20,000 Days and Counting

1. Embrace the Urgency of a Finite Life

A no-frills, dynamite message that will leave you reeling in anticipation to live every day to the fullest.

Time is precious. The realization that life is finite should not be a source of dread, but rather a catalyst for living with intention and purpose. Understanding that our days are numbered encourages us to prioritize what truly matters and to make the most of each moment. This awareness shifts our perspective from complacency to a proactive pursuit of our goals and dreams.

Number your days. Regularly reflecting on the passage of time can help us gain wisdom and clarity. This practice involves acknowledging the limited nature of our existence and using that knowledge to guide our decisions and actions. By numbering our days, we become more mindful of how we spend our time and more intentional about creating a meaningful life.

Legacy matters. Considering the legacy we want to leave behind can inspire us to live with purpose and integrity. This involves thinking about the impact we want to have on the world and aligning our actions with our values. By focusing on our legacy, we can ensure that our lives are not only fulfilling but also contribute to something greater than ourselves.

2. Live Intentionally, Not Passively

This is the book that you don’t just read. After a few pages you will begin living it.

Intentionality is key. Living intentionally means making conscious choices about how we spend our time, energy, and resources. It involves aligning our actions with our values and goals, rather than simply reacting to external circumstances. This proactive approach allows us to create a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.

Define your purpose. Discovering your purpose is essential for living intentionally. This involves identifying your passions, strengths, and values, and then using them to guide your decisions and actions. Once you have a clear sense of purpose, you can begin to create a life that is aligned with your true self.

Create a life statement. Crafting a personal life statement can provide a clear and concise articulation of your values, goals, and aspirations. This statement serves as a guiding principle for your life, helping you to make decisions that are aligned with your purpose and to stay focused on what truly matters.

3. Motivation Follows Action, Not the Other Way Around

Increase your productivity, then the motivation will follow.

Action precedes motivation. Instead of waiting for motivation to strike, take action first. Often, the act of starting a task can generate the motivation needed to complete it. This principle challenges the common belief that we need to feel motivated before we can take action.

Overcome inertia. Overcoming inertia is often the biggest hurdle to productivity. By breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, we can make it easier to get started. Once we begin to see progress, our motivation will naturally increase.

The power of momentum. Momentum is a powerful force that can help us to achieve our goals. By consistently taking action, we can build momentum and create a positive feedback loop that reinforces our motivation and productivity. This principle highlights the importance of consistency and perseverance in achieving long-term success.

4. Master the Art of Saying "Yes" to Opportunity

Everything you need to know in order to create a basis for where you want to be is here in this book.

Embrace possibilities. Saying "yes" to new opportunities can open doors to unexpected experiences and growth. This involves being open to new possibilities and willing to step outside of your comfort zone. By embracing opportunities, we can expand our horizons and discover new passions and talents.

Overcome fear. Fear of the unknown can often prevent us from saying "yes" to new opportunities. Overcoming this fear requires courage and a willingness to take risks. By challenging our limiting beliefs and embracing uncertainty, we can unlock our full potential.

Expand your territory. Saying "yes" can lead to personal and professional growth. This involves expanding your skills, knowledge, and network. By continuously learning and growing, you can create a life that is both fulfilling and impactful.

5. Become Your Own Problem Solver

Become your own problem.

Take responsibility. Assuming responsibility for your problems is the first step toward finding solutions. This involves acknowledging your role in the situation and taking ownership of the outcome. By taking responsibility, you empower yourself to make positive changes.

Shift your perspective. Reframing problems as opportunities for growth can help you to find creative solutions. This involves looking at challenges from different angles and identifying potential benefits. By shifting your perspective, you can turn obstacles into stepping stones.

Create solutions. Once you have taken responsibility and shifted your perspective, you can begin to generate solutions. This involves brainstorming ideas, evaluating options, and taking action. By actively seeking solutions, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

6. Start Your Day with Purpose and Gratitude

The first hour of the morning is the rudder of the day.

Set the tone. How you start your day can have a significant impact on your overall mood and productivity. By beginning your day with purpose and gratitude, you can set a positive tone for the rest of the day. This involves focusing on your goals, values, and blessings.

Prioritize meditation. Taking time for meditation or reflection can help you to clear your mind, reduce stress, and gain clarity. This practice involves focusing on your breath, observing your thoughts, and connecting with your inner self. By prioritizing meditation, you can cultivate a sense of peace and well-being.

Express gratitude. Practicing gratitude can help you to appreciate the good things in your life and to cultivate a positive outlook. This involves acknowledging the people, experiences, and opportunities that you are grateful for. By expressing gratitude, you can increase your happiness and resilience.

7. Focus on What You Know and Can Do Now

We do have a plan. It’s called doing things.

Action over analysis. Instead of getting bogged down in analysis paralysis, focus on taking action. This involves identifying the next step you can take and then doing it. By prioritizing action over analysis, you can make progress and achieve your goals.

Do what you know. When faced with uncertainty, focus on doing what you know to do. This involves drawing on your existing skills, knowledge, and resources. By focusing on what you know, you can build confidence and momentum.

Trust the process. Trust that the pieces of the puzzle will eventually come together. This involves having faith in your abilities and the process of life. By trusting the process, you can stay focused on your goals and persevere through challenges.

8. Reframe Rejection as a Step Toward Success

I eat nos for breakfast.

Embrace rejection. Rejection is an inevitable part of life, but it doesn't have to be a setback. By reframing rejection as a step toward success, you can turn it into a source of motivation and resilience. This involves viewing rejection as feedback and learning from your mistakes.

Focus on the process. Instead of focusing on the outcome, focus on the process of pursuing your goals. This involves setting daily targets, tracking your progress, and celebrating your achievements. By focusing on the process, you can stay motivated and resilient in the face of rejection.

Persistence pays off. Persistence is key to overcoming rejection and achieving your goals. This involves refusing to give up, even when faced with setbacks and obstacles. By persisting in your efforts, you can eventually find success.

9. Create Ripples of Impact Through Intentional Action

A day wasted on others is not wasted on one’s self.

Be a pebble. Recognize that your actions, no matter how small, can create ripples of impact in the world. This involves being mindful of the consequences of your choices and striving to make a positive difference. By being a pebble, you can contribute to something greater than yourself.

Love the process. Find joy and fulfillment in the process of pursuing your goals. This involves appreciating the journey, celebrating your achievements, and learning from your mistakes. By loving the process, you can sustain your motivation and resilience.

Build a legacy. Strive to create a legacy that will inspire and empower others. This involves living with purpose, integrity, and compassion. By building a legacy, you can leave a lasting impact on the world.

10. Define Your Legacy Through Daily Choices

We all run on two clocks.

Internal vs. External. Be mindful of both your external and internal clocks. The external clock marks the passage of time, while the internal clock reflects your personal sense of purpose and fulfillment. By aligning your daily choices with your internal clock, you can create a life that is both meaningful and impactful.

Choose how to live. Despite the many things in life that are beyond your control, you always have the power to choose how you will live. This involves making conscious decisions about your values, goals, and actions. By choosing how to live, you can create a life that is aligned with your true self.

Begin today. Don't wait for the perfect moment to start living with purpose and intention. Begin today by making small changes that align with your values and goals. By taking action now, you can create a life that is both fulfilling and impactful.

Last updated: March 16, 2025