Note: This giveaway is now closed
Today’s giveaway is an absolute privilege:
We are giving away a place on Josh Kaufman’s Personal MBA Crash Course FOR FREE!
For those of you that don’t know, Josh is the mastermind and brilliant leader behind the Personal MBA:
The Personal MBA (PMBA) is a project designed to help you educate yourself about advanced business concepts on your own terms. Instead of mortgaging your life to go to business school, it’s possible to dramatically increase your knowledge of business on your own time and with little cost – without setting foot inside a classroom. This website will teach you how.
If you’re interested in educating yourself about business, the Personal MBA is the best place to start. The PMBA is more flexible than a traditional MBA program, doesn’t involve going into massive debt, and won’t interrupt your income stream for two years.
After a lot of hard work and research, Josh has put together an amazing “Crash Course” where he will be sharing, in his own words, “the results of five years and thousands of hours of research, including ideas and techniques I’ve developed and have never discussed outside of my private circle of coaching clients.”
Needless to say, Josh is a rock star and a true Untemplater.
What are going to do for you then? Let you join Josh, learn from him, and become super-wise in business. Josh has been kind enough to give away THREE SEATS for this course, and we’ll be spreading them out throughout the week.
Just to be clear, this course costs $497. But here it’s free. You do the math.
How to Enter to Win a FREE SEAT on The Personal MBA Crash Course!
We love comments. We love them so much we decided to let comments decide the winner of Untemplater’s first giveaway!
But to help you out a little bit with some inspiration, we are going to give you three different approaches for you to pick and be the best at it. Leave us a comment replying to ANY of these questions:
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
Let us know how are you planning on untemplating your life this year. We really, really want to know. And we really, really want to help you accomplish it. That’s what this giveaway is for.
Please don’t enter more than one comment or reply to anyone else. Only 1 comment per person!
Chances to enter end Jan. 9th, 2010 at Midnight EST!
We will be taking comments until this Saturday at Midnight, so you can have time to come up with the best comment untemplate story ever!
Whether or not you win, take a few minutes to check out the Personal MBA site (which is a huge step forward in the future of education), and follow Josh on Twitter (@joshkaufman). Highly recommended!
Don’t forget to leave you comment below…
Who do I want to be in 2010?
This year, I want to be a risk taker. For many years I’ve wavered on the side lines, always wondering when I’m going to take that one big step towards turning my dream of owning a successful online business into reality. For now, that remains an incomplete acquisition. Yes, I’m a young college student, but I want to achieve more than many think I’m capable of. I want to be the one who breaks the cycle of college kids simply applying for jobs directly after college or going to graduate school. I have lots of ideas I’ll likely be trying out for the rest of my life until one’s profitable enough for me to travel the world (like Cody McKibben, Tim Ferriss, Chris Guillebeau, etc.) and help people along the way.
At this point, I just feel powerless. Who would be willing to teach me to be successful? Does anyone want to take a chance on someone who’s got nothing to lose, but his dreams?
Well, I have news for them. My dreams are EVERYTHING to me, and I’ll do whatever it takes to see them become reality. Even if I end up failing over and over, you can bet that I’ll be there to pick myself up off the ground.
This 2010, is a year of change. THIS will be the year I finally take action. THIS is the year I achieve the goals I’ve been sitting on for my whole life. THIS is the year I become the man I’ve always wanted to be. Even if I don’t get picked, you’d better believe that my goal will be achieved.
Who Do You Want to Be in 2010?
2010 is going to be awesome. After being stuck at the army (my country still has conscription) it’s going to be wild.
Business-wise, I’ll launch a few automated sources of income. My goal is to outsource most of the work using well-defined processes and being able to only work for only a few ours a week. Meanwhile, I’m going to travel around the world with my backpack. I’ve visited a lot of European countries, I’m thirsting for something more exotic. The 1st stop is most propably Bangkok, Thailand. As a diver, I’m very exited to visit numerous Thai islands. I’m also going to explore the neighboring statese like Cambodia and Vietnam which is going to be awesome. After visiting SE Asia I’d like to travel to South America, especially Brazil, Argentinia and Bolivia.
One thing I’m really looking forward to is hanging out and getting to know other travelers while on the road.
Speaking of socializing, I’ll continue working on stopping to give a fuck. This should not sound arrogant, but the only way to freedom and inner peace is to let go of trying to get others approval. I’m focusing on doing what I want wheter others approve or not. Actually, socializing is way easier when you are carefree.
As you can read, I’m so exited. 2010 is going to be the best year ever (2009 was the best year since not being a child anymore so far) =)
David
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
HOME (WHILE BEING ABLE TO WORK FROM ANYWHERE).
I am currently working from home and I want to keep it that way. It gives me a lot of flexibility and enables me to focus entirely on my work without distractions. But I want to build my business in a way that will enable me to work from wherever I want. Actually, I’m writing this very comment from my brother’s apartment in Berlin, whereas I live in Poland.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
GDANSK, POLAND.
I took a gap year in college to pursue my dreams and passion. I moved back to my parents to save money on food and rent. Once I get on my feet with my business (iPhone development) I want to move out to a bigger city like Gdansk or Poznan, Poland. My friends live there and we’re planning on creating software together.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
ENTREPRENEURSHIP, MINIMALISM, HABITS.
I want to be a young man pursuing his goal of creating a location-independent business against the odds and the social stigma, even if that means breaking some “laws”. I want to be an example to my friends that pursuing one’s passion can be and is both important and beneficial.
I learned how to program and develop apps for the iPhone from scratch in 2009 and I want to build and release apps for creative people looking for inspiration and good, simple habit development tools in 2010. While I still have a lot to learn, I hope that I will be able to cover my living and college expenses when my gap year ends. Anyway, I will gain tons of experience and improve my skills.
I will continue embracing the minimalist lifestyle by keeping my living costs low, using simple software and not wasting my time on needless tasks.
I am also forming 6 new habits in 2010 (first one being waking up early before 6AM) and I’m keeping a daily progress log that can be found on my website.
First off, congrats guys and gals – I’m looking forward to learning with and from you all!
As for answering the questions… 2010 is divided into two parts for me – the first, ’til September I hope (visa applications and funding permitting) to continue living and working in Botswana, volunteering communication skills to help the Anglican Church here. After that? Who knows? But whatever and wherever it is, it won’t be a return to the ‘template’ life I gave up to come here.
So I suppose the only question I can really answer is number 3 – Who do I want to be in 2010, and what am I going to focus on improving? I want to be true to myself and my values, an ambassador for my faith through actions rather than words. I’m going to focus on self-discipline, so I can achieve the things I want to, learn more, do more, give more and be the best version of me I can be. (Part of which requires going to bed at a sensible time and not surfing the net at half 2 in the morning! Ooops 😉
Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I’m not real sure? That isn’t going to work. Actually i know exactly who i want to be in 2010. A better version of myself. Yes, really. Not conceded, i just want to improve some qualities that i believe i can change. I believe in simplicity and many people dream big, but most of it is just for show. Me, i want to live a healthy lifestyle. That’s also BS, i want to lose weight. I’m already starting this process and tracking my progress. Many reasons are superficial and i think that is ok. I do think long term. I love life, food, friendship, women, experiences. I want to be able to live this life as long as possible and with a move to a healthy lifestyle, i can prolong this feeling.
By doing this, i feel freedom,and freedom in any form is what this entire tribe is about. Its what the untemplater lifestyle is about, and i feel i am experiencing this by simply losing weight.
Not as extreme as some comments, huh? But it is the truth.
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I’m an strong advocate for the green movement and believe that the green sector is the next boom we need to jumpstart our economy. I’d like to work in Portland or any city that is/has the potential to be environmentally conscious.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
I am finishing up my senior year of college in Atlanta, Georgia. While I enjoy it here, I am passionate about rock climbing and would like to move to one of three places: tennessee, Colorado, or California for they have some breath taking climbs.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
“A sequoia tree is a sequoia tree, even as a sapling.” In 2010, I want to be an adventure seeking man who can properly make calculated risks. This year I am focusing on letting go and acting in spite of fear as well as creating a network of contacts that I can help and in turn help me as I grow into the person I know to be.
In 2010, I want to take time travel to my sophomore year of high school and say to myself, “Look what you’ve become. You’re courageous, ambitious, and have amazing friends who love you unconditionally.” And as my fifteen-year-old self gazes after the shallow high school acquaintances, I’ll give her a big grin. “And don’t worry about them, they all think you’re pretty awesome these days.”
EXT. Sunset
LEX swaggers into the distance, leaving a stunned “ALEX” in her wake.
Mom says I’m hard headed, but I guess this would be the wrong website to give the template answer to, huh? Plus there are already so many comments I keep forgetting the question anyway. I got the gist–how am I gonna be hard headed in 2010, right? Well, I’ve been breaking templates for a while now… I just had no idea that’s what I was doing or that there were so many others frustrated by the inflexibility of the options laid before them. My parents didn’t really have a choice. Template was all they got. And even that was a privilege. So they’d tell me to suck it up with a misguided anecdote about all of life being a bad french song, so I should just be happy and make lemonade. But Momma says I’m hard headed because I spiked the lemonade and turned on Kanye West. I’ll need a better anthem as I continue to defy the template lifestyle in 2010. I’ll be living where I want and finding my passion in hard to reach places–full of people who don’t speak, sound, or look like me. I will teach them to refuse to squeeze lemons too. But I’ll have to work harder than ever this year to do it. I have come to a place in my journey where destruction is not enough. I consider the template broken and the typical successfully shattered. However, now I need to spend some serious time creating something that suits me. The PMBA then, represents the tools I need to better forge my new creation. Thank you.
“Society says it’s silly. To the template I’m unstrung. Momma says I’m hard headed and that I must choose what I become.”
I’m going to answer the questions out of order, because I think they present my story better.
2. WHERE DO YOU WANT TO LIVE IN 2010, WHY?
I currently live in Los Angeles and work three jobs. My younger sister is preparing to move to Northern California to train for the Olympics. I would like to go with her, as an adventure for me and support for her. As I consider this, I realize how constrained I am by my work situation and financials. I like what I do here, but would have to find a new job. But I am daunted by searching and getting a job that would make me happy.
1. WHERE TO DO YOU WANT TO WORK IN 2010, WHY?
I remember that as a young teenager, I had a sense that the Template lifestyle was not for me. I proceeded through college and now have a degree that I don’t use. I discovered Jonathan Mead’s blog Illuminated Mind, and Reclaim Your Dreams really prompted me to start reading more over the past year about living the life I want. I am determined to focus myself and develop something of my own this year, either a blog or book. I’m sure that I can integrate all the ideas that I have learned about but want to find a “Very Val” way to do it. This can be done from any location. In the meantime, I hope to find freelance work or a job that is good enough to put up with.
3. WHO DO YOU WANT TO BE IN 2010, WHY?
I didn’t used to take many chances. I would predetermine the outcomes of doing certain things, and how I would feel. Reclaim Your Dreams was so inspiring to me. Though I don’t have a clear vision of my future, I know who I like to relate to and what I like to do. I made a decision to take more risks, and try not to judge. I am proud to say it was a success. My word for 2009 is Conquered. Things didn’t always end up how I expected, but it was ALL worth it. I learned a lot about myself, and this developed a stronger sense of courage. It is the only reason that I am even considering these changes to my life. I don’t know what my word for 2010 will be, but I’m excited to find my way!
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I would like to learn how to love myself. Continuing on the path of self-improvement. I will to this by traveling to Asia and meeting new people. Being open to new experiences. Letting my relationships ‘mirror’ myself. I also want to start my business. I’ve got some freelance projects but I’ve just barely started and want to figure out how to make freelancing sustainable for myself within this year, so that I can come back to the US in 2011 and be able to live from anywhere. I’m diving into location independence head first. Also, somewhere along the way, trying to envision where I’d like to mold my business and how I can help others through non-profits or activism. Whether that be starting up my own non-profit, help leverage non-profits.. I’m not sure! I’d like that to be part of the ‘career’ that I envision for myself though. 2010 is just a year for me to explore all these things. The sky’s the limit.
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I’m working for a startup which I believe is on the cusp of greatness in a global market. I want to continue to work hard at what I’m currently doing to ensure the success of the company. In order to learn skills which don’t directly apply to my day-to-day job I’ve set aside a series of personal learning projects which will give me practical knowledge.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
Having just moved to the US in September, I’m happily settling into a different pace of live here. I moved here to be closer to the tech scene in the Bay Area, and this year I hope to meet passionate, creative people working on interesting problems.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
After several years as a code monkey who spends a lot of time learning other things, I’m looking to expand my future horizons and continue to increase my skills in order to develop a T-shaped skill-set. To do this practically, I’ve identified a position that doesn’t currently exist in my current company, but that I believe is absolutely essential for us to succeed. My goal is to learn and demonstrate the skills needed to fulfill this role, set SMART goals, and work to provide measurable bottom-line results to the company based on those goals. Succeeding in this will prove the need for this position, and greatly improve my career. The Personal MBA would absolutely transform my ability to achieve this goal. Pick me!
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I am a hospice nurse and plan of staying where I am (I love what i do). I am planning on keeping my eyes open for other areas of nursing to explore part time: community health and teaching.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
Where I live now, outside of Tampa Florida. My husband and I bought our house 8 years ago at a perfect time. We have a few projects to do: new roof, windows, and such. We plan on always having this home as a base.
3)Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
A happier ME!!! I plan on focusing on a few items that will make me happier. 1) get out of debt, only $5000 left. Paid off $15000 in 2009! 2) finish my 4 year degree…classes start monday! 3) Take time for me…have a few books and bloogs to read…and to practice the art of doing nothing. 4) Really look at our goal of long term travel, about 1-2 months in one place a few times a year. Working up to that by a 2 week trip to rome panned for April 2010!!!
In 2010, I want to incorporate design into my work as a management consult. Basically, I want to illustrate what took pages of narrative to do.
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why? I want to work in a job/position that I am uniquely talented for and able to make a tangible difference in the lives of my subordinates. Too often in the military leaders are thrown into cookie-cutter roles where the monotony of a ‘yes sir’ mentality outweighs any incentive for creativity. I made the choice to interview for and was selected for a company command, which means I will be directly responsible for 250 Soldiers in less than a month. This job will certainly challenge my selfish ambitions and force me to focus on the well-being of others first.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why? Again, not much of a choice for this year as I am in Afghanistan until November. After that the focus for me will be on transitioning out of the military and seeking some sort or stability for my family. If that means moving to Fargo than that is the sacrifice I will make. The military breeds a transient culture in which people are hesitant to get involved in their churches and communities due to deployments and mandatory moves every 2-3 years.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I will not be a figurehead, but rather want to be a true leader and mentor to my Soldiers. I need to re-cage my love of learning and, time-permitting, lay the foundation for my future education. That may mean pursuing a legit MBA or something similar to the ‘Personal MBA’ option. I need improvement in refining my own passions into something worth pursuing.
Where Do I Want to Work in 2010?
I want to be able to work wherever the hell I want. I’ve lived the template life and I made it all the way through college without ever really knowing what I wanted to ‘do’ in the real world. Because of my inability to choose a career path I still haven’t found a full-time job upon graduating. However, I always knew that I wanted to start my own business some day (and you can ask anyone) because I’ve always been creative and I have an entrepreneur’s mindset, but until now I put everyone else’s ideas before my own. I want to work for me in 2010.
Where Do I Want to Live in 2010?
I would like to be able to have a ‘laptop lifestyle’ in that I can go anywhere in the world and still be able to work on my business. I’ve never had the money to travel (very far at least) but I’ve always wanted to experience the world and what it has to offer. Maybe along the way I will find a nice place to call my ‘home base’. I want to live, period.
Who Do I Want to Be in 2010? What Am I Going to Focus on Improving?
I want to be the person I know I can be. I’ve always been a big thinker and dreamer and because of it I have many hobbies, skills, and ideas. I want to focus on improving myself in any/every way possible in 2010 because I fear I am running out of time. College loans are coming due soon and if I don’t get on the track to becoming who I want to be it will be too late as I will be forced to find and enter into a career that I doubt I’d enjoy. I need to focus on my goals in 2010.
sorry for that last comment I hit enter by mistake…
Where do I want to work?
Well I want to work from home because I have been working for three years in the door to door sales business and I hate doing it now. For the past year I have been trying to get into internet marketing ever since I read the 4 hour workweek but I had not taken action yet until this year, because I just didnt believe in myself. I just feel really excited about this year because I have decided to really put all my efforts into it.
Where do I want to work?
Ideally it would be in Cali,Colombia since that’s where my mom and dad are from and I haven’t really visited there in 3 years. But my dad that I haven’t seen in 3 years lives in San Pedro, Costa Rica tells me is very nice there and I keep working to go there but I just can’t save a dime to do there.
what am I going to focus on?
I really want to focus on my passions and skills and learn how to really network with people that need my help. I want to have a blog that shows people how they can do what they love and still make a living and not regret there life when they get old because they didn’t get to do what they love the most.
Well I really wish luck to all the people that participate in this and I want to thank josh for doing this and cody and everyone else that worked on this blog if it wasn’t for you guys I would not have a chance to earn something like this. happy new year!
WHERE DO I WANT TO WORK?
Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
I want to be living anywhere I want by the end of 2010. I am moving back to Phoenix to focus on my own developments while my girlfriend is back in school, but by the time this year ends, I want to be able to work anywhere. I hope this sites teachings will lead to me getting that opportunity.
David Damron
LifeExcursion
Awesome giveaway! LOVE your new blog!!
I want to work at home next year, simply because I miss my kids and our lives are out of balance. I want to be the one to get them out of bed in the mornings, pick out their clothes, feed them breakfast, etc. I want more flexibility in our schedule to have fun. I just want to be with them- more. If I could work from home that would also relieve us from the opposite work schedules we now have to avoid daycare and my husband would be free to look for work he loves.
If I could live anywhere in 2010 it would be Denver, CO. It’s in our 2 1/2 years away plan, but sooner would be more awesomer. 🙂 We love the outdoors and are ready for a new adventure- and that’s where we’ve decided it will be.
In 2010 I want to be…happy. I want to rediscover myself and my marriage. My husband & I currently feel like our lives are just totally out of balance. I want to focus on finding balance and creating a happier family life. We got married in April 2006, finished my masters in July 2006, had 2 kids- 2007 & 2008, so last year was the first year with no major life changes. We’re both tired of feeling like we’re barely keeping our heads above the water and that we are personally disappearing under the obligations of “life”. I want us to feel differently about life by this time next year and I think it’s going to take some radical changes to make that happen.
I set a goal this year to learn more about business, so it’s nice to hear about this project.
I finally took the leap into entrepreneurship at the very end of 2009, so 2010 is a huge year for me and my business partners. I’m already having a great time working with co-working groups and defining my own path. I’m hoping to use the flexibility to travel more in 2010 (including my wedding in Mexico this November). I have a few friends I’ve been meaning to visit for far too long, and I am absolutely going to see them this year.
I hadn’t heard about the PMBA yet and now I’m really excited to learn even more about it.
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I want to end 2010 working part time working from Bali. I’d say full time but I have some obligations here that will require my attention for a few years yet. However to know that I can get away from insane winer conditions (Minnesota) at least part time will drive me to do things I never thought possible. If I needed any more reason to get away than the winters here, I have recently rediscovered in myself that I love the unknown and creating stories to tell later. Unfortunately I had buried that part of myself for a while. Now that it’s out, I want to be able to tell great stories about experiences I’ve had. And through that, encourage people to get out and do it themselves.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
I don’t want to be tied to one place anymore. As I mentioned already, I have some commitments here in Minnesota but to have freedom to go places and do things during the time I don’t have to be here… simply amazing. Again, the unknown, the adventures, the stories are calling my name. Life on autopilot no longer contains me. Life on autopilot is no longer good enough.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I want to be more of exactly who I am. I know the basics of who I am and I want to flesh out the details, to really know. In short, I want to expand my personality to true authenticity – to be who I am at all times and never fake it for anyone.
I am going to focus on improving my practice, on taking the time to live with intention, and finally to be more true to myself. By accomplishing this, I will make a larger impact on my immediate circle and the world at large. Imagine influencing hundreds of people to live (again) with intention, to turn off auto pilot and really live.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I’m really excited for this year. It’s going to be my first ever that I will spend every second of it working towards the fantastic goals that I’ve set for myself. Europe awaits at the end of this year and because of the gains I’ll have made this year, Thailand soon after that.
I’ve always tried to fit into a mold that everyone… anyone… had set but instead of trying to fit into that outdated, lazy, easy, boring, slow mold, I’m going to smash through it and push myself and everyone around me as hard as I can. Time to grab life by the horns and ride like crazy.
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I want to work nowhere and everywhere at once. I am a natural-born traveler, wanderer, nomad and vagabond. I am only slightly bound to my desk, in that I work for myself, thanklessly and without pay, and I work part-time for someone else, also thanklessly, but with pay!
I plan on working everywhere and nowhere, because the business models I have developed are specifically designed to be location-independent. Research, reading, conversation and inspiration has led me to understand my strengths and my weaknesses. My strengths being entrepreneurial insight and creative problem-solving, my weaknesses being day-to-day management of operations from point B-to-point automation.
The pMBA course will give me insight into those areas that I am weakest at, in terms of working where I want to work.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
In 2010 I want to live in Bangkok, Thailand because I currently live in Bangkok, Thailand and I love it. That does not mean I want to WORK in Bangkok, but rather I’d like to keep Bangkok as my homebase, for now. Why? Specifically, as a lifelong traveler and nomad, I’ve always worried about the lives of my friends that I miss out on whilst traveling. Living in Bangkok has afforded me some incredibly important and meaningful friends and partners, and I do not want to permanently leave them anytime soon.
Bangkok, and South East Asia in general, is a wonderful place to make a home base in that it will be affordable as I earn USD, warm and welcoming, and navigable in its close proximity to many surrounding countries.
After inspiration from nomadic friends, insights from the books of Ferris and Ramnit Sethi, and countless hours reading David Walsh and many of this sites contributors, I quit my job as Director of Operations for Thailand in November 2009. I spent one month decompressing, and have been actively pursuing my own entrepreneurial ventures, all with location-independence in mind, for the past month and a half.
A pMBA course will be the perfect addition to my education at this very important time in my life. The guidance and conversation I may be able to have with Josh Kaufman and the rest of the students will be invaluable. With my limited, and incredibly tie-up, budget, I am not as able to spend 500 USD on this course. With that said, throughout December I have second-guessed myself at least 5 times, trying to convince myself that the course would be worth it. Untemplater is providing the exact course I have been deliberating about for almost one month.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I am witty, clever and fiercely independent; I am new, small, and unfocused.
In 2010 I will work to become established in my market, I will focus on excellence and respect in my field, and I will do all that is necessary to gain laser-focusing abilities. I want to be able to sit down with my required task, and complete it. I want to complete enough of these tasks to grow as a brand and as a business. I want to succeed in this branding and in this business to gain the respect of my contemporaries and my colleagues.
I have a plan, and I know I will do this. Luckily, you guys are here for my to comment on, e-mail, and blog about along the way.
In 2010, I want to be a connector. I want to be that person that can take what they know and jump start a project – figuring out who to find to go from idea to execution, what tools are needed to get there, and how to put the pieces together. I want to be able to reach back and find the person I know, or service I use, or company I’ve read about, and apply it to what I’m working on now.
In order to do this, I need to work on my engagement. I tend to observe in the background, cataloging facts and figures for use later. I’ll jump in the conversation every so often to supply something I’ve heard of, but I don’t reach out as often as I should. But if I truly want to be that resource that builds bridges, I’m going to have to work on inserting myself into more conversations and creating relationships with more people.
Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
The REAL me. In a recent post (http://is.gd/5IPiv), Jonathan Fields asked the question “Do you have a picture of the REAL you?” This really resonated with me.
The image I selected for my Gravatar is the REAL me. It was taken while camping in a tent with my fiance on the shore of Lake Michigan. We had hiked over a mile in to our campsite with only what we could carry on our backs. We spent two wonderful days hiking, reading, talking, building campfires, and watching the sun rise and set. My smile says it all.
When I compare that image to the one I see in the mirror every day getting ready for work and every day when I return it is a direct contrast. I put on a facade in order to fit neatly into my current life template.
My current situation is a direct result of my choices up to this point. The actions I have taken (or in many cases inaction) have led me here. By choosing a passive role I have blindly followed the default path. The path of least resistance.
No more.
I will spend 2010 examining myself. Learning who I really am and what is really important to me. I will expose myself as much as possible to unconventional ideas and surround myself with those who choose to walk the path less traveled. I will commit to action, and I will follow through.
Where do I want to work in 2010?
Anywhere I damn well please.
Who do I want to be and what am I focusing on in 2010?
Where to even begin? First off, with being grateful that I found this blog. I have been following Get Rich Slowly for a few years and Adam Baker’s post on whether americans are ready to get rid of the dollar bill was preceded by a small cv which mentioned Untemplater. So hooked. I spent the last few hours checking it out and am super impressed.
I digress. I am getting married on April 24th, 2010 to my best friend. I have really been struggling with a lot of issues leading up to the wedding as I have been unemployed since June and have been doing side work while job seeking. I have been in and out of college (38 credits left to graduate) for a few years and have been fighting the idea of working in a job which I dislike for the next 30-40 years just so I have enough dough to retire. Lately however my fiancee and I had been talking about not “settling down” and instead trying to spend as much time as possible doing what we really love which is service work and traveling. I just purchased and loaded Rosetta Stone Latin American version yesterday and began an application for the Peace Corps for us to spend 2 years in Central America. I am going to spend this year improving my Spanish (haven’t taken any in 4 years), finishing my degree in History and preparing to untemplate my life. Reading the Manifesto has really given me a surge in confidence for figuring out where I WANT to be as opposed to where others may think I should be.
I love the site so far! You guys are doing great, keep it up 😀
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
I want to live right here in LA! My current engineering job is here, and it has one of the best music scenes in the world. In LA, I’m keeping my day job while recording an album, and later touring to support it. Engineering and music are both creative pursuits that make me happy, and I’m lucky to live in a city where I have so many opportunities for both. That said, I definitely see myself touring around California and the rest of the country this year to pursue both of those things.
I’ll answer the other 2 questions later! Gotta get back to work!
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
After years of stating I didn’t want to own a business, I’ve finally been pushed to the edge by working for *someone else* and having limited or no control over processes, tools, resources, and being able to affect change. An issue with a co-worker and lack of direction in my current role (translation: professional stagnation with no help from “management”) has made me miserable and loathing the thought of “coming to work” each morning.
I’m working to build a unique business partnership with other like-minded professionals, and in 2010 I want us to be up, running, and profitable!
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I want to start working full time from home in 2010. Right now, I’m about 50% in an office and 50% at home.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
I have no desire to move. I love where I live. My family is close by. My friends are close by. Although, i do want to do a lot more traveling this year.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
2010 is the year I decide to diversify my income. I have only one source right now. Hopefully a lot more sources by year end.
Great questions…I’ll answer #2 since it is may be a bit of an atypical answer…
Basically, in 2010 I want to be living in whatever college town that accepts my husband for a veterinarian internship. Being a vet is a life long dream of his, and to watch him graduate from vet school this year and continue his education as an intern (and later surgery resident) is something that we have been working towards and preparing for together. I am more of a “blow in the wind” type of person with varied and sometimes fleeting interests, but it is incredibly inspiring to me to watch his excel in something that he has been passionate about since he was a young boy. If only we could all be so lucky as to know our calling!
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
From my home and abroad. For me life is about control of my time and money, and the reason I pursue lifestyle design, is to allow me to control those options. I’m recently married and a new home owner. It’s great, but I also like to travel. So I am planning on doing some work from Hawaii, New Zealand and Europe this year. Of course, my work is location independent, it just happens that I do a lot of it from home. So question 2 doesn’t necessarily apply to me, because I already live where I want to be.
2) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
Mike Key Entrepreneurial Ninja and Adventurer Seeker < That's who I am for 2010
I am focus on branding myself, I launched my own blog, to discuss my success and failures in lifestyle design and entrepreneurship. I want to be the guy that builds value, and meaningful relationships with others.
A year ago I got rid of a lot of bad influences in my life and thus reduced my number of friends. This year I want to build a lot of new relationships. In person and in the blog-sphere and abroad. I don't want to "network" but I want friends. I am looking for the win win that Steven Covey talks about in the 7 habits.
I'd like the be the guy that inspires and helps others overcome. I was broke, like living in a mobile home broke with 20K in debt, a GED, no college education and a crappy background. I'm no prep school graduate. I am an average Joe who has raised himself up and will continue to move forward. I want to be the guy who helps others who think their life is in the dumps, realize, they too can overcome!
Does all that make me sound like a motivational speaker? lol
For 2010 I have one major goal. Which so happens to coincide with question three.
Who do you want to be in 2010?
I want to be the person I have always known I could be. This is the year I I stop being afraid of being who I want to be and begin my journey to true fullfillment. The year I experience this world to its fullest possibilities and share it with everyone I see!
Where do you want to work in 2010?
I want to be the office, work is wherever I am located. I do not want to be saddled down by a home office. The freedom to move as I please and connect with people feeds my motivation to create. I own a Big and Tall apparel company and am determined to inject more style into the industry. I want to do this broadly, but on a one on one basis as well. Travelling to meet Big and Tall men all over, discussing fashion, gleaning insight, and creating for the consumer. It is really a wonderful experience, one that continuously cycles.
Where do you want to live in 2010?
Chicago! I love this city. It has a great mix of culture, business, and recreation. All 3 are key components to a life worth living. Eventually, I would like to split time between Chicago and another city, like London, but that one is still in the cards. The experiences in those two cities would add greatly to my repertoire.
Who do you want to be in 2010? What are you going to focus on improving?
Myself, but only better. I definitely want to broaden my experiences and find new passions. Specifically, there are a few areas of business that I feel need polishing. Addressing those areas would add to my confidence and surety in business, which would increase my chances at success. Patience is something else that I will make a priority in 2010. I believe the abilty to be patient or swift with an increased business acumen would make for a very successful year.
I can answer all 3.
I want to work from wherever I darn well please (like I do now).
I want to live at my home base, but travel more often.
I want to focus on developing more sources of income in 2010.
Hahahaha… short and sweet 🙂
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I want to work online from wherever I happen to be in the world. As a writer and programmer, I want my work to provide value to others through blogging, social media consulting, and WordPress freelance work.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
In 2010 I will be living out of a backpack and trekking through various countries around the world, starting with India. I believe this nomadic lifestyle will provide me with an endless supply of inspiration, new perspectives, and motivation which I can share with others through various blogs.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
At the end of 2010, I will have a global perspective and experience in traveling to and living in foreign countries. I will have developed several income streams through writing and social media consulting and I will be known as a global traveler, an adventurer, and someone who helps others live their dreams. I will focus on connecting with like-minded people, sharing my experiences, and learning the language and local customs of wherever my travels take me.
2010: Such a specific and short term goal. It would be unrealistic to say I want to work in country X or job Z this year. I’ve lived in the same country for the past 9 years and worked at the same job for the past 4, so such a drastic change within 12 short months would be quite traumatic.
Therefore, in 2010 I want to do damn good work at my current occupation, but also 1) try out a few different side businesses, and 2) go for interviews at companies I might want to work for. I hope to eventually be working at a job I absolutely love, so these are the steps I’m going to take this year to work towards it.
I want to stay where I already live in 2010. However I don’t know how I can stay any further. Houses are expensive in Portland Oregon. I want to buy a house but I need to make more money and I don’t want to have to get married to do that. Seems like at 32 with no formal education that is one of my only options. I’m going to school soon but if I could do an independent course like the one offered maybe I would have a better idea of where life is heading professionally. Personally I am happy where I’m living and I really want to stay and give back to this wonderful city.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I started down my own untemplated life a year ago when I left my job. This year, I am focusing on making money – creating more income streams, growing my on-line business (selling legal guides for brewery and winery startups), and increasing traffic to my blogs.
Who do you want to be in 2010? What are you going to focus on improving?
As the world gets more complex in this new year and decade, its time to reduce distractions and simplify my life. This year I will get rid of the clutter, automate and consolidate the tasks I don’t enjoy, and spend time doing what makes me happy: enjoying the people in my life, writing, learning, cycling, improving.
This year I am going to learn all I can about investing, brush up my Chinese, serve more, and not look so lost in the kitchen.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
#3 is the only one I need to answer as it encompasses the other two, at least it does for me. I’ve spent the last few weeks in a tailspin trying to figure out if I should break my downward spiral by moving or changing jobs, if not both. Instead the answer is that I need to figure out who I want to be in 2010 and beyond, because who I am now is clearly not working. Over the past few years I’ve been slowly curling into a tight little ball and it does not feel good. What I’m working on so far: getting physically stronger and more flexible to help clean the cobwebs out of my 9 to 5 bored brain, volunteering locally to help me appreciate the things I do have, start traveling again to reconnect with the world.
I have never wanted to work for a giant corporate machine. My goal is to run my own business but I don’t know how to begin such an undertaking. I’ve often considered getting an MBA but the time and money(!) involved is definitely daunting. What I need is an MBA for me – PICK ME, PICK ME!!
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I want to work in my own (future) home office in a city or town of my choice. Because I want to have a say in my work enviroment, how much I commute (or not commute, if you will), and when and how I work.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
For the time being, I plan on staying where I am (in Florida) for another year or so, but I definitely do want to branch out and to another area in the country by the time I’m 25 (I’m 22 now), closer to a larger city with more experience or even out of the country. I won’t limit myself to any place right now!
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
In 2010, I want to improve myself as a person spiritually and professionally because I refuse to get stuck in a comfort trap. I want to be more confident about and at peace with pursuing my dreams as well as expanding my social network and my interests. On a personal level, I am currently making moves towards achieving more mental clarity and to using my time better, making my experiences more enriching. On a professional level, I am currently in the process of starting an e-Store selling aromatherapy bath products (my main focus) as well as experimenting with other avenues of online businesses. I want to increase my strengths as a businessperson and make the move from being employed to self-employed in 2010.
Yikes, pressure’s on. Awesome contest, guys, and I can’t help but at least throw my hat in the ring… What’s the harm, right? 🙂 So I’m gonna go after all three and see what I can come up with here…
1. At home! Or on the go. I’ll be working on finishing my degree, spring semester at school and (hopefully) transitioning to online studies in the fall. I’m eyeing a nice career as a freelance writer and photographer, and I’m hoping to make strides towards that this year… Even if I don’t make a whole lot, because I have that opportunity.
2. Lucky for me, I’ll be moving in June-ish to Spokane, WA, which I’m so so so excited for. 🙂 This is the reason why I’m transitioning to online classes, to finish it up in a timely manner. I’ll be leaving my job here, and instead of rushing to find another I want to pay attention to learning freelancing and trying to eek a small living out of that. Washington state will be a great place for me to do this, since I’m into cars and the Pacific Northwest is well-known for their amazing amount of car culture.
3. The person who takes her chances and comes out better for it in the end, whether it went “according to plan” or not. I want to work on my blog, I want to figure out how to write and I want to become a better photographer in the end. And, of course, I want to have fun doing it all. 🙂 I don’t want to be held back by fear, or wonder what would have happened if I had taken the chances I have to do what I really want to do.
Thanks for the opportunity for this… That was rather fun itself. 😛
I just viewed the Personal MBA website (http://personalmba.com/) and the crash course seems like something everyone would find fundamentally useful to overcome their barriers.
Combined answer to Questions 1 & 2:
I want to work for a start-up and live in any major city.
Why a start-up? – It would be great to be surrounded by like minded people whom I could learn a great deal from and eventually set up my own firm around the ideas that I have. I want to be part of something creative, new and unique, and have a hand i it’s success from the beginning. I don’t want to deal with bureaucracy of larger organisations and being just another number.
Why a major city? – I want to live in a metropolis city environment, I just love the dynamics and options available in major cities. Ultimately, I would like to be “location-independent” by having a business that is automated or controlled via the net. This would give me the freedom to travel to all major cities and experience different cultures, learn many languages and pursue activities such as surfing and climbing.
Answer to Q3:
Who do I want to be in 2010? – To put it simply, I want to be someone who is untemplated, an inspiration and mentor to others (by the end of 2010).
The things I WILL focus on are:
– activities I am passionate about rather than things I care little for.
– social media/social networking – creating a meaningful network of friends.
– Personal Branding: writing more – a meaningful blog.
– Getting over the fear of failure and taking a chance, as only then will I find opportunities.
– Working for a start up – gaining experience and being close to those I admire
– Asking for help from friends; contrary to my beliefs people do want to help; it’s inherent in human nature to help.
– Finding a mentor(s)
Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
In 2010, I want to be the best young professional I can be. I will be starting a full-time job (hopefully). I’d like to improve my writing and marketing skills for my career. For my personal life, I want to learn how to balance my time better. I want to become healthier by eating better and continuing to practice pilates and yoga. I also want to improve my relationships with other professionals because networking is key to a career in PR.
Alright, I love contests :).
That tool right here might help some of you planning for 2010:
http://chrisguillebeau.com/3×5/how-to-conduct-your-own-annual-review/
Here are my answers, I’ll keep it short and to the point.
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
Anywhere but in a cubicle. I’d like the world to be my office. This is because I never want to have to look at the clock again and counting down the hours. Time is too precious. Now I’m afraid to look at the clock and see how time is going by so fast!!!
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
I’d like to go back to Buenos Aires, Argentina and also to Rio, Brazil (I’m learning the language right now to do so). I love Latin American country because I already lived there for a while, I speak the language and I love the people there (no Carlos, I’m not trying to suck up here ;). Also, my currency (CDN$) is worth more there and I can strech my dollar further.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
I want to be able to create a scalable, process-driven workflow producing consistent income with minimal intervention which would allow me to work without any pressure on the various projects I have in mind. I’m also learning Krav Maga (Israeli martial art), Protuguese (from Brazil), and want to raise money for a non-for-profit through producing my own TV show.
If you want to check out who I am and where I am planning to go, check out my 4-Hour-Workweek Case Study that was featured on Tim Ferriss’ blog right here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjXHIyskquU
Cheers!
Ooohh I hope I snag a seat in this course!
1.) I want to work all over the world. My goal is to start teaching pilates virtually, build a client base and be able to teach from anywhere. I also want to branch out to various parts of the US and abroad teaching workshops and retreats. In six months or so I plan to journey to Europe to get a taste of the dance world there, while continuing to build business online.
2.) I want to work here in San Francisco for the next several months and then launch to Europe, India, and South East Asia. Simple because I am dying to see these parts of the world and experience vastly different cultures while doing what I love and benefiting as many people as possible. I hope to do lots of volunteer work along the way as well. Working with green organizations, organic farms, etc. I’ve honed my traveling skills since my last big romp in the world and can’t wait to get my feet wet again. Language barriers this time though!
3.) I want to be bilingual first and foremost. That way I can teach and communicate with a much larger portion of the world. I want to continue to push myself to complete a few massive projects I have had up my sleeve for a while. Chipping away every day and following through. I want to dance like no one is watching all the time and give myself the permission to let go more, fly free and take risks. I will continue to throw myself into new and challenge situations in order to learn as much as possible. I feel you learn more through experience than you’ll ever learn from a textbook or computer. Less talk more action. I also want to continue my self education in pilates, yoga, and nutrition. Read, act, read, act…it’s never ending and I love it!
Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?
This is the year and this is the place! I’ve just opened my first brokerage account to begin diversifying my income. Something I’ve never done before! I’m currently 25 and a full-time school district administrator working on a fixed salary. In 2010 I am going to turn my net worth from -13k to positive 25k+ through smart financial investments and through development of multiple revenue streams! It’s going to be the year that I take back my time and use every bit of vacation time (currently have 240 unused hours!) and the year that I get my backpack out of the closet.
This is my year to become free!!
1) Where Do You Want to Work in 2010. Why?
I want to work all over the World, exploring what good is being done with the game of soccer and how hundreds of programs are using the game to promote good in their own portion of this earth (Grassroots Soccer, LoveFutbol, America Scores). I want to spend 2010 traveling and being able to see these programs firsthand, only to come back to the US and Buffalo to start my own program and expand it organically as it is needed.
In 2010 I want to work out of my netbook and my backback. In 2011, I want to work out of my warehouse that I fund and turn into a indoor soccer center/freestyle soccer center that services the thousands of inner city/refugee kids in Buffalo.
2) Where Do You Want to Live in 2010. Why?
I want to live in Buffalo, NY, because so many of us native Buffalonians have moved away and left the city in the position that it is in. There is so much to do here that I want to make the change here in my hometown first to give back, then take it on the road wherever I may end up. It may not be the typical untemplater lifestyle, but I see places that need improved around me, and I’m here to help.
3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving
I will be the person who faces all of my personal fears with success and daily life and overcomes them for the better of others. If I can function at my personal best, there is no stopping me (and ther is no stopping anyone who can do this). With that, loads of people will benefit, including me. Other goals are learning a 3rd and fourth language to be able to better communicate with people around the world.
I need to improve my business acumen (everything I’ve learned was in the last 3 years of running minor league soccer teams). I have investors interested in projects, as well as other opportunities, but I need to get that extra edge to help me move forward.
When you aren’t learning, you are dying, and I’m not dying for a very long time.
Sounds like a great opportunity for someone that has a focus and a plan for 2010. Best of luck to everyone.
(Side note: What up with the Dr. Manhattan/Jesus guy in the photo?)
“3) Who Do You Want to Be in 2010? What Are You Going to Focus on Improving?”
I want to be a more focused and less easily distracted salesperson. I want to focus on the bigger picture view and remember to schedule the little things that are important to being successful. I want to be more successful internally so that my external successes are more recognizable.
The big improvement to make those happen is in time management and self motivation. Stuff like Untemplater really gets me going and inspired.
Ahhh…great thought-provoking questions! I’ll take door number 2: I want to live in Sydney Australia. I spent five years living there before returning to the U.S., and I’ve never been able to get it out of my blood. Why? Sydney represents the untemplated life more than any other place I’ve been, and I’ve traveled throughout Europe, Asia and North and Central America. I’m still waiting for molecular transporter technology to emerge…
Where do I want to work in 2010?
Most of the time my home office is my favorite place to work. But I want to work wherever I want and I’m already doing that.
Where do I want to live in 2010?
I’m already in the best place I can be for right now. I’m about 15 miles from the edge of Los Angeles’s sprawl and 1/4 mile from one of my favorite trails in the National Forest. I don’t see myself staying here forever, but this is going to be home base for the foreseeable future.
What do I want to be in 2010?
A better father.