens them from the outset and can lead to more effective initiation of new behaviors by connecting them to already familiar strengths. The power of the familiar acts as a success platform for excursions into the unknown, if employed deliberately. My link has more…

“This is a wonderful day. I have 20 millions in the bank, and I do not have any financial worry. I have a wonderful wife(which is actually true). And now I am going to code this program not because I have any obligations but because I love doing it. And then I will sleep in peace with a work well done for my own sake. Not to meet a target or for financial gains, but just for myself.”

The point is a come up with a story that best suites you, which resembles your reality somewhat and that which you. want to achieve. A story that motivates you.For the first 10 minutes I imagine it in a very focused manner and then it actually begins to feel that way. And then focus and peace come naturally.