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I’d like your input on something

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Of everything that’s happened since I launched Raptitude, what I’m most proud of is that I’ve attracted a such an intelligent and discerning audience. That flatters me to no end and assures me I’m doing something right.

I feel extremely lucky to be able to bounce ideas off a large group of particularly thoughtful people. I’d like to hear your thoughts about something.

I’ve been approached by major publisher asking if I’d thought about doing a book.

Something may or may not come of this, but I’ll be writing a book sooner or later anyway. Thematically, there are lots of places to go with it. Essentially Raptitude is about human evolution through personal evolution, but that includes a lot: living in modern society, contending with the human condition, courting habit change, honing quality-of-life skills, fluff-free spirituality, self-reliance, self-examination, practicing sanity in its various forms, and even making cookies.

So I have three questions for you. I’d appreciate your answer to any or all of them, as well as any other comments you might have.

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

3) What would you like to see in a book?

Even if you don’t normally comment — and I know the vast majority of readers don’t — I’d like to hear what you have to say about this.

Thank you. You guys are the best.

R

Photo by David Cain

Neil April 10, 2011 at 9:07 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

YES. You’re a fantastic writer with remarkable insight.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

I like your tagline “Getting better at being human” and I think that would make a great book title.

Also, to me the site is an easy-to-read way to feel inspired and to take forward steps — mentally, physically, whatever. I learn something every time.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

Maybe the top 20 or 30 most popular articles from here tied together in a strong Table of Contents under headings like “Getting Better at… Communicating”, “Getting Better at… Your Health”, etc. Also, maybe 20-30% new content.

Also am seeing some tables, workbook-style — maybe to track, jot notes, etc. Not too many, where you feel ripped off buying empty pages, but a few.

Last thing, I feel like the book could have some broad, higher level message, statement, thesis, or hypothesis. I’m not sure what it is. But I feel like it would be powerful to finish a chapter or a section or the whole book and say internally “Ahh… now I know X so I can do Y”, or whatever it is. Sorry if that makes no sense.

Congratulations and keep us posted!

nrhatch April 11, 2011 at 10:27 am

I agree 100% with this comment. Your writing, thinking, and integrity are stellar.

Compiling your favorite posts into a book would be a terrific way to encourage even more people to become part of your “intelligent and discerning audience.”

Go For It!

Gustavo April 11, 2011 at 2:36 pm

I also agree.

I have answered your questions before and they align well with what Neil and Nrhatch said:

I would also agree with the compilation of articles, but organized as “tools for life”. Tools, as anything that would help to face life’s pitfalls. I think you could compile a good tool kit.

Shanna Mann April 11, 2011 at 8:16 pm

I second (or third, or whatever,) this motion. I read it, I’m not sure how I’d describe Raptitude, but getting better at being human is pretty good. But where Neil really nails it is what you should put in it. Spot on!

Zoe May 4, 2011 at 2:55 pm

I entirely agree with the above comment. I’ve only just started reading your website and I’ve found that so much of it’s struck a chord with me.

I hope that you decide to go ahead with it. It will make such a refreshing change to read a book from someone that says “I’m an average dude, I’ve learned some stuff in my life. I thought I’d share them with you because you might find them interesting.” That would make a nice change to the proliferation of books that trumpet that their way is the only way and it must be true because it’s written by someone with an MD.

Whatever you decide will be for the best. Congratulations on the offer. It’s an awesome achievement, regardless of whether or not you go ahead with it.

Cristian April 10, 2011 at 9:20 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
yes

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
A collection of smart thoughts and ideas about spirituality (in the sense of universal laws), mixed with some helpful tips borrowed from notions of a behavioral-cognitive approach, considered from (or for) modern men, as applied through the lenses of our every-day life in the current times. Each time a new post shows up in Raptitude (and in my RSS reader), I go directly to open it, as it’s usually almost like a guaranteed reading of good “food for thought”.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
If I’d find a “Raptitude” book in a bookstore, I’d expect it to be a neatly structured and organized aggregation (as in a “curated selection”) of several topics addressed throughout the blog. Or at least all the main ones, contained in a “Volume 1”, of the book; with more to be included in further volumes of a series (?). The point would be to find all the ideas that are randomly spread out in the blog, in a more centralized format in the book. Makes sense?

Marie April 10, 2011 at 9:31 pm

1. Probably. And I only say probably instead of a definite yes because I don’t usually buy self-enlightenment type books, or whatever genre yours would fall into.

2. Raptitude has been a place where I have discovered some profound insight into my own mental dialogue. My favorite post so far has been “Good News: Happiness Doesn’t Exist” because it really shifted my thinking. It’s not the only post that has affected me, just the most influential. What I am trying to get at is that I read the posts on this website because you are actively working to change perspective, and I think that is one of the most useful things in personal growth.

3. I would hope that a book from you would be an expansion of several themes that you have started on this blog, a kind of vague “how-to” manual on getting your life to be what you want it to be.

Fantastic news! Good luck!

Joy April 10, 2011 at 9:44 pm

David,
Yes, I would absolutely read a Raptitude book…
You cover many topics..intriguing to me are your personal experiments…as well as posts that are not about daily life, but more about “experiencing” life from all angles..to me Raptitude is about courage, dreams, experimenting, daring to try, “living” fully…
I would hope that your book would follow the sort of higher thinking, experimenting, living that you share with us here in this space.

Avi April 10, 2011 at 9:45 pm

1. Yes!!

2. Raptitude is a lot of things. Advice on how to be happy, how to recognize what makes you unhappy, how to become wiser and more mature, less selfish, egocentric, and frustrated, more grateful and accepting, and pretty much anything else you the blog author think is interesting and worthy of discussion.

3. Content from the blog + original content

Avi April 10, 2011 at 9:48 pm

also I would say David you are very talented at conveying complex subjects and ideas with a great deal of simplicity and clarity without losing nuance

Joe T April 10, 2011 at 9:45 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
I’d pay money for it and read it right after I’m done with the current book I’d be reading.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
Transcending the everyday and thinking clearly, I think.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
Not the type of generic “this website wrote a book” cover/title/subject. Think LifeHacker’s book. Not that.

Réjean Lévesque April 10, 2011 at 9:48 pm

1. Not sure. I don’t like to be told what and how to think. I would read a book that asks the “right” questions so I can reflect and maybe become a “better” person.
2. Like you mentioned, Raptitude is the place where you bounce ideas off your readers in a non-proselytist fashion.
3. I trust you.

Alex April 10, 2011 at 10:02 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Absolutely. And I would buy it too! ;)

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
You describe it pretty well, actually. It’s a no-bullshit, all-inclusive examination of life through the eyes of an honest human being.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
Here’s where it gets fuzzy…it can’t too much like this blog. That’s not what needs to be done. This blog perfectly fulfills its function of being this blog. A book would need to be something more–or at least something different.
I for one would like to see a sort of “Raptitude-meets-David’s-autobiography.” Basically, a more in-depth story of how you’ve come to write these posts. To put it another way…the blog posts are an end result of lots of thinking and living, just as songs are end results of whatever topic they’re about. I want to hear about what happened in order to make you write that “song.”
Avi writes “Content from the blog + original content.” I’m expanding that to “Subject matter from the blog mixed with more of your own experiences with those subjects.”

No matter what you do, I will buy it the moment it’s out.

Bear April 15, 2011 at 1:06 pm

I wuld disagree slightly with Alex’s remark about the need for more new content versus including blogs-to-date.

A) Some existing readers might like a review. I know I can not incorporate all of what David writes as fast as new blogs come out.

B) We would hope, on David’s behalf, that he would reach many people who would not have seen his blog. For them, old content is new.

Crys April 10, 2011 at 10:09 pm

1) Yes !!!

2) A refreshing nuts and bolts no nonsense resource. I’ve already heard what you have to say from other resources, but there is life in the way you say it. I feel it in my bones. It’s more like sitting down and having coffee with you

3) Seriously. . . don’t target your book to what you think your readers want. Look to the same inspiration you have always looked to and your book will come to life. And you know what, I totally trust you to do that !!

Danielle April 10, 2011 at 10:25 pm

Not only would I read it, I’d buy it for all my friends for Christmas.
I have to simply reiterate what I’ve been seeing others post here for the 2nd questions. Raptitude is, for me, a very clear, organized, insightful way of thinking about the (frequently overwhelming) thought “How do I do this “life” thing?”. Reading Raptitude helps me check in with myself and make sure I’m doing the best I can to live a fulfilling and considerate life, while allowing myself to be human along the way and not expecting perfection. I love the serious, deep thoughts and I especially love how well it is balanced with occasional elements of whimsy.

And lastly, even if your book was just a collection of your favorite articles, all tied together with nice opening and closing sections, it would still be awesome. Do it! :-)
I knew it was just a matter of time and I’m happy for you that this (potential) opportunity has come long. :-)

Tamarra April 10, 2011 at 10:33 pm

Yes, I would read it.

To me your posts are a way to set myself back on track when I get overwhelmed by the daily grind. Your hard work, both in striving to improve and in taking the time to share that process, lends a bit of strength to those of us who may not always have enough on our own.

What would I like to see in the book? You. You are the soul of this site and it is your journey that provides inspiration and a source of introspection. You don’t preach, you simply learn and share what you’ve found.

I have my favourites among your posts, as I’m sure do we all based on our individual journies, but there isn’t one among them that hasn’t made me think about how I do things. You have a lot to be proud of and deserve to share that with a wider audience who may also gain that bit of inspiration from the example you’ve set of being mindful on a daily basis. After all, you are just like us – fallible, hopeful, learning daily how little we know. If you can do it…

Jay Schryer April 10, 2011 at 10:44 pm

Yes, I’d definitely buy and read the Raptitude book, if only just to support you. You were one of the first friends I made when I started blogging, and I have always enjoyed your insights and observations.

To me, Raptitude is a reflection of your personal journey, and I love how you share your journey to help others.

In the book, I’d like to see more in-depth chapters about experiments you’ve performed, and (more Importantly, in my opinion) how others can set up similar experiments, or come up with their own experiments to try.

Chimera April 10, 2011 at 10:49 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book? – yes, definitely. Of all the books I’ve seen on “self understanding”, I can count on my one hand the ones that helped me as much as Raptitude did. I’d buy the book, regardless of me being in Europe.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you? – It’s about people who experience the same things as me and are like me, which is the most priceless about it – I feel I’m not alone :)

3) What would you like to see in a book? More of this goodness. Seriously, don’t turn it into “Get happy in 21 days or less” – make it as it is now :)

Godspeed! :)

Renee Sala April 10, 2011 at 10:50 pm

1. Absolutely!
2. Raptitude to me is an honest and genuine look at the human condition…through the eyes of one of my peers, which makes it a valid and understandable place to find perspective. I learn something about myself and the way I approach life every time I read an article! As a person interested in self-awareness and personal growth without being served up a helping of flakiness to go with it, Raptitude is an excellent source of inspiration.
3. I think that including your original blogs along with some new content and some ‘step-by-step’ ideas on how you’ve tried and accomplished certain things would be a great start.

PS….congrats David, I can’t wait to see what you do next!

sara April 10, 2011 at 10:55 pm

Yes I would read it!

To me Raptitude is a place of compassion, vulnerability, honesty,and the insights that arise from the aforementioned.

I would like to read a more thorough, more connected story about your insights on life, what lead to them, and what writings/people influenced you. Something that digs deeper than the blogs.

Char (PSI Tutor:Mentor) April 10, 2011 at 11:46 pm

Congrats~ about time. yes would read and recommend. Make as a coffee table book~ insights on one page, great pic on other~ lots of white space.

Jessi Tidwell April 10, 2011 at 11:52 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Absolutely! It’d stay on my windowsill next to my bed along with John O’Donohue books for whenever I need a little motivation or help being human.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
I come to raptitude.com to read your blogs because I leave with some sort of insight that can help me to be a better person or that can help other people. Your blogs are tools for living.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
basically the same content you put on the website. I wouldn’t even mind a book just full of all these website articles. And the more casual, the better. The thing I love most about this website is that you reply to our comments and you respond to us in different ways. You’re like the next door neighbor type with a lot of insight, rather than some distant, foreign image of a person that no one knows. If that made any sense at all…

David (EOD) April 11, 2011 at 12:01 am

1) Yes

2) Opensource Experimental Education

3) Sure, why not :)

Nicky Spur April 11, 2011 at 12:25 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Most likely.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
Humanity. Something about this blog is honest, and straight to the core. I don’t come here for tips, or techniques (not that I don’t like them) but more to see another person’s, both inside and out. Sometimes to the posts strike a chord with me, sometimes they don’t but they all have a truthfulness and honesty embedded within them.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
I’d like to see a purpose. There needs to be a point, a story, a plot… something that draws the reader in and makes them want to read more. Something from point A to point B with lessons along the way that brings the reader on an experience.

Besides it’s a nice little ego trip to be able to say you published a book. I think it could be good.

somebody April 11, 2011 at 12:30 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

e-book

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

Learning experience

3) What would you like to see in a book?

The insight brought in your stories coupled with readers’ comments.

SK April 11, 2011 at 12:34 am

Raptitude is, to me, a record of personal transformation. If your book is about that, I suggest you wait another twenty years.

If your book is about something else, anything else that people of our age have written well about, then I would buy it if the topic interests me at the moment. Because I’m whimsical like that.

KW April 20, 2011 at 4:38 pm

I only just started reading your blog, but I think SK has a very valid point.

Tobi April 11, 2011 at 12:44 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

Hell yeah, lolz.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

A challenge.

Mentally, spiritually, physically, and whatever else! Your different ideas and views help me to question and solidify my own. It gets me thinking about what I’m doing, what I should be doing, and what may need to change. Even maybe reinforce what I already think. You have some really different views from me, and unlike most peoples they’re well thought out and formulated, so they actually sound like they’re worth listening to, and I like that.

Discovery

You’ve gotten me into studying philosophy, Buddhism, Douglas Harding, the meat industry, (I have a lot of time on my hands XD) and history. Some of those things I was already interested in like history, but others like Douglas Harding I had no idea until I came here.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

Your experiences, opinions, pretty much what’s here. Just do what you do and it’ll be a best seller for sure! Good luck, I look forward to reading and owning your book.

Bonnie April 11, 2011 at 1:37 am

I would read the book, esp if it was put on audio :)

Aaron Beyer April 11, 2011 at 3:13 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

Yes, definitely. I’d love to see where you could go with a longer form to write within. I’d buy it even if there weren’t pictures.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

It’s about someone speaking in a clear voice about issues we all live with, and how to deal with those issues. I see it as advice. I can take it, and often do, and see if it works for me too.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

I’d like to see you tackle something big, idea-wise. Something immediately helpful to humanity. I feel like you do that in every post, so I’m not sure how you would go about making this book-sized. If all else fails you could just slap all the blog articles together and call that the book :D

Your writing style is superb, and perfectly suits for the content you share. I’m excited for you that you get this opportunity – it’s well deserved!

Andreas April 11, 2011 at 3:54 am

I think I would like to see you write a biography where you tell us about which factors and events and circumstances have made you the person you are today. That would be interesting!

tpsychnurse April 11, 2011 at 4:44 am

Yes, I would read your book.

Raptitude is about using introspection and life lessons to seek, learn, and grow.

Subject matter? – I trust you to rely your intuitiveness. It has led to some very interesting topics.

Jennifer Took April 11, 2011 at 6:18 am

David,

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Definitely. I would even buy it new, which I don’t always do.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
To me, several things set you apart from other similar writers/websites.
First and foremost, the experiments.
Second, the fact that you don’t come from or espouse any particular spiritual tradition.
Third, you are fundamentally open-minded. Flows from the first to a certain degree.
Fourth, you don’t pretend to have arrived, but simply to be on a journey. Your message is that we are all on the same journey, whether we realize it or not, and we might as well open our eyes and make the most of it.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
Hey, you’re the author! Seriously, I like the manageable calls to action. How to make a life list, how to connect with people, etc.

Piece of free advice: even though you have been approached by a publisher, you should think hard about whether to get an agent. The fact that you have a potential book deal and a successful website should make it a LOT easier to get an agent. You can research this debate (agent or not) on the web, as well as researching agents. If it were I, with all the innovations in e-publishing, I think I would want an agent to help negotiate the contract.

Best wishes.

Zack April 11, 2011 at 6:21 am

1) I’d read anything and everything that you produce (even if I have to pay).
2) Self improvement. It’s about creating a better me and seeing the world for what it is. Raptitude, to me, is the signpost setting me down the right path.
3) Everything from the website and more. I’d like to see some creativity, maybe a few fictional characters? Some sort of plot?

Good luck brotatoe chip. Can’t wait to buy whatever you put out on the market.

John April 11, 2011 at 6:33 am

I’m going to bust your balls a little.

Short answer: I won’t buy if I suspect I have already been exposed to the material via the blog posts.

Long answer: Maybe a buy, but it would have to overcome a prejudicial eye. Books by bloggers are like liquor endorsements by actors: it’s similar work but why should I listen?

I read a lot of nonfiction but I can only think of one worthwhile blogger book (Pavlina’s) that I finished. I don’t count Seth Godin in this blogger category, not sure why. Blog posts repackaged are disappointing. Books seem like good alternative sales channels for bloggers. However, to a reader they seem like marketing endeavors not the exploration of a book-length idea.

Which leads to what I would like to see. The books I enjoy are usually pop-social science dealing with part of human nature that helps me feel better about myself: Carrots & Sticks, Nudge, Flow, We Have Met the Enemy: Self-Control in an Age of Excess, The Knowing-Doing Gap, How to Change the World : Social Entrepreneurs and the Power of New Ideas, You Are Not a Gadget, Where Good Ideas Come From: The Natural History of Innovation. All books I have recently bought.

For instance, I think a neat idea for a book would be the study of hubris. What is hubris? How has it affected mankind? You could look at the Greeks view of hubris, how Hubris affected the financial crisis, explore the neurological basis for hubris (this is all the rage.) It could open with the story of Icarus. Essentially a thesis.

I’m not sure how to shoehorn “hubris” into your method of experimentation.

Anyway, I hope it works out for you, the book I mean.

Tilen Krivec April 11, 2011 at 6:43 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

Yup

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

No BS, no fluff, no nonsense insights for a more fulfilling life.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

In addition to what we get from the blog? More experiments to try.

yliharma April 11, 2011 at 6:50 am

1) I’ve never read a book on life-coaching/spirituality/etc but if you’ll manage to write something really innovative (as I think you would), I’ll definitely buy it :)
2) It’s about life, in every aspect. Your life, practically, and the value that your experiences have for us all. It’s a sort of “living tecniques in action” :D
3) I think you should follow your “voice”: don’t try to write as others do about those topics, keep your special “approach” like in https://www.raptitude.com/2009/07/88-important-truths-ive-learned-about-life/ and be honest like in the experiments.

Good luck!

Gustavo April 19, 2011 at 7:44 am

That’s also one of my favorite posts.

Anna April 11, 2011 at 6:55 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
No. I like my books linear (if I read them primarily for their information content, otherwise all bets are off). I like raptitude nonlinear.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
Getting views to percolate over time.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
A narrative! I’m not a self-help-book reader.

Tara Seaks April 11, 2011 at 7:00 am

I’ve been wondering why you hadn’t started a book already. ;-)

Your writing style is very fresh and unique. Your ideas are too. So, I say, why not?! Go for it!

Steve Mays April 11, 2011 at 7:14 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

I would order today.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

You take what can be very difficult ideas and translate them without losing any of the power.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

First thought is to reflect what you’ve done here, but I have no doubt it will be a good book, regardless of the focus.

Diana April 11, 2011 at 7:39 am

Yes, I would for sure read the book.

For me, Raptitude is where I come when I am having a particularly hard time of things and need to find a way to get back on track. And it’s safe to say it has always worked. But its also a place to find a way to be the best me that I can be.

vic April 11, 2011 at 7:58 am

1. I’d read it if it was reasonably easo to get (eg. from Amazon.com)

2. Raptitude is about self improvement and just getting better at playing a game called life. I first came here through StumbleUpon and saw a wall of text, which for some reason caught my attention. After that I’ve been visiting weekly.

3. This is a hard one. Similiar topics as in this blog. Some thoughts about dying, since it’s something that’s going to happen to everyone. Something with a plot with life-lessons scattered into it. I trust you on this one.

LunaJune April 11, 2011 at 8:31 am

1. would I buy your book?
yes if the content was not just a rehash of what is here on your blog

2. for me Raptitude is a wonderful connection to the human condition. You share , you ask, you explore from your truth, without trying to sell me something. I learned long ago… ” If you meet the Buddha on the road to life….kill him ” meaning only ‘you’ can save/change yourself…….share your story… ask a million questions…see what fits… and apply it to your path.
I love the way you meander on your path :~)

3. good question… for which I don’t really have an answer….
good luck on your quest… we’ll be here watching and reading as it unfolds.

Eric April 11, 2011 at 9:30 am

1. I would definitely read a Raptitude book, chances are I’d keep it close at hand to lend out to friends when they asked me for advice on the topics you are so good at exploring.

2. Raptitude to me is a exploration of human nature and the human condition through your own life. Basically it is about what makes people tick, and how to deal with those day to day issues that challenge us.

3. I think that I would have a preference, like many others to a book with a theme or a story, and a fair degree of original content.

Tracie April 11, 2011 at 10:20 am

1. I would.

2. For me, this site is about looking at life through a slightly different lens. Not sure of a better way to explain it.

3. You’ve had a lot of good answers to this, already. I would probably read it even if it were an annotated collection of some of these entries, but if I have one suggestion, it would be to think about the things you haven’t felt could be expressed in a blog. Different ideas deserve different formats, and often seem to cry out for them. One thing I hope you would keep is the personal angle through which you tell things.

Alex #2 April 11, 2011 at 10:36 am

1) Definitely I would read the book. And that might be the first ever book I actually buy (instead of renting, libraries and borrowing).

2)Raptitude is great to me because I want to study Psychology and this is a great way to see some human behavior. :] . And I learn allot of stuff and I get motivation from it. I loved the vegetarian try out because I can actively know why those people are vegetarians are what they are (not judging) just saying I understand their choice.

3)Well, just what you write here all about better at being human. Better social behavior and better listening to others caring for them . Why do we do these silly things on the web how we live to lives (on and off line). How we check e mails 17 times a day. And I do it even more to check for new articles through me subscription.

Keep up the good work, and don’t worry book or no book you always got us here!

KW April 11, 2011 at 10:55 am

I agree with comments made by SK and John. At this stage, my sense is a “Raptitude” book would dilute the value of your blog, for you (David) and that is of vital importance. Intelligent, discerning and thoughtful readers will remain loyal to your work as long as you remain loyal to yourself. Stay focused on the ‘same path’, unconditionally. All the best.

Andee April 11, 2011 at 11:26 am

Raptitude, to me, is about the art of clean communication with other people and, more importantly, with yourself. Would totally read a book…and probably buy it for a lot more people I know. Good luck with this!

Sarah April 11, 2011 at 12:17 pm

1. Yes, I would read the book.

2. Raptitude is about how to lessen that feeling that we’re screwing up at life.

3. I am sure that you have much better ideas about the content than I do. If I had good ideas, I’d be writing the book. :) Good luck!

Jean "Pebbles" Goodrich April 11, 2011 at 12:48 pm

You have the ability to home in on the hidden depths of life & make us look at our errors with humour & a desire to improve our skills. It’s a “Recipe for Life”
I certainly would read a book by you, & !’d recommend it to others who needed a ‘leg up’ in life!
I think the content would just be a wonderful amalgam of all the things you do so well anyway, in your articles. As you start writing, I bet it will just flow! Love & respect in your endeavours.

Hanlie April 11, 2011 at 1:14 pm

I would absolutely read a Raptitude book. For me it’s about living a meaningful and conscious life and that is what I’d like to see in the book.

Joel Roggenkamp April 11, 2011 at 1:46 pm

I love your blog, but I don’t think I’d read it in book form.

john April 11, 2011 at 2:01 pm

1. No.
I read from the internet, preferring blogs as I now like to get small bits of information. I no longer sit down with any book. I’m not looking for a system, just tips and ideas.
2. Raptitude is discovering how to live by evoking a natural deeper innate sense of what it is to be a human.
3. see 1. above.

Ashley April 11, 2011 at 2:05 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Absolutely.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
Raptitude is about people going through life, supporting each other, and changing for the better. It’s about trying new things and finding out what improves your quality of life. Every new post is a little piece of truth, yet it challenges you to find the meaning yourself. It’s honesty.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
The Raptitude blog tied up cohesively, with some new content and a summary introduction.

Liana April 11, 2011 at 3:25 pm

1) Yes, absolutely. In fact, it would be a convenient way for me to share your posts instead of forwarding them every week.

2) A more articulate version of the way I look at the world. And a fascinating glimpse into a wise, thoughtful and intelligent brain which I’ve never met. Cool.

3) Blogs by category, with some new posts and perhaps an intro or two. Could mix in some shorter-than-a-blog pieces of insight too.

Skip April 11, 2011 at 3:49 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Oh yes! Buy a dozen copies or so, too, for birthdays, Xmas, or “just-’cause-it’s Tuesday” for friends.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
A holy man, figuring out how to drive a cab to feed his kids.

And: The scoundrel in the back passenger seat, figuring out how to get to the front seat.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

David, any damn thing YOU have to put in there! After all, that’s what got the book offer… don’t go changing that now! “Trust the Force, Luke!”

Jamie Holms April 11, 2011 at 3:55 pm

1. Yes, I support your growth as a person and the affect you are having on others.
2. Raptitude is life simplified.
3. I see two options – one a graphic masterpiece of wit and wisdom (http://www.amazon.com/Dog-Owners-Manual-Instructions-Troubleshooting/dp/1931686858) or just a great read. What I do want to see for sure: e-book friendly and lendable.

It’s clear you want to write a book, your followers want you to write a book – what are you waiting for?

David April 11, 2011 at 4:51 pm

Wow, thanks so much for the feedback everyone. So cool to see how everyone has a different relationship with Raptitude.

Keep them coming, please. I’m going to wait before I share my thoughts.

Alex #2 April 12, 2011 at 2:42 am

I adrmier your power of will to read all these peoples comments and opinions. Basicly you are talking to a 100k people in every blog, and listen to them back. Keep up the good work! :)

Becca April 11, 2011 at 6:09 pm

1. Absolutely!

2. For me its about gaining insight to who I am and learning how to live a more well balanced life. Its about learning to understand that even the most opposite people are still suprisingly similar to each other in there desires, fears, and needs. How we are constantly unfolding and growing each day, and how we can better understand ourselves and become more tolerant of others.

3. I would love to read a book thats just like Rapitude with all the ideas you’ve shared and the points you’ve made. One that kind of ties it all in together, about the human experience and how to get better at it. Of course I’d love to read about your ideas more in depth. I think your such a talented writer and whatever you write is going to be powerful and great and I cant wait to read it!

Charles Kohler April 11, 2011 at 6:22 pm

Please! I’d love to see your posts made into a book…an ebook specifically. I’m really interested in what you write but my eyes can’t handle reading on a laptop screen. I started going the route of saving the page as a PDF and then putting it on my Kindle. But if you had everything in an ebook, that would be great.

For the book to work though, I really think you’d need some new content or else, no matter how insightful your posts are, some readers may feel they are just rehashing something they’ve already read.

Keep up the great work!

Jacob April 11, 2011 at 6:47 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

Of course. The only flaw I have with your writing is that your writing style isn’t particularly in tune with what you are saying, but an editor could alter that. Your content, and raw potential as a writer is enormous, your book would be fantastic

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

It’s just following how someone lives their lives, a perfectly average person, with his own various shortcomings, but how he has used those shortcomings to better himself time and time again. It’s about the insight and triumph of the human spirit.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

More of your experiments would be fantastic, as well as more of your ideas on how to survive on Earth

Janet brandon April 11, 2011 at 6:55 pm

Not sure I’d buy the book, but I’d borrow it from the library. I like to think of Raptitude as my go to place when I need a perk-up. Everything you put out there has a tidbit or punch that helps me to see colour in my life, you make me think,question and laugh.
I enjoy the randomness of the site and the fact I don’t have to read everything in order.
Wish you well in whatever you do,and thank you.

Kiron April 11, 2011 at 8:49 pm

1: Absolutely, although it seems like conducting a poll of blog commenters about whether or not they would read your book is likely to lead to a 100% positive response.

2: It’s a source of interesting ideas about Life, the Universe, and Everything. Most of which I agree with, and nearly all of which are elegantly stated.

3: I don’t come here when I know what I want, I come here when I want to listen to (read) someone who I think has the world figured out more completely than I do.

Although, if you do decide to write a book, Please for the love of don’t quit posting here. You’re one of the last online things I check regularly (although I haven’t really been able to figure out your posting schedule lately), and it’d be a shame to see Raptitude suffer in exchange for a book.

Kiron April 11, 2011 at 10:13 pm

Also, you should hire a necromancer so that the audiobook version can be narrated by Terence McKenna. For some reason I always read your posts in his voice.

Thomas April 11, 2011 at 9:31 pm

All the other comments seem to pretty much summarize my views on the subject.

1. I would probably read a Raptitude book. Paying for it would be a problem, but I would definitely try to find it in the library.
2. Raptitude is about living a better live. By being playful in your approach to life. To try different modes of life, because after all, this is the Only one we have.
3. I would like to see in a book, a more complete form of your website maybe? But don’t just like copy and paste everything. I don’t know about this one, it has to be somewhere between old and new.

Claudia April 11, 2011 at 10:15 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

*** read MAYBE. Buying: NO, i don’t want nor need more stuff.

I like the ‘open’ feel of this blog/website, the interaction you have with people who comment. it feels quite alive. taking this into a book format would be – to me – taking river water into a backyard pool. it ‘looses’ something. but that’s just my bias.
sometimes when we take something that works (like this website) and placing it into a very different environment, it might loose it’s flavor/feel of it. the dynamic changes.
plus, you have others meddle with what is now entirely yours.
why give up that freedom?
if you need money, let me know an address and i send you a 5$ note and support you that way / show appreciation.

you have been sharing freely – why not continue with that spirit?
i know very well that painting “just because” is VERY different than painting on a commission. even though i use the very same ingredients (same oil colors, canvas, brushes etc…) … the intention behind it is different. and that changes it for me.

i for e.g. dare to keep my passion unentangled w/ any $$$ issues. i paint. yes … but for my livelihood, rent-payments etc … i am happily working in some huge office. so i can let my passion have it’s own seasons. sometimes dormant (i.e. i am not painting for a long while) … sometimes very active (i.e. baring knowing where to store the next canvas). however it flows, i don’t need to fret about income connected w/ my passion. leaving it free. that at least worked for me for many years now …

i enjoy the writings …. you share it with a generous spirit. thanks for that.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
isn’t being ‘enraptured’ a way of being transported?
sometimes this writing here is like being transported … to the ‘better’ me. reminding me of what being human is about … this marvelous messy evolution spiral journey we are privileged to experience in a human form.
thanks for those moments of being transported …

3) What would you like to see in a book?
i don’t need another book, more wisdom between book-covers. what i need / aspire to is actually to LIVE what i already know / have read before etc.

james April 11, 2011 at 10:20 pm

it needs to be entirely new content.

Eric April 11, 2011 at 11:38 pm

First of all, make sure that getting a publishing deal would be sufficiently valuable to you, because things can work differently in this day & age.

Lisa April 11, 2011 at 11:57 pm

1. I would definitely read a Raptitude book.
2. To me, Raptitude is about simple strategies to challenge ourselves and use in everyday life.
3. I think you should add some of your experiments in there.

slc April 12, 2011 at 1:05 am

1. Yes
2. Grounding oneself in today’s world.
3. Staying away from the traditional self-help book model.

Kimisawa April 12, 2011 at 5:42 am

1. Yes!
2. Your frank observations of life, without trying too hard to be politically correct – not that you have been trying to do it anyway.
3. Good sense of humour, solid arguments, and fun/surprising facts.

Katie April 12, 2011 at 9:36 am

(1) YES!!
(2) Raptitude is definitely about all of the things you mentioned, “human evolution, cookies…etc.” But more than that it’s about providing these things in an accessible (and highly entertaining) format. The posts are just short enough to keep one’s attention most of the way through, and just long enough to infuse the message for those individuals who need said infusion of the particular subject. You see…some posts some people will absorb and re-read throughout the day. They will forward it onto their loved ones with an emailed title like, “You HAVE to read this article. It changed my life!” Those posts touch those people deeply and they are affected/changed due to the wisdom you so benevolently impart to we internet masses [aka, geeks]. Other posts do the same for other people. Therein lies the beauty of the format. Take what speaks to you, leave the rest for someone else. This being said, I shall now answer inquiry numbero tres:
(3) What would I like to see in the book? Well (and this is totally a personal opinion that many people will reject) I feel for the type of material you share, a regular “self-help” format with chapters and themed sections is not very conducive to pervading your message of Change Your Life, Everyday…even if you do use funny sketches. Your message isn’t something that should be read cover to cover and set back down on the bookshelf with a momentary enlightened “hmph” and then collect dust next to the newest Chuck Palahniuk. It’s so much greater than that. I am here to advocate a daily reader format. Such as…were I lucky enough to own said book, today I would turn to “April 12th”s post and read a semi-short (two pages max) and affecting bit of gold to start my morning. This way Raptitude the Book can stay with me and aid every day. You see…with all these life distractions and ego diversions, it’s very hard to remember what we know deep inside. What you remind us. What you impart. That life is beautiful! And easy. We’re just making it hard due to our misunderstandings of reality. So basically, to sum up: David is awesomesauce and should be read every day. Help us, David. Be our pocket guide to contented rapture. [<–I know that's a slight oxymoron but it makes perfect sense to me].

I hope this helps!! Feel free to reject my notions. To each their own. For me? I want a daily reader!!! One last comment, don't set down the humor. Don't let it become dry and straight forward, even on the serious subjects. You're posts have a really great serious to funny ratio. Maintain it please. I like to laugh out loud.

Peace n Love…Katie

Colleen April 12, 2011 at 9:56 am

I found Raptitude quite recently and am working my way back through the archives. Yes, David, I would definitely read your book. I am, I believe, somewhat older (55) than you and most of your readers, and am warmed and encouraged by your insight and intelligence, and by the comments of others who also strive to be wiser human beings. Kind of gives me hope for the future that lies beyond what I will live to see. Thanks so much for sharing. Your writing has a beautiful clarity – you make the complex and troubling simple for me.
Please don’t ask me what I would like to see in your book, unless you are seeking input to gauge the commercial potential of being published. Your seeking of our opinions about book content feels like an analytical process to me (and I know analytical when I see it – I’m an accountant.) You know, dissect and classify, tally up the votes. I’ve never written a book, but it seems like the process should be more holistic. Bring your ideas together to create something new. You don’t need to worry about what readers want. Just let it synthesize, and it will naturally speak to your readers’ minds and hearts the way your blog has done.

Emily April 12, 2011 at 12:53 pm

Yes, I would read a Raptitude book, and likely recommend it to everyone I know. I believe you are putting thought, energy, and, most importantly, compelling writing into ideas many people can relate to. Reading your blog makes me feel like there are some quality and sane people out there who are really THINKING in a way that actually makes sense and not just regurgitating a bunch of spoon fed nonsense. The fact that you have had success and gathered a large following makes me believe that there may be a significant number of these thoughtful people out there. I, for one, would appreciate a go-to source for signs that true sanity does exist in some humans out there, at least some of the time.

A book might be a great project for you since it will get all of your greatest ideas/blogs into one place, and will be edited to cut out anything superfluous. What should your book have in it? Just your greatest hits, plus anything new you have brewing that ‘s on par w/ your greatest hits. Your writing will develop as you do, so don’t try to tackle the whole world at once. My sense is this would only be the beginning for you, not the end-all-be-all. You already have all the material, it just needs to be culled, edited, and fully fleshed out or cut where needed. If you pick a manageable amount of larger themes (with some sort of common thread), based on what you’ve already written, and string them together in a funny or narrative or sensible way, you’ll already be more than halfway there.

Good luck and I can’t wait to read it!

Emily April 12, 2011 at 12:59 pm

Another note — one of the only reasons I think a book would be good (as opposed to just blogging) is that it would be an easier format by which to share your ideas w/ others I know who are not info following blogs (i.e. I could get my mom to read the book, not sign up for your blog). So even though the blog format works for your current readers, why not try branching into a whole new audience?

Amity L. Allcock April 12, 2011 at 1:07 pm

I’ve never commented before, but I’ve been reading your blog for quite a while. I enjoy it and I find that it helps me tremendously, particularly with anxiety.

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Absolutely, indubitably, YES.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
For me, it’s about managing all the little things in life as well as lot of the big ones! I’ve found the concepts and ideas introduced here to be incredibly helpful in applying to my own life. I find it comfortable and soothing, and spiritual in a way. Ultimately, it just makes me feel a hell of a lot better. I wish I was more disciplined to keep the concepts in mind when life takes over, though!

3) What would you like to see in a book?
I honestly think that anything you felt was important to write about would be excellent. You have a wonderful talent with what you do, and I think pretty much any subject you decided to touch on would be helpful to a broad audience. My personal preference would be to stay away from veganism, but only because of my own prejudices and assumptions!

Rachael April 12, 2011 at 1:32 pm

I would most definitely read a Raptitude book.
The first post I read on Raptitude was the 40 Remarks of Nietzsche (one of my favorite philosophers) and since then I’ve found this to be an intellectually stimulating site approached in a very casual, and readable, way. Your personal anecdotes and vulnerability in honest reflections makes relating easy, and have encouraged me to start (and finish!) projects of my own to better myself. I keep this on my Google homepage, and sneak away when I need a little inspiration or another perspective.
The approach to a book could be similar to the design of .com – with many types of articles all relating to an overall theme of “Getting better at being human.” After all, who doesn’t want to better themselves? I like the first-person voice, too, presenting as a memoir-type rather than a how-to.

Go for it! So many who aren’t web readers would gain so much from having you on their shelves.

Owen April 12, 2011 at 5:32 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Yes

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
Learning about ourselves, being happier, more confident, more caring, more grateful, etc, basically learning to be a better person.

3) I’m in a hurry so no time to think, hard question, but keep up the good work

Martin April 12, 2011 at 5:36 pm

I would like you to write the book you want to write. I would be disappointed if the book was anything less.

It has been your unique perspective on life that has made your writing so interesting. How can I or anybody know what kind of masterpiece is inside you.

Brenda April 12, 2011 at 7:14 pm

So there you were in Nadia’s comments two years ago, standing out as only a gifted wordsmith can, and I started following your blog because you would have been the best kid in class had you been in my 11th grade writing class. Then you were my Twitter buddy and even your mom wrote to say congrats on the baby. Now you’ve become a big part of my little cyberspace family, only you’re going to be the rock star of the bunch.

I see you as a young Malcolm Gladwell, or at least in league with him. I see you giving a TED talk someday on practically anything — life lessons learned from a dent in a car, how eating broccoli can make you a better person, why some people prefer steadfastness to fluctuation. You are guilty of both clear thinking and right thinking and that is why your blog is so successful. Whatever you do will be great. Congrats, David. I love you. :)

Keith April 12, 2011 at 8:07 pm

First of all what you have here on this blog is great and that’s why you have such a dedicated following. People subscribe to things such as magazines or blogs because it takes information they like and repackages it on a week to week or month to month basis. Sometimes the information is brand new, and most of the time it’s not. A lot of the information isn’t earth shattering and might have been around for a long time. It’s just refreshing seeing it in a new light. It helps people reaffirm why they are trying to become more spiritual, be nicer to people, or just eat their vegetables. It helps keep people on track.

Writing a book should be on everyones list, even if no one reads it. I thoroughly enjoy your writing. That being said. There are hundreds if not thousands of “self-help” or “be the best you” kind of books out there, granted most of them are fluff. What will set your book apart? Aside from your dedicated followers, who will read it? We come to Raptitude to get what Raptitude has to offer. If you put Raptitude in a book, why would I pay for it when I can get it for free? I love the idea of writing a book about you’re life and the adventure’s you have taken to get you where you are today.

You are asking you’re followers/friends/comrades to tell you what you should do. People come to this website because they want reassurance that they are doing the right thing. They already know what they have to do. Sometimes They just need it said out loud. You know what you have to do. Go get em’ Tiger.

Julia April 12, 2011 at 10:25 pm

Yes, Yes, Yes, please write a book! I would absolutely read it and give it to many friends. Your views on life are extremely helpful!

Nigel Mortimer April 13, 2011 at 3:36 am

Very compelling. You’ve developed an intimate ‘voice’, not an easy thing to do for any writer. I interpret the essence of what you choose to write about relates to our dissatisfaction with ourselves and our lives and our bewilderment concerning what to do about it all. Given our individual self-absorbtion, it’s hardly any wonder that your blog resonates with so many people. Cunning and insightful!

You don’t seem to be timid in your approach to delicate issues, but at the same time I can’t help but feel that there’s room for perhaps a ‘harder edge’ to your writing ad insights. There’s an excellent book called ‘Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart’ by Gordon Livingstone that somehow cultivates that more steely approach. Not suggesting plagiarism, just inspiration!

To all events, I’d like to add my congratulations to all the others on this comment board. there aren’t many blogs that I bookmark to read regularly, but this will be one of them. And yes I’d pay money to read your book when it comes out!

Backslaps!

NM

David April 13, 2011 at 7:25 am

Well thanks everyone!

There are some interesting patterns arising here, and I’m glad I asked for your feedback.

I also received a couple dozen emails about this, so I can’t answer each of you individually but I’ll address the most common points here.

I asked the first question because I wanted to gauge whether a group of blog readers really would be interested in reading a book. It’s quite a different kind of read and I know many people read blogs because they are small and self-contained (and free.) But does look like the typical reader would read the book.

I have always been interested in the second question, because I’ve never strictly defined what Raptitude is about. There is a consistent message behind it, and I wanted to hear how you would articulate it. The answers were fantastic! Thank you. I think my favorite is from Sarah: “Raptitude is about how to lessen that feeling that we’re screwing up at life.” That is actually very close to the primary message of the blog, as I see it — human dysfunction is normal and nobody ever tells us that that’s okay, or that we might learn to work with it.

The third question is to get a better idea of what kinds of formats people might be picturing. I had one in mind that didn’t quite seem right and I’m glad to hear so many concrete alternatives. I find it interesting that so many people said they don’t want another self-help book. I don’t really want a self-help “feel” either. I think my best work is only ever suggesting a perspective shift, not a technique.

And why am I asking this?

I’ve done some thinking about formats and themes and it felt like each was diverging too much from what the blog is about. In other words, I felt like I was writing from a different voice than I have when I write for the blog, and I don’t want that. Because I’m the one writing this stuff, I am unable to look at it in quite the same way as a reader. In trying to describe it I find I’m always deferring to the same small set of words, the same set of preconceptions about it. I want to hear it in other people’s words to give me some perspective.

Thanks again everyone, your take on it is so useful to me.

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Chris April 13, 2011 at 6:23 pm

Would I read it? Possibly. Depends. I wouldn’t read another self help book.

What’s the blog about? Something that inspires me from time to time. Reminds me not to be shit at life.

What should the book be about? Have you thought about writing fiction with a message? Perhaps the story of someone growing up and making mistakes and learning from them? A bit cliche but you’re the writer. Not me!

Maria Long April 13, 2011 at 6:49 pm

If you already had the concept of a book in your head, it is a great idea. The most important thing is that it remains your idea, and not just following the head count that is making the publisher drool…Your voice is entertaining, edifying and informative. Like most ideas for your posts the idea for the book will appear and you will think: “But of course, that’s it!” I’m buying..

Brent Gerlach April 14, 2011 at 2:15 am

Raptitude to me is my home page. This is my first post but I love the anticipation of a new, thoughtful, or inspirational read to start my day when turning on the computer. I would definitely read a raptitude book, and why not include some of the brilliant posts straight from the website? :) Great job! Thank you for this website!

Luis April 14, 2011 at 5:54 am

1)
I would read that book as a guide through life. I think it would not be a novel, but if it turns out to be, I’ll certainly read it to.
2)
The only real thing we’ll ever know is the conscious of ourself and our body. We are all different, yet we we are the same. Reading Raptitude I can smell truth, i can ear it and taste it. I feel it, thank you.
3)
Allready anwser in 1).

Maria Pavel April 14, 2011 at 9:27 am

1. Yes, i will read but just if is an e-book!
2. Raptitude is the place where i come to read some of the best posts about how to become a better person – “life tutorials”
3. I want to see the reactions from your online audience, i want to see the best posts and maybe the best comments integrated.

Petra April 21, 2011 at 5:04 am

Agree all points besides #1 – i’d read even if there is no ebook :)

O April 14, 2011 at 1:49 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?

I don’t think so. I like the blog format. I might give a ‘best of’ to someone who doesn’t use the internet much though.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?

I visit because I can relate, and to get new ideas. I am also on a project of discovering myself, the world, and how to get along. I appreciate that you’re a fellow discoverer sharing your experiences, not an expert emitting advice. This is why I can’t imagine a book very easily.

3) What would you like to see in a book?

Perhaps a workbook would be interesting. I like the idea experiments, so maybe a bunch of suggestions for experiments along with some structured way to keep track of how the experiment went, and little blurps about how the experiment went for you (to read AFTER experimenting yourself).

Harmony April 14, 2011 at 5:29 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
YES! most likely repeatedly in between sharing it with friends and family.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
“getting better at being human” sums it up beautifully. i think human beings all over the world accidentally get caught in the “rat race” of living, and lose touch with their philosophical side. raptitude reminds me to morally question more and extend my inner thoughts. reading it has given me peace and inspiration. i look forward to each new blog. you’ve def got something going for yourself with what you’re doing here. your work is never a chore to read and always leaves me with something to mediate on. you put into words what most cannot and do it simply yet effectively. you have soul. and its beautiful.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
more positive wisdom for the world. keep doing what you’re doing and it will be brilliant. :)

ps- “you will never be this young again” has stayed with me everyday since this first time i read it.

thanks!

Amy April 15, 2011 at 10:26 am

1. NO, I would not, for various reasons, the least of which being actually sitting down to write a book seems contrary to Raptitude’s philosophy.

Living in the moment is NOT getting lost in a book. Instead it would be feeling the pages, appreciating the black marks on them, being aware of its weight, its smell.

2. Raptitude is an account of insights you interpret from situations that happen to YOU, Dave, as you go about your life.

I read it because it sometimes sparks something in me, sometimes I can relate, sometimes I get confirmation of something about which I was coming into knowing as well, sometimes you put into words things which I find hard to describe.

And then I move on, carrying that spark of insight with me.

3. I would read a book that expressed its ideas through fiction. Tell a story of transformation, realization, self-actualization, and becoming. Guide the protagonist and therefore the reader through trial, error, discovery, heartbreak, loss, gain, knowing, peace, self-acceptance, and self-actualization.

Don’t just sit down and expectorate 240 pages of “words of wisdom” or you join the ranks of the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” books, which I’m sure sell well but are only so much mental masturbation.

Raptitude is about getting OUT of your head not lost in it. Raptitude is about NOT sitting idle with a block of paper but getting OUTSIDE of yourself, exploring, experiencing, feeling.

Don’t ruin something fluid by solidifying it or capturing it. It’s beauty is in the fact that it’s fleeting, it’s momentary, it’s possessed by no one and experienced by everyone.

Please just keep being who you are and cranking out these bits of wisdom which we all enjoy.

David April 15, 2011 at 4:54 pm

I appreciate your feedback. But I have to say this strikes me as pretty cynical. Not all books are “Chicken Soup For the Soul” and I don’t know why you equate reading a book with getting lost in your head or masturbation.

At the moment I don’t plan to do anything involving a fictional narrative. I don’t read enough fiction to write fiction. One day.

Kayla April 15, 2011 at 12:05 pm

1) Indeed I would, however I love the fact that in the blog format we can be constantly connected. Just as we’re commenting now, all up in your field of view.
2) Paptitude is a place I can read things that actually make me use my brain in this vast world of surface level uneducated horse shit.
It’s so insightful. I love that you claim to be nothing more than a normal guy who happens to experiment with thought more than most people. No gimmicks, no fluff.
3) I agree with the guy above me who thought of the fiction idea. Such a good way to universalize.

Bear April 15, 2011 at 1:11 pm

1) Yes and I would share it’s existence with others who are thoughtfully exploring their lives.

2) Others have already expressed my impressions quite well.

3) I would like to see a revisiting (and perhaps deepening) of existing content with some new content. I would mention that I feel you should not wait to have more content to come up with a 400 page novel, but instead proceed now and let the book be whatever size it comes out to be. I like ‘small’ books. They feel more ‘accessible’ in the way that a blog does. Not so much to eat in one sitting, as it were.

Kevin Thorsen April 16, 2011 at 5:13 am

1) Yes

2) To me raptitude is a blog which almost always has articles which challenge you to look at things in a different way, and keep reminding you of the fact that there are many ways to do things, and above all, to keep an open mind.

3) I would like to see as mentioned before some of the best ranked articles (not sure how you would rank them) from here, but then perhaps also putting in some which were only available in the book might make people more likely to buy it imo.

yayet93 April 16, 2011 at 6:42 am

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
YES
2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
a direct to the point blog that not only makes you really understand different notions about life but also helps in making you DO whatever it is you have to do.
3) What would you like to see in a book?
the bestest of Raptitude’s articles

SuperMeatHead April 16, 2011 at 7:04 am

1) Yes.
2) Points of view from an experienced life liver, who tries to understand the many ways of life and improve oneself. Not much different from myself.
3) Tough question. The blog is a good medium on its own and it shouldn’t be revolved around it. Maybe more of a personal chronicle or a gathering of your views gone into full detail spread over various reference-like chapters.

Paula April 16, 2011 at 5:38 pm

Yes, I would certainly read your book. I look forward to your blog entries, your writing is very easy to relate to, and is very helpful to someone who is “in their head” a lot like I am.

cheers,

Paula

Julie April 18, 2011 at 10:46 pm

Hiya David!

Congrats! No big surprise here on this one. I know your book will be a big success and touch many lives.

There are so many great responses, and I want to add my confident vote to the “you know the way” sentiment.

My honest answers to your questions :

1) Would you read a Raptitude book? Absolutely, if it varied in some way from what you have here. But I would buy a compilation style Raptitude book for others.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you? Honesty, Hope, Vulnerability, Acceptance, Self-Inquiry, and extremely well written Tales from the Growth Edge.

3) What would you like to see in a book? Well, I happen to LOVE your experiments. They have inspired me a great deal and have actually served in transforming my life. I have read a great deal of spiritual/soulful goods, so for me, the freshness of applying all these profound insights in a real-life practical way is what speaks to me. That’s not to say it’s what you should write about… but it’s what I would personally like to see… a step by step instruction manual on experimenting with your life, busting through your own growth edge and becoming the best human you can be. Haha!

Much love and many blessings to your path… stay gold pony boy.
Julie

PS~ and have you tried cashew cheese yet?!?!?!!!!!

Basil April 19, 2011 at 1:28 pm

Hi David

Raptitude deserves a book.

I would read it. A book is a treasure beyond the limits of flickering screens and bandwidth. It can become a friend, one to thumb through with familiarity and recognition beyond the passing of the internet. Having said that, I am sure it will end up as some form of e-book, which is great for those who treasure their Kindles.

Raptitude is about a young philosopher wise beyond his years sharing the reality of living life.

I’d like to see much of the same as your website. Each post has a strength of its own and your experiments add another dimension. Some of the posts really make me stop and think and others lose me a bit; I’d like to feel caught up in each chapter and not want to gloss any of them.

Well done!

PS I just visited the Namib Desert and I think you might like the pictures. Have a look and you’re welcome to use them if you want.

http://www.basilartinc.com/gallery_412470.html

Take care and stay true to yourself.

Basil

Brook April 20, 2011 at 4:11 am

coming to this perhaps a little late, as getting ready to move has consumed my time and attention of late. nonetheless, since you asked:

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
yes, I would. for the same reasons that I read this blog, and because a book is a bit more portable for locations where web access is not readily available or (as in on planes) outright forbidden.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
I came into the blog thinking it was going to be one thing, and found it quite another, and really that’s about the best description there is, for me. It’s a walk down the normal, mundane paths of life and experience and thought pattern, then a quick stop and shift of perspective by 90 to 180 degrees. I like that. We allow ourselves to become like rats “trapped” in the maze, doing the same things for the same rewards over and over, and you remind us to stop and look over the top of the wall which is well within reach.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
the Being part of all this – random essays on whatever thought tangent makes its way to the top of the pool are awesome, but the day to day living with the insight part is sometimes lacking. You’ve had this insight that shifted how you looked at a particular thing – that’s nice, did you tuck it in your nightstand when you went to bed? What did you DO with it? How does it fit into your life with any or all of the other insights you’ve had? Do they conflict? Do they play well with others? How does that work in the becoming part of becoming a better human? (paraphrasing your getting better at)

It bothers me sometimes how little interconnectedness there is between posts, and between concepts, here. It doesn’t often seem as though they’re part of the same life, and I’d like to see how they fit in with each other more.

Christopher April 21, 2011 at 10:47 am

I love it when you write about “moments”

Kris D April 22, 2011 at 12:57 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
Yes I would read a Raptitude book for sure!

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
This is really hard but Raptitude has come to represent my connection with “Sanity” – in my life Fluff Free Spirituality, Acknowledgement of the Human Condition, and Thoughts on how to build a working methodology within yourself are very hard to come by. I get all of those things from Raptitude.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
I would love to see you expound on Headlessness, as well as build stronger more complete messages for some of your key topics from posts here on the blog. You have scratched the surface of some epic things and I would love to see you take them to their logical extension to delve into the deepest concepts you have concerning them. Things like happiness could easily be a whole book – your perception of happiness and the way that we experience it is very refined and I would love to have more than what is here in the blog to help me understand your perspective.

Thanks for asking for feedback – I have enjoyed being a part of the community!

~Kris

Ronda April 23, 2011 at 10:42 am

My perfectly honest answer is no, I would not read your book. I enjoy this format much more: I read the current blog, let it roll around in my head for a while, usually let it take root, and then I read it again a time or two. The happiness I feel when I see a new blog entry would be gone, and I would have….another book. Yes, I’m sure if I read the book after each entry I’d think, “Wow, he’s right, what truth there is in that” but then I’d flip to the next page and the full potential of the prior page would be unrealized. I SAVOR the new entries as they come. I accumulate their wisdom, layer by layer. To have them all at once, all bound up nice and neatly, word after word after word…..that would be like the axiomatic box of chocolates – I’d never have the pleasure of not knowing what I was going to get.

nickyO April 24, 2011 at 8:55 pm

1) Yes I would read a Raptitude book. While I might not agree with everything you write, you have a freshness to your writing, a great way of putting things that challenges the reader to introspection and at times action.

2.) I think it is an invitation for people to join you on your quest of becoming the you, you want to be and in the process inspiring those people to become who they want to be. A little sign in the road that says “Hey this worked for me, maybe it will work for you.”

3.) This last question I can’t help you with. You are doing a great job with the blog, I think a book would simply help you reach another set of people. I’d say pretty much what you are doing right now, but hit on what points you feel are the most important to you.

Keep up the good work, whatever you decide.

Chris New April 25, 2011 at 8:14 pm

1) Would you read a Raptitude book?
– I most certainly would. I’d probably buy a paperback version, but something I could read on my iPhone would be great, too.

2) What is Raptitude about, to you?
– You’ve already laid it out pretty well; I think it is about the current/next stage of human evolution and evolution of the self. We’ve reached a point where simply surviving is no longer an issue (third-world tragedy notwithstanding) and now we must find the potential of our minds, and develop that.
Certainly that sounds a bit more scientific than a lot of the topics you discuss on here, but I feel like that’s at the at the core of it. Where millions of years ago this site may have served as a place for our pre-human ancestors to learn what animals and physical obstacles to avoid and how best to protect ourselves from the elements, what you have here is suggestions about what sort of mental and emotional pitfalls to avoid and how best to develop into a more successful person.

3) What would you like to see in a book?
In my current situation in life (just finished college, heading into the working world), I would love for it to be something I could pick up and put down with ease. Something to which I wouldn’t have to devote huge amounts of time in one sitting to enjoy. As I said earlier, it would be nice to carry along in my pocket on my phone, for reading on the train or in a waiting room. Keep the topics varied as you do here, from the literal, practical suggestions like organizing an apartment, to the more abstract ideas about thought patterns and attitudes.

Regardless, please do a book. I know myself and others would greatly appreciate it.

-Chris

Avi April 26, 2011 at 8:19 pm

Raptitude is about leading a purposeful life and doing meaningful things instead of purposeless things

Catie May 3, 2011 at 2:30 am

This is my first comment ever…I just started following this site recently, but already its made it to my “everydayish” tab. I would definitely buy a book if you put one out.

Either way, I’ll keep reading your blog.

Tim May 4, 2011 at 2:17 pm

I just stumbled onto your site literally today, and am just bowled over by it. The posting about four words first caught my attention. You are obviously much younger than I am–and much wiser! I look forward to perusing the Archives. I’m sure I’ll learn a lot, get inspired to ponder life more deeply than I usually do.

One of the many pithy sayings of the late folksinger, Utah Phillips (one of my main culture heroes) was: Technology has replaced reflection. I think those four words say a whole lot about our current society. But you are using blog technology to help and inspire your audience to reflect and ponder. That’s a wonderful thing! Thank you!

As to the questions you posed in this post, I’m way too new to this blog to give definitive answers, except that I really am a book-oriented person and a printed version of your thoughts would be a great thing to have, and to give to friends. As for what a book might contain, I echo some of the thoughts from other commenters. If there are some kinds of ruminations that haven’t made it into your blog for one reason or another, maybe they’d fit better in print???

Again, thank you for what you’re doing!

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