Comments

Aly Tadros (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations! Long overdue! Some of us were worried about you.

I know it's hard to not answer every question. It's nice to feel needed. But some day you'll be incapacitated or dead, and unable to reply then anyway. So might as well start practicing for that now.
Nadina Mackie Jackson (2016-12-29) #
well done! inspiring and gives me a really welcome perspective, thank you!
Steve Borek (2016-12-29) #
Perfect...
G F Edwards (2016-12-29) #
Derek, you've done a real service while setting a rare example that has to have been both challenging and inspiring to a lot of people. All the best to you in the New Year. If ever anyone was immune to the taunt "Get a life," you are. I admire you, sincerely.
Virginia Wagner (2016-12-29) #
I wish you great happiness for 2017 and beyond. Wherever you are, whatever you do. If you ever need me, give a holler.
Warm regards,
Virginia
John Greenfield (2016-12-29) #
Amen! Though quitting is too often a term used by those who just "can't do it". What you're doing is more accurately: "creative abandonment" Making room for something new by abandoning something old.

Best wishes where ever you are and whatever you're doing or not doing.
Kate Hammett-Vaughan (2016-12-29) #
Thanks Derek! I always enjoy your posts. I have also decided to quit something I love. I have been a jazz singing teacher at two colleges in Vancouver BC for 20 years. In April, I am quitting one of them (for a variety of reasons). The other I will stay at for a couple more years I think. What to do with all the new space? Practice singing, do more performances, become the bad-but-always-learning painter I have always wanted to be. Take singing lessons. Read all the books that I have bought that I have never gotten all the way through. Turning 60 in May, and the shift seems right.
Al (2016-12-29) #
Good plan.
Jeff (2016-12-29) #
Thanks Derek - always leading from the front. One has to catabolize things in order to build anew. Looking forward to your next creations. Thanks for answering an email from me once upon a time!
Jeanne Zano (2016-12-29) #
So strange how this email found me at this very moment. I love music and have been struggling lately because I feel it getting stale. This has given me perspective and gentle push to do something different. I don't think I can actually quit but I am definitely looking into quitting the way I am doing it now. Best to you in 2017!
Anthony newman (2016-12-29) #
I'll miss u!
David Nigel Lloyd (2016-12-29) #
I knew it. I saw it coming. Congratulations and thanks for answering all my emails in the past. I'm doing fine on my own now.
Craig Tilley (2016-12-29) #
Just don't quit giving us your wisdom. Whatever form it takes, I do hope it is around for a long, long time. Cheers to you, Derek!
Vince (2016-12-29) #
Go for it Derek! I'm already grateful I got to be one of those emails you got to answer. Take time for yourself. Your words and posts are always inspiring to my ears. Looking forward to what you do next!
Kellylee (2016-12-29) #
As the originator of one or two of those 192,000 emails that I was always so surprised to receive an answer to, I thank you for taking the time for me. I wish you peace and the space for that new love to be born.
Stefan (2016-12-29) #
This is awesome. Inspiring. Interesting insight about probably not moving back to the United States also. Everyone makes it seem like such a bad/senseless idea
Brian Seymour (2016-12-29) #
Thanks Derek. Best of luck.
Laurence (2016-12-29) #
Good for you Derek I can understand completely the need to reclaim part of your life.
All the best for 2017 and the future.

Cheers

Laurence
Elise Bialylew (2016-12-29) #
Such an interesting idea - quitting what you love...lots of food for thought.

If you're ever in Melbourne next and want to be taken on an in person tour of the best kept secrets I'd love to take you around the city!
Grant Currie (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations Derek and best wishes for a happy new year.
Kevin phillips (2016-12-29) #
It was really awesome reading your posts! Enjoy your new freedom Derek ☺
Edward Moore (2016-12-29) #
I Love it Derek!!!:-0~
amie penwell (2016-12-29) #
I live by this as well. Thank you.
Philip Campbell (2016-12-29) #
Awesome. I almost predicted it. ☺

Hell yeah... and answering all emails... seemed a bit whacky. Mark Manson will be proud of you.
Gil (2016-12-29) #
I am tremendously bummed! I have been contemplating for nearly a year which question to ask you. In fact I've even written you an email that somehow I accidentally deleted before I sent it to you. I thought that soon enough I would send you an email and we could correspond. I am a huge fan of yours.

???
Stefanie Seskin (2016-12-29) #
Still reading after all these years. Still inspired
Kylie (2016-12-29) #
You certainly prepared us for this announcement ☺ thank you for you advice and support through email over the years. Can't wait to see what you fill the space with.
Daniel J Martinusen (2016-12-29) #
I don't see how anyone could love answering all those emails. May you be blessed in whatever you choose to to do.
Achilles Lakes (2016-12-29) #
You responded to me and it was so helpful!
James Ashcroft (2016-12-29) #
Congrats Derek. You provided me so much guidance a few years ago and I'll always be indebted.

Good luck with your next chapter.

James
Nathan Vogel (2016-12-29) #
Simply Brilliant!
Pete (2016-12-29) #
Derek,

I've never written you before but I very much respect your dedication to those who have. I continue to enjoy your insights and hope this new space you are creating brings new opportunities and challenges for you to conquer.

All the best,
Pete
Mark McKenna (2016-12-29) #
Good luck! Sounds like the beginning of a new adventure. I'm ready for one like that but commitments (taking care of my 95-year-old mother) keep me hangin' on. So I try to be free here. That's something. Best, Mark
Gerald RAWDOGGTV (2016-12-29) #
Very Deep Derek, and on another level; as you always are.

Kind Regards,
Gerald
Adam Cole (2016-12-29) #
I am proud of you.
Natalie (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations on reclaiming 8-10 hours of your life back. Enjoy what you create using that time. I look forward to seeing and hearing what comes out of it.
Johnny (2016-12-29) #
It seems from one of your latest posts that you were answering essentially the same 12 questions 1000's of times. Thanks for hanging in there and congrats on the freedom!!
Doris Spears (2016-12-29) #
Good Luck and Good Loving Derek.
Steve (2016-12-29) #
Oh, well, "so long, and thanks for all the fish" I suppose.
Bill Alpert (2016-12-29) #
Yes! I'm feeling this in the same way you are. Best wishes for whatever comes next; I'm sure we'll be seeing something great coming from your direction!
TRADE MARTIN (2016-12-29) #
Derek...., I understand EXACTLY what you're saying...., because I've quit many successful situations (and refused some major deals) in order to move on to where I wanted to go. So good for you buddy....!!!

Best regards, Trade.

https://www.spreaker.com/user/6959769/trade-talks-on-top-of-the-news-3min-59se_1
Sue (2016-12-29) #
Proud to be one of the 192k email recipients. I just quit my business. 15 years of love. Lots of room... for what I don't yet know. Cheers!
Gautam Malhotra (2016-12-29) #
I'm grateful for the replies I got from you. I am happy to return the favor if ever needed. Thanks and enjoy the next phase!
Brad H. (2016-12-29) #
This made me smile! Thanks for answering all those emails for so long including a few for me. Enjoy all the time are you going to get back!
Timothy Houston (2016-12-29) #
Derek,
You're definitely a Trip Dude! I love your free thinking, but what about tradition, there is always room for that; a common thread you hold with those you love and even those you don't know.

All the Best to you Bro,
you kind od remind me of Kwai Chang Caine from Kung Fu only with money.

I hope you continue to post your most interesting thoughts!-tim
Cam H Lynch (2016-12-29) #
Thanks very much for all the replies Derek and all the best with your new endeavours that will fill the void.
Garrett (2016-12-29) #
This is amazing! Looking forward to even better ideas from you. :)
Dave Kirk (2016-12-29) #
As one who has joined this group of mourners late, yes I will miss this. But I know something better is coming. Go for it Derek.
Josh Cunningham (2016-12-29) #
This made me sick to my stomach when I read it. I had only written Derek 2 emails ... one with a couple of questions he answered well and a reply asking whether I could ask him another.

Thing is ... every time I think to write him an email, I think briefly about what I think he would say to me and, suddenly, I wouldn't need to write him. Not that he's predictable, just consistent. I've read so much of what he's read (and will continue) that I can just sort of hear his voice in my head. It's the answer that I need, probably the simplest one, and not necessarily the one I wanted to hear.

Thank you Derek for giving me 2 chances to glean your knowledge :)
☺ That's the ultimate compliment. Thank you. (I do the same with some of my smart friends. I think about asking their opinion, think what they'd say, then don't need to ask anymore.) — Derek
Tom Stein (2016-12-29) #
Yes, saw this coming. I hope you won't quit posting these thoughts. Or updating your book notes. I've found them to be helpful.

On the subject of change, is it worth considering that change for the sake of change isn't necessarily a good thing? There are always transaction costs. Sometimes, settling into a good groove for a while can be rewarding too.

I lived as an expat for 7 years in several countries and I always said I'd never come back to the USA. Well, I did eventually (not to say that's in my comfort zone.

What I've found in life is that one should be very careful what one hates, as we usually end up becoming exactly that.
Janet (2016-12-29) #
There are many ways to serve and you seem to find and master them all. Email is just one of them. Solid choice. Congrats.

I recently decided to quit something I love, as well, and have been enjoying the exit strategy and the space creation.
Bob Wilson (2016-12-29) #
Happy to hear it! It is hard to quit things you love (as you know). I know when I've done it, I feel re-energized for the new things that are ahead.
Best wishes always...
Bob
Ron Meyers (2016-12-29) #
Happy Trails
Brian (2016-12-29) #
I think this is an interesting viewpoint. quitting is important, however to what end is this? Some would call it evolving... I have similar conversations with my friends about artists that refuse to do the same thing. What's the point? We all have our reasons for motivation and inspiration. We have to ask ourselves what it is that we are doing with our time. You are seemingly setting boundaries that are comfortable for you. I appreciate your insights and will continue to read your posts. GL Derek with whatever it is that you are looking for and keep posting your ideas and I will keep commenting and thinking about them.
Michael (2016-12-29) #
Congrats brother! Happy for you
-MVO
Muzafar Ahmed (2016-12-29) #
I hope that whatever you fill the space with is as helpful as answering all those emails was.

Let us know what you do and best of luck Derek !
Ted Washington (2016-12-29) #
Sweet!
Take care and I look forward to your next post.
Cat (2016-12-29) #
Congrats! But thanks for all the answered emails!
Jean Burman (2016-12-29) #
What did Paulie say? "You gotta live like there may not be a later" I love that. Bit hard to do but worth it when you do. Good on you Derek :)
Marla Cheezem (2016-12-29) #
Peace to you Brother. May only the best life experiences come your way. You have always been kind and thoughtful to everyone, judging from your comments and emails, so I am pretty sure that God will do the same in your life.

Best to your loved ones as well.
Jim Zachar (2016-12-29) #
I admire you for all the challenges you have given yourself and then conquered. My only comment to you is this. You need to do what you feel is right. In my case what I do for a living is tough, but rewarding beyond belief. I don't love doing it, only because of the situation that put me there. I don't hate it because it gives me freedoms other jobs could never give me. I'm happy for you and the fact you can live your life the way you do. Keep in mind however that not all of us want or can do what you do.
Tommy Deering (2016-12-29) #
Your Choice. Aren't choices wonderful?!!
I will miss hearing from you.
You have been an inspiration to me.
TD
Karen (2016-12-29) #
I am in the process of leaving a very safe job that I am very good at, but that bores me to death. Other safe jobs are already popping up even though I am not looking. I am holding off on making a decision. I want the space to look at what I really want. I want to step back, look around, and decide. Decide what would be fulfilling and make a contribution. Decide what will allow for a balanced life.
It is scary but it is definitely right for me right now.
Thanks for your timely column.
Good luck with the next stage of your journey.
Mike (2016-12-29) #
Wishing you all the best in your new adventure! Thanks for sharing, very inspiring. Peace :)
Mark Miller (2016-12-29) #
What an admirable gift you've given so many people over the years. Thank you for the brief interaction I've had with you. I only wish I had come across you earlier. Best of luck in your future endeavors.
MaJoHa (2016-12-29) #
Drat.

I've pondering emailing you a questions for months - but could never quite word it correctly.

And now too late !

But I think you are right to make the space for the next chapter.

Good luck in 2017 !
Bill Capuano (2016-12-29) #
Great articles - Thank you for all of the great insight over the years. All the best to you in everything you do in the new year & beyond!
Christine C (2016-12-29) #
Holy Fk!!! Yeah. Bout time you caught on ;)
Philip Karpiak (2016-12-29) #
Definitely appreciate the time and energy you’ve put into your replies since then. Have fun and enjoy your new contributions to society. :)
denice (2016-12-29) #
Derek, YOU were a big influence in me and my husbands desire to leave Los Angeles after living in our home for 23yrs, sell it all, and complete a bucket list item of living in a hi rise in Manhattan...with hardly any stuff...We swore to not even have a storage unit!!! If it doesn't fit in our 710 sq foot home, we got rid of it.More time for adventures, less time spent on stuff. Thank YOU for you talks of not wanting christmas presents and your love of movie and changing. We wanted a change and as much as it hurts sometimes as I raised my daughter there, it was and will be totally worth it!! Thank you, Denice Duff
Luke (2016-12-29) #
You've answered plenty of my emails! Thank you so much from Philadelphia!
Joe Gardiner (2016-12-29) #
Thanks Derek!
Katherine Desmond (2016-12-29) #
Best of luck with your next adventure, Derek. Happy New Year.
Tania Cordobes (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations! It takes courage to make change and I'm sure that your next phase will be wonderful. Enjoy the adventure and all the people you meet along the way! I hope you will continue to write and share in these more public spaces for us to read.
Michael (2016-12-29) #
Derek - As a fan who's been trolling your quips for years, I wonder if you could establish a new way of responding without feeling as though you are answering questions. Perhaps you could challenge us in some way that would lead to your own inspiration while at the same time helping us to answer our own questions.

How about sive.rs/wiki whereby your awesome followers might answer each others questions.

I was thinking today that there could be a bi-annual Sivers meetup. You confirmed it when you said you wrote to 78,000 people. I am pretty sure you'd get at least 1,000 folks at your meetup.

No need to respond ;)
Dan Wingard (2016-12-29) #
Excited to see what you will create with that space! Love your openness, incredible insight and perspectives! Thanks so much for your generosity of time and energy that you so graciously contribute to this world!!
Dean Wilson (2016-12-29) #
Thank you; please keep sharing, you often answer much questions which I did not know to ask...
Steve (2016-12-29) #
No replies at all ?! I really enjoyed sive.rs due to the interaction / comments / connection with your tribe - I guess now you'll just broadcast thoughts to the net - with no interaction. That's a great loss.
Albeiro (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations !!!
Arthur Gould (2016-12-29) #
So long; and thanks for all the fish! ?
Tuti (2016-12-29) #
Once I wrote to you, about a nasty decision of CDBaby new owners, to trash out the entire inventory of not sold CDs, and for my immense surprise, you answered my email. Another time, when you were renting your apartment in NY, I wrote again to you, and once again you surprised me answering that email. I still don't understand how you were able to do that (considering that you must be receiving thousands of emails every day) but I did treasured your unique attitude. Now it is time for you to rest and I perfectly understand. You already did your job answering so many questions. None can help people beyond the level of their current understanding. I wish you find your path for inner peace as this is the only way to be truly happy in this life (as all the other satisfactions are ephemeral, limited and dependent of others).
Leland (2016-12-29) #
Bravo! I look forward to the next expression of your freedom! Take care of yourself! Be free!
Rejyna (2016-12-29) #
I must be the rare bird who never emailed you a question. Thought about it many times but following your writing since the CDB forum days, I can almost always guess your answers -

- however, please confirm if you will continue to write your insights blog?

Best in all you do, all we all do - we always learn from you sensei :D
Of course! — Derek
Doug (2016-12-29) #
Quest - a long or arduous search for something.
No Question - You have helped us all search for something more...
Love and thanks from Woodstock - Doug - Jack and Tinker Street!
michael (2016-12-29) #
Derick,
We've only met once. I now you because I distribute 'loosely speaking my music through CD Baby.
but Since this may be the last time I get to actually tell you this, you are one of my heros. You are much younger than I, but I homor the fact that you cracked the transcendance from analog to digital music, and made it work for you. I had a stint with stardom in the 60's, and later I frittered many great musical oportunities away behind alcohol and drugs. having gotten sober thirty three years ago, I have made attempts, but never really cracked the independant modern musical scene. It is okay, as I turned my attention to being a visual artist instead, and I am retired.
I do however, still perform a birthday concert each year at the Coffee Galary Backstage in Pasadena. this year it will be on the 24th of Febroary. I will be accompanyed by two musical legends David P Jackson, and Stephen Geyer, and joined vocally by the great Jill Gordon. You are invited.
Thank you for being you, and for being an ispiration to so many!!!!
Best Always,
Michael Mc Ginnis
Jackie brubaker (2016-12-29) #
Yes! I feel like giving yourself the freedom to quit answering emails is a wonderful decision for you. I'm sure you're excited to start. And, yes to quitting things you love. Create a vacuum. See what else you're good at. Life is too long to remain the same. Thanks for sharing!
Larry Kushmider (2016-12-29) #
Derek,
All the best on your future endeavors, thanks for your time and insights. This underlines that Time is one's most valuable resource.
mitra (2016-12-29) #
I loved this, for it shows a constant state of growth and challenging yourself..and also being true to who you are. Thank you for answering my questions, you have always been generous with your time, and I am glad now, you are spending time for you. All the best and look forward to your emails..Mitra
Bernard Williams (2016-12-29) #
I've managed to quit success & am much more content now accepting the drizzling misery of life's relentless disappointments, it's oddly calming, though that's probably just Owls for you, Hoot, etc, my human friend ^oo^
Jen (2016-12-29) #
2016 is a universal 9 and symbolizing endings!! Great timing.
Jen
Cheryl L. Johnson (2016-12-29) #
Thank you, Derek! You just gave me the courage to quit something that I loved, too, but had spent so much money and time on it that I thought I had to continue until it became more of a burden. Now I realize that this "craft" that had consumed my time became a burden as I saw the equipment sitting there that I could no longer use because of severe arthritis, I am now able to go on to another hobby of mine that had to wait for so long...searching out my family history! I figure that as long as I can still type on the computer, I'm good to go at age 72 for at least another decade! Good luck, Derek...I hope that you'll come back to the U.S. to visit and know that you were appreciated by us Yanks. Hugs to a brave young man!
Curt Campbell (2016-12-29) #
So Derek, since you are not living in the U.S. where are you living?
Prophet (2016-12-29) #
I am sorry to hear that, but I do understand totally. I will not ask any questions.
John (2016-12-29) #
Brilliant article thanks for your wisdom as usual. Wish you nothing less than what you are seeking.
Rich Young (2016-12-29) #
Your positive spin on whatever is happening is very refreshing always. We are whatever we are at the moment. Whatever we've done has made us what we are today. Whatever we do will shape what we become. So how do we know what to do to shape ourselves into the most beautiful sculpture (so to speak) we can.

I have found assistance in my plan with the concept of mutualism versus competition. I work together with others to help create a better world, and in so doing create a better self. As you may remember, I'm a Baha'i and find it the best assistance to me in achieving my goals. There is no clergy, so no one tells me what to do. There is a plan which I may follow or not depending on who I want to be and how I want to help others. I find that your attitude is similar. I hope you find what is best for you. All the best!
Karl R Steudel (2016-12-29) #
Your changes are always fun to follow! - Karl, the 40th musician to sign up for CDBaby back in 1989. Congrats again.
Polly (2016-12-29) #
A lesson for me. If you want to say something to someone or ask somebody things, don't wait till they have left.

Thank you so much, Derek!
Paul Hartley (2016-12-29) #
I look forward to looking back and seeing what filled the space.
Therese Michaud (2016-12-29) #
Derek,

Now you're ready for your next step!!

I saved a copy of the bird cage image,
it's a good one ~

Therese
Alan Silva (2016-12-29) #
That's pretty cool. Take it one day in God's pasture at a time. Jesus restores the people's souls in awesome ways.
Mike Bittle (2016-12-29) #
Here, here! I've taken the circuitous route myself with no regrets! Best of luck in whatever the future presents!
Raelene Bruinsma (2016-12-29) #
Good to be reminded. I tend to try to keep too many balls in the air - sometimes you need to make space.
Carey B Grant (2016-12-29) #
Wow !!!!!!!
brad (2016-12-29) #
thanks for all your hard work! peace, and hope the future is hopeful and enjoyable. i'm actually "retiring" of sorts the end of this year.. .but not so much music stuff, the other stuff.
Raj (2016-12-29) #
Out of 78000 people answered . I was one of those Lucky ones
V inspiring Derek
You are a angel.
Love u
Adam (2016-12-29) #
You're a great man Derek. Thanks for all your hard work and thoughtful responses. Fly Free my friend!
Tamara (2016-12-29) #
It will be hard for others as well. I suddenly feel the need to ask you more.
Zach Even - Esh (2016-12-29) #
Derek THAT is Awesome. It's the ULTIMATE FREEDOM!

Book Recommendation for you: Lights Out by Wiley

The title sounds boring but man the book sucks you in, it reminded me of you, when it mentioned how 20 yrs ago most adults had 25 hrs per week of leisure time, compared to today, where we now work all around the clock.....

Thanks for sharing your wisdom, Derek!
John Robinson (2016-12-29) #
LOL

When I read how many emails you read in your last post, I thought... that's a helluva lot. And then I thought well ... I'm not one of /those/ people, even with a sense of regret in not being among those people.

When I read in the email teaser that you'd be announcing you were quitting something, I thought, hell, thousands of emails would be a good place to start! *fist pump* Nailed it! I've been w/o a cig for two weeks, and the craziest part of quitting the addiction is the triggers.

Good luck in dropping your addiction and thanks for the FAQ on the way out.
Kelly Hobkirk (2016-12-29) #
Well, thank you for answering me previously. Your answer (and your Now site) helped me sort through and make an important decision. Much appreciated.

Looking forward to reading about your new room.
Kenn Hansen (2016-12-29) #
I am actually happy for you. Every day is different for me as I see new people every day with a new project so it never gets old. Every day is fresh. Except for Upkeep on a four story 37 room building. I loved flying. but I quit that to learn scuba diving. And I quit that and fishing. Music and Photography are my sources of self pride and I take time for them often. I doubt I will ever quit those. I used to go to chicago and LA but have quit traveling as I hate wating in line and hassels. I am comfortable and happy here , I hope you find happiness in the new year. When you find it, keep the memories and live it well. PS when traveling don't take up drawing cartoons of a religious Figure.. Stay safe.
Juliana McCorison (2016-12-29) #
Derek, do what will make you grow, be strong and happy. The rest of us can learn from your example.

Namaste
Dan (2016-12-29) #
Yeah man

Major inspiration, thanks for all of it. I've been a professional jazz pianist for 25 years, and was recently hired to sing Christmas carols in a silly Santa parade for three hours in a ritzy hotel. I nearly turned it down , but I took the job because I remembered your rodeo clown story, And everything about the journey and the networking and connections and the energy. Thank you, I'm glad I took the gig, it's going to lead to many other things I'm certain

So this new change of yours reminds me of this quote

Those who know, do not speak, and those who speak, do not know

Change speak to email for you now:)
I guess this means you know:))))

Cheers brother

Dan
Chasingveronica (2016-12-29) #
Honestly, only you knows what's best for you, but I find myself already mourning viewing you as accessible, when you are...no longer.
Naomi Butterfield (2016-12-29) #
Beautiful! You are ever an inspiration. I've vowed to quit my smartphone. That's right. No more distraction when I should be focusing on the analytical conundrums of digging deep into work (I'm a software engineer), or the emotional spelunking involved in writing poetry and fiction (I am also a writer). I've bought a coloring book calendar, and am enjoying the tactile nature of it, the heavy cardstock, the invitation to add more color and less screen time to my life.
gina (2016-12-29) #
Shoot! Just when I was thinking of asking a question!
Jorge Jaramillo (2016-12-29) #
After a very successful music career and touring the world for a pit 12 years, a few months after my first and only child was born, something made me want to "quit" it all. Long story short, I moved from the USA to Colombia, and now have a successful English and art academy for preschoolers. My new passion is filmmaking. Change is awesome. Good for you and good luck in all you do. May Jesus Christ bless you and your family. Your friend, Jorge Jaramillo aka Who Da Funk!
MJ Bishop (2016-12-29) #
Good for you, Derek. I've never asked you a question after reading one of your articles, but I have always soooo enjoyed reading them and found them very inspiring. You changed my life back in 2008 when I read your article: Whatever scares you, go do it.

Yup. Thank you. Good luck on filling your next room. I look forward to future articles. Thank you for sharing yourself with the world.

Oh - and advice on moving out of the USA? I'd love that. Thanks :)

Cheers!
mj
RaVen (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations for making brave changes that very few can do. Wish you the best!
Mark mason (2016-12-29) #
Couldn't have said it better my self or agreed more.
Rachel Walker (2016-12-29) #
Dear Derek☺ You have been very gracious with your time and help for others and I thank Thee Dear Friend..☺ No road stays the same, I don't think..journey on. . .Lots of great and very new exciting adventures but always it takes faith. I am discovering that arriving is not a destination, but a state of mind. That faith is the destination trusting that what one knows to be true is. So many great things ahead☺ I hope we can hear from you from time to time. Far a way friend☺ Lots of love and .....music!! Love Rachel☺
Joni (2016-12-29) #
Never say never, my friend. ?
Lisa Null (2016-12-29) #
I was addicted to reading and my house is villed with them in stacks, on shelves, in piles on the floor. Books I've read and those I want to read. Scholrly books, poetry, antiquarian stuff, and folklore. Now my eyes don't see very well and I have had to give up reading print. I watch a lot more television and get angry at myself for that. I quit not intentionally but of necessity. Oddly enough, I don't mind too much. More time for thinking and reflecting and for good conversations.
Ivan (2016-12-29) #
Your writing always touches the very essence ofour thoughts. Thank you for doing what your doing and do not quit ifor being an inspiration for others
Norman (2016-12-29) #
Dang! I was just finishing my draft to send you an email question! Found out too late about your genius mate, how will we be able to access your wisdom now? Would you consider podcasting? The ones with T.Ferris and Altucher are very entertaining
Matt voth (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations to you for recognizing and embracing the need for change in your life, and having the guts to initiate and follow through with these tough and often uncomfortable choices. I'll continue to enjoy your writings and wish you the best moving forward. Cheers!
Tom Rasely (2016-12-29) #
You gotta do what you gotta do. And yes, sometimes letting go is both hard and necessary. I have been very lucky in that I could pursue my musical career for all these many years without going crazy, mainly because I diversify. Some days I'm the writer; some days I'm the player; some days I'm the arranger; some days I'm the recording engineer; some days I'm the lyricist and some days I mow the lawn. The key for me was to consider myself "retired" at age 24 (that's over 40 years ago!); that, and having a wife who supported me in every possible way. Not everyone has all that going in their lives. I have been blessed greatly. And in that spirit, I wish you well in anything you decide to do next...and the thing after that too!
Becca (2016-12-29) #
You have identified my current dilemma, didn't have words for it. So if I am grieving as though it is a loss, that's normal and will pass? It's taking all my energy not to take it back on and try to make room for it w/o compromising everything else....
Venki (2016-12-29) #
Best Wishes for great new year 2017, Mr. Sivers.
You are a great inspiration.
Hope all your mails and answers are available
somewhere to refer.
Thanks again
Chris (2016-12-29) #
Good for you! Hope you'll be enjoying your time in other ways. I've appreciated that you've shared so many thoughts with us to ponder.
Saidur Rahman (2016-12-29) #
I was thinking to write you an email. Once I read this I was shocked. Love your work. Derek
Roberto Montes (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for al the inspiration, I look foward to see what you do next!!! Ps. I've been tilting my mirror a lot more!
Jeff lawrence (2016-12-29) #
Thanks for everything you wrote and do for all of us.
May I ask what country you moved to. I want to leave America but find it legally hard to get into a new one.

Jeff
Www.thejslawrence.com
Lawrence (2016-12-29) #
Sometimes, complacent may cause us hurdle to change to a better turf or works or more opportunities to capture. Change the old paradigm is very difficult for some people. It is a great write up articles to share your courage to change the things we take for granted and too complacent in them (works, places, hobbies, etc.)
Zoé (2016-12-29) #
How inspiring. Thank you.
Jerry (2016-12-29) #
I find this message very difficult to read. I never thought any of your e-mails were personal in any way. I thought of them as corporate.

It's nice to know, if it is true, that there was a real Derek Silvers. (I assumed there was at the beginning.)

If all of am reading is "true" than a corporate message, I wish you the best. The rest of us still love it here in America.\
G Bates (2016-12-29) #
Only just discovered the awesomeness that is Derek Sivers back in October. Have since bought your book, listened to & read many interviews, and enjoyed your many wonderfully creative YouTube videos. As a musician and designer whose interested in starting a business I really look up to all you've accomplished. I told myself I'd e-mail you in December, but ended up not wanting to burden you during the holidays. I guess I missed my window :( You're an inspiring man, Derek! Congratulations on all that new-found free time ??.
Jill (2016-12-29) #
Enjoy your time. Thank you for answering my email.
Sam Rogers (2016-12-29) #
Looking forward to your larger-scale awesomeness as a result! May this year kick ass like none other.
Corey Hinde (2016-12-29) #
Thanks dude, you have helped so many people in so many ways! Really thankful to have found you.
Jude (2016-12-29) #
You love Change. But it is a young healthy man's game. Enjoy it while you can. You're missing the inside view of the fall of potentially great nation.
Jim (2016-12-29) #
Yeppers, you only have so much time in your life. Thanks!
GORDON NELSON JR (2016-12-29) #
3 Cheers for you Derek, wishing you, Love,Joy,and Peace of mind!
Earl Winters (2016-12-29) #
Adios Amigos!

I agree with your sentiment 100% (not that it matters)

Keep learning, growing and moving forward!

I am :0)

Saludos!

e
Ryan (2016-12-29) #
Thanks for taking the time to reply over the years! Your book recommendation "A Guide To The Good Life" came at the right time. Cheers Derek.
Peggi (2016-12-29) #
I watched you in person at a WCSA conference years and years ago... I watched you on the internet on TEDtalk. And I wamt you to know that you have helped so many people with their art and careers! You are appreciated! And I love how you added a collection service for artists to self-publish their songs. May you be blessed always and forever for all your good, honest, honorable work!

:) Peggi Speers
Arthur Collis (2016-12-29) #
Dear Derek,
I've enjoyed your emails, even if you never answered, I hope you'll continue with yourthought provoking and good-humored posts. Thank you! I really appreciate them...
Sincerely,
Arthur Collis
626 757 5744
[email protected]
steven (2016-12-29) #
Thans for answering my emails. I still don't have a job btw :)
Andy (2016-12-29) #
Best to you, Derek. Enjoy.
annie (2016-12-29) #
You are mortal after all?!?
Doctor G. (FUNKFUSION) (2016-12-29) #
I totally agree. It's Evolving. What you are describing is a natural process. Society imposes a limitation program on us all. So doing the same thing for 43 years in detail is seen as a great accomplishment to the programmed. The few who are not programmed are free to evolve. Wheather it be quitting something you have accomplished to do something else or do the same thing but change the details. Nature put this as our way of life. Every seven years every cell in your body is replaced with new cells. Even brain cells. There is no-one who has a 80 year old body. Knowlege is the key. With knowledge we facilitate change. That is what life is all about. More Power To You Brother.
JONATHN ASHE (2016-12-29) #
You are a True Gentleman Derek..You always answered my emails,and any questions I had.I recall having a very nice phone conversation with you way back in the beginning.At any rate,I'm confident you will do well in your next venture,whatever it may be.
All the very best to you,Be blessed,and keep in touch from time to time of you can.Carry on Sir...
Jon
Christine C. Renee (2016-12-29) #
Beautiful Derek! :)

Brave and inspiring. It's the answer to some of the serious personal questions I had for myself this season. It's better to let it go.

I wish you luck and happiness! And the wonders of what's next for you.

Thanks for being open and honest. I"m loving your posts.
Sorren (2016-12-29) #
Another great wisdom imparted while you're parting from personal email reply.

It's so cool that I got a chance to receive a reply from you; I'm glad I wasn't too late not to experience it.

My answer to your follow-up email challenges me until today, like I can do better than that. So thank you sincerely for sharing your time in that regards, in your sincere way, you've helped me.
June Schirmer (2016-12-29) #
Kudos! It takes a lot of courage to take leaps of faith like that. At the same time you've opened yourself up to new learning experiences and enriched your life with adventures. What a full life! You are an inspiration for those of us too timid. Thank you!
Timo Laine Symphonic Slam (2016-12-29) #
I am quitting playing music after a life time
of writing, producing, performing, and signing record deals
But I have a guilt feeling about it ?
Caroline (2016-12-29) #
BRAVO !
Stephanie Sivers (2016-12-29) #
Really interesting. It's all about going forward. Good luck on your next evolution. :)
Jon Anastasio (2016-12-29) #
Bravo! Perfect message for the new year, and thank you for helping me reframe my own quitting over the years - I felt compelled to do it, and that it was somehow wrong. But you are correct - it was very right, and I still love all that I quit. But rats, just as I was about to send you my first email ever... ☺
John Wiens (2016-12-29) #
I've found the same at every turn. Good on ya!
Joe Davis (2016-12-29) #
Youve always been a interesting character in the digital music landscape. I want to know ..does cdbaby and itunes pay fair?
Ahlee (2016-12-29) #
Oh! Just when I finished your book - anything you want and was about to email you :)
It's alright, your FAQ is doing an amazing job.
Today, I quit.
I quit my job and is taking some time off before letting other things into my life. I really love the part where you talk about "if it is not a hell yeah, it's a no" this thought process is helping me to say no to many things. Thank you Derek. Pls keep your FAQ updated, its my go-to.
Kip (2016-12-29) #
Now that Derek is no longer responding to email questions, I'd like to offer his response to me up for sale.

The response I got will surely be a collectible so we will start the bidding off at $500K with none of the proceeds going to charity.

Adios Derek. Thanks for being accessible when you were.
Mauri Shuler (2016-12-29) #
Like most of your essays, this is spot on. Thanks
Dave (2016-12-29) #
Sounds like a good idea. This world is full of give and take so you get to the point where you have to fill up the tank at some point. Good luck in all your future endeavors. And I am available to answer YOUR questions anytime
Kiki Wow (2016-12-29) #
Derek - you are the one blogger/writer/musician/businessman I've followed for years. Wished I had written you more often but learned a heck of a lot from you. I'll never forget when you were a guest speaker at a Songwriters Convention and I met you in the hall as you were waiting to go onstage. You took the time to listen to my plight, a very unusual one at that. I was struggling with my bandmate/ husband of 12 years who had decided to get a sex change which broke up my marriage, my band and my family. I was torn apart and didn't quite know what to write about or how to proceed. You seem to really care about what had happened. How rare in this business. I have managed to stay in the music business as a musician and music promoter but feel that now more than ever how difficult it is to get people to come to shows. Times have changed since the phone and computer have come into play. Your article has given me permission, if you will, to let go of what I love - and see what's next. I wish you a lifetime of 'wows' and joy expanding who you are and what you are capable of doing. THANK YOU for communicating all of these years, like a psychic pen pal that 'gets me'. Bless you - you dear heart and caring soul, and most extraordinary writer. Please stay in touch in some way.
Andrew (2016-12-29) #
Dear Derek,
Thank you for your insights, they help us think and look in new directions. I hope the best for you and your family, and hope you will continue to send the emails of your insights and reflections, as well as select podcasts. Hoping you may find the time to alert us of any podcasts you do appear on (in case google alerts with "Derek divers" AND podcast hiccups).
Joel Laviolette (2016-12-29) #
Thanks for all you've given, Derek! I'm thankful to have been one of the last questions you answered! Maybe see you around Thailand (or Mozambique!)
BC (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for all your passion, talent and compassion to help all of us musicians.

God bless and keeo on inspiring us with your dreams.

Rock on and Happy New Year!

BC
Talida (2016-12-29) #
An angle most of us won't even consider valid. Hats off for your courage to express the things people don't feel comfortable thinking about.
As always, love this space.
Eddie Weldon (2016-12-29) #
that's cool, you gotta do what's right for you, to finally to be able to live my Dream would be great :)
Kirsten (2016-12-29) #
Great move forward Derek.
You always have to relinquish something to grow and gain something new. I love that you go in all heart and move on when the time is right, and by doing so you improve the world around you and yourself.
Keep living your life fully!
Matt (2016-12-29) #
Well done. Look forward to hearing about the experience in future posts, both the fall-out and benefits to you personally from the change.
Dwight (2016-12-29) #
?
I have "quit" in the same manor my entire adult life.
judy joy jones (2016-12-29) #
Im bout to quit couple things in order to fill with the new.

U blogs are great!
Todd Novak (2016-12-29) #
Sounds great Derek. I sure hope we still hear from you from time to time. I've also walked away from jobs, bands, and places I've loved in order to have a fuller life. Thought out change is a new flower.
Morgan Ames (2016-12-29) #
You're a fascinating guy, Derek. Unique. Your message makes me a little sad (not too much) but I totally support your wide open space and whatever enters it. I know you'll let us know when the time is right. I think there is much more to come from you. Love the empty cage photo. I wanted to thank you for writing about Ari Hernstand, whose book title I can never remember. It's a whirlwind of energy, hope, ego adjustment and good sense, and like you, I am telling many musician friends about it. It has a million solutions for those who want them. The others won't get through it, also fine. Life is lovely where I washed up, in the desert, happily married (impossible yet it happened), writing a book, making an album of lost songs with brilliant co-writers like Errol Garner and Bill Evans. Things I forgot. I have managed to create my own career when the music business ship left port without me. Still performing with Inner Voices. All is well. Keeping you in my sights. Be well.
Morgan
Meredythe (2016-12-29) #
<3 U Derek! Thank you for all of your kindness to me and www.sherockstheplanet.tv
Michael X Brinster (2016-12-29) #
Wow. Holy crap. Thank you. That is all.
Richard Carpenter (2016-12-29) #
Hey Derek, are you going to go over there and rescue that spoiled bird in the Gilded Cage? To keep its sorry ass from dying? Or maybe take it home and train it to be free again, slowly,incrementally. Anyway, I'm sorry to hear that you won't be answering any more emails, especially since this is my 1st reply, (i think?) But there is 1 question i have:

Question: Given a creatively non-contingent Reason, In the present Age of Suspicion, is it better to be 1) Covertly Incognito, or 2) like Mad Max in the Sun?
Steve Kusaba (2016-12-29) #
It sounds like a great narrative but narratives always sound good because we make them that way.

Each thing which you quit on remains rigid in your mind, as if could only be frozen that way in alternate realities. But imagine Mahler quitting after he wrote his third symphony. No 8th 0r 9th, none of the insanely high level achievement, joy and euphoria of those endgames. One might say that in a sense writing the first three was a unique activity and writing the others was something new. He really did get room for something new and it would not have been possible had he not stuck to the course. Imagine Mahler working on golf and mastering the rudiments of putting. Imagine him experiencing life as message delivery boy. Every time a person quits something and goes to beginner level they are living in the stagnate world of amateur beginner world. Never getting to the rarefied air of the master conquest.

Imagine Bach quitting and never getting to the B-minor Mass so that he could learn shoe making. What kind of trade would that be?

So I would say to you, to consider this idea, do something you have never done before. Revisit an old love. To rekindle the passion. The severe work of the task will be for YOU to breath into a new life. For you to make it something special which you have never experienced before that will elevate you to the moon and beyond.

Make the mighty thing which will be the stamp upon this earth of your greatness and wonder. Be Conan! Be the Barbarian and make your 9th symphony!!!!

Arrrrrrrrrrr!!!
Bill (2016-12-29) #
Thank you, for all that you have done! All the best to you going forward! Bill.
Shelby (2016-12-29) #
Derek! I appreciate your work. As a single dad I've been curious to pick your brain on the subject, though I've never reached out to you previously. In lieu of answering questions, I'd love to see more of your thoughts on doing this well. Cheers, brother!
Grace (2016-12-29) #
fantastic, Derek. Excited for you and to see what you're embarking on. Happy new year!
Michele Mele (2016-12-29) #
That's wonderful and courageous and inspiring! I will do the same!!
Martin Atkins (2016-12-29) #
Rock!!!
Vivian Khor (2016-12-29) #
Quit is great when your loving it!
Just don't quit relationships that you love
For dreams and endeavors can come and go but
People have hearts!!!
I am thankful for people like you that have made it many times with the things
You love and be able to quit and still thrive.
Cheers!
Travis Bell (2016-12-29) #
Good call on quitting email. I'm going to quit something too. It's a good statement on a simple thing that will no doubt bring big results. What will you do with all that time now mate?
Wayne (2016-12-29) #
I can't say I'm hugely surprised... although you never cease to surprise... since it did appear you were heading toward a change of direction.

Kudos and enjoy your new freedom. Don't forget to tilt the mirror.
Candace (2016-12-29) #
Dear Derek: Enjoy your freedom and thank you for what you share. How refreshing to see a life well lived and shared.
Kathy Sierra (2016-12-29) #
You have always and will always be such an inspiration for me. As for the "quitting what you love", someone --but can't recall who -- reminded me that what is the point of learning and growing if you are not willing to change and be changed by it? All the best to you for a peaceful, adventurous, emergent 2017.
Steve Chizmadiia (2016-12-29) #
You're a true life Artist, Derek. Courageous with a capital C. If I had a speck of that i would surely be living My dreams. God bless. Keep on keeping on.
Lisa Dames (2016-12-29) #
Well, hell... ?
Diane (2016-12-29) #
Why ask for thought if your no longer responding ?diane
Mance Graves Jr (2016-12-29) #
YOU LUCKY RASCAL!!!! I'm still trying to get to first base on something I started in 1984!! Best of luck old buddy
Tex Parker (2016-12-29) #
I love you, Man.
Steven Burks (2016-12-29) #
It seems you've answered every conceivable question by now anyway. Best to you.
Glenn (2016-12-29) #
Hey Derek,
I support you in making changes. Hope you'll still publish names and notes from books you've read:) Thanks.
Glenn
Lee Cutelle (2016-12-29) #
I admire your ability to change as I've always struggled to do it myself.
Dave (2016-12-29) #
Derek you have always been an inspirational person as a business man, coach and as a philosopher. I wish you happiness and fullfimet in your endeavors. My only regret is we never got to play some music together! Perhaps down the road?
Ji (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for sharing, Derek! This article made me think if there is anything I should consider quitting in 2017. :)
Nicole (2016-12-29) #
I so agree, quit before you have to and before you start to hate something......
Charlene Jewel (2016-12-29) #
thank you for the awesome service! I'm curious what country you moved to...
Joe Rodgers (2016-12-29) #
Thanks, Derek, for this helpful ( to many people, I notice here ) insight, that encourages me , even as I'm in the midst of disposing of excess books, property, etc. before making a big move to the Pacific ( in my case, Hawaii) myself. Like you ( and others who write below) , I'm giving up some activities I love ( like the band I've run here for many years, and my all-time favorite local teaching job)to spend my senior years in the place I've long loved more than any other -- I hope to find educational and musical opportunities there, too, but will be satisfied with ""whatever"-- I've just wanted a new start for so long -- As you and others write here, you have to give up some things ( i.e. places, jobs, and property) to achieve others. It's comforting to know that this is clear to you and others.
You give me strength --and you always have: God bless ( and enjoy "Singapura", another place I have fond memories of from an earlier "traveling" career^^).
Liz Queler (2016-12-29) #
Here's to your beautiful brave spirit Derek!!!
Thanks for all the inspiration.
Vince Mazzara (2016-12-29) #
Derek - Godspeed my friend. Whatever journey you embark upon, go with joy and passion. Will miss our correspondence but entirely understandable.
Charlie (2016-12-29) #
Well then I suppose you won't answer but maybe somebody else will:

Where do you live now, and why?
See sive.rs/now.
Sam (2016-12-29) #
I'm quitting something too. I'm no longer reading anything ever written or endorsed by Derek Silvers. I feel better already :)
Pete Sabramowicz (2016-12-29) #
Thanks for your insight and contribution Derek! I'm glad you were able to get back to me when you could. Hope you continue to provide us with some truth bombs here and there.

-Pete
Andrew Herzman (2016-12-29) #
Good to get out of your comfort zone. Takes guts, but it's worth it. It's the only way to live a full life.
David Wallimann (2016-12-29) #
I love reading your blog Derek, you inspire me!
Alfred Nesser (2016-12-29) #
Yes, I do the exact same thing. I have over 186,000 emails that I cannot possibly answer. Your decision is good. There must be room for God, the source of all life and inspiration. On the second day, God created the firmament, which is a two-fold idea: The atmosphere where the birds fly, and outer space where the heavenly bodies revolve. If we were to use this life-style decision that God made as a template for our own life, then we must also give God room to breathe and space to work in our lives. Derek, you have it absolutely correct. Keep following the inner beauty which is called life. You have it right! God bless you always!!
Britt Savage (2016-12-29) #
You have answered enough emails to last you for the rest of your life!
Thank you for answering some of mine.

I wish you all the very best. Peace, Love, Music, Joy, Good health, Pets and Adventure.
Dan Sheehy (2016-12-29) #
Thanks so much, Derek for all the good you have done for so many good people. I wish you the best always.

Dan Sheehy
Allie (2016-12-29) #
Geez Derek that sucks for us. I'm not happy about it but I get it. Sigh.
Weddings by Allie
Vidar (2016-12-29) #
Damn - wish I set you an email before! Looking forward to some new insights coming from you Derek. Hopefully you'll never "not" show us your thoughts! That word used with intention. :)
Ed Matzenik (2016-12-29) #
I'm not given to making NY resolutions but lately I'm trying to do only a few things at a time. Like I've got gigs in January with one band and a gig in February with another so it's no rehearsing for the February one till the January one is over. I've also heard it said that one big secret in book writing is giving up good bits in favour of the whole, surely that applies to music too. But, gee, I hope you stay in touch every now and then - I've really enjoyed the contact.
Anne Sete (2016-12-29) #
I admire your courage and willingness to
let things go. I like the idea of emptying
and then refilling. Life is a banquet.
Enjoy the feast!
Alan (2016-12-29) #
Best wishes Derek! Thanks for all your insights, from CD Baby
to your latest post. Happy New Year .
Alfred Nesser (2016-12-29) #
Oh, and thank you for your great kindness in meeting the needs of so many! Love your insights on music, life and the world. You are certainly a breath of fresh air!!
Dino (2016-12-29) #
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHHAAHAHHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That was awesome. Perfect

Dino
Ian McFarland (2016-12-29) #
Awesome! And it's a great perspective. Nobody talks about this at all, and it really gives voice to something that needs to be voiced. It's not even about letting go of complacency, but making room for something even better than a quite lovely status quo.

In a life that's already too short, making room for big reinvention probably has to be a conscious act like this. (Or would at least for me.)

Thanks for a new tool to think about change and transitions!

Cheers,
-Ian
Michael Clifford (2016-12-29) #
Stunning
Martin (2016-12-29) #
Derek,

Thanks for taking the time to reply to all who have asked for your time/ advice etc. Enjoy your space.
Looking forward to seeing your next creation.
Ken Maltz (2016-12-29) #
Bravo to you! I was a music teacher in the public schools (instrumental music & band) for 34 years...straight! I loved my job and truly enjoyed sharing my love for music with the kids. I retired, not because I had to or maxed out my pension but because I said "I know what this is and will be. It's just time to do something else; something new; in a different place, a different time and with different people. I never looked back!

Ken Maltz
Mary Bue (2016-12-29) #
You rock. Thank you for this
Eric Lawson (2016-12-29) #
That choice makes perfect sense Derick. You've been more than generous with your time and sharing of your personal attention.

Bon voyage and have fun in your next endeavor !!!

Eric the Swedish meatball Lawson
Jan Leder (2016-12-29) #
Bravo! Always an inspiration, thank you~
Edwin naeger (2016-12-29) #
I always wondered how you did it! While I'll miss your reliable responses, I look forward to seeing what comes of your new-made time.
Dave (2016-12-29) #
Are you enjoying sequential satisfactions or simply distancing yourself from sequential dissatisfactions? If you find impermanence a necessity, then you are doing what needs to be done. Maybe you were just born to be a ramblin' man.
Well put! Yes definitely satisfactions. Always just trying to stay out of my comfort zone. — Derek
Gary Stockton (2016-12-29) #
Derek,
The day I got a reply from you was a real kick in the pants.you made me believe there were real people out there on the internet ready to engage. I wish you the very best in whatever you invest your time with in the future.
Jeff bernstein (2016-12-29) #
Hooray! Happy to read in these comments that you will continue your insights blog. Derek, I just finished reading the above 215 comments. You will not be commenting on future comments, but will you be reading future comments? Thanks for sharing your knowledge and inspiring so many.
Steve Weave (2016-12-29) #
Congrats, Derek! Thanks as always for sharing your thoughts that provide inspiration and reflection for others. I'll let you know if I set up a Soundspace studio in New Zealand! Best to you my friend!

Steve
Diana Rosen (2016-12-29) #
Bravo and thank you for the reminder that sometimes we need to shake ourselves awake to the possibilities of the new, or as yet not known. Thanks for all you do to inspire! PS I will never complain about the number of emails I deal with ever again. I'm an amateur!
Ryan Robinson (2016-12-29) #
I love this, Derek. Excited to see what fills your new (tremendous) void. ?
Jen (2016-12-29) #
Wishing I'd sent some email questions sooner! Kidding.
I love the way in which you framed this strategy (if that's the right word?) for big life changes. I'm currently mustering up the courage to change a situation that's become too comfortable for me, and your words offer the right amount of inspiration. Thank you.
Anne (2016-12-29) #
bravo
Syeve Mann (2016-12-29) #
I loved my career as a sound effects editor....I loved it every day. It was simply time to retire from it all and start taking it easy. I have no regrets......I've been filling this "easy" time by recording again, as you well know. I never could do that with the heavy schedules I had at the studios.....But now, I've got THAT out of my system and looking for new adventures. (As long as they're not too strenuous.) LOL
John Vella (2016-12-29) #
Thanks for answering mine Derek, and good luck on your next thing.
John Waldo (2016-12-29) #
Hey, that's not fair! I tried to quit what I love and take on a scary (but exciting) new task, but you hired someone else! Hmmm...maybe I could be your email muckworker... ;)
paul h smith (2016-12-29) #
My wife and i had an unwritten rule: Whenever we had it all figured out wherever we were then it was time to leave and be challenged anew. Thanks for this article. C.D.baby allowed us to self produce at just the right time in our lives. That's where DS came in. I'm now 75 and still producing and going to new challenges. My wife died in 2007. We produced 6 albums and 80 videos. Now I'm going to Rio every year and recording songs from her Brazilian collection . Thanks D.
Brian batch (2016-12-29) #
More power to you my man. Your path, your rules. Keep on keeping on and please continue to share your thoughts and feelings with us all. I know life will continue to unfold beautifully for you :)
Michael Ruberu (2016-12-29) #
You have touched so many lives for the sake of their future. The wisdom you shared with me has lasted many years. Sometimes a person comes along like you...But we are all like you aren't we? In your words we find the community and the truth we know but are afraid to announce.God used you to bless us, and I really think you have already passed the torch onto many people who will continue in your place. Wish I lived next door so I could see what you're up to next...But I'm too darned excited about my future to stalk you (thanks to your shared and caring wisdom!) May the road rise to meet you and may we meet again! Blessings.
Clara Lofaro (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for quitting. It gives us all permission to do the same. I opened this email just as I was experiencing fear after quitting multiple things I NEEDED to quit. This gives me the little push I needed to keep moving forward. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU and enjoy the open space.
Brian batch (2016-12-29) #
More power to you my man. Your path, your rules. Keep on keeping on and please continue to share your thoughts and feelings with us all. I know life will continue to unfold beautifully for you :)
Todd de Quincey (2016-12-29) #
Always the way! I have been wanting to send you an email for ages and always thought to myself "I best send this now before he stops doing it" and voila!! Have a good rest from it and I hope you do decide to be the public mentor for thousands again one day.
Jen (2016-12-29) #
Wise choice.
Brandon Maggart (2016-12-29) #
There will be the afterglow in the form of dreams that will tether you forever to your life well lived. Believe me, they will visit.

Enjoy!

Brandon
Mary Fakhoury (2016-12-29) #
I wish you the best. Your truly a great person always willing to lend a helping hand! Wish you the best because your simply the best.Mary ?
Betsy curtid (2016-12-29) #
Your emails have always been delightful, refreshing pleasures. Thank you so very much for being such a wise, thoughtful and generous spirit to all of us in this somewhat dark time. Good luck to you in all your coming endeavors. We all hope you'll stay in touch so that we can take some spiritual nourishment from your kind and encouraging words. Aloha!
Mark Sandstorm (2016-12-29) #
So glad we have been able to connect over the years. You've enabled me and many others to do tremendous things and I applaud the changes you are making. I can only imagine what awesome project you might appear with next. Happy holidays to you and yours!
Starr Padden (2016-12-29) #
It's always a good experience when you control the change. Not so much when its controlled by forces other than yourself. I'm glad you have been able to be the captain of your fate and hope you find the next adventure as interesting as all the former ones. Music of course, is a constant throughout. Taste's change, but what it does for the soul doesn't. Onward.
Heather Pahl (2016-12-29) #
Enjoy yourself and your new direction, Derek. You deserve it. Our "Earth" limitations do seem significant from our perspectives and we must be selective . . . regardless of whether or not they even exist or matter in other planes of our lovely universe. Metaphysical, yet practical. I've always wondered how you did all that, and you certainly answered me reliably. I THANK you for that. It was a rare privilege I shall remember and yet not morn. Chin up, God Bless!
Love,
Heather
Joey Petrone (2016-12-29) #
When I picked up your book in a used book store a few years back, I read it from cover to cover with out a skip. I noticed you're open invitation at the end of the book to email you with any comments or questions (and that you would reply to all emails, something like that). I had a few ideas about starting a website, and sure enough you replied fairly quickly. Your advice was solid, but nothing resinated on my side and you may of saved me from wasting time (which I'm naturally pretty good at). I want thank you for replying, it helped me better understand web marketing at the time.

Thank you!

p.s. still trucking away in the computer science!
San (2016-12-29) #
DEREK. What you've done with your life is best written by 2 great people:

Henry David Thoreau wrote: “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them.”

And this written by Les Brown left me spell bound for a whole day:
“Imagine if you will being on your death bed – And standing around your bed – the ghosts of the ideas, the dreams, the abilities, the talents given to you by life.
And that you for whatever reason, you never acted on those ideas, you never pursued that dream, you never used those talents, we never saw your leadership, you never used your voice, you never wrote that book.
And there they are standing around your bed looking at you with large angry eyes saying we came to you, and only you could have given us life! Now we must die with you forever.
The question is – if you die today what ideas, what dreams, what abilities, what talents, what gifts, would die with you? “
– Les Brown
Suzanne McDermott (2016-12-29) #
Yay, you! Enjoy....
Maurice Rickard (2016-12-29) #
Bravo, sir! I respect your practice of shaking things up when you get too comfortable--it's inspiring. And thank you!
Chuck (2016-12-29) #
Derek you are an inspiration for several reasons. I admire your ability to turn your back on the scourge of modern times, email. I often consider life without it it. I wish I could. Perhaps one day.
Jay (2016-12-29) #
I assumed you were a corporation.
ALAN WESTERN (2016-12-29) #
.....well! Where do we go from here? All us people who have respected and admired you over the years because you might be one of the few who would always give the most honest, and usually uplifting, answer to any question. But hey, it's your life and it's not for any of us to tell you how to live it. To some degree though it means that you may be cutting yourself off - and how will you fill the gap?...woops I asked another question! No doubt though at some point you will have had enough of whatever it is you are going to do and we'll get a surprise email from you asking us a question - like 'how are you doing'? Good luck with whatever you do - you have many followers.....Alan
Lucy (2016-12-29) #
I need to do what you have done! How?!?
Kathy Mullen (2016-12-29) #
Derek!

Wonderful article. I know you have made a difference to me by answering emails as you have. Committed to... 2017 is a great time for change!

Bless you and your work. I reference your book reviews continually.

To quitting what you love!
Kathy Mullen
Glen Brooman (2016-12-29) #
Hello from Regina Canada:

Thank you for the update. I wish you the best in whatever you do next and wherever you choose to live. Thanks for the good works.

Best wishes
Sean Halle (2016-12-29) #
70 emails a day, wow. I know many people who seem driven by being valued. That amazing feeling when someone is truly moved by what you've done for them. That drug of seeing that you matter, and have had a positive influence on someone else's life.
John Barclay-Morton (2016-12-29) #
Derek, you've always been one attuned to your intuitive self! Best of fortune and happiness wherever your new path leads you now, and may the change you are making leave only the needed unheeded behind. I'm still on the path I chose many years ago, still intent upon surely arriving at my destination: currently completely redoing my website at OriginOfWriting.com with the intention of finally making my research widely available, and posting the remake early in the new year. Oh, have married and moved to New York City in the interim.
Greg (2016-12-29) #
Hi Derek
Thanks for writing this. Along with another article I have read recently I am feeling much more energised. I am quitting life as a full time musician after forty years. I have had to question every aspect of my identity, and it's a long slow wind-down. My new life is as a shoe maker! The transition is well under way.

Thanks again.

Greg
Don McKay (2016-12-29) #
Woohoo, congratulations mate.

See you in Cairns NQ :)
Linda Cortese (2016-12-29) #
Oh, Derek, I wish you luck! I'm also struggling with my own life at the moment, trying to figure out what to stop doing so that I can make time to do some of the things I keep not getting to. I'm glad to see you are taking a stand.

Wishing you a New Year filled with good will, inner peace, good health, and happiness. XOXO
maxine bochnia (2016-12-29) #
Wishing you good luck in your new adventure.. I believe one has to move on from time to time also..find a new outlet.. a new setting... new friends.. new conquests.. and new loves...which I'm sure you will do!

Good luck!
Mae Gee (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations to you Derek. You have paid more than your share of dues in every aspect of this profession. I wish you well always.
Happy holidays & Cheers to a new year!
Luv, Mae
Bill Nash (2016-12-29) #
Congratulations, my friend! Don't make yourself too scarce, though... we like to know things about what you're up to. :)

-- Bill
Jay (2016-12-29) #
By a corporation.......I meant that it seemed to me that a corporation was doing all of this and the emails were from you via a corporation. I understood that you wrote your own books, but I assumed CD Baby was a business entity of its own.

It seems that this was a genuinely personal message, so I wish you the best! You have been there for many artists, and you should do what you think is right for you at this time.

Jay.
Gary DePiro (2016-12-29) #
Thank you Derek. I have wanted to say a few words to you before you possibly unplug forever. I've just turned 60 and have yet to accomplish my dream/goal/life mission but I must say - it's okay because I've been on my own personal journey. The years 2017 thru 2027 should be damn well interesting. I'd like to help usher in the New Music World 2.0 - where creativity is the norm - and freedom of expression is encouraged. I created a website with my ideas for music reform (radio reform) at museament.com I never believed that the internet was the answer for todays music world. People have the Power - they just need to channel it in a positive, direct/real way. Old Kingdoms will crumble - it's just a matter of time. STAY COOL DEREK! Your life and actions and words have been an inspiration for me!! GD
Joe (2016-12-29) #
Sounds great. Likewise, answering a bunch of emails all day would be my Hell on Earth, but I am super glad you did it.

I'm addicted to social media, so I'm quitting it, in part thanks to your recent posts about LinkedIn and Google+. I don't love it though. I might have at one time, but it's time has passed for me. It is/was the primary hindarance/resistance to my productivity. It felt like I was doing something useful, but I really wasn't. It was a distraction from the real useful work.

Now I have no excuses.
Paul Tauterouff (2016-12-29) #
Derek, I love reading your inspiring posts. As long as you don't quit on sharing your thoughts, then I support you. Selfish me! :) Love you man! Paul T.
Marie (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for being an inspiration, and for your service to others in answering all those questions! I always enjoy hearing what you are up to, and will look forward to hearing all about your new adventures.
Andrew Wartts (2016-12-29) #
Great article Derek.
Kelly B Pettit (2016-12-29) #
I know I won't get a response. Too bad for me. But this article connected with me. While I find myself having done many similar things, I recently moved back to Canada from 20 years in Japan. But now, with my family, Canada is a new country to me again. I know nothing and no one. It's gonna be an adventure and if I work hard, it'll be just fine. Why do I do this to myself?? That's the question that isn't answered here? Love for change I suppose. For me it was also about my family first. Wishing you well Derek on all the things you do. I know you'll always be happy if you keep following your heart. I always enjoyed reading your reply to some of the comments. it made you real. But I know life ain't short!! So get busy living. Warmest wishes and Happy New Year.
Frank Tuma (2016-12-29) #
I agree with you. We have to look forward very positively,creatively and givingly.
I have given up sailboat racing in the Seas. I have given up travelling all over, and I have given up training people in Martial arts except for Tai Chi for which I charge people nothing. Folks need Tai Chi for health reasons because it grows the brain more than any other activity and the brain shrinks as we age. This has been proven by MRI tests in China and American Medical Hospitals. Also I have given up playing music all over the area except at no fee for non profit organizations like Museums.
However hard I try to stop composing and arranging music I just cant can't do it. I go out and look at the Stars in the Universe and I come back in the house and work on the next song. I guess that's why I've got eigty CD's out on ITunes.
So some things we just can't stop until we are gone.
Deborah (2016-12-29) #
I was so moved by your email, I thought you might be a virus. Quitting is on my heart, but I'm resisting. Then in the late night hour, my guard down, you make an inroad in my heart. Thank you.
Gabrielle (2016-12-29) #
Derek - you are (and have been for a long time) such an inspiration to me!

Funny, I wrote you my first and only email yesterday, with no reply expected (since I know what it's like to get bombarded with email - cannot believe you've been answering them all for so long!) Your reply was a surprise and so very thoughtful. Such a delight!

Congrats on your new freedom, and wishing you only new loves to fill the space. So I'll just say, Dankegon and terima kasih banyak! ☺
Jeff McLeod (2016-12-29) #
Good for you! Glad that doesn't include blogging :)
Jayme (2016-12-29) #
As long as I can still follow you I am happy. Was a pleasure talking with you though and did make me feel special. Thank you!
Lisa (2016-12-29) #
You are one of the only "famous and successful" people
Who answered my email a year or so ago and i was looking forward to writing again when I finally got my business off the ground. I so appreciated your reply and looked forward to writing again so I feel sad about the decision. That's the honest response. However you need to do what's best for you so I get it.
Mary Castro (2016-12-29) #
I have kept up with you for so long that I forgot how it started. I know I was teaching video production to high school students. It might have been CD Baby ?
Best wishes to you and thank you!
Mary
Colin Ward (2016-12-29) #
I am old so bear that in mind, but for what it's worth.....quitting jobs and other things is good for people who either have money saved or a talent that is in demand. For a lot of people however, it is a sentence to join the unemployment lines and/or go into debt to survive with no reasonable way out. Glad it works for you, but for others, beware. As far as living somewhere else, go for it, but at sometime in your life, you need to put down roots and make the friends that will last into old age because when you get older, making new friends and connections becomes much harder.
Ron Haynes (2016-12-29) #
Sounds like the same path I'm on now. I toured with major artists for years,
Worked a regular job for years and now I'm teaching chess to kids, and also
Enrolled in school after 30years. This is a total change but I feel it's needed.
Now I practice my instrument for my enjoyment. I'm hoping this make me a better rounded person.

Ron Haynes
Rick (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for being open, honest, a challenge, and encouragement to all of us who strive to create and connect with others.
Lenedra Carroll (2016-12-29) #
Kudos, Derek, on the decision and wonderfully put as usual. 8 years ago I quit everything. Left it all behind, work, money, bank accounts, credit cards, home, car. What an amazing journey that was. Now I'm quitting the quitting and joining back up. We'll see what that means. I prefer to challenge identity significantly, be a little uncomfortable, or a lot, sometimes. This time I might leave the country too. We shall see. What I'm quiting now is saying how it's going to be. Life rolls from a deeper place. Life isn't a project to be managed, it's a mystery to be lived well. Party on! Lenedra
Sangita (Lisa) Moskow (2016-12-29) #
Why would I quit what I love?--unless it is heroin or something like that.
I love what I love because there is room for change within it. Every music show I do is different because every day is different from every other.

Now complacency--that's another issue. That has happened to me--I try to
avoid it.
Millicent (2016-12-29) #
OMG Derek,it's been awhile since I've commented but I've kept up with your blog. Hate to see you go but I truly understand.

Best of luck and although you're "quitting," I know your love of music will ALWAYS be there.

Cheers and thanks for your dedication and hard work.

You'll be missed!
Albert Lang-Venti (2016-12-29) #
Derek strange that you wrote on this subject where such upheaval is in come ing - I don't blame you for not wanting to come back to American. I have been caught between two cultures all my Life. British Columbia strikes me as neutral aha...

I am in the process of grief as my last parent has departed this life for eternal life looks like maybe music again but with a new approach and the final rele4ase of the last three music theory books I have written. 12-29-2016...Oh yes 2016 was the biggest year of my life for art output I thought it was lost...
Dennis Gunn (2016-12-29) #
Very inspiring conscious realization.
(About those many answered emails: much knowledge
humor, advice, and support transpired because of them.)
Thank you.
Brian (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for your writing Derek.

I appreciate you have answering my email in the past. It is definitely liberating to let go, feel lighter and make room for the new!

Onward!
Shahram (2016-12-29) #
It's complicated; I'm not really sure whether or not I could take the same road but that is certainly a positive insight in life to keep free from constraints. However, sometime, the life circumstances make one to stay and not to quit, like having a child. In a way, we may call this a constraint but joy of keeping it overcome everything else. I saw myself almost quitting to make music at the moment for this exact reason, yet keeping up the hope to get back to it sometime..
Sally Fawcett (2016-12-29) #
Thanks Derek :) good luck in your future endevours. I've always enjoyed reading your emails.

Sally Fawcett
Mountain Green, Utah
Victoria (2016-12-29) #
Amen!! I want to figure out a way release social media from my life. At least in a way that allows me freedom, and supports my career efforts. #2017goals
Mark Andre Augsutus (2016-12-29) #
Growth! The only way forward. Change seems to be the only constant thing in life. I'm glad you're embracing it with such courage Derek. Would love to meet and talk some day. Drop me an email if ever you visit Trinidad. Warmest!
Mari Eliza (2016-12-29) #
I am so glad to hear you have the courage to quit when the time is ripe. So few people do and few understand the reasons why you quit. Congratulations and good luck on your next journey.
Dana Hawes (2016-12-29) #
Damn! I'm gonna miss you, Man!
Brian Brady (2016-12-29) #
Good call. I have been thinking of reviving long hand written correspondence. Kind of like old school pen palling. I think it's an idea I want to explore. I guess we will see you on twitter. Great article.
Valerie Knies (2016-12-29) #
Derek, Thank you for starting CDBaby and for your encouragement to indies like me over the years. Your vision had an impact on my life. May God bless your future.
Dorothy Riess (2016-12-29) #
Absolutely! I'm taking six months off from organ playing so I can return refreshed. Several very personal projects require my time so I learn how to say NO or become unavailable. Change takes time and space. Friends and family rarely understand. But it's MY life! As yours is yours. Carry on!
steven lazzara (2016-12-29) #
I have always enjoyed our dialogue. I wish you all the best Derek.

Sincerely,

Steve
Randy Anagnostis (2016-12-29) #
Derek,
You have always been innovative, creative and entrepreneurial. Enjoy life!
Randy

p.s. want to get involved in a digital art gallery???
Heaven Art Gallery - Scottsdale, AZ (12/24/16)
https://youtu.be/REXaGMKHmSg
Henning Olsen (2016-12-29) #
Hi Derek. Something to think about.I will start to quit too much TV and make more songs and lyrics. When I was young I made a lot of inspired things when I was bored. A good reminder.
Felipe.Alvarez (2016-12-29) #
Brilliant !
NIko (2016-12-29) #
This is great as long as you don't make it into a rule (that you seek to never break). If quit means "to free" then yeah just be free, "free" is the best "quit" of all. Free even to quit what you quit (and return to what you first quit if that's what feels right). If you feel inspired to totally contradict 26 of your blog posts then be free to do that, quit them too. If tomorrow you wake up and think "What the fuck was I thinking? Why did I quit that woman/man?? I love her/him!" then be free enough to run and tell her/him.

Love that your blog posts provoke great thought.
Sharon (2016-12-29) #
you have me wondering what i would do well to let go...
Trey McGriff (2016-12-29) #
Congrats Derek! I don't blame you one bit and thank you very much for taking time in the past to answer my questions. I has meant a lot to me and even helped me on my own journey! A few sentences that come from you, can really help a person out in life. Thanks again man! I hope you will continue to quit! :)
Kay Seamayer (KC - Singin' and Swingin') (2016-12-29) #
Well, my dear friend....I was always blown away that you answered ALL my emails through the years! Your remarks were always filled with positive magical insight and perspective. I will miss those special communications...but I'm once again in awe of how you have done so many things so wonderfully!! It's always good to "quit" while at the top of our game! And you're so right.... at 77 years old (in 2 weeks) I've lived long enough to have the opportunity to do many things....and although hard to make that break sometimes, it is "freeing" to take what we've learned and grow it in some future endeavour! I'm one of your biggest fans. You were so encouraging and helpful to me...when I turned 50 and decided to go back into the music business.....and when my first album of original songs was ready for market.... I found YOU and CD Baby! I'm grateful for your encouragement.. and the way you've chosen to lead and motivate and inspire others through your deeds....and certainly through your incredible keynote talks...speeches.. God bless you in all you do! Kay Seamayer (KC...Singin' and Swingin' Her own Tunes) I'll keep up with you down the road!
Guustaaf Damave (2016-12-29) #
Life is change. I love your blog.
Ronee Martin (2016-12-29) #
This is good!!!....Congrats....Enjoy.....Peace and blessings.....Ronee
John C CRmaroenter (2016-12-29) #
Do what you need to do buddy and all the best!
Leonardo Almeida (2016-12-29) #
Sad news for me (and for an entire generation) :( , but I'm sure that decision will be the best for you, Derek :) .

When I read you answered all the questions you received in your email for free, I was surprised about that kind of person in this world. Then I began to read several of your articles (I'm very new here) and realised you are the right person to make that strange "job". With your expertise in many fields, I think of you more of a great sensei ready to show the path (or the paths) you've already taken.

I've never emailed you for many reasons. The first of all was fear. Fear of what? I don't know, maybe the ego in me was so insecure about asking something stupid or writing badly in English (my mother tongue is Spanish), or someone like you rejecting my tiny questions. Well... In many ways I felt like when I was ready to make a question you suddenly will say "I'm not answering questions anymore!", and see the result :D

But... even with that news I've learned something: the right time is now, not later. Something you in many ways have taught us all about life. That's the answer. In fact, with every new article, or every time I opened your website only to search for an interesting title to read, was like you were answering all my previous questions. Let me say, that appears like you have come to Earth to write and answer just the right questions I have. That's a silly thought, but that's because your words are very versatile and precise at the same time. Your writings are like (with all respect to the believer people) The Bible in that sense.

After all, I just only hope you never quit writing. I know you know that writing is a good way to live forever in the minds of the people you've inspired. Let me say, finally, that your words will resonate within my mind (and in the millions of people will know about your work in the future). You have inspired me, so... Thank you very much, Derek! :)

P.S. Mi deziras al vi sukceson kaj bonan sorton kun Esperanto! ;)
Karen Grenier (2016-12-29) #
Derek,
Thanks for the inspiration! I want to expand what I love to do most, yet actually do the least! I need to let go of what I do the most to make the time and space (the room) for what I really want to do! I appreciate your story! Best wishes for the new year!
-Karen Grenier
Nick (2016-12-29) #
Very thought provoking. I like the idea of the of the etymology of the word quit meaning "to release". I never thought of it that way. Also the idea of getting out of one's "comfort zone".
Ron Wallace (2016-12-29) #
Good luck on that Derek. I come from the other side of the fence. I never quit, am proud of it, and quite happy because of it. I'm far into the 2nd half of my life, 46 years in business, with lots of ups and downs; experiences that make me, me. Quitting, under any circumstance, is not an option; especially something I would love. Good luck. I love fruit cake.
Alex Weiss (2016-12-29) #
Thanks for sharing your perspective, and the continual growth process... quitting to leave space for new things... and space is the final frontier.
Jim Green (2016-12-29) #
Whoa, the timing of this article is perfect considering I'm considering making a major change and quitting something I've loved doing for most of my life. Thank you for your perspective!
Anna (2016-12-29) #
Funny thing about this post... I was reading it and thinking "I love his work, I should email him!" No joke! I guess I missed my window opportunity. Thanks for all you do! ❤️
Karen (2016-12-29) #
I appreciate that you have found and are following the formula that works for you. Thank you for providing an example of the joy to be found when following one's intuition.
John Hadfield (2016-12-29) #
All the best, Derek. Keep breathing and keep moving forward.
Mark Kelso (2016-12-29) #
Thanks, Derek,

I've never been someone to quit
Because I have not observed much benefit
But you've given me pause
To consider because
Lately I've just felt like shhhh...

I think that my tongue should fall quiet
But I have thought of changing my diet
Perhaps my soul's frozen
From so much composin'
Making space for the new, well I'll try it!

Yours in reinvention,

Mark
Blair (2016-12-29) #
I am so proud of you,
and so pleased for your kid.

Your generousity with your time and attention will live on to help for years to come. These last few shares have made a perfect parting gift as you free yourself for the new.

And to follow your fine example, I'll get started on my /now page and my Esperanto, lessons.
Thank you, Derek.
Gavin (2016-12-29) #
Derek, just left a job that I loved in November after 4 years. Made good money, learned a lot, and worked with a lot of good people - it was really difficult to leave, but I felt it was time. New job has a big pay cut, bigger challenges, and less free time - sounds lousy but I'm treating it like a paid training session to sharpen my skills and build further career capital. I was feeling kinda regretful about my decision but your article showed up in my inbox today and hit the nail right on the head. I'll stiffen the sinew and carry on. Thanks!
Iam Concerned (2016-12-29) #
Derek, You've done some very cool things in your life -- major accomplishments along the way. Most, including myself, would say you have a great life. However, your nack for changing your life direction so frequently concerns me. Be that what it may, whatever you do...PLEASE DON'T JOIN ISIS !!
Anthony Lau (2016-12-29) #
Dear Derek, If you feel happy to quit playing harmonica, I support your choice entirely. For myself, I never quit until the day I die. Cheers! Happy New Year and all the best in 2017.
Anthony Lau (Canada)
Tom Lellis (2016-12-29) #
Miles Davis once said "I had to stop playing ballads, I loved them too much". Your explaination is the same and not living in America is how millions of us feel as of Trump. I'm looking for a country.
David Cooper (2016-12-29) #
Hey Derek,

Good luck with wherever you go and whatever you are led to do. I quit NYC 9 years ago and didn't look back (maybe, maybe once or twice). I was delivered to a much better place. My life has been so much richer for it, but it was like chopping down a big tree with deep roots.
Congrats to you!
Saskia Davis (2016-12-29) #
I can relate, but from just a tiny tilt to the side. I've often found it hard to quit something until I could love it. When finally, I didn't feel the need to leave because I loved it, THEN I was truly at choice, free in the staying or leaving!
Kathryn (2016-12-29) #
Good luck and God Speed
Hoby Cook (2016-12-29) #
hmmm
I know you aren't going to answer, and I'll need to figure this out for myself.
What if I want to get good at what I do?
Eric (2016-12-29) #
Damn, I was just composing a new email when this came in. All those years and I waited to email you a day too late. It was to be the most thought provoking email I ever wrote. Now it sits with cursor blinking...... Never to be completed. Discarded into the eternal bliss of deleted drafts. A tear forms. Another beer is opened. Gerry Rafferty plays in the background. Thank you Derek. All kidding aside, you rock!
Sara Young (2016-12-29) #
Funny. I have been looking at jobs trying to supplement my meager entrepreneurial income and letting go of some of the stuff I would be doing with my art and writing....and it is KILLING ME to think of it.

Still trying to figure out a way...
Bob Forbes (2016-12-29) #
Kudos to your uniqueness Derek. 99% (or maybe more) of us would be scared out of our wits to take your approach. But you have been successful, and for that I say Bravo! And also - thank you for the times you answered my emails at CDBaby- it is extremely unusual for a company CEO to answer a mere customer - and you did. Cheers to your success - Bob
Troye (2016-12-29) #
I applaud you Derek and thank you for your service over the last few years. The answer to my one or two emails was wonderful and thank you for touching so many peoples lives.
You deserve all the happiness the world can give and you have give so much already.
Shé (2016-12-29) #
Well done. I have practiced what you have preached and all is well. God Bless you on the next chapter of your journey.
Bernadette (2016-12-29) #
I'm so happy for you!! When I read about you sitting and answering emails all day I wanted to track you down and make you go outside and play! :)
Blair (2016-12-29) #
The thing I recall -and really appreciated- most from what I'd read by you was page 37 of your business entrepreneur book 'Anything You Want' where you tell readers to remember it is a human being being affected on the other end of the phone and to not be dehumanizing.
panama (2016-12-29) #
You quit the States? I thought you'd moved to Plant City(or Dade City. I get them confused).
Larry (2016-12-29) #
Derek:
I believe answering emails would be very time consuming which can be put to recreational, stress free vocations or hey go for it by building a successful business! No problem, It is your life, live it like there
is no tomorrow. Have fun!
Sally J Katen (2016-12-29) #
Interesting, at times I feel I need a change, but beings I am my mom's care taker I know any change I want to make will have to wait. But I did enjoy your comments and I will look back on them when I can make the changes I need.
Thanks,
Sally
Carole Spiller (2016-12-29) #
Dear Derek,

I am so proud of you! I am getting ready to quit managing bands, as it is no longer fun, and there are other things I want to do, like travel! I know you will lead an awesome life, no matter what you do, or don't do. Thank you for your friendship over these many long years, and know that you were someone I always looked up to. God bless you and may you find peace in your new freedom.
I will always have you in my prayers.
Love,
Carole
Mary Alldredge (2016-12-29) #
Thank you, for everything. All the answers and just knowing you would respond. Thank you for your time, insight, brilliance, and for sharing you. I will still be watching and reading.
Gary Hanak (2016-12-29) #
350 replies so far. If I were you, I'd stop too. So far the changes you've made in your life's course have been ones of impact and accomplishment. I'll miss hearing from you but on to the next step, my friend. Go forth and do the next thing!
Sinem (2016-12-29) #
Derek,
Honestly, I don't know how you did it in the first place. Answering all those emails. And keeping track of contacts. Good for you for quitting. You lasted way, way, wayyyyy longer than I ever would have!

Happy New Year...!

X
Sinem
Robert (2016-12-29) #
Do you have children? Just curious if semi-regular uprooting involves family or lack there of.
Kristi (2016-12-29) #
I have really valued and learned from your insight and advice over the years. Thank you!
Mark Christison (2016-12-29) #
Understandable, considering there is 300 comments on your blog post. You are killing it! Such an inspiration and make me want to get back to Wellington
Margie Carpenter Franklin (2016-12-29) #
Your strength is in knowing when it is time to move on, and then doing it. God bless!
Phil Isaacs (2016-12-29) #
I was at Garrison Keilor's 30th anniversary of performing Prairie Home Companion. He made a remark during the show about doing the same thing for 30 years shows no imagination. When if fact, it took much imagination to keep it fresh and new for 30 years. Some people are good at doing the same thing for a very long time. Some are heat seeking missiles who need something new and change every so often. You seem to be a heat seeking missile. Good luck in what you do, wherever you are. Did you find a replacement CEO for your company?
Mike (2016-12-29) #
My first reaction: Boooooooooooo!!!!!!!
2nd reckon: I really want to email Derek now!
Truth: you really did answer every email. I tested this once. I emailed "Derek, where's the beef?" , and got a response (I also emailed serious inquiries and got responses as well.). All Good Derek, you have answered more than your fair share! BUT if my pigeon ever finds you with the note I will expect a reply.. :)

Thanks Derek, for all that you do.
Gary Floyd (2016-12-29) #
In the beginning you gave us inspiration and high standards, now in the end, you give us inspiration and a very tough act to follow. Be well, do well, live long, at one and peace with it all.
Jonathan B. (2016-12-29) #
Derek - Congratulations! AND a deep and heartfelt thank you from one of the hundreds of thousands who were touched and impacted by your generosity. Looking forward to hearing about your next adventures.
Marwan Elnakeeb (2016-12-29) #
Best of luck with your newly found space. I hope you keep us updated with your news. Reinventing yourself is the ultimate leap out of a stagnant comfort zone. Thank you for your guidance and your help. Please keep updating the book notes. :)
I can't help but wonder what's the decision for non-question like emails. Can someone write you about the progress they're doing in their transformative life path? :)
Wes Carroll (2016-12-29) #
Derek,

Thank you for your extremely helpful advice when I most needed, well, you.

Thanks also for the leadership: I'm trying to honor your example by responding to requests for advice every time, instead of "when I can."
TY (2016-12-29) #
You've undoubtedly touched every single one of those 78,000 people Derek. A hell of an innings. Kudos..
Ellen (2016-12-29) #
Excellent. I get it. Quit what you love. There is always room for more love.
Well put! — Derek
Thomas (2016-12-29) #
Guess I missed my chance to ask you a question.
Ingrid (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for sharing your soul urge to leave what you love to make room for fresh endeavors. The heart of a pearl diver, the soul of a nomad, life artist. Applause from the rain forest of the Pacific NW.
Seann (2016-12-29) #
Hey Derek,

I've been reading your posts for years, but haven't reached out till now. I can totally relate to quitting something that you love. I quit music for 8 years. In that time I went back to school, earned a Bachelor's in Business, taught myself how to surf, became a disciplined yogi, and started a family. These are things I never would have done had I kept grinding away at music. Well, after 8 years, the relationship I had with my girlfriend all those years ended. I was forced to quit. Miraculously, within 6 months, I was recruited as the new lead singer for Quiet Riot. It's like my love and passion for music ripened over all those years. I never gave up on music. I just stopped chasing it down. Like you said, I quit for something outside of my comfort zone. Then, when I was forced to quit the new life I had built, the music rushed back in. It reminds me of the old saying, If you love something, let it go. If it's meant to be, it will come back to you. Anyway, this post of yours really struck a chord with me and I felt compelled to reach out and share my story with you. Keep up the great work. You are an inspiration to me and many others, I'm sure.
MC (2016-12-29) #
I can't believe you answered all those questions...you are truly a Crazy Man!!!!
Cheers and thanks
Amy (2016-12-29) #
Do you know Oprah? I think she would like you. And you have a lot of valuable info to share with the world.

That's why you and Oprah should be friends, if you're not already. Your info serves a smaller audience, but.... not really.

Well... I respect you and I love CD baby. That's your fault. ☺
Sylvia (2016-12-29) #
Thank you Derek for sharing another thoughtful post and your insights.
A huge thank you also for answering e-mails for all this time.
I remember writing to you years back about a concern (I think you asked for people to send in questions) and I was stunned to receive such a thoughtful reply to my question that was full of insights and great info.. "Confabulation" is still one of my favorite words that you introduced me to (and sadly true on many occasions... sigh).
Thanks again for all you do (and have done).
LMK if you're ever in Santa Barbara and need someone to give you a locals tour ;-)
Colin Seever (2016-12-29) #
Well done you. There's a time to give and a time to recharge. In all seriousness - if you ever want to spend some time in a a super city, come stay in Newcastle. Actually, move here. Come stay if you want a taster.

CS
Mushtak (2016-12-29) #
I get to know Derek from watching his how to make a movement TED talk. Immediately after that, I read his book "Anything You Want." I was amazed with his stories, generosity and personality. And since then, I kept on enjoying being part of his network and I was lucky because
1. He prepared a short video for me to introduce the Making a Movement TED talk to my students. This made me look like a star in the eyes of my students
2. He wrote a short review for one of my books (before quitting doing so)
3. He answered all my emails (until he quitted doing so today)

So Derek is one of the most amazing people I am yet to meet in person and definitely look forward to personally meet one day.
Robert Van Horne (2016-12-29) #
Hi Derek,

"Thanks For The Inspirations, The Knowledge And The Memories."

You will be missed. :-( All the best to you!
Jerry Vivino (2016-12-29) #
Thanks for this wonderful news about quitting something that you love. I am now ready to quit white flour and processed sugar!
Scott Cahoon (2016-12-29) #
Thank you for your steadfastness in answering all those emails. It was truly a great service and I learned so much. Continued blessings on your journey of change.
Hugh (2016-12-29) #
Luv ya ! Happy for you and your decision ☺ I also left USA 5 years ago to live in the peace and kind country of Thailand..
Joyce (2016-12-29) #
Dear Derek, Go for it! Your presence will still be felt by those who connect with you! Be at peace!
Joyce, your friend in Israel
Chris Dunnett (2016-12-29) #
I met you and saw you speak at a music industry convention in the late 90's or early 2000. I still remember and am grateful for the stories you told...the sailing lady on CD Baby that got her CD in a boat mag and sold like 100k units because of it, some guy using the phrase "Hillbilly Flamenco" to describe his music. ironically, a few years later (and 2 years in a row) I played with and became friends with David Feder ...crazy world LOL. Thanks so much for sharing your advice over the years. Just curious...where are you living now since it's not the US? Best of luck! Cheers,

Musically yours,
Chris Dunnett
www.ChrisDunnett.com
Daniel (2016-12-29) #
You can never quit who you really are no matter all the what you do there are.

Daniel - from a lot of quits ago
Rebecca Rush (2016-12-29) #
I can understand
Michael Arden Sulzbach (2016-12-29) #
This word. "QUIT". I don't feel "good" when you say that you've quit. If we're playing Scrabble, I award you for the use of your Q, but in other ways, no. I must disagree with you. You are not, can not, do not quit until death do you part. If you live, and as you do, you cannot be quit of anything and everything that you've loved. It is IN you, and you cannot be quit of it. It is IN you now. What will you do with it? It will move you, and you will be moved. ~mikey
Mr Frank Bastow (2016-12-29) #
It's a shame Derek but totally understand.

I believe you may be doing something with a business partner of mine who I have been trying to hook you up for some years. Glad you have now connected. His name is Chris Craker and is one of the few good guys in the music industry.

All the best

Frank
Michael McCabe (2016-12-29) #
Awesome you can do this! My best to you in all or none that you do!
Robin Morris (2016-12-29) #
As always - nice article Derek...inspiring...change is everything in life...the next chapter...where to next...it's all about the journey not the destination...love it...!
Dan (2016-12-29) #
Glad u let it go...shed skin , and move
On...it's the only way to grow...
Harold M. (2016-12-29) #
There is wisdom in your perspective. A perspective I have never heard before. It takes a lot of courage to walk away from your comfort zone, particularly when you love it. I have multiple interests; I wish I had this perspective instead of just choosing one or two and sticking with it for life.

In some cases, I assume, it takes a life time to perfect certain disciplines to the point the world can enjoy the fruits of ones skills, So perhaps it may not be true for all, or even most people, to quit what you love, but such a purposeful adventuress life sounds healthy. Many would benefit by following your example.

You are the definition of "one of a kind," Derek. I can't wait to hear what you're up to next.
Dan Papirany (2016-12-29) #
Cdbaby is real great for jazz musicians leaving outside of the US.
And a big thank you is in place, as it gives artists such as myself a real shot in the industry.
Derek, u r the man.
Dan
Michael Arden Sulzbach (2016-12-29) #
I was married. She quit. I am not married now. It's easy for me to see what happens when one of us quits. I did not quit loving her. I will always love her. I do other things now, and love her too.
Lindsay (2016-12-29) #
Derek, it is a pleasure having come to know you, how will you fill the gap for 2017, any plans?
Wishing you happiness and great health for next year and ongoing.
Amie Jacobsen (2016-12-29) #
Wow. That's fantastic! Good for you!
Valarien (2016-12-29) #
Saw this coming. Understood and necessary. Hard to do by choice though. Looks like you have it instilled as a core paradigm, like Spring Cleaning. Very useful when needing/wanting to move forward clearly, cleanly and powerfully. Cheers!
Thomas Ayresol (2016-12-29) #
Being restless can be a strength. And it is often a good trait to look around and question things in your life that you thought were "rock solid". However, being restless all the time, or as a sort of lifestyle in and of itself can be destructive. I think it comes down to balance.
My parents were hard working, smart people. They were always restless in their 9 to 5 jobs. So they started one project after another. They would make a bit of money, then get overconfident and leave their reliable jobs and the security they provided for our family. Meanwhile, I watched aunts and uncles that had boring, mundane jobs. But they stuck at them. They supported their families. Their kids went to college. Meanwhile, my family struggled. My parents could never get any of their startups off the ground. After multiple incidents of going bankrupt, they were no farther ahead.
My point is, sometimes you have to consider other factors than just urges of restlessness. Wanderlust helped mankind discover new continents, but being able to buckle down and get things done for the sake of a greater good (like family) is important too. Bottom line: Dream big and go for it, but don't quit your day job without a plan!
Des pilling (2016-12-29) #
Go for it bro
Mark (2016-12-29) #
I was so surprised when you answered an email about 7 years ago. As one of those whose emails you personally answered. Thanks.
Tony Love (2016-12-29) #
Thank you again Derek, I always enjoy your perspective on things. As a musician that as of this month I joined another band after nearly 12 years off, and I realized right away that I left it because I was ready for a change and I made a change until 2010 when I found myself out of work and unemployed until the last weekend of November. I'm now ready for another change. Actually I'd love to do music and I would love to remain a working musician however I'm not interested in being a sideman musician anymore in a low paying situation I've done that since the 70's and it was a lot of fun it's just not fun working at it and not earning enough to cover my living expenses and the expenses of even being a professional musician. Thanks again for your great article and perspective.

Tony
Sjk (2016-12-29) #
I closed my business because of serious employee theft. I was mourning that loss, but, after reading your note, I am now choosing to look at it as an opportunity to do something else. Thanks, I needed that.
Mark Whittyf (2016-12-29) #
I have fitted 15 bass pedals to my yamaha keyboard.This midi drives a Roland U220 stereo output piano Module. This drives a 300w stereo amplifier into 300w bins.
I play with 11 fingers! enabling long bass notes. Sounds like a Steinway Grand!
10 fingered piano players (pianists?) Lampoon my gear. I made it in 1980 & have been playing it ever since. (I got sick of carting around a Hammond organ. So did my back!!!
Dear good friend Derek, wish you everything good.
Mark Whitty Of OZ.
PS
I have a mate in Milan called Roberto Prosseda. He is a genius mate!!!Check him out! He pays 2 Steinways at once!!!!! (One with both feet!)
QGODFEAR (2016-12-29) #
Quality of Life is sooo important. FLY High and do exactly what it is that makes you happy.. God Bless You Fam!!☺
Jimmy Choong (2016-12-29) #
Your recent articles has been some of the best I've read.

Thank you the great reads, Derek!
Luke Canvin (2016-12-29) #
Fascinated to see what creativity comes out of your new found space. Good luck Derek
Steve (2016-12-29) #
Hi, your logical argument form seems like a non sequitur: "I loved it. I was addicted to it. And that’s why I had to leave."

Your real premise seems to be that change for its own sake is the supreme good, better than accomplishment, expertise, and happiness. That is a value judgment most would reject, since it leads to absurd consequences. Should Adam Lambert stop singing now because he's so good at it and loves it?

I suspect you are withholding something key... A fear of death? A desire to restart a new life repeatedly as a result? Something doesn't add up. I think it's better to get things clear for yourself and for others. As is, someone may follow your lead, and their life will likely nose dive...
Hemant (2016-12-29) #
That is both good and sad to hear. Though we readers totally understand the amount of space this will create for you to explore more!
Best luck.
(I hope you will read our emails though)
Jean-Baptiste Collinet (2016-12-29) #
... I kind of felt the announcement coming (thanks for the last email), and I just want you to be happy with your new room for change.

Well! Being French (at least born in France), I know what "quitter" means. It can be even more than what you mention if you dig into typical layers of meaning of old French☺

Considering my situation (you know how much of a slasher I am, i.e. right now organist-musicologist/functional physiology student/R&D guy for two big names of guitar gear)… either I quit one, or all of the positions I "hold".

Thank you for making me think in another dimension. I felt myself dizzy from working 24/7 on stuff I love, but it's time to quit. Like you, I will still love those things, but I know there's more to the world than "just what I am good at".Perhaps is it finally a new years' resolution I will stick to.

JB (feeling relieved already)!
Heather Pahl (2016-12-29) #
Oops . . . I meant "mourn". I will not mourn as you will find other positive replacements for this charming and demanding activity.
Maarten (2016-12-29) #
Your creative mind is looking for a change perfectly understandable. answering that many emails becomes a destiny. Love what you do and write an recognize aspects of it in my life. Thanks Maarten
Zola (2016-12-29) #
This is awesome Derek ! Oh....your wisdom and beautiful heart are such meaningful blessings to us all. You give gifts of awareness and awaken us time and again to conscious thought - always managing to uncomplicate everything so simply yet so powerfully. Whatever you post and share always stays with me for days and days and then seamlessly becomes a part of me. My brain , I now realize with clarity, has quit many thoughts to make space for your wisdom to settle in! Thank you! Derek, I wish for your newly opened spaces to be filled with so much more for you to love and be excited and inspired by ....and I ( along with all your readers I'm sure) look forward reading about that when you choose to share ?
Tony Thompson (2016-12-29) #
If that's what your intuition tells you, no further rationalising is required. People will just have to find someone else to ask - perhaps even their own intuition!

I've just dropped some regular, 'rewarding' work and stunned some of my colleagues there, but my realisation that it was more than ok to do that was so so powerful, I had to listen to myself and take action. This is partly for health reasons, as I have some healing to do, but I've also had a strong sense that I'm making space for some really interesting opportunities to come along. The result of listening to myself is that I feel relaxed, at peace with myself and very optimistic.
Johan Berlin (2016-12-29) #
Good choice Derek. Still enjoy reading what you write and will still remember those discussions we had back in 94/95 when you were about to start up CD baby!
ATB
Johan Berlin from Sweden
VHolle (2016-12-29) #
I missed the boat, never asked a question; but I don't mind. You continue to inspire. Thank you.
Rhonda Merrick (2016-12-29) #
Perfectly understandable. You need to have a life of your own. If it starts to become an overwhelming chore that gets in the way of doing other things, then it's time to stop.
mary (2016-12-29) #
Excited to read about the new growth this change will bring. Congratulations! <3
Andrey Filatov (2016-12-29) #
Good luck, this all is remarkable!
David Battistella (2016-12-29) #
Derek,

I hope the space quitting leaves you ends up being filled with whatever you need right now. Enjoy the journey and thanks for responding to a few of my emails along the way over the years.
Karolien (2016-12-29) #
HOERA! Big smile.
Jim Vilandre (2016-12-29) #
Hey Derek! Your emails will be missed friend but at the same time I am very happy for you! Thanks for sharing all of your adventures with many of us and thank you for the inspiration! God bless you friend with all of the extra time you will have to experience new ways to create and new ways to reinvent yourself! Peace! Jim Vilandre www.jimvilandre.com
Harry (2016-12-29) #
I quit two things this year Derek...
Human conditioning that has gone on for centuries and my faith in humanity...realisation that nobody gives a fuck.
Aranab Kumar (2016-12-29) #
NOOOOOO!!!!!!!! How am I gonna have coffee with you once you are in Singapore then? :(( Please don't go.. I still have questions to ask about your books! But either way this is inspiring :) All the best Derek. (deep down I still wish you do reply. Maybe once a year :)) You can be like Santa Clause except more real!
Bernie DeKoven (2016-12-29) #
Mazel Tov, Derek! I have a whole chapter on quitting in The Well-Pllayed Game. You're spot on. Quitting is often the best way to discover a better game. I guess what is fun for us changes as we change. And so we try to change the game accordingly. But, ultimately, we need to find a new game, and the only way we can do that is if we just stop playing the old one.

Play on, my friend!
Libby (2016-12-29) #
What you were like at three years old, and seven, and eleven– I've wondered about this ever since accidentally encountering you years ago, looking for clues to the location of a friend from the 1960's whose recordings CDBaby carried. (Found him in minutes– and we've been back in collusion ever since.) You're unlikely, and this is I suspect a first rate thing to be (I do not mean unique– all of us are that– but downright improbable, which is something else again). So, I'm impressed that you are indeed possible, and I am glad that you are more than that: you're actual. Yet I wonder how you arrived at your particular now: I do not recognize obvious origins for such prodigious vigor and discipline. Wherever you came from and wherever you're headed next, here's another mystified, bemused, mostly harmless stranger wishing you well with knobs on. Really.
Randy (2016-12-30) #
Seriously? I think that it would be wiser to just let go of the internet altogether, why choose "email questions"? If someone wants to make a real change, they should go for it, the whole thing, who needs it anyway?
I seriously considered it, but love getting to know people around the world. See the long explanation, here. And my contact page. — Derek
Ben Long (2016-12-30) #
Congrats on the quitting of email. It's become a chore largely comprised of deleting stuff.
ben (2016-12-30) #
At last.....!
Henri Cross (2016-12-30) #
Derek,
Thanks for sharing all of the interesting and informative posts, and for responding to my question regarding a business venture some years ago.
I actually have been so impressed that you were willing to take the time to respond to any of our questions, so it is no surprise that have decided to quit. I Am surprised that you had responded to so many! Best wishes and sincere appreciation for all of your encouragement to all of us. I hope that you have received something valuable in return.
Warmest regards,
Henri Cross
Nirvana (2016-12-30) #
How about the partner that we love? Should we quit on them to make room for changes too? Or you think partners are exceptions?
Jenny Hill (2016-12-30) #
I'm amazed frankly you kept it up for as long as you did. Thanks for all the shares. Jenny x
Bob Hornsby (2016-12-30) #
Brilliant.
Jesus Guillen (2016-12-30) #
Ah! My friend, yes, I had some interactions with you. Now, I've been an advocate and activist for HIV LONG TERM SURVIVORS, I've been close to dying a few times more since last time I talked to you. But it is about the empathy, the perception I get from you. You're a very good man, a sweet man, and for that I'm thankful. Keep following what you feel, and leaving behind what you feel to. Sending smiles your way. LOVE and hugs included.
http://www.aumag.org/2016/08/09/jesus-guillen-advocate/
Kelly Cavanagh (2016-12-30) #
i call it letting go
NOW maybe you'll have time to write that song with me!
all the best
Mario Savioni (2016-12-30) #
Derek,

I just responded via email to your announcement of this article without having read it. What it did to me when I read it was to remind me of the time when I was young and I needed a job and simply went out and applied for them and eventually got one. I was afraid to go out and get one, but I did try and I did get one. Your piece is about trusting the Universe and not staying in one place. I think this is the key to life. We will see what I end up doing next.
Carlos (2016-12-30) #
If you only knew how this post came out in the exact right moment... Thanks, man!
Clelia Adams (2016-12-30) #
Bravo Derek, reclaim your life, all the very best to you and your future creations.Thank you.
SEAN HOGAN (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek, I just read this, I won't expect to hear back. I haven't read your other blogs maybe I should. Not sure what I expect to get from this typing to you here. You don't have the time to read all about me, suffice it to say I started as an independent musician singer/songwriter full time 23 years plus ago. That after a year at Music Industry arts college in mid 80's then studying jazz for a couple years in the late 80's then working for an environmental non profit organization until recording my songs and having a great deal of airplay in Canada that turned into awards and hits and 6 albums later and 18 music videos later and then 5 years ago stage 4 cancer. I was given the all clear in March 2012 so as far as we all know I'm cancer free still and have continued to tour and play for my living, with odd voice over work I've found myself as well. Well the good news is I've never played more than I have since then. The bad news I'm on the verge of losing everything. With a wife and 3 kids it's little daunting. For sure yes still playing for my living but well an artist gets older and the business doesn't want to hear from a guy who's greyed and not rocking the right demo. Now I know this sounds like wining, but really I've been seriously wondering what else I would do with all this experience and life experience, and I'm not sure. But working at some job in retail making less money than performing music can't be the answer. you sound hyper invested in whatever it is you're looking at getting into and leaving and I think that is exciting and good on you. I am hoping the new year 2017 will clue me in to another job I live and maybe I can dove tail what I do and have done without losing money. I wish you well and am excited for you. Good luck. It's a long life for those of us lucky to get that, what we do with it is everything, my love for writing and singing hasn't changed but I think my love for my children will guide me, I hope. Cheers!
David (2016-12-30) #
Best wishes, Derek as you embark on a new trajectory. I wish you more success and a fantastic year ahead.
Peder Moe (2016-12-30) #
I'm facing similar decisions in the near future. I'm retired and trying to figure out where I'm headed and what to do next. Best wishes with your future endeavors. The sky is the limit!

Peder
Charlie Bommarito (2016-12-30) #
Waiting is....... Peace and gratitude, Thank you for helping
me reach a few people with my music .??
Maurice Israel (2016-12-30) #
Dear Derek
You are like music moving ahead, enjoying the melody. It’s a wonderful world...
I wish you a Happy New Year.
Maurice
Andrew Roussak (2016-12-30) #
Hey Derek, I am your fan since I became a CD Baby artist ( 2006 ), no idea what I would do without it as an indie artist. Not answering some thds emails per day must be a TOUGH decision off course...)))but I guess long overdue though. Wish ya all the best in a coming year, keep a great work whatever your plans are!
Pascal (2016-12-30) #
Good morning Derek
This is my first comment here

... Im truly sad

Pascal from ??
Thomas (2016-12-30) #
Just one word: Thanks.
Pierre Varlan (2016-12-30) #
We talked about a common subject we loved several times, it was a real pleasure, thank you again. I hope to re-meet you differently, maybe in a live show of the band we love together, somewhere, in real life.

Thanks and cheers
Walnutt (2016-12-30) #
CD Baby turned sour when you quit, but I totally understand needing to roll-on.
Stefan Redtenbacher (2016-12-30) #
As always, inspiring! Thank you for sharing. No need to reply☺
Nicky (2016-12-30) #
Good job Derek! I have followed you for a while and even emailed you once. I think you need to guard your time, energy and bandwidth. There's a phrase from the New Testament that my Kundalini yoga teacher uses frequently that comes to mind here: let the dead bury their dead. She said it was about completion. Just because something is right at one point doesn't mean it will always be right thing. Completion of a phase comes and when it does, it is time to let go what is dead rather than hanging on to it. I think your willingness to let go exemplifies that beautifully. Oh and by the way, your article on "When Things Fall Apart" helped me through a big test the universe sent my way over the last couple of days. So thanks. =)
Kris Wilkinson Hughes (2016-12-30) #
Derek,
Thanks for this. We never met but we're in touch off and in over the years.
Keep in touch - I'd love to hear what's next. I'm at a massive crossroads.
Give me a shout if you're in the UK. I''m still here!!

Happy NEW new year!
Kris
Cicero Buck
My Girl The River
Super Tiny Records
carlos (2016-12-30) #
wise and beautiful words Derek
carlos
Christopher Govender (2016-12-30) #
Derek,

May I ask what are you making room for and is there any way I can help?

I've sent you a few emails and I'm so glad I did and that's not because there was an important question that I needed an answer to even though they were. It is because I had the unbelievably rare opportunity to connect with you. Thank you for that privilege and of course the great answers that you provided.

I normally email my friends the really interesting stuff I find. Instead of emailing you I'll just put the thought challenging stuff I find on twitter. Since you follow me you can find it there.

Regarding your post, I have also realised that I needed to quit something I love in order to pursue something important a week ago. It's amazing how I came to the same conclusion. One of my favorite posts of yours is about Buridans donkey, and using the future. That post helped me realise that whatever I loved doing will be there a year from now and even 10 more if necessary. I can always get back to it.

I'm happy for you because I can sense that you have become more focused on doing something that is important to you. Note that we your audience and your friends will always be an email away ☺

Link to post mentioned (I have it memorized): www.sive.rs/donkey
Shan (2016-12-30) #
Recently I lost everything I love and although I am in great physical shape
I am struggling with depression and sadness. It's hard to even think of starting over at my age with nothing. I have no choice, it's move forward or die. I don't have to quit what I love. Everything I love quit me. So you could say I've been set free, maybe. It feels like I'm free falling out of control.
I loved my life. Now I'm homeless, relationship is over. The door is open and I stand looking to the future wondering if I want any more. I'm not sure what else I have left to give.

I used to live in paradise
Dr.Mani (2016-12-30) #
Will you still READ your emails, Derek? :P
Marconi (2016-12-30) #
Nice move Derek!
If you have this ton of answered questions, will it be possible to put into an AI sort of chatbot and see what comes out of it?
I'm really interested to investigate it. If you could share all this messages database, I can help on the AI coding and give it back to you.
What say you? ☺
Cheers from Rio, wish you the best year of your life with the new you!
Robert 'rawshaper' Wendrich (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek, Quit it now, quit now, just quit! Well done :)
Cheers, I quit too.
Kyle (2016-12-30) #
Onward and upward, my friend! I'm excited to see how you use all that reclaimed time.
Roberta (2016-12-30) #
Love the idea. I've been trying to lead a different life and lifestyle every 7 years or so. And yes, quitting things I love is just as difficult and necessary. We will miss your email answering - that was one of the most randomly nice things I ever came across. Good luck to you. (Your por made me think maybe it's time to leave my own country - Brazil - as well)
steve gifford (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,
So dont answer the e mails from now on.Thats ok,life will go on and you'll be happier with more space.So dont worry.
That's a lttle bit of advice to someone who usually gives advice to others.Happy New Year.
www.stevegifford.co.uk
John Penn (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,

Your gifts and passion for helping your ever growing tribe will only continue to grow - it's just the medium and context you choose that will open up a new multiverse for exploration, discovery and connection and I hope our paths will cross again.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, intellect and heart.

I will always be grateful for the time(s) you took my call to advise me about growing my start-up without taking on VC funds, by developing a model that would enable sustainable profitability from the start...not an easy thing to to but doable which to this day, gives me a source of freedom and amazing journey that otherwise would not have been so rewarding.

Peace & blessings, broham!

JP
InspireVR
Edwin (2016-12-30) #
Maybe do a "Ask me Anything" once in awhile, your mind is too valuable to keep to yourself. I would like to buy you coffee if you're in Singapore ?
reedsplayer (2016-12-30) #
It's the way you in particular manage a change. You come out on top with fresh challenges. So good luck. This way of change is a bit like greatness, fame and success, you can be born with it, acquire it or have it thrust upon you.
I suspect most of us encounter change as a matter of necessity. We don't notice the stale air and the missing reciprocation until it has left us drained. We say;" I'm sure I have to get this creative stuff out into the world".

We forget to look for the signs which point with hints of synchronicity towards a new angle or a special opportunity, or the like. We build our own obstacles until the ground beneath our feet turns to treacle. We keep on because we think it is our calling to keep on. We "endeavour to persevere", (thanks Clint Eastwood) and we see what good it does us.

We value the stubborn spirit until we lose sight of how easy it is supposed to be when you get it right. Our talent becomes our punishment, and we don't ask ourselves or even those around us enough questions.

Do you own the talent or does the talent own you? Which is the slave? What happens if I stop? If I had to make one big effort to achieve just one thing before I change, which thing would I choose? Why? What else could I be doing, and can I achieve something else at the same time? Am I being the active party in my own life? Is there a reason to change? How are my priorities affecting the general and my personal environment? Could I even change what I do at all?

You seem to have solved all this. My advice (if you want it) is to apply the formula you know and trust. It would be a pity not to hear from you out of the blue as before, though.

One thing I've noticed is that if you are on the wrong path success doesn't always make you happy. Someone told me years ago to do something I'd be happy to fail at. I'm not too sure that's right but most of the happiness gurus talk about the relative ease of the right path. You owe it to yourself to grow and develop as a human being. My suggestion is to do that first. Embark upon a journey or a course or some new activity slightly beyond the comfort zone. You'll soon know some answers to all those questions. It's the one that makes you feel perhaps a little challenged, but free. It is important to be free.

Best wishes to all..
Andrew (2016-12-30) #
Spectacular execution
Константин (2016-12-30) #
Счастливого пути! удачи!
Константин (2016-12-30) #
Счастливого пути! удачи!
Константин (2016-12-30) #
Счастливого пути! удачи!
Billy Thompson (2016-12-30) #
Good luck fella... Thanks for CD Baby and thanks for your quote about my Session Musician service at http://www.thompsoundmusic.co.uk
Mark Villarosa (2016-12-30) #
Hey Derek!
Good to hear from you again.
I support you, keep quitting man! love it :D
You've inspired me to do the same.
Stay Cool.
MV
Lauren Carlson (2016-12-30) #
What a gift you given to those you've connected with. I have a feeling you will impact and connect with thousands more than in the future.
Enjoy!
Lauren Carlson (2016-12-30) #
What a gift you given to those you've connected with. I have a feeling you will impact and connect with thousands more than in the future.
Enjoy!
Nicki Almond (2016-12-30) #
Oh man, I got butterflies in my stomach when I read what you are quitting! What a strange form of death. (Not to sound too dramatic :b) Hahaha! Oy vey--lesson learned the hard way: ask/tell people what you want when the chance is there-- You never know when you can't. :)

THANK YOU SO MUCH for answering my not-so-succinct emails and being a real person! And keeping an open door to remain connected. :) Congratulations on making change in your life. Completely understandable, dude, I admire your strength (not saying your choices have to be understood by others of course). ;) I look forward to future interactions and reading more of your articles. They help me think of things differently and cause me to react in multiple ways (clearly).You are awesome, and I'm happy and excited to have made you as a friend.

P.S.
Hillbilly Flamenco!

^_^
Audio-Rarities (2016-12-30) #
Thanks Derek
for article
best regards Jan
Sandrine (2016-12-30) #
Thank you so much for this. I am at a juncture in my life where I feel I need to make the same type of decision. If I do, I know I will be alone. No one around me would understand. Not sure yet if I have the inner strength to move forward with it...
Ziv (2016-12-30) #
I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Chris Slotten (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations on making the change and I hope that you find wonderful projects to fill the space you create with this change. I wish you all the best, whatever that may be for you.
Tijmen (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations!!

I already saw that all those years resulted in a nice FAQ for life.

You're an inspiration.
Tom Lambert (2016-12-30) #
Derek....My Dad told me, to always do in life what made me happy...so long as it didn't hurt anyone else and if it made someone else happy, that was a bonus.

May all your Gods be kind to you and as they say in Ireland...May you be in your Heaven a half hour before the devils know your dead.
Take care,
Tom.
Janneke (2016-12-30) #
I would love to quit something I love and I know exactly what but what can one do if you're financially dependent on it............ Not everybody can just quit anything. But I wish you all the best for whatever you will be doing where every you will be doing it.
Lynne (2016-12-30) #
You have quit a lot of things, very brave!
Ahhhh I left it to late to respond to your email which may have included me on your karma list
Lani (2016-12-30) #
The difficult part is letting go of the old and grabbing on to the new. My new is not quite clear yet. I believe that those who hunger and thirst after righteousness/right standing will be filled and I am determined that this is the year to take the plunge. Thanks for the inspiration!!
richard sales (2016-12-30) #
Always good to churn our world. Sometimes our ruts get so deep we can't see over them!
Raphael Cohen (2016-12-30) #
i want to quit looking for business/work opportunities but I have kids to feed...
JP (2016-12-30) #
Thank you as always for your provocative thoughts.

I have that sense of relief that is present when I am in class, the teacher asks a question and even though I think I may know the answer I hesitate and there is awkward silence and an accompanying awkward pause and tensions seem to build... Then someone else speaks out and phew... What a relief, and oops I did not think about that answer...

Well, it seems by declaring that you are quitting, now it give me space to do the same.

Thanks!

By the way, I love you, and thank you for being so cool to answer my emails. You will still be in my heart, thoughts and love.

It is simply amazing to have connection. Peace!

JP
Kat Haber (2016-12-30) #
Hey there Dereck!

Good on you...release requires courage and curiosity. Reinvention is thrilling, drought with scary edges that put your heart in unknown places in which you can choose again to go on the defensive or to see bold spots rearing for transformation. Quantum leap, my friend. As organizer of TEDxVail for yearly a decade, your TED Talk has inspired literally thousands with whom I'm networked-either TEDx in Alaska or Colorado or California, or Rotary internationally, or global conservation through four world wilderness congresses, they've all seen you encourage the highest leadership dancing principles. Oh, if you want to play in the snow in Vail, let me host you. Or is Alaska is a cool new locale tochevkout, I've a charming guesthouse that's all yours.
Steve Smith (2016-12-30) #
As the recipient of several email interactions I always wondered how you kept up. Have you written down how you did it? Thanks! -=Steve
carlos (2016-12-30) #
wise and beautiful words Derek
carlos
Bruce Allen (2016-12-30) #
I just stopped doing two things I have loved
Doing most all my life. Thanks for this note
A useful perspective to move toward
The space for change
BA
Lara Price (2016-12-30) #
Derek,
The timing of your words could not have been more perfect.
Thank you. Best wishes for you always.
Lara
reedsplayer (2016-12-30) #
To Shan with permission, I hope. Dear Shan - so sorry to hear of your predicament. I know the desolation of where you feel you are just now and I am sure many more of us do than you think. I wish you every luck in making things better. One of my friends in the army once said to me; "shit happens".

Please believe me that it is possible to turn things around. There is a principle in Japanese philosophy called "Kaizen" - I hope I spelled it right - which involves improving things by tiny increments. You desperately need to find anything at all which you can be grateful for - so your health is one plus which you have already identified. The next thing is to address the depression. This you can do by firstly getting help. Your symptoms could be treatable by a doctor. A good hypnotherapist and some attention to your mentality is definitely worth a try. You need to be able to love yourself, and most importantly, don't measure yourself by what happened to you. You have become the little child you need to take care of. Work on the (I think correct) assumption that the way things seem to be is not at all how they are. It is certainly not how they will always seem.

Secondly, do something - no matter how small - to help someone else, whilst obviously being careful about it. You will soon realise that little moves in this direction are as important (and essentially the same thing) as moves to help yourself, which are also important.

Lastly, don't give up but at the same time be patient with yourself. You are becoming someone else by force of circumstance. You are healing yourself. Go steadily. Read up on any philosophies which enable you to stand back a little, or explain the mechanics of the deliberate creation of your own life. Imagine, despite yourself, the stronger and more understanding person you are already becoming. You will attract another paradise, and to other people you may not even know yet, being in your company may come to seem like a more secure paradise than the one you describe yourself as losing.

This is an extremely important moment for you. Be nice and be kind to all including yourself in spite of everything - you can do that. It probably feels terrible right now but your whole future is longing for the person you can have the chance to become. Join the team who pulled through - people who have faced it are SO valuable and needed in the world. Anyone can radiate joy in paradise. Your mission, should you choose to accept it........

With love and best wishes for your ultimate certain success.
Phil (2016-12-30) #
You always make me question what I'm doing (in a good way of course ?)..

But thank you Derek for helping us realize that we don't need to be stagnant and that change is a good thing.

And thank you for always responding to my emails- it meant so much and you always gave excellent guidance.

Thank you again Derek!
Valeria Heyneman (2016-12-30) #
Thanks Derek. I've always been amazed at how your occasional communications have helped me feel as if I know you, a bit. Your shared thoughts are always timely and motivating. I have pruned for years to make more space and am now finding that it is things I love that need to go more now. I ccan't say my motives are as pure as yours. But if I answered over 100,000 email questions.......
peter j. shovlin sr. (2016-12-30) #
A job well done Derek,Thanks and good luck
Eric Petersen (2016-12-30) #
Courage is doing what you know is right even if it makes you question it, and following your gut.
you have this. thank you for sharing.
Eddie Carrigan (2016-12-30) #
You make a lot of sense although on the surface one might think otherwise, only because we always hear the line never give up or never quit but is moving on the same as quitting ? no that's how we grow it's all a matter of perception in the end.You have given a lot of your time and insights to people over the years and one should be grateful that individuals like yourself exist in this ME world. There are a lot of great people on this planet don't get me wrong I just happen to think you're one of them.

Best of luck and where ever your heart takes you that's where you belong.

Cheers. Eddie Carrigan.
David Williams (2016-12-30) #
makes sense. Make a vacuum. Want to put a building somewhere you must clear the space to begin working on the foundation of that building. Emptying out all things in the way of that foundation for which you want to build on.
Farah Alvin (2016-12-30) #
Thank you for sharing this and for constantly being an inspiration. I met you in the mid nineties. I was introduced to you through a mutual friend. I came and saw you play at the Bitter End and then we went out to Ray's for a slice. I sold my music through cdbaby when you were there. I have followed your many adventures and have always learned from you. I am in a life and career transition myself and I am inspired again by the way you have chosen to live your life. I appreciate your sharing it with the world.
Gary (2016-12-30) #
Amen brother! I can almost feel the relief from way over here on Cape Cod...
:)

Peace,

Gary
lakshmipathi (2016-12-30) #
Thanks for sharing knowledge with rest of the world.

All the best for your new projects ☺
Jim Smith (2016-12-30) #
Yes, saw this coming w/ your recent posts. I'm glad you were still doing it when I wrote you a few years ago. Best wishes to you and I can't wait to hear what emerges in that reclaimed space.

and Thank You for reframing the word quit. It's a choice, right? Not an expression of failure, but an expression of intent. Perfect timing, as we are all looking to a new year and new intentions. I rather look forward to quitting something!
Nisar (2016-12-30) #
I always wanted to write to you Derek.. but I could never develop a question I thought was worth of your time.

Good luck with whatever you do next!

Nisar
June (2016-12-30) #
Go Derek!
Christoph Deschner (2016-12-30) #
Wishing you the best for all your future projects in 2017 and the next years!
Danielle Buard (2016-12-30) #
It was so nice connecting with you via email this year.You've inspired me through the wealth of information your website. I will always be deeply appreciative of your taking the time to write inspiring articles and answer questions. I will cherish your book notes and hope that you continue to post those.

I am proud of you and admire your handwork ethic and contribution to others.
lauro araujo (2016-12-30) #
Interesting... happy for you sad for me. I know you love this more personal exchange with us, Just wander how you will fil up the space left…
Franklin E (2016-12-30) #
I try to follow what's in God word to ask the Lord for his guidance. Acknowledge the Lord in all his ways and he shall direct our path. I'm not prefect in that, however, I do find being in the will of God more satisfying than living out my dreams and hopes.

Derek, your testimony works for you and others. Good for you. I find my perfect peace and satisfaction in being in the will of God. I love this life in Christ and will never quit this I love. Happy New Years to all and to all I say seek the Lord always.
Simon Rose (2016-12-30) #
I'm so happy to hear this news Derek. I remember when I heard you give out your email address on Tim's podcast, I thought "oh shit, there goes the lifestyle he worked so hard for."
I miss chatting to you and it's been ages since I saw you (Singapore was way more convenient than Wellington!). I must confess: I've wanted to write to you several times in the last year but stopped myself precisely because I knew the email load you were under and didn't want to add to it. Now that you've rescinded the promise to reply to every email, I feel better about emailing some time - without expecting a reply!
By the way I became a dad for the second time this year and your thoughts and advice on fatherhood have been special to me ...
with love from down under
Simon
Bob Horning (2016-12-30) #
Gee, I always thought I was special. If anybody asks me, I broke it off with you!
I had no idea how many people you have demanding your time. Not bad for an old circus musician.
All the best Derek, Properos Anos y Felicidad.
Peggy McKenna (2016-12-30) #
Glad I found you....will continue to follow your journey. Many thanks for sharing with the world!
Aaron (2016-12-30) #
Such a cool dude. So glad you're sharing your life, thoughts, and work.
IRENE (2016-12-30) #
I love your articles, your style of writing, TED talks, book notes. And you want me to quit???? HELL NO!!!
Rob Alley (2016-12-30) #
Thanks for all you've given thus far, Derek. I'm sure, despite quitting answering emails, you'll still continue to give in your own, special way. Again, thank you.
Jill Woodworth (2016-12-30) #
Yes Derek, I admire your bravery in knowing when to move on and not staying stuck out of fear. I"ve felt similarly however due to the nature of my situation with my kids, have felt "staying" has been the more growth enabling choice. I've always left, emotionally or otherwise, the people I've loved and the fall out from that has been almost crushing, as I face it head on now. My theme song is REM's "Stand"... So all that to say, your honesty, bravery and humor along your path have been inspiring! God Speed:)
Darren (2016-12-30) #
Was there any value you received by being accessible? Any value to our questions?
my contact pgae for why I still want people to contact me. The questions were interesting, but honestly not as thought-provoking as I'd expected. The FAQ page covers most of the ones I'd receive weekly. So yeah, I really did love getting all the emails and meeting all the people, so I'll continue doing that. But if people ask me questions, I'll just point them to sive.rs/na. — Derek
Jan Lindsey (2016-12-30) #
You would decide to quit answering emails just when I started sending you emails! I should have started writing you sooner. Whatever you do, I understand. I am retiring from working as a secretary for 48 years, and I'm super excited about now doing things I didn't have time for before. There's an infinite number of possibilities. Happy New Year, Derek.
Colin Warwick (2016-12-30) #
I assume you've trained your replacement, right? Who is it? ;-) But seriously, thank you for your service! Looking forward to seeing your projects like KarmaList and Book Thoughts.
Donald Wolfson (2016-12-30) #
Thank you, Derek!
All good things in seventeen.
Donald
Deepak Chawla (2016-12-30) #
Derek, I am glad I am one of those 78000 people who received your answers. Thank you for giving me that opportunity.
Cliff Furnald (RootsWorld Magazine) (2016-12-30) #
Thanks for your support for us back in the day, and your continued creative exploration of "what comes next."

Best of luck out there.
Eric Hula (2016-12-30) #
Thanks again for your time and your insight. Good luck on your travels and keep on keeping on. After a lifetime of detaching from that which you love, you seem bound and determined to become a Buddhist monk ;)
Melany Perkins:) (2016-12-30) #
It's so funny Derek. I was going to ask you a question and started to send an email with "question" in the subject line but decided to read your article first. I cancelled my email, lol. I've appreciated you since CDB, who's still running my music. May you be blessed with love, peace, laughter and many adventures. Happy New Year
Mike Hamer (2016-12-30) #
Have fun in your new adventure(s), and thank you for leaving markers. You've turned me on to valuable people and resources and ideas, and I'm still with CD Baby. My full gratitude to you.
Kathy (2016-12-30) #
Derek, this is a wonderful message to those of us who thrive on change. Sometimes I just quit things because I wear myself out. I always commit to the fullest. I've dedicated myself to watching my baby grand daughter full time for five months. What a joy. But now it's time to sing more, travel more and find a partner to do it with. I'll still have her and everything else I have attracted, just in a different way. Every time I give up something I love it hurts but it does make room for a new adventure. Like creating a vacuum. Nothing can flow in until one makes space. You are an inspiration. Thank you
Desiree (2016-12-30) #
Sorry to see you go Derek, just when we met.
Happy trails to you.
Desiree Benesh Schmidt on FB.
Joshua Oakley (2016-12-30) #
I understand that you no longer answer email questions, and maybe not blog post comments either, but I hope you like the extra free time to do other possibly more productive things. Happy New Year!
Bud Drago (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,

Change is fantastic. Perhaps what is left unsaid in your message is how are you going to replace that communication? E mails are only an execution of communication - without communication we lose a large part of what it it is to be human.

Bud
JB (2016-12-30) #
Good. I already miss you. Let us know how you fill that "room".
Benedict Westenra (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,

Congratulations on this! I anticipated what your announcement was going to be before I even clicked the link in the email. You’ve been doing a great public service by answering questions, which I count myself very lucky to have benefitted from, but it’s definitely not the most leveraged use of your time. I also quit something I loved recently by stopping teaching in person so that I can focus on writing/composing, and on teaching online.

It strikes me that this is an extension of your preference to be “global” rather than “local”: even if your correspondents are “global”, your attention when answering a question is “local” in that you’re only directing it at one person at a time. I look forward to seeing what you do next.

I hope this doesn’t stop us hanging out!

Best,
Benedict
Bruce Carey (2016-12-30) #
Derek,

Enjoy all the new room for change. I'd like to be able to stay in touch through your private email list. It's been interesting and enjoyable being involved with your life in a small way. Wish you the best.

Bruce
Libbie Jo Snyde (2016-12-30) #
I'm still "The Flute and Voice of Libbie Jo" and thank you for your lovely review many years ago, but I've made a change. I started teaching English as a second language. Now I'd like to move out of LA, which I love, and I'm looking around. Tell me more about leaving what you love. I'm visiting cousins in Bozeman until new year. Happy New Year to you. Libbie Jo
Jeff Smith (2016-12-30) #
Congrats! I learned this about myself a while ago...that "thing" I really really love just loses it shine and I know it's time to move on. I used to feel bad about it...but I learned that I just like trying new things more than getting a little bit better at something I already know.
Nick May (2016-12-30) #
Thank you for all the e-mails you did answer over the years, Derek.
Oren Barak (2016-12-30) #
Quitting is for winners. Take it from us. You'll always be on my mind for being one of the kindest people I've ever met. May the force be with you and your inbox be quiet.
paul adams (2016-12-30) #
LOL. Good for you. I'm in a mode of just trying to listen more. I heard you :)
pa
Rick Rykart (2016-12-30) #
I'm sorry you'll be out of touch. You're an important person in the fabric of life. It's unsettling. But, of course you're right, nothing lasts forever. At least you'll be available in the comments section...

All the best--
Rick Rykart
Singer/songwriter
Elda Stilletto (2016-12-30) #
Good for you. But don't lose touch. I am on FB at Elda Stilletto
jeff crosby (2016-12-30) #
Hey...I have not had my life for the past 2.5-3 yrs because both of my parents pased away due to long term sicknesses...one cancer...one diabetes...then I had to put their very old house back into shape...it took most every night and every weekend...the house has finally closed and we have paid off most of their debts (lots of high medical expenses)...and we are moving on with what little was left...I was just beginning to learn how to play the drums and now I will have to start all over again ha, ha...but I like you have quit my canvas fabrication business...I have gone to work for one of my clients which has also freed up my weekends...so I can completely understand where you are coming from...when you do get a chance it would be neat to hear of you moving adventures...since I have been out of touch with the world I was unaware of this...Happy Holidays to you and your family
Pete Repak (2016-12-30) #
Off to the next chapter. Enjoy!
Matt Marshak (2016-12-30) #
Derek,
Great article, and I wish you much success in your next endeavor.

A long overdue thank you from myself--Congratulations on revolutionizing the music industry for independent artists! I can remember playing guitar for you and driving to a college gig in a van some 20 years ago--your spirit and vision were quite palpable.

I witnessed first hand the shift from an outdated exclusive music industry model to the new inclusive indy driven model set forth by you and the CDBABY
movement. CDbaby helped me launch my career and allowed me to be the honest artist I wanted to be under my own terms. Looking back, this in my opinion was
a significant time in music history. Although the mainstream outlets may not give it deserved coverage, everyone in the industry knows the role CDBABY has played in changing the landscape.

I wish you the best and thank you for your contributions that have benefited so many artists (and their families too). You are that brave soul who took action
and made a huge difference for artists and music as a whole.

All the best,
MM
Robert Allen (2016-12-30) #
As always glad to hear our views on life.
I had a job I loved, which evolved into one I didn’t. Then I was made redundant which gave me the space to develop my own business started in 2009. So I was able to compare ideas and experience with your book Anything That You Want (2011).
I chose 5 ideas picked up from your book and other sources to share here.
Your ‘Hell Yeah’ or say no piece was reflected in a comment by an employee of another company. If you can’t say ‘yippee, work today’, you’re in the wrong job.
Investors offer you money, but take away your power.
If you start your own business, you become your own computer consultant.
If you bother to read the fine print, you won’t enjoy it.
Choices are limited only by your imagination.

Thanks for having me on your email database.
Ryan Nile (2016-12-30) #
This is awesome Derek - keep leaving your comfort zone! Everything has its start and its end, though we forget sometimes that we can define when a thing starts and ends. We are in control!

Thank you for answering my questions over email previously, I feel we have developed a solitary-social friendship :)
Mike McNamara (2016-12-30) #
Enterprising and courageous. I take my hat off to you.
Colin Michael (2016-12-30) #
Wow. I hope it leads to something great.

This makes me realize that I often look for a reason to quit, as if something better will come along and make me move on to a new reality. It happens sometimes, but not often.
Beef Stew (2016-12-30) #
Bravo!

'93 I quit the corporate world, started a cleaning business & produced 13 episodes of an award winning local tv music show.

'95 I quit running the business and got into radio.
2002 I quit drinking and got into part-time voice-over.
2008 I quit radio and got into full-time voice-over.
2015 I quit voice-over and got into song-writing.
2016 I quit my standard american diet and lost 35 pounds.
2017? Don't know what I'll quit, but I'm sure looking forward to it!
hyland church (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,
I met you many years ago at a music function. Thanks for still being an inspiration.

Hyland
Gwendolyn Zupans (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek, I hope you soar! Freedom comes with discipline. Learning to say no. May peace and love fill that immense space. Gwen (East Coast Wendy And The West)
Christopher Burnett (2016-12-30) #
Change is indeed the substance of living. You seem to have figured out what's important and essential to keep your balance during this journey of life. Best, Cb
Jan Jennings (2016-12-30) #
Wishing you the best in whatever you do.
Patricia Adams (2016-12-30) #
You make a difference, man. I just quit a steady gig of 15 years to journey a while uncommitted and see what fate has in store.
Gleebs (2016-12-30) #
I was just thinking yesterday, what can I ask Derek? Guess I can invest that mental energy elsewhere. LOL.

Amazing that you did this for so long. Very cool. Good luck with what's next.
Michael Andrew (2016-12-30) #
Congrats Derek,
I always love getting a message from you and staying caught up on your philosophy and adventures.
Will Ezell (2016-12-30) #
Love it! 3 years ago, I quit eating animal protein. Still love it and occasionally eat a burger. I feel a whole lot better when I'm not eating it, and of course there are the health benefits...

I also "fired" a bunch of people out of my life - energy vampires. I feel better about that too.

Then I fired the fitness center and started swimming at a public lap pool. The results are tremendous compared to the fitness center. Plus, when I swim I'm alone with my thoughts. It's awesome!

Keep on quitting!
Junior MC (2016-12-30) #
Wow! This article made me realize something about myself. Years back i stop performing as an artist, not because i didnt love it anymore but because i was making a change in my life to become a fulltime producer/director. I have had my share of success as a freelance video producer working with many artist it has been great !! But then i thought it was time to change. I now work for a major name company where i have unlimited posibilities of growth while doing what i love .! Your words just made me realize that i still love what i quit i just needed tha extra room to grow!! Thanks for everything Derek !!
james carroll (2016-12-30) #
You've always been a very unimposing quiet inspiration to me.

All the best and huge respect to you

Sincerely...J.C.
Mary (2016-12-30) #
Good idea! The more time and energy you give to yourself, the more you can give to others. Looking forward to following you into the New Year!
James (2016-12-30) #
All my best....can't wait to see what you'll do next!
Wendy Colonna (2016-12-30) #
This took courage. Inspiring. I believe the same. <3 bless you on your path.
David L. Morehead (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek; Loved the article, the pic, and of course, you too ! I can relate to this so much. I was in a relationship with a beautiful woman,we shared a beautiful apartment, but I was in a job that I despised...and I mean a lot. Long story short, I quit the job and 40 years later still on this side of the green grass. People never understood my reasoning when I said, "I'm too comfortable". Wishing a blessed 2017 my friend !
Michael Guthrie (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,

But wait...I haven't asked my question yet ! ?

Your contributions to the Devine Matrix have enriched the lives of many of us! You provided all the info a musician needed to get a start; and your CD Baby enterprise remains one of the best examples of the "Entrepreneur Spirit" our culture has.

Everyone should be sending you a thank you!

Michael Guthrie
"Keep On Truckin"
Conor (2016-12-30) #
Goddamn Tim Ferriss! ;)
☺ Ha! Thanks for the best laugh of the morning.
When I gave out my email address on his show, I had no idea how popular his show was! So I think almost 15,000 emails this year came from that. But it was wonderful. Met some great people. Even two great loves. So I have no complaints. But as far as my email-answering years, it felt like a grand finale. — Derek
Jim (2016-12-30) #
20 years ago, I left "normal" for the great adventure. In my experience, there is nothing eternally satisfying on earth. Last count, I had been to 68 countries, built relationships with prisoners, beggars, princes, kings, businessmen, seemingly good people, beguiling women, and our Creator. It is this last one that is my place of rest and with whom I won't quit. He renews me everyday when I give Him time. Life has become increasingly better the more time I abandon culture and spend talking to Him. My perspective is hopeful and unlike everyone else, I believe His promises! I pray you find this exquisite, unexplainable joy in your life ahead. Peace.
Kat Wahamaa (2016-12-30) #
Derek, you have always been an inspiration. I'm sure it will be a great release. Personally, I wish I would never have to turn on my computer again and really be free to "live", but I don't think that is going to happen any time soon.
Thank you!
Lian Amber (2016-12-30) #
Dear Derek,

When I met you on a street in Woodstock, NY, many many years ago, I was struck by your energy, vitality, warmth and joy. You've brought all those traits to decades of great work, characterized by your sincere desire to help the world. You have the energy, intellect, and insight to make it happen, and you have, over and over again.

From me, the 78,000 individuals that you selflessly gave your time to, and all the rest of us who follow your philosophical thoughts, THANK YOU. You are an intensely bright light that will shine your laser focus on a new outlet. We look forward to your next incarnation! ❤️
Jennifer (2016-12-30) #
Congrats on continuing to grow out of your comfort zone over and over again Derek. You continue to inspire me... Happy Almost 2017! ????
Susan (2016-12-30) #
Thank you and best wishes for all things great.
Lisa Dancing-Light (2016-12-30) #
Derek, Toasting you on your new journey of what you love and what loves you. I love you.
We all love you for all that you have shared and for living the life that reflect a motivation for compassionate action to self and others. Always good to look at our patterns and when we get too comfortable shake things up. So shake it up!!!!!
You rock. May your Light shine out for humanity ad for those closest to you.
Lisa
Rob Kaye (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations!

It sounds like you've helped a lot of people with answering their questions.

The world is better for your efforts.

Thanks, and Happy 2017!

Best wishes,

Rob

www.robkaye.com
Loren Gold (2016-12-30) #
Love your emails Derek - thanks so much for sharing. YOU ROCK!

LG
Dick Huey (2016-12-30) #
Inspiring, Derek, to continue to see you pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. I look forward to many more blog posts in the future, and to the comments that come with them. All the best.
shawn (2016-12-30) #
I don't always take your advise, but you do always make me thing about things differently.
thank you
Marla (2016-12-30) #
Inspiring. I love the idea that on-gong personal change is ok, even what appears to be up-heaval. ...the concept of creating space for change... thanks. I will ponder. and, ps, I love the walking away photo.....
Stanley Dubinsky (2016-12-30) #
It sounds to me like an extension of a skill that I have been trying to hone for some time: "saving keystrokes" (i.e. teaching myself not to respond unless absolutely necessary, and only if it will actually accomplish something ... which is mostly not the case).
Alicia Selby (2016-12-30) #
Derek: You have set yourself free from obligation, congratulations. Freedom is inspiring. Thanks for your blogs....very enlightening insights.
David Puls (2016-12-30) #
Good luck to you in your new adventures, Derek. I haven't had a lot of dialogue with you of these many years, but you have been a quiet inspiration to me and to my efforts to let my Fresh Toones sing out.

I am a musician, songwriter and video producer and over the past 25 years I have been able to take those skills and share them through YouTube and other resources with thousands of people around the world. It's been a slow grow, but I have a full life and I just recently got my own radio show on Rochester Free Radio. I play almost exclusively my own songs and I get to say a few words about them each week.

I know that you're very busy and probably have a lot to do in the transitional days ahead, but if you do get a chance to check the show out it streams on Wed. 11:30 am to noon and on Fri. 2:30 to 3 pm EST.
http://www.rochesterfreeradio.com/listen/

I have also posted some accompanying videos to the audio from some of the shows on YouTube if you're interested.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOyRYerTUWm3ZCpbNOamhiGF6JcJ9OeSp

I hope this hasn't turned into a commercial for my Fresh Toones, because all I really wanted to do was send my best wishes for your new projects.
I think that you as well as many others were an inspiration for this song of mine. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmM_6243HNE&list=PLOyRYerTUWm0DE4ISRsl4aW5VXvcEWoaf&index=1

Thanks so much for playing your vital role in rousing so many people to explore their creative selves.
Dave Puls
www.freshtoones.com
Michael Bateman (2016-12-30) #
Very inspiring and certainly something to think about in my own life. We get too comfortable with wash/rinse/repeat!
Thanks so much for the emails you have answered (mine and the other 191,997), it's given me some grist for the mill and I know that we're all the better for it.
All the Best in 2017 & beyond, my friend!
margaret owens (2016-12-30) #
Thank you
Gene Davenport (2016-12-30) #
You NEED a rest! Enjoy it!
Laura Creamer (2016-12-30) #
Once again I have to realize: the only way
To get anywhere is to work your ass off!!
Angie (2016-12-30) #
You're absolutely right about the need for change, and the space to do that. I wanna express my gratitude for your commitment to be of service to others by answering emails, which you have kindly invested your time to answer mine, and which I have benefitted much from your sharing your experience and wisdom. Go on and live an even fuller life, Derek! And yes, I'm confident we will meet very soon. ;)
Bruce (2016-12-30) #
Yo, Derek, while I always enjoy getting responses from you, It'll be far more useful to hear about what you do next. Onward & upward!
ruth barrett (2016-12-30) #
Hello Derek,
Thank you for your incredible post. Inspiring for visionaries. I love the wisdom you shared. Blessings on your new beginnings, and thank you for making CD Baby happen for musicians like me.
Ruth Barrett
Dancing Tree Music
Varsha Bhongade (2016-12-30) #
Good perspective, I've likened my shifts in direction to as a reset to original factory settings it's getting harder to do as the time between resets gets longer!! Good luck & God speed in your future endeavors ✅
Lolita Dell'Angelo (2016-12-30) #
Good for you, can't see anything wrong with your life choices. Most people don't have the courage to move on, even if its to their benefit. Love the photograph you included.

Wishing you the best with your next adventure, I've always enjoyed the information you threw my way.
robin (2016-12-30) #
i hope you read this email, at least. just so you know, I don't know if I've ever asked you a question through email, but I appreciate your response to the thousands who wanted your awesome reply and got it. thanks for cdbaby ! BE FREE !!!
Wendy (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,
Got to admit feel a little cheated because I just recently
came on board so to speak. However, everything changes on its
table not mine. That being said, wish you the best
and want to thank you for what you have shared. It brought me laughter
and tears and good dose of common sense.
Continue living well.
Wendy
j (2016-12-30) #
good morning mr. sivers.
while i could not abide your ways for myself, i do understand them. to do what you do takes a great deal of courage. i applaud you and wish you the very best of everything. may your journey through life be blessed with the greatest richnesses of learning and fulfillment!
H.-Peter Paulenz (2016-12-30) #
Thanks for your thoughts, which definitely reveal you're not a quitter - you're an explorer, a gifted and productive one, too.

Do have a fruitful and enjoyable year of 2017 - although the odds aren't nearly as good and promising as one could (and should) hope for.

I am writing this especially in regard of the prospects for the U. S. A., where fortunately - and just like you - I do not live, but which frighten me anyway, with Donald Harrumphhh now playing the ruthless wrecking ball he advised his voters he would be, God Bless them...
Peter, Germany
Nick Papple (2016-12-30) #
Derek — 3 years ago I started a new job as an editor for an online publication. You were the first author I emailed to ask for permission to republish one of your articles. When you replied and said yes, I was taken back. I thought it was a long shot emailing someone as famous (relatively speaking) as yourself. You made my day that day and changed my perspective on emailing influencers... also, my boss was thankful. Thank you for that! :) Enjoy your new freedom from email replies. — Nick :)
Paul Scott (2016-12-30) #
I've given up getting credit for, or making $$$ from music. Am I a musician, or an attention whore? Time to find out. If I'm really a musician, you'll never know.

Getting your dough out of the country before Trump can grab it? Cheeky stuff.

Hide well my friend, hide well, & remember the rest of us who couldn't quite pull it off....
Heidi Chadbourne (2016-12-30) #
Well, Derek...I communicate by email, phone, and snail mail. I'm not savvy enough to use twitter or cell. I don't jump to the latest trend, usually with extra cost involved. I think that communication is real important. Maybe that's a female trait. Please "don't cut off your nose to spite your face". If email responses are weighing you down, of course, it's time to try another avenue for keeping in touch. It's just that I probably do my best and most thoughtful communicating by writing. Email allows that.

I wish you the best no matter what choices you make with good reason. Thank you for your emails lo' these past many years! (and that Hartwig HKD artwork is poignant, isn't it.) Happy freedom from something that has obviously confined you. Recognise and enjoy!
ray singer (2016-12-30) #
WHAT NEXT DEREK? HAPPY NEW YEAR...ONWARDS AND UPWARDS!
flemming (2016-12-30) #
To quit something because you love it and think that you master it? That is of course a way of staying unattached to the world. Sounds like a page from a Buddhist Catechisms. It also sounds like the flying boy from "The little Prins" or as Marie Louise Von Franz would call it: Puer Aeternus. There is value in learning new skills, but there is an equal powerful value in becoming master of something. A zen master for example never reach the full understanding of the mastership because the master is always on that stony road to finding the numinous. If he turns around half way and say "Now to something more fun" he completely miss his destiny.
Clearly you are a gifted person and have achieved much in your short life but what is your destiny? and what do you truly master? Fate and destiny are two different spheres. Not to be stuck in fate and to realize your destiny takes character. Think about it. All the best
Warm regards
Flemming O. Behrend APA
Damion Cantrell (2016-12-30) #
Dear: Derek, thanks a million for your awesome iconic services provided for all of the inspiring Artists Worldwide including myself, who you help make dreams and realities come true. I've been a long time satisfied customer and I'm sure whatever your next entrepreneur idea will be you will remain to succeed. Damion Cantrell
Kavé (2016-12-30) #
This is so true but it takes a lot of courage to leave the familiar for the unknown specially if it is working well for you.I believe most people are in the estate of making room for what the love not quitting what they like. It takes a unique kind of personality(in a good way) to do it.
Donna Davenport (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations, Derek!! May you be prosperous in your new endeavors and thank you for this article. It is very inspiring!!
kathleen (2016-12-30) #
you inspire me. such wise words. i so appreciate all the time and energy you put into making cdbaby such an innovative groundbreaking HONEST agent for us singer songwriters in the wild west of the new territories ie the delivery of info and music via the internet.
a VERY heartfelt thank you and namaste xxx
Ted Killian (2016-12-30) #
I wish you all the blessings and good fortune in the world Derek. You have always been an inspiring person. Thank you for all your work over the years.
Peter Fegredo (2016-12-30) #
Derek, You are our inspiration for many reasons. You are respected and loved and valued more than you know. Only you know when you've had enough. Like the proverb says, "When you've reached the end of the book, close it. Good luck in all you do. Happy New Year.
Lou (2016-12-30) #
You have made a very positive impact, Derek, and we know you will continue to do so in your new venture. Don't forget us out here but have fun wherever you are and will be. God bless.
Gen (2016-12-30) #
Absolutely. It's a Big, fascinating world and there is enough room in a heart to love it all. I tried to move last year and my two youngest were heartbroken and homesick and being little terrorists won out and we went back to their home after ten months. A colossal failure? Maybe. It took two lawyers to keep my thiteen year old out of lock up but the disasters they caused knocked them even farther out of their comfort zone and they wound up home schooling and practically in hiding. The challenges I met well, although I do say Grace of God. I had a great work year outside the house where my boss said he liked my character and had big hopes for me. Not that big a deal in a big world, but a big deal to me and my children Sas that I was respected at work which is something they don't see so much at home. We even harboured a criminal for a couple of weeks and I found out who I can count on after all. I'm back and miss the excitement but these two are almost grown and at least I know I can function out there even though I stayed home for five children. Without that move my life here would feel hopeless. I made my children uncomfortable and a good thing perhaps. And I realized that I fling myself out there full of a hope and joy that in the end my children might remember one day. Absolutley. Staying where you are can less to something like sickness and disease if you aren't cut out for a sedentary life. My old age will be enjoyed more than my middle age in ways because of the freedom I will have to bounce.
Robert Gunnarsson (2016-12-30) #
As long as you love what your doing its creative, but what if you fall in love with the room of change? Yeah you can Always quit. I have quit facebook.
Rae Rae (2016-12-30) #
I'm thinking that you're so cool and different, why would you?
But I understand, because when we get older the mind changes maybe?
Thanks for being you!
Ginny (2016-12-30) #
We've all had to 'let go' of something we love, but the difference with you, as I understand it, is quitting something that is still going well and that you enjoy. Letting go is very hard because it seems that the decision is not entirely in our hands - something has been 'taken' from us. But quitting is like breaking up with the hot boyfriend before he can tell you he's got a new girl - and then finding another hot boyfriend. 'Quit while you're ahead' is an old saying, but never addressed 'what then'.
Your perspective of concentrating on the space created for new activity, is a refreshing view. One has, first of all, the feeling of control of having made the decision; then added to that is the excitement of possibilities and the bright clean air of change. I can well see how someone with masses of creativity would see life any other way as hell. And for the rest of us, what creativity we have would not be anything but improved by following this idea. It's perhaps the 'lull' between the quitting and finding something new that might be a little daunting. Much easier to have one's eye on the new boyfriend before dumping the old one. But as an artist, one knows that the space is as important as the content. The space is where invisible things churn and wait to be born. I'm currently in a lull…and hope something is churning, as I wait in curious expectation. Wishing you the best, fellow traveller.
Maurits Tuinenburg (2016-12-30) #
My only right response to your email would be to ask a question and hope it gets a reply ;) Well, here it goes: Did you find someone yet for the job you had???

The other thing, since you're quitting answering emails maybe you want to start making some more money the easy way; https://app.engofor.com/?referral=Y2Y1MDJhMmY5#signup

It's an investmentprogram that gives you 1.5% rent a day for 40 days in a row!

Cheers,
Maurits Tuinenburg
Maureen (2016-12-30) #
Happy New Year! I agree with the concept of making space for something new. I'm thinking that for me it's giving up routine consumption of 2 glasses of red wine each evening.

My new mantra for things I want to change this year (but not give up entirely) is, "Most of the time I..."

For example:
"most of the time I don't drink alcohol"
"most of the time I work out in the early morning"
"most of the time I don't eat until lunchtime"

Etc. It's not saying I *never* drink alcohol, or eat breakfast, or skip a morning workout, but most of the time, I do those things.

Thanks for all your work and for sharing it with us.
Maureen in TX
Ron Greenman (2016-12-30) #
Adios then. But always feel free to write.
Daryl Johnson (2016-12-30) #
Hey Derek, good luck in your new endeavors and thanks for all the light and guidance youve shared over all these years. Be well my friend!
jseliger (2016-12-30) #
This post inspired me to send a short email about how I still send students "The Last Email" at the end of every semester. And that last email contains a link to one of your posts. There is no question in it, but I hope it heartens you.
Jaekim (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations on such a step! Inevitably, this will only open more doors towards growth...right-on.
Domonic Dean Breaux (2016-12-30) #
I totally get it. I'm a musician as well as a visual artist. I've had some great sessions and gigs over the years. My meditation music did well on cdbaby but my heart always lied in jazz and funk like what I have posted on SoundCloud but it seems these days it's hard enough to get people to listen to music let alone buy it. It's a tough time for artists because everything is free. It's a tough decision sometimes to let go of the things that no longer serve you but that you still love and to embrace the unexpected .thanks for your great and inspiring articles .i
Kermit Redd (2016-12-30) #
Derek,
As always you provide thought provoking subjects.I have quit many ventures in my life creating space and while quitting playing high school football I realized sometime its better to quit when you are ahead..or in some situations is it quitting when you have already lost? thanks again..and wish you the Best in 2017 and always!
cee josephs (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations! You have quitted more than the average person, I think!
That was the opportunity to grow. Holding on is not such a good thing. I am getting ready to do a new thing in my 60th year!
Will miss emailing you though!!, all around!
Karol Thorsteinsson (2016-12-30) #
Derek, This is very cool news.

I sincerely hope you keep sending out blog notifications. I enjoy reading your thoughts.

I have one regret, and that's that I haven't done as you did. Take the chance. I have the bad habit of playing it safe, with only very calculated risks. Unfortunately, this leads to feeling stagnated, which is where I am.

Enough about my own pity party. Good on ye! I look forward to hearing what you're up to!
Mike Krozer (2016-12-30) #
Derek, the act of quitting is poorly regarded in American culture. You know, quitters are regarded as having no guts, no perseverance, and no resolve. And then there’s the expression, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going”, that sort of thing. Quitting a job to make room for something new is also regarded as dicey in today’s market. For people intending to work for a company, prior experience is the only way to get hired.

Quitting, or the casting off of the old, is also difficult to do. Humans are pack animals. We take comfort in what is familiar. Tangible and emotional possessions define who we are.

I can say from experience that removing all the obligations of daily living is liberating. When deploying for FEMA on disaster recovery operations, I have only one focus. I don’t have to think about my house, my bills, buying food, my clothes, and the constant swirl of interpersonal issues and demands. Wow, how light I feel. While on such an assignment, I was attending a church service attended by mostly poor folks. The pastor said that if you want to improve your life, don’t hold on tightly, be generous with what you have, open up your fist. Only that way will you be able to receive abundance.

This is your message, and extremely hard to do. I see many retired people, many of whom have had financially rewarding careers, completely lost. They talk endlessly about their past and have no current identity. To try to help, I recently launched a website, elderscreate.com as a place for inspiration. This is a learn-as-I-go project that I think could hold great promise for many people as participation grows. Hopefully, a few folks will see what others have done and gain the courage to not quit at LIFE.

With an aging population in America and most developed countries, lifting everyone up is a daunting challenge, but I am reminded of the following passage: While walking along a beach after a storm, a child picks up a starfish and throws it back into the sea. The parent says, “What’s the point of that. It doesn’t matter. There are thousands of starfish washed up on the sand. The child says, “It matters to that one.”
Pearl (2016-12-30) #
We all need to change. I don't look at it as quitting. You're simply redirecting your energy. It serves you well. Enjoy!
Greg Perryman (2016-12-30) #
We good for you, likewise I have also quit thing that I love, so arevadarchi my friend!!
Barak Almog (2016-12-30) #
I feel lucky to have been there in time, to have the chance to swap a few lines with you. I appreciated it so much that you've answered so genuinely, and I still do.

I can only imagine that positive energy I felt multiplied by 192,000. So impressive! Thanks for that and good luck with what comes next.

I'll finish with what I wrote you on my first email, when I first reached out:

Derek Sivers, you're awesome!
Joe Loesch (2016-12-30) #
I've decided to stop paying my mortgage. Seriously I have a two year plan for that. That said, it's always good to hear from you Derek. I find this article intriguing. Still playing music after 50 years. Best wishes - Joe
Nick Leggero (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek,

I wish I could quit trying to become a working musician. There is so much weight I have been carrying for so long. I have a job producing beats for Comedy Central, but it's only 2 months out of the year. Im desperately looking for more work, but its a struggle. Writing, producing, engineering, and editing are my strongest skill sets. Im fearful I will have to take up some menial low paying entry level job that Im over qualified for. Im a 37 year old college graduate and put all of my eggs in making music. If I get lucky Ill be paid to do the great work Im capable of, but time is ticking and I need to land something more steady. If theres anyone in your network that may be in need of my service I'd be happy to submit my work. Take care, and have fun with your new time. I really like the title "Tilted Mirror"! It makes sense.

Best Regards,
Nick Leggero
Laurel (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek
That's really interesting. I have played flute since I was 11 yrs old and I am 61 yrs old now. I also have composed about 35 years on and off.
I never really wanted to do anything else because music is so huge a world that it keeps my interest attention all the time.

All these people I know are retiring and some are passing on. But I am happy teaching at the university in sacramento and playing flute and composing. I do take breaks though. I have taken 6 weeks off - I had a total knee replacement on Nov 23, 2016 and have not had the energy so I did a lot of cooking and my taxes and a some editing of my music.
Hope you are well!
Curtis (2016-12-30) #
Always thought provoking - Thank you and Happy New Year
Thomas (2016-12-30) #
First you know
Then you understand
Then you know why you understand
Then you understand why you understand
And so on ...
But - you have to take action!

Good choice - and take care :)
Sue Giles (2016-12-30) #
Yayyy!!!

Keep the changes coming. Thanks, Derek for all your answers over the years! ;)
I'm also a solitary socialite- am one of the only jazz musician I know who
prefers solitude instead of the hang out after the gig ;)
Nicole Chaplain-Pearman (2016-12-30) #
I tend to quit things either when I don't enjoy them or get much out of them anymore or when something else comes along and grabs me even more than the first thing did and I decide to go and pursue that. If, however, I'm still really into something and really passionate about it i'll stick with it. I've never understood the concept of change as an end in itself. Of course stagnation isn't good either but it seems to me that our high tech world lacks stability and I think that will come with a high psychological cost.
Tony Thomas (2016-12-30) #
So is Cdbaby still up and running?
John (2016-12-30) #
Hmm...yes...but how do you know WHEN? Any criteria/tips? Is it just "I'm comfortable and successful so I'm outta here?" or is there more?

Sincere thanks for all you do!
Jim Santos (2016-12-30) #
Not so sure. I have found it's always easier to guit something than to stay the course. Especially if it's not easy. Do we need to cut out clutter? Yes. So in that respect quitting makes sense. But if something is going great, future success is likely and you love it, well then, to me, it doesn't make any sense. Unless you are just a restless soul. The "chase" is the exciting part. Once you achieve something, you need to move on.
And that's ok too.
Best of luck as always.
Peter Bold (2016-12-30) #
Thanks for helping so people.
tommy knapp (2016-12-30) #
Thank you Derek. "Anything you want" is still required reading in my University courses at USC. Fight On!
Lynne (2016-12-30) #
I didn't even know you answered questions.
Mary (2016-12-30) #
Understood Derek. Happy New Year of change and more & more surrender! :)
LGMarkov (2016-12-30) #
Best wishes on your journey, Derek! Thanks for sharing your wisdom!

"What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls a butterfly." Illusions by R.Bach
Tom (2016-12-30) #
Just know that the questions you answered in the past have been most helpful.
Solomon King (2016-12-30) #
A cage to one is a palace to another. The liberation of Death is inevitable. In the meantime the material world is our only path to redemption. This Life is where we have the advantage over celestial angels. We have the ability to shape the destiny of mankind through our choices and the actions we take. To turn our backs to this potential is negligent/ perhaps criminel.
Regards
Your fan
Solomon King
Tere Estrada (2016-12-30) #
Good decision. It's time to focus on your projects. It's hard being a Guru. Creativity needs time. All the best. Thanks for sharing your process.
Tony Goodnight (2016-12-30) #
Derek, may all go wonderfully well for you ALWAYS in All of your ventures and adventures!

Seems to me it is harder to not read the mail than it is to not answer/reply to it, but there is a balance for all!
Rebecca Baart (2016-12-30) #
Awesome Derek! Excited to see all the great things ahead! Onwards!!
Al Molina (2016-12-30) #
The completion stage calls for declaration. You, as the creator of and the authority on your own vision, can declare that the creation is complete. At this point you are able to formally recognize that the creation matches your vision of the creation; you may even say aloud,"It is done !"

If you hqve another creation in mind before you end the entire creative process, you will be able to direct the momentum you have generated toward your next project. In this stage of the creative process, you will learn to recognize when the creation is finally done, so that you are positioned to move on to your next creation.
Barry (2016-12-30) #
"Change is constant and the only constant is change" -Lao Tzu
Iván Chavero (2016-12-30) #
Oh no!!
i was going to send you an email about this, i've had similar experiences on "quitting" but i guess i won't send it ;)
Bob Fanelli (2016-12-30) #
I'm with you.Doing stuff you like is easy. Change is hard.
.
Judy Sturgeon (2016-12-30) #
Timely. I'm trying to decide when to retire (again).
Bart Flynn (2016-12-30) #
Derek,
Congratulations on a new chapter in your life! While I've never emailed you a question, I have enjoyed reading your articles over the years. Always Thoughtful and helpful.

All The Best to you in 2017!
Bart
Christian Jean Rill (2016-12-30) #
...was always impressed by your courage and brio...
...all the best to you...
...love...
Markus Koehorst (2016-12-30) #
The idea of quitting something you love to create a lot of space for a new development is very powerful.

And beautifully timed, at the start of a new year.

I will be mulling it over to see how that might apply to my situation.

Thank you Derek. ☺

PS I feel a slight pinch that I didn't keep our email conversation going a while ago. Now it might be too late. No regrets though. Love over attachment ☺
MT (2016-12-30) #
Fly on beautiful man. You have been an Angel in so many if our lives! Thank you and be blessed?
Chadwick (2016-12-30) #
Good talk. Thanks as always for sharing Derek.
Di'Mon Brown (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations ? it sound like once again you have figured out the meaning of life. We will miss you brother from another mother.
Robert Meyer (2016-12-30) #
Congrats! For having the balls to change and to quit the things u loved. U motivate me, I am so safe it isn't funny!!! I too love what I do, love stability, etc...

This last year I have said I am 1/2 way done. Been in practice for 20 yrs, what am I going to do different this second 1/2??? What u don't confront controls u! Thx for intellectually stimulating me! AND DONT RESPOND TO THIS EMAIL!!! Lol
Clay Steadman (2016-12-30) #
Good for you! You are the man, thank you so much for answering my questions and for all the time you spent answering other people's questions :)

Looking forward to what you do next
Ekayani (2016-12-30) #
Lol if I leave a reply will Derek answer? I think the reply box is the last step of things to quit to make room for change. Cheers Derek!
Denis Joseph Jestadt (2016-12-30) #
I have been reading all of your articles ever since you have started them. I haven't left a comment, maybe one or 2, but they are often timely. I first got to know you when you were in charge of CD Baby and the meet and greet when you came to Toronto. I released 3 CD's at that time, and another 3 still to be released. I quit my job of 17 years raising funds for Charities in the Spring of this year. I then helped to set up a Clinic for medical Marijuana. Al lot of people in need. Better then Big Pharma for most of them. In the summer I rode my bike and went to the Toronto Islands frequently taking the TIKI Taxi. Best way to get out of the City and the beach is great. You have assisted many of us in our Journey. Thank you. May 2017 bring good tidings to all who believe in good will. New Beginnings.
Ron Wallace (2016-12-30) #
All these eulogies. This is sounding like a visitation. Is this guy alright?
I know! Weird, right? I just said I'm not answering questions anymore. I'm still replying to every email, still writing new articles, starting a new podcast, and everything else I've ever done here. But if someone asks me a big “what should I do with my life?” question I'm going to have to send them to sive.rs/na, that's all.
Still, I always wondered what my funeral would be like, so I guess now I know! — Derek
Casey G. (2016-12-30) #
It's hard to swallow quitting when the years of dedication haven't monetized the life style.
Lexi Street (2016-12-30) #
Dang! Had I known u were so responsive I would have bugged u for insights long ago. Good luck wherever u land. Always enjoyed ur posts over the years and an ebook, I believe. No doubt u will be successful whatever u do. Maybe u can leave us one farewell post to help us attain our goals. A 2016 hoorah.
Jody Whitesides (2016-12-30) #
Hopefully you'll still talk to friends via email once in a while.
Patty Rayfield (2016-12-30) #
You will be missed, thank you for all the care and attention you,have given to us all.I wish you great things with your your future projects.
I know what you about leaving something you love behind you, sometimes we need new soil to grow a different color flower.Every good wish
Patty
Allyson Paige (2016-12-30) #
Thanks for your very timely inspiration. I get stuck in my tracks all to often. I'm going to use your mission as a jumping off point for my intention this year. Gotta change things up!! I love your e-mails. Will stay tuned..

Wishing you the bestest!

Allyson
Bill Gordon (2016-12-30) #
Too solid, too timely, huge congrats. From first meeting you at TAXI conference through CDBaby etc., you've been an inspiration and model. And now you've given me perspective about leaving behind piano playing and all its attendant wonder and misery. Cleaning out the closets...
Dale Leitch (2016-12-30) #
Awesome,I don't know how you found the time.
Dean Madonia (2016-12-30) #
Good for you Derek! Glad I got a chance to to be on the CD Bady roster when it was on the post card stage. Glad I got a chance to meet meet you in Nashville. Glad for the times when you DID answer my emails. Glad that you have done so well in your many endeavors. I wish you all the best in the future!
Sharon Falk (2016-12-30) #
Dear Derek,
I've never written to you, but I'm always glad to hear from you. I was part of a small group that you gave a talk to years ago when you told us to "fly our freaky flag." You have been an inspiration to many for a long time, and to you I say Bravo, follow you heart, as you have always done! I still look forward to hearing from you.
All the best to you!
Moragh Carter (2016-12-30) #
Thank you, Derek, for all the e-mails that you've exchanged with me personally since about 2005. Unfortunately the e-mails from before 2010 all went to my old e-mail address and have been lost forever. However, earlier today, I had a quick peruse through some of those e-mails I still have from you, getting a happy reminder of things we'd talked about.
I also distinctly remember the hilarious messages that came with the first CDs I bought from CDBaby.
Thanks again for everything and wishing you all the best for whatever your plans are in the future.
Moragh
Jeanette (2016-12-30) #
A difficult decision, I'm sure. But having space to breathe is essential to growth. Too many of us do what we're supposed to do without a second thought about our own needs. We feel guilty for being selfish. Congratulations. I love reading your missives. You make me think. That's a good thing.
Mike Morris (2016-12-30) #
You were too generous, now its right to give more time to Derekl Sivers, you remarkable man. Thanks for your responses over the years.
Best,
Mike Morris
Ian (2016-12-30) #
Just a huge thankyou ... I resonate with so much of your great observations ... Cheers man ?
Ian ... Newquay , Uk
Elliott Ranney (2016-12-30) #
Derek! Change is the constant and giving yourself permission to discover new things is empowering. Good luck in you new adventure! Thanks for sharing your insights.
Elliott
Carol Neven (2016-12-30) #
Oh no..but i get you...enjoy life.. Time with your family please let me keep in touch with you... I just re connected with brooke
Hodges..
Have a great new year
Lisa DeLay (2016-12-30) #
You've been very generous with your time in doing this. Thank you.
Randy (2016-12-30) #
Well,i'm considering no more internet anyway. Seems like we got a lot more accomplished back in 90's before the internet took over. I mean, you did a great thing by starting CDbaby back then, and it wouldn't have happened without the internet. But i think the whole thing has run its course now. Its just the same things over and over, being bought and sold by larger and larger corporations. Music sites, dating sites, video sites, mobile apps, buying and selling, same stuff every day. Its time for a new innovation.
Yamrat (2016-12-30) #
Understanding why we are in this created reality, called..., is important. However choosing which side of the coin you pledge your allegiance is even more important!

A Fellow Captive
Crabmeat Thompson (2016-12-30) #
Ha hahaha! I was telling my wife about your last one, where you said you read and wrote mails 8 hours a day. We wondered if you'd soon need human contact or a shrink. And there you go. YAY Derek! Great to read your articles. i just finished a coloring book and tomorrow I may complete the publishing. No hurry. best, CM
Robert Madsen (2016-12-30) #
Kudos on your ability to change and take risks. Over the course of my life I have had many roles...programmer, IT tech, data security specialist, business consultant, professional musician, youth pastor, and now I run a game studio. I have loved every phase of my life and wouldn't stay the same for anything. Good luck!
Linda (2016-12-30) #
This is quite a provocative piece. I'm very picky about what I choose to love that I'm not sure I could quit any of them. But I can see how quitting would create new opportunities and perspectives that I would not have gained.
Chris (2016-12-30) #
"Inspirato"
Maureen Conlin (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations on your new decision for 2017. II never think of it as quitting but rather as traveling a new road by turning off the old one. It is always an adventure no matter what turn you take. Best of luck to you. Thank you for all you have done.
Hooshang (2016-12-30) #
You are brace man I admire you to be honest I scare to quit my job

Hooshang
Gooding (2016-12-30) #
you are absolutely wonderful. you have more than earned this brother. bought and paid for.

"anything you want" taught me a ton and I wish you the best of everything. thanks for all you give to this world.

gooding
Kary (2016-12-30) #
Wow! Congratulations! I've received some emails from you in the past and have been very grateful for them but have wondered how you've managed. Ironically, I just introduced a friend to your site last week and was saying you've always been more personal & heart centered than many people on the web.

I know now, not to expect a response but I do want to say thank you. I'm very grateful for the knowledge & inspiration you've shared over the years.

I wish you the best in your new endeavors and look forward to reading all that is to come.

Have a happy new year!!

Kary Michaels
Pan (2016-12-30) #
Thanks for all your responses so far Derek! Please do not quite writing article just yet!
Dan (2016-12-30) #
Love it! Keep up the posts my good man.
Joe Williams (2016-12-30) #
Congratlations. You will be missed.
Randi (2016-12-30) #
Courageous! I do the same but not at your magnitude, nor with your gusto and confidence. I can [continue to] learn a lot from you! Good luck!
John (2016-12-30) #
You go Derek!

Do what YOU want to do, life is too short. Just be sure to have fun along the way.

Best,

John
Frank fabio (2016-12-30) #
Totally agree thanks for the help over the years you were cd baby that's I joined. Sinatras epitaph "the best is yet to come" bye Derek
Alison (2016-12-30) #
Sounds like you'll get lots more space! Thank you for answering my email and I'm glad you're not quitting your idea output which was the daunting thought as I read down the mail. The only constant is that everything must change. I have recently given up a singing job I love to create my album, there was some grief involved, stepping out of the familiar into the unknown.
Christen (2016-12-30) #
You've inspiried me since I was 22 and started my own management company - I released countless records through cd baby and today am managing one of the bigger non-pop acts in the world. Thank you for everything. Keep doing the good stuff, the hard things that make you grow and keep having fun, man.

Christen
Julie (2016-12-30) #
Hmm... I've been contemplating quitting my teaching job in Mongolia to do other things I love and have neglected, like making art, writing a book, maybe starting a tea cafe and other interesting things. You may have nudged me a bit. Cheers! -Julie
Meryem (2016-12-30) #
I am so proud of you. Go Derek!!! Love you!
Sheree (2016-12-30) #
Your not quitting anything. Your just making room for new beginnings. Very courageous of you to do that. I probably could not do what you have done
Ritesh Nagpal (2016-12-30) #
I have got good advice from you via email multiple times. I am gonna miss it. But I respect your decision. I am sure that you are going to fill the space with sometime more creative. All the best :)
Nancy (2016-12-30) #
I saw Derek Sivers at a music convention/rally many years ago. He recommended reading two books. One was THINK AND GROW RICH and I believe the other was HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE. I thought there and then that this guy is different from so many of the people in the music industry - he really cares! He wants people to do well.

BOY WAS I RIGHT!!!!

GODSPEED MR. DEREK SIVERS AND A VERY HAPPY 2017

p.s. 2 + 0 + 1 + 7 = 10 (or 1 ) just saying......
Judy Norbury (2016-12-30) #
Well done and good luck with your new incarnation! I know you're no longer answering emails but I'm oh, so, curious as to where you now live.

Cheers and thank you and Happy New Year!

Judy Norbury
Vancouver Island, BC
John "Juano" Lippi (2016-12-30) #
I dig your logic, and your freedom from letting it dictate everything in your life... Like many, I will miss being able to contact you, but you have my contact info. so the ball has landed in your court.

I went from playing in the touring band Karmic, when we met in Virigina many years ago and you we with Hit Me, to living in NYC for over a decade and recording with Edie Brickell, then to Portland for a year and Los Angeles for a few, and now I'm in Phoenix making videos for a 40 year old guitar-making school named Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery.

When you get that musical feeling drop in and see what's going on... Peace on your journey, Lippi

www.roberto-venn.com
www.juanolippi.com

P.S. if you ever need a second employee look me up
Bruce (2016-12-30) #
Bravo. You did what you did for a reason but what a huge time consumer. I could not believe you lasted in that task for so long.
Ted Lawrence (2016-12-30) #
Congratulations, Derek! enjoy the freedom!
Michael (2016-12-30) #
First-a thank you from one of the 78,000. I enjoyed getting a real response from you. At the time I couldn't believe you'd make yourself so accessible. I've learned over the years since that's just who you choose to be. Cool on you. ☺

Second, a business minded friend with commercial farming experience came to visit a couple years back and helped me prune my beloved fruit trees. Serious pruning; I hated cutting them so much. Since then? BUCKETS of fruit. He recommended doing the same to my professional endeavors. Still learning how to cut things I love out of my life to make room for growth.

Here's to quitting-more power to you.
Todd Ludahl (2016-12-30) #
Derek! Awesome! I shared that I was taking a hiatus from Facebook and now I rarely login. And when I did I saw a link to this article! I love the timing! I am excited to see what you fill your space with. May I respectfully encourage you towards your family. My Gawd - it was just yesterday when _____

Mad love and respect!~

-Todd =)
Lucas (2016-12-30) #
I'm happy to be one of the 78,000 people you respond. I will talk to my children how one of the most important people in earth wrote to me. THANKS
Dawn (2016-12-30) #
Good for you! Enjoy this next chapter of your life. I can't wait to hear what it turns out to be.
Marian Milne (2016-12-30) #
Hi Derek, It's so nice to have met you here on the internet and can be a part of this social network. Thank you for sharing your articles and emails.
Wishing you and your family all the best in your new adventures.
Tim (2016-12-30) #
Funny... I have quit so many things for similar reasons. AND, I am about to again.
If I don't, I know I will regret it.
Thanks D for all your insite and wisdom. I hope our paths cross someday.
Sincerely,
T. BUdd
Aka Barefoot Skinny.
Ps. Good Luck on the new adventure!
Jill (2016-12-30) #
Hugely brave and inspiring.
Jesse Anderson (2016-12-30) #
The life of an active musician is a stern discipline, often confronted by doubt and frustration. My answer is: just keep at it, keep working, stay relaxed, give it time, it will come, eventually. After all, it's a life-work. It's the same with most difficult endeavors, I suspect. Good luck, whatever you do, Derek.
Marjorie (2016-12-30) #
You gain further knowledge and wisdom along your path of life and this only comes to those who seek it and not to those who wait. Take great strides Derek and enjoy your journey!
Warmest wishes, and all the best to you in the new year and your future endeavours!
Val (2016-12-30) #
Great lesson here Derek, the change is the only way to evolve.
One day a wiseman told me: "Everything changes, we should always welcome the change, cause the only thing that will never change is the fact that everything changes."
Cheers from Switzerland
Kishor (2016-12-30) #
Seriously I do appreciate it from my heart.
This is really sensible.
spiritually also it makes sense. Thank you for such an
Inspiring message. God bless you in all your endeavors.
Please do take care.
Connie (2016-12-30) #
Sounds to me like you have it figured out
A life that is right for you and works for you

Good Luck Stay Strong
You sound like a Warrior
Tony Trueblood (2016-12-30) #
Your wilingness to change and let the feelings of loss
Fall onto the roadside , and fade into the landcape,
are inspiring visuals for me to observe.
I'd like to develop that aspect of myself and see it realized.
Thanks
Tony
Á
Dereck Rose (2016-12-30) #
Derek, thanks for all your inspiring writings over the years, which always comes at just the right time when needed. After 17 years of marriage, myself and partner have decided to go our separate ways, and I know that I will leave the UK to live somewhere else. For a long time I've been de-cluttering my personal space in order to be surrounded by only the things I need, so now at the last day of 2016, I read your article and feel that this is right, bringing in a new change for 2017. Happy new year to you Sir, and hope to read many more of your articles in future.
Sherri Thal (2016-12-30) #
Inspiring and intriguing. Congratulations! Thank you for all that you have done for others; so glad that the happiness appears mutual. Best of luck in your new venture!
Aloha,
Sherri
AlexJohn (2016-12-30) #
****ROCK ON DEREK^^^^^ GO IN AND BE HARMONY love AlexJohn x
Pete J. Peter (2016-12-31) #
Well done buddy and sometimes one, must see his or her life, for goodness and age. Today I'm at home with my family and enjoy playing music. on my own terms. Thank you for everything you do and I'm so glad you are with your family too!
Alex Guitar (2016-12-31) #
"This dream is over dream another dream": phrase from one of Van Halen's songs.
Resentely I've been in conversation with someone where this exactly subject came up.
Not many people can put up with this situation. Scary habit.
And I have brought up your example as one of not many who can survive this like a "chameleon".
I don't know if I say something new here, but your experience & surviving techniques needs to be studied very closely.
Have you ever been to Russia?
Happy new year & best wishes to you, Derek!!!

www.alexguitar.tk
John (2016-12-31) #
Hi Derek,
Thanks for the updates. We are alike in many ways. Enough to say we could have a good conversation about many things someday. Thank you for your correspondence in the past. I don't expect I'll be hearing from you in person for a while. You're a busy guy. One last bit of info you might find interesting, I've come up with an interesting way of looking at chord progressions. It leads to a way to write hooks, some real ear candy based on the great pop writers of the 1900's. If you're curious about it, let me know. Enjoy New Zealand!
Kindest Regards,
John
Tom Matt (2016-12-31) #
Derek,
Gotta get you back on the radio program my man, I love this topic, lets riff on it and catch up.

Hit us back peace brotha,

Tom & Sandy
Jason Dandeno (2016-12-31) #
I never comment, as I read a few and realise there are generally over 500 already.
But..
Please do continue to share your thought process with me as I appreciate it. Thanks Derek
Sonke (2016-12-31) #
Good stuff Derek

Keep listening to your heart ☺
Jörg (2016-12-31) #
Sharp and concise as ever.
Exactly the place where I find myself in the moment.
Only that you're smarter and faster about quitting and I wait too long until it hurts or is no fun anymore.
I have to work on my quitting abilities.
Happy new year from Buenos Aires!
Rhett (2016-12-31) #
I think you would enjoy a chat with me on my radio show in its 23rd
year.
Live from the East Coast of Florida
Daily
772-473-7777
Rhett Palmer
Prabhavatsan (2016-12-31) #
Nice read. Was going through a similar situation in life. Keep writing derek!
Dawn Nelson (2016-12-31) #
You are a breath of fresh air! I also have found that it is necessary
to quit things to leave space for new things.

Surprised to know that you no longer live in the US. I am so curious now! Guessing you live in
Australia now. Since you will not answer questions, I guess we will
just have to remain curious. Best to you!
Woojeon (2016-12-31) #
Hi, most of all, it sounds like you know exctlt what you want and what makes you happy. That's great! And that's a gift.
I confess that I used to agree with you more- and I would dare confess again, I'm getting old and that's why I don't as often anymore. . Something you familiar with, something you can do well- why quit? Unless you sick of it. Life offers different flavors- for example, very simple one, if I get used to my work, I can work more time efficiently, then maybe I have extra time to do enjoy new hobby.
I guess you have the point. We tend to stay where we are, and any changes are huge stressor for anyone most of time. No right or wrong, I just think maybe you're bolder than average. You like new challenges- in other words (with my aging process) you like to put yourself into hardship. Haha I personally don't know you so don't take it anything serious, pls.
Happy new year!!
Brian (2016-12-31) #
Hi Derek. You're an interesting person. I find it interesting also that you've moved. Probably a good idea. If I were in your shoes I would travel to a country like the Philippines. (I'm not Filipino but I've been there many times.) Most of the people there are very nice. Kind, happy (even in hardship). But there are so many people there that desperately need help. A person like you could do a lot of good there. I've done quite a bit of good there myself but I just don't have the resources I would like to have. It's so rewarding helping others. Whatever your path, good luck to you!
John Phelps (2016-12-31) #
At least you're quitting for the right reasons!
jp
Cathy (2016-12-31) #
HAPPY NEW YEAR DEREK ! :)Keep making room for more. Best wishes. Excellent article to start my New Years Eve Day ! Thank you.
Brenda Schmidt (2016-12-31) #
Never really thought about it Derek. But, I think it's a great idea to break away from what you love, to make good growth in whatever it is that you do love doing. If that at all makes sense. Some of us are just into creating. Sounds like this is you Derek. For me it's music, and videos. But after awhile I find myself non creative. So that's when I get myself a new piece of gear or guitar to bring back the creativity. Most of us have several things we love doing. So yes, whether it's momentarily quitting, or all together. Just keep doing what you love. And if you haven't found it yet. Dig deep, it's there.
TerryLee WHETSTONe (2016-12-31) #
Good for you
I need to figure out what to quit.
Not getting where I want to be.
Thank you
TerryLee
Mel H (2016-12-31) #
Wow... if anyone would ask me what's the key to success, I'd look to your example and answer GENEROSITY and THOUGHTFULNESS. Much continued success!
Kristy Landgren (2016-12-31) #
Wow! You are an adventurous soul, Derek!
While not all possess your courage and vision, you
truly are an inspiration. All the best to you in
your new changes. And how appropriate all of this
falls at the end of 2016 and the beginning of
2017. Happy New Year!
Jonathan Sprout (2016-12-31) #
Very interesting! So, you're making conscious major changes that force you to reinvent yourself, which is something we "artists" need to regularly do in order to stir up the deepest parts of us to allow our creations to surface. I admire your proactivity. Must be truly empowering. Definitely inspiring.
Mike (2016-12-31) #
Theory: We all have some gift to offer others

Observation: Your gift to me today was a radically broadened perspective. Quit a job? Move to a different country? Learn something completely new? Actually DO these things??

Love it all. Thanks!
Linda Thornberg (2016-12-31) #
You inspire me! Happy Future to you! Thank you for sharing yourSELF.
JAMES LOVE (2016-12-31) #
Our coming together was based on my business with CDBABY. I recognized from the very beginning how hands on you were as its man-in-charge. I trusted you without knowing if I could or not (if that makes sense). As a member, you consistently kept me updated on my products success or not. You invited me to your seminars. Over the years I would receive your post that were always filled with industry updates. Even when you left CDBABY I was confident you had turned it over to reliable people. To be honest, its not the same since you left but that's the theme of this message, CHANGE. My only regret is not having emailed you for advice or just feedback on (music industry) issues. I continue to maintain as a jazz singer. I love singing the standards. Anyway, I hope this isn't farewell, but if so GOD Bless... James Love/INVITATIONS 2004
Charles (2016-12-31) #
Admirable, inspirational, but what's next? What will be the new? Best and many thanks!
Judy Welden (2016-12-31) #
Thanks for this unexpected email, Derek. I've always considered you an
amazingly caring person, up there with the likes of Mother Teresa and Ghandi! I know you'll shine and be happy with whatever you choose to do!
Avril Bonner (2016-12-31) #
Derek,

You have touched many lives - you may not be in touch with us personally, but keeping it universal - as you can see, that's what we all want.

Love

Avrilxx
Dennis McClung (2016-12-31) #
Man! You have accomplished sooo much!!! It only stands to reason that there has to be some wisdom behind consistent successes. I'm pretty sure you know what you're doing. I wish you continued success in whatever endeavor you choose and I thank you for the friendship. Happy Holidays!!! ☺
bruce (2016-12-31) #
I just quit something 12/30/2016 I had become comfortable with over the passed 3 years, a job,and I liked it.But something just kept telling me to leave it.The nice thing is I didn't have to be mad at anyone and I got a chance to experience how happy people were to have me there all this time by how shocked they were to find out just two days before I was leaving after me giving a month notice to management,like most managers do.So hearing this from you at this time is helpful and makes good sense to me..Starting a new thing at the New Year!
Terry Medeiros (2016-12-31) #
Happy New Year my friend, Cheers
Mike Broward (2016-12-31) #
Happy new year Derick!
Your article arrives at a time when I need to hear it. I was musing back about New Years 40 years ago... I started playing music as a pro in 1973, in 1976 I was playing 6 nights a week, 5 sets a night in Del mar. Ca at a gig where we didn't move our gear for a year and a half.... It was a dream for my 23 year old self.

I have continued to change with the market, carved out a loyal following, have the gear i love and find myself without the desire to play any longer. I believe that the spaces are just a important as the stuff, so this year i am going to try to quit, or at least downscale my solo career.

I guess I needed to write this down, so Thanks. blessings to you......
Mike Broward
Gabe (2016-12-31) #
Hey Derek,

Thanks for all the mails and articles you have put out there - although I haven't been actively participating in any of your discussions and have not involved myself in your projects (like the "Now" project - https://sive.rs/nowff ); however, I might just do so in 2017.... ;) Really appreciate your notifications and all the things you've did and still are doing, you are one amazing human being!!!

Wishing you a happy and fruitful New 2017 Year, best to you and yours, cheers! :)

Gabe

P.S. This is actually the email I have wanted to send you just now, but my email client gives me a 451 Error, so posting it here, hehe.. :)
david griffith (2016-12-31) #
thankyou for all your posts. I thought they were constructive enough to have a folder in my email for them. Quiting what you love to make room for something else is an unusual perspective - food for thought. In your post, one endeavour makes way for another and I'm assuming that you knew something of the new endeavour before you left the old. I don't get the sense that, in this case, you actually know in advance the next interest which will open up for you.

You are inspirational. Your work with cdbaby gave me and many others a platform. Your generosity, your giving freely, is not an impulse - you've done this for decades and it's wonderful.
Trudee Lunden (2016-12-31) #
Great post as always Derek. Wishing you a wonderful 2017!
Peter Yarmouth (2016-12-31) #
Derek,

Best of luck with any direction you take, you are a pro!
Diane (2016-12-31) #
Happy new year and new ventures and prosperity ahead! You are giving me some inspiration again! Thank you and Godspeed...
Levon Tumanyan (2016-12-31) #
And this is in face for those who always wanted to ask that one question but always put it off for the next time. Derek I always wanted to write to you and most importantly say thanks for being a great human being and for what you do. Happy new year everyone.
Marcus Dagan (2016-12-31) #
I don't think of as quitting more like entering a new Realm leaving behind baggage that weighs down the innovative spirit that needs to soar. Everything we do propels us forward to discover a new road that awaits us with open vistas. Everything I do is done with Love of discovering what I'm only just capable of. Once I master it I move to the next challenge. Even though I'm 68 I still do this.
All the best on your adventures that await you.
Marcus.
lori Davis-Sandoval (2016-12-31) #
Thanks for sharing, thanks for inspiring. Oh and I love that "quit", means to be free in French.
You have inspired me for many years, and We really appreciate you so much. Happy Day, Happy Year.

[email protected]
Yolanda Thomas (2016-12-31) #
Wow! Another awesome article from Derek. Making room for something new by quitting your current habits currently filling your day. Scary stuff actually.
I've lived my life by doing what scares me the most. One being relocating to America from Australia. Facing your fears to gain inner confidence etc.

I agree to shake up your life you have to make drastic changes. I agree with letting go first before the 'new' can come in.
Once I played the game with my life " do everything opposite of what you would normally do" (remember that Seinfeld episode -Opposite George)
It worked! I got a career jump up.
I also played " saying YES to everything for a week" (Had to call an abrupt end to that one though lol!!)
Anyway -Creating space in your life- I totally agree!
Thankyou for the reminder Derek! ✔️??
Elly Klein (2016-12-31) #
I enjoyed swapping a few emails with you, Derek. But I totally understand it's time for you to move forward from answering everyone's emails. Onwards and upwards! Happy New You. ;-)
SUSAN (2016-12-31) #
Be happy Always..Happy New Year..Heath Wealth and prosperity to you and your family..And Thank you for all you do.. including : mending hearts:shairing truth:teaching:Leading:being there:Lucky to have you...Suz
Tor "Solar Fred" Valenza (2016-12-31) #
Derek, thanks for all your generosity with your time for me and other familiar strangers. You deserve more time for yourself, and I will continue to appreciate your insights through this blog and all of your other methods of communication. Happy New Year and enjoy your extra time.
Douglas (2016-12-31) #
Thanks for all the times that you have answered my emails.
I could see the end of it coming, though.
Professor Pooch (2017-01-01) #
Understood - totally! Like my people saying to me, "Pooch, you only can be in 5 places at once!"
Funny, been going through the same thing, myself, making a "course adjustment." It's actually very normal to change course a little or a lot after 7 years of anything. Think about when you were 14, 21, 28, etc. you'll notice changes in your life. Look at how many rock stars died at 27 - the year leading up to the change - where rock stars started feeling a change coming and it scared them - & drugs seemed to be the answer... Also, counting 7's doing Anything. I separated from my wife after 7 years - got back together and divorced in the 14th year. Well, luckily I'm old enough to know this stuff - and not get scared - and prepared to love the evolving...
Best Wishes, Always to You...
Srinath (2017-01-01) #
It was great while it lasted. Thanks so much Derek. Darn, I should have sent the mail last week.
Rick Stokes (2017-01-01) #
Thanks Derek,

There you go again, blazing the trail ahead of so many of us caught by the trapping trimmings of life. Certainly inspiring, challenging too, as each of us takes a quick nervous glance at our own circumstances.

Today we completed a 2 week shift from one very large rental property to another much smaller one. Sure, there are 10 of us, 1 sheep, a cat and some chickens, plus a recording studio, woodworking business and a couple of other businesses, but the bottom line is we now have too much stuff.

You might enjoy the fact that the cat we vacuumed last time we talked had his first taste of high speed travel in my son's car today. Scared the crap out of him. Literally. Catastrophic.

Anyway, I digress... Thanks for your replies to my emails, and please don't stop keeping us all informed, leaving markers behind for those who are yet to discover your trail.
Martin Folatelli (2017-01-01) #
My dear Derek, you are in the top list of admired people. Thanks for all, from my heart. All the best my friend.
Albert Leng (2017-01-01) #
Words can't express how much I appreciate your emails. They have accompanied me through lots of ups and downs and gave me insightful perspectives. You'll be missed!
David Whiting (2017-01-01) #
You've always been gracious with your time. I frankly don't know how you replied to so many emails. Thank you for sharing your unique insights over the years. Wishing you a beautiful 2017. No reply expected ;)
Debby (2017-01-01) #
Hello Derek,

I haven't read many of your articles, but this really got my attention. I do wish you well in your new life.

I have really appreciated what CDBaby has done for me personally. I was never interested in the pop star life. Although I wrote poetry and lyrics since childhood, played a violin in the school, orchestra, I loved many forms of music. I bought a cheap guitar, a Bob Dylan song book and imersersed myself in chords and tuning strings perfecting my melodies. I bought an antique piano and perfected more melodies. I went into engineering but was a closet musician. When the time was right, I produced enough songs for an album and found CD Baby! Your publishing services generated enough nickles and dimes and contacts that I produced a few more country music albums.

Happy New Year! And all the best in your new endeavors.

I'm happy to say Thank you for all the fun I have had with music! I now limit the isolation of private chord progressions.

Thank you for all the fun of airplay world wild! They like my simple songs! Thank you for all you've helped me do!

All the best,

Debby
Debby Turner Music
New York
Debby (2017-01-01) #
One more thing:

When I have more music time, I will dedicate my next album to you! A new genre, Classical country music. You'll love it!

Thank you again, Dear Derek!

Happy New Year!

Debby
Joanna NicciTina Free (2017-01-01) #
BRAVO, Derek... and DAMN. Well, we can't do it all. Choosing is hard and important. I remember our email exchange after I'd read and written to you about your book. The careful - and STRONG - editing is one of its greatest features. You inspired me.

Now you are doing the same with your life.

Again, I thank you for your good example.

Joanna Free
Stephanie Engel (2017-01-01) #
Thank you for your candor in questioning how to do business, Especially as a creative musician, is America, and in today's world. I know of you from CD Baby days (I'm still selling slowly through them, and I'm eternally grateful, and I'm happy you kept me on your email list. Please continue to let me know what you're doing, and where you are. I myself live as simply as I can here in the U.S., but have been very tempted often to move away. Simplicity helps meantime.
Dave Plaehn (2017-01-01) #
Thanks for your generosity, kindness and inventiveness. Best to you in your future endeavors.
Keaton Smith (2017-01-01) #
Just as a holographic image changes with the slightest tilt, so to can you have the same effect on your life. Some just choose to never "tilt the mirror" of life. Continue to expand your horizons!

Keaton Smith
Chief Idea Engineer
770-561-5285 | innovationandsupply.com/
“$2.5 Million and counting in Documented Cost Savings”
Vistage Member
Andy Dowling (2017-01-01) #
Honoured to have had my one email responded to some time ago. It's absolutely amazing that you have conversed with so many people for so many years. Just reading your articles have been life changing for me, however no doubt you've done even more through those direct conversations.

Congratulations and looking forward to those new projects that you're now creating time for.
Wade McIntyre (2017-01-01) #
Lovely Derek, always enjoy your work and am thankful for the emails of mine you did answer :)
All the best for the future
Antonios Klokkaris (2017-01-01) #
To quit voluntarily something you love is not human like but your philosophy to try to do it open new ways of possible enrichments of our life.
Thank you Derek and all the best for 2017.
Luigi (2017-01-01) #
Nice thoughts Derek, you can still pay someone to answer by your name and every one will be satisfied.

Enjoy your Life and I wish you a happy change for the new year.

Peace
Luigi
I strongly considered that! ☺ But no, feels weird to live a lie. — Derek
Race Knower (2017-01-02) #
You are quite brave to give up what you love and step into the unknown. However your experiences shows that you have been very successful each time. Many congratulations and Happy New Year. Wishing you great days ahead in 2017.
James Kilbane (2017-01-02) #
Hi Derek,

Happy New Year! Make space if that is what you want to do and explore new ground. Thank you for your work. Your work has made a difference to my life and work. Thank you again and sincerely the very best to you.

James
Barry (2017-01-02) #
I could be greedy and think "aw" but of course I won't! ☺
I still have happy memories of receiving mails from you when I'd mail CD Baby with a question. It always surprised me that you'd respond in person. Sounds like you're still having fun. Long may it continue.
Carol Lo Verde (2017-01-02) #
Have always loved your wisdom, Derek, and look forward to more. Sounds like your new journey and New Year will overflow with the Fullness of life. Congratulations on your decision. Peace.
Rita Esterly (2017-01-02) #
You are extremely inspiring to me and although you will no longer answer questions, I do hope you will keep sending e-mails that link us to your perceptions and ideas so I can continue to be inspired by your incredible "Neptunian" thinking.
Jeff Pike (2017-01-02) #
I absolutely loved this article, Derek. I thank you for sharing and I have to say that I have a mountain of respect and admiration for you. Good luck in your future and Happy New Year!

Jeff Pike
www.jeffpike.com
Dominique (2017-01-02) #
Derek,

This post received over 750 comments. And that's just one post.

I can't imagine HOW many emails you get on the daily and the fact that you've taken the time to respond to 192,000 of them....BRAVO to you, man, for both taking the time out of your life to do that AND for saying enough and taking that time for something new.

Cheers to you in this new year and I'll continue to read your emails!
Much love!
Dominique Anders
Todd (2017-01-02) #
Thank you for my answering emails in the past. I really appreciate it.
Devon Joy (2017-01-02) #
I think your choice is amazing, fantastic, and a creative way to live life.
Angie (2017-01-02) #
hey mystery person, I understand it, I quit too, I bought a condo overseas to save myself from myself and my addiction to work. Now, like you I will find something new to quit, we rock
Peter Headley (2017-01-02) #
Very valuable, help to open the creative juices. Thanks and continued success in your new journey.
tony mckenzie (2017-01-02) #
Hi Derek, you know, there is one thing that all the 'big boys' NEVER have... and that is the 'one to one' talking as you have done. It makes you completely credible and all the others far less credible and that's a fact. Not being easily and directly able to communicate actually will reduce credibility (he has not time for use type of thing) and I do believe that once that's gone then you might as well be 'smith and co' just as much as 'Sivers' over the company name (just one example). I too have spent eons replying to every single email whether from my website or indeed YouTube posts and there is no doubt in my mind that it only improves what I do. You will be no different I don't think. I don't email you ever, but just remember what I said a year or two from now, its based on personal experience and I sincerely hope my comment helps.
Greg Trafidlo (2017-01-02) #
Derek,

Congrats on your new "quit!" It takes courage to give yourself the space and time to find new pursuits, expand horizons and take the leap.

My love affair with music has been a double edged sword for years now. Being in that space has been torturous at times, but offers the breathing room for re-evaluating the question "WHY?" Some of the answers ain't pretty, but they are as revealing as they are enlightening.

By not answering others questions, you can now answer your own. Physician, you're healing thyself! Best to you.
Keith Korsgaard (2017-01-02) #
Cool Derek!! Change is good, most of the time. I myself am glad I have changed paths many times, sometimes not by choice lol! But good for the soul to have different experiences.
We have been programed to stay in our safety zones. All the best man!!!!!
Don Haynie (2017-01-02) #
Jeez! What amazes me is that you lasted as long as you did. What a thing to take on! We are still gonna get these little articles, though, yes? I'd miss 'em if they stopped entirely. Hau'oli makahiki hou!
Frank Bueka (2017-01-03) #
It's OK my friend. If you go where the heart brings you. The choices will always we right. Be and stay always welcome....send me a mail if you are in Amsterdam. We'll drink a beer or something !! Greetz Frank
Brent (2017-01-03) #
Cheers Derek!
Dawn (2017-01-03) #
Love the "now" page idea. I'm revamping my site and seeking to truly be myself and focus on what turns my crank instead of what I think will sell more of my stuff. Thanks for inspiration!
Dawn
Victor (2017-01-03) #
When you quit something, is it because you feel that it's time to quit, or it's like "I have a rule of quitting something after some random amount of time"?

I mean, break up with your girlfriend because you understand your relationship is not going any good direction even if you love her - is one thing, but leave her in the middle of a date because you suddenly got a thought that there are better girls around (just by math probability) - is another thing.

For me it looks like you are talking about the first case while it looks like its about the second.
Joey Chang (2017-01-03) #
Thanks for answering a few of my emails to you over the years.
Love your blog.
Daniel Lovett (2017-01-03) #
Why are you quitting? Who on earth will answer my questions now?

Be free my brother and enjoy the next stages of your journey!

"Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." - Bible
Jsean/isean (2017-01-03) #
Great you make me laugh
really good..keep it going
much love
Vic Moraga (2017-01-03) #
Happy New Years Derek. Thank you for your realized inspiration. What tools of assistance you have manifested have helped many, many artists such as myself. Please take good care of you. I am your friend.

Vic Moraga
Donna Konsorado (2017-01-03) #
Derek, you are among the people that have inspired me the most. Thank you
Ryan quinn (2017-01-03) #
I feel so lucky to hear from you before you decided to stop. Thanks derek
Shayan (2017-01-03) #
Derek,

It's been a pleasure and honour emailing you and actually have you not only respond, but write actual paragraphs (instead of just one word replies). I always felt lucky knowing you would take the time to respond, but completely understandable you would take this route.

If you haven't yet, I would recommend learning how to ride a motorcycle - it is beyond thrilling and I want to learn myself also.

Always look forward to reading your articles. If you are ever in Toronto and want to grab a drink/coffee,know that you have a friend who would be more than happy to meet you.

Cheers,
Shayan
Colin Barnes (2017-01-03) #
Good onya Derek! Where's a 'thumbs up' emoji when you need one!! :)
Have a great 2017...
Arthur McGregor (2017-01-03) #
I did the same thing for 38 years and I loved it but it was killing me. Someone asked if I was brave enough to quit what I was doing. It was very difficult but I did it. I'm great! Bravery is needed to accept change.
Tamara Nile (2017-01-03) #
I congratulate you Derek! I was always careful not to email you too often because I had the sense not to "overstay my welcome". I consider you a cherished friend but I guess tens of thousand starts of others have the same idea and that's unsustainable energetically. I'll miss you! Congratulations on your new freedom!
Iskander (2017-01-03) #
Hi Derek, nothing to congratulate you with. I think although quitting DOES leave some free space for what you want, you've become pretty selfish. That is not a bad thing, BTW, yet by quitting email answers you ruin your image in the eyes of thousands of people who've read your articles. I know you don't care much anymore, yet ruining your image IS bad idea. Why first pretend you care for people and then cut off all links? Sorry, that's inconsistent. And it shows you only think about yourself nowadays. I thought creation of CDBaby and this blog was meant for people by you, but now it is obvious you're tired of playing a *special* blogger. To my mind, your next step will be quitting this blog. Again, that's not tragic, no one will die because of that. I feel sad because a person who first invites everyone to email him and then says he is fed up is inconsistent and cold. I was lucky to get several emails from you. What about those who might need your personal advice in the future? Don't you think it is unfair to leave them without your reply? You used to seem a unique blogger, and now you are just another source of blahblahblah. A person who really loves what he does, will never *quit* that thing, whatever it takes. What is your excuse? Being full-time musician? Derek, wake up. You're pretty much mediocre as musician. Not interesting. You were interesting as CDBaby creator - THAT was your mission. You left it - no matter what was the reason. You left your mission. You failed back then. Afterwards, your mission was keeping in touch with those who believed you were special. If you claim to care for people, then don't whine and complain - just do care and keep in touch. That's all I wanted to tell you.
Clark Schroeder (2017-01-03) #
Always a great perspective! Keep pushing the boundaries of life!!
Debra Russell (2017-01-03) #
Honestly, it's why I created the Artists Marketing & Business Academy. It just wasn't a good use of my time to answer the same questions over and over. So now, when I get a great question, I turn it into a class! And then if someone asks it again - I just say - "Oh, great question! I answered it in this class ... "
Joanne Petersen (2017-01-03) #
Bully for you! Enjoy your new freedom, create more things, live life more fully. Email your personal friends only, like most of us (non-famous) people do. Post to let all the rest of us know what you're doing. GO!!!
Stanley Durbin (2017-01-03) #
hey man thanks for the e-mail, i think it's cool u have the income to do what u want, unfortunately money means freedom! in this world i must not assume that u have income like that, u are talking about freedom to me,so thank u, you have given me food for thought keep going on your path, but don't forget about the spirit and faith in what's not seen, thank u again for contacting me, peace,Stanley.
Mykel (2017-01-03) #
it's no accident I was emptying my junk email folder and came across your email.
it is where I am at now...
凯哥自媒体 (2017-01-03) #
挺好的，感谢博主的分享。
Jim Wang (2017-01-04) #
Not that you need to explain yourself (or have anyone "give permission") but after 192,000 emails and an FAQ page informed by those 192,000 emails, it's probably safe and fair to stop answering questions. Thanks for all you do, hopefully this frees energy to do even more hell yeas.
☺ — Derek
Otono Lujan (2017-01-04) #
Damn! That's awesome, Derek!

Thank you for sharing in this way. It's a source of inspiration for me.

Much appreciated.
Kim (2017-01-04) #
You brought tears to my eyes. Profound. Thank you. Kind of speechless. But ever so grateful you are not. Powerful words and inspiration. Much needed at this time in my life. <3 Thank you again.
les pardoe (2017-01-04) #
Quit while you are ahead they say. You are miles ahead. Thanks very much for all your good work. Continued success. Les Pardoe.
Amy Conley (2017-01-04) #
I admire the fact that you moved overseas. I'd love to hear about why you will not move back to the USA, that would interest me.
Thanks for your great communications and inspirations!
Just for the same reason as other things named here: moving forward, not back. I'm already as American as can be. It's a big world, and I want to get to know it deeply. — Derek
Joanie (2017-01-04) #
Congratulations! You and what you do are awesome! You have inspired me as I have made many changes over the past several years (also moving countries and letting go of writing and recording music but now learning classical guitar). I love my my life with lots of space for exploring, learning and sharing!

Wishing you all the best that life has to offer!
Kia koa koe (wishing you joy)
Joanie Bartels
Brendan (2017-01-05) #
We'll miss your replies but glad you're taking the load off Derek!
Thanks heaps for all your help and advice in the past, and keep up the awesome work!
Brendan
Becca (2017-01-05) #
Grand gesture https://sive.rs/book/DeepWork
Banu (2017-01-05) #
What a great post. This was what I needed today!
Question: How do you deal with the grief?
Thanks!
Banu
FRANKIE VAN CREEF (2017-01-05) #
Derek, I lost my email for a number of weeks. I just opened up this, this evening. You remind me of a fellow who I heard talking on NPR. He discovered that a great deal of his time was gathering material wealth and materials around him. He started thinking about a special teacher from the far east. This teacher said, you will free yourself if you live with a minimum of things that you need, and learn how to share with whatever is left. It is not about being austere to yourself. It involves not being anchored by what you have accumulated as if these possessions make you who you are. They are not. It will surprise you how well you can live without being a consumer that propels you into the next "got to have, got to do another bunch of stuff".
My mother died on Dec 17th 2016. She was my best friend. She will always be my best friend, throughout eternity (whatever that brings). Her possessions that she left behind, have no significance to me other than I remember how much she loved these things for all sorts of reasons. All these things are gone from her. She is still alive in the spirit world, whatever, and wherever, that means. It reminds me of J. Lennon's song, The Ballad of John and Yoko. (I paraphrase) Last night the wife woke me and said, Oh, boy, when you are dead you don't take nothing with you but your soul.
You have so much energy and ability to survive with your innate sense of innovation and camaraderie. I would like to think that you are unique in your legacy of being a producer. I think producer is a worn out word. It is the opposite of being a consumer. Your gift drives you. I am a producer too. Most of what I produce is not for me, first and foremost. I produce because if I did not produce, then it would not get produced. I am sure I know you well enough to suggest that this drive that you have as a gift, will continue to open your mind, your spirit, and your abilities to be who you are, Derek.
Chris Plough (2017-01-05) #
Man - I love your commitment to growth over comfort. Not that you need it -- though you have my respect.

Likewise - when I reflect on my travel and adventures, it's one of the most arduous ones - the trek through Siberia to the Arctic Circle that rises to the top.

Thanks for sharing your journey, Derek!
Melinda Stanford (2017-01-05) #
Good for you for creating space by letting go of old things you love and being open to the new. I admire that greatly.

Melinda
Brian Diaz (2017-01-06) #
Thank you
Kate Ashby-Craft (2017-01-06) #
WOW...how brave of you to quit things you love. I am a full time singer/songwriter and have been so for most of my life and I still love it. Lately though I have thought about quitting but not sure if I'm ready to make the plunge yet. Thanks for your thoughts on this.
luke hurley (2017-01-06) #
What the Charles Dickens are you trying to prove buddy?
David (2017-01-07) #
I understand... for me; I think of it as moving-foreword :)
Nora (2017-01-07) #
Thanks for the communication of your retreating from answering emails.

As far as the philosophy bringing it about:

Inspiring. You got my admiration. I love the focus on loving all this room for change. A dance improv teacher once said: don't think about the space you left. Only focus on the space in front of you. I'm a classically trained improvising violinist, and I applied her wisdom the way I approach freely played music. I would say freely played music has been my main "spiritual teacher" in regards to living life.

Quitting is hard. I do look at the space I'm leaving behind in life, thoroughly, to free myself fully for the adventure to come. It feels much less risky playing an off-note, a not-connected note, (although it can sound quite unpleasant, yet, many deliberate notes sound unpleasant, too, and their challenge to the mind is to find the beauty in the discord) than to contemplate a move away from sunny gorgeous open-minded California to the winter-cold and summer-muggy midwest. I have been digging my heals for years on that one, letting go of California one thought-thread at a time, til there will be no threads left in the rope that ties my boat here.

This freedom dance of quitting things I love, and that gives me a (perhaps false or illusory) sense of belonging and structure, needs to be skillful, for me, so my psyche can follow, so there is a sense of cohesion between who I was and who I am and who I'm becoming. Where do I allow life to shape me and give me an impulse, just as I allow a fellow musician in a performance? Where do I give an impulse and shape life, the way I add my voice to a group of musicians?

And so I struggle and find challenge in developing this skillfulness. Comparing it to music, whether the results of a step are discordant or concordant sonic fields is less important than it is how deliberate my steps are, my decisions and choices: Are they conscious choices? Am I connected to myself and life around me as I move?

I am glad you do what you do and share it. From reading comments below, it appears many, perhaps all, people of this online community feel the same or a similar way. In your writing and thoughts, I see reflected values I hold. And so your articles tend to move me in an odd and deep way.

Carlos Castaneda's Don Juan said in one book that "All paths lead to the same place: Nowhere." (Hahaha! I love that line.) "We might as well choose a path with a heart."

Saying goodbye to your responding to emails, in response to your announcement thereof, brings into focus how often during physically lived life it is required to say goodbye to our friends and to circumstances that nurture us -- including someone's physical death -- so they can pursue their freedom of heart and spirit, and we ours. Perhaps this is the gross equivalent of a subtle spiritual reality of eternal space and change within it.

Happy journeys to everyone!
Jamie (2017-01-07) #
Hi Derek, quits an emotive word with polarized meaning, I like to use the word change, its akin to musical improvisation making or taking a leap to enrich ones experience
Mark ST (2017-01-08) #
> I’m no longer answering email questions.
> But it’s time to make room for change.

Bryan Caplan said something silimar about how he doesn't discuss things in the comment section (even though he reads them all) because the number of people who read the comment section is very limited while if he spends the same time writing a new blog post a lot more people read what he writes.
max (2017-01-08) #
Brace and a tad numb-skully. Hard to find things/places/work you love. No guarantees anything will last tho-so moving on when you want and not when it's forced is brave.
dan (2017-01-09) #
Sounds like a mid-life crisis. You might consider living on the Moon.
Bill Hudson (2017-01-09) #
Best of luck in your new adventure Derek!
We are travelers on this place we call earth and so little time, so why not try to see and hear and feel it all.
Robbie (2017-01-09) #
Congratulations Derek! This sounds healthy to me.
Elizabeth Anne Middleton (2017-01-09) #
Snakes shed their skins in order to grow. It's good for humans, too, to move out of their comfort zones.
Karen Bredberg (2017-01-09) #
Thank you for all of your wonderful articles, and for sharing your thoughts with everyone out there! You have filled a unique place.

Sincerely,

Karen B.
Zaifhul Imam (2017-01-10) #
Wow, you must be bored. and boredom is a killer of soul. Thus, Do as what Nike Says "Just Do It".

I've been following you for a while but only now I decided to put some comments here. Thanks for all of your work.
Jeff Irick (2017-01-10) #
Some people may think this is an off the wall philosophy but I agree with you. When we stay with one thing too long, we stagnate. We humans need "freshness" in our lives. It keeps us interested, engaged and enthusiastic about life. We always need something to look forward to and your philosophy provides exactly that. Well done.
Erica (2017-01-10) #
Hi!
The first thing that came to mind was that takes guts and courageous
All the best with your new 'space'. Sounds exciting and room for
new adventures
Erica
Roberto Capocchi (2017-01-11) #
Inspiring. Life feels crowded, I might just quit something!
Francie (2017-01-11) #
Go In spirit as you inspire!! Cheers!!!
Alejandro Andrade (2017-01-11) #
You are crazy, but I like you.
Joe Ferrill (2017-01-12) #
Good luck to you, Derek. Hope you find what you are looking for.

As for me, I will continue to survive and attempt to thrive here in hell.
Brent Hilliard (2017-01-12) #
I wish I'd known what to ask when I had the chance. If you'll continue to share your insights, We'll continue to learn and grow. Thanks for being you!
jote (2017-01-13) #
You're a real inspiration Derek! So glad I met you :) xx
Amiel (2017-01-13) #
Hi Derek, I passed on your "Hell yes!" or "no" advice to a friend the other day and some light bulbs went off. Thank you. I know how this advice came about for you, and ironically I live in Australia. You're the Rodriguez to our South Africa.
Ligia habel (2017-01-13) #
Good idea. I need to quit. How ?
Kyle (2017-01-14) #
I've always admired the inspiration and motivation of all your blogs and this one is no exception! In my opinion it takes a tremendous amount of courage to quit something you love and/or step away from your comfort zone for good. I hope to do the same thing--there's a lot I'd like to and need to shake up...but that first step is always the scariest!
Daniel Pang (2017-01-15) #
Hi Derek!

Thank you for all your content and generosity! This is a post that totally resonates with my situation right now and I can't help but ask how does the variable of developing deeper long-term relationships (eg. family) factor into your decision of making a change (eg. moving to a new place). I get that quitting one thing makes room for change but isn't there also value maintaining long-term ties? How do you reconcile the two? Thanks!

Daniel
Andrea Plamondon (2017-01-15) #
Traveling ever onward through your own life, sounds so romantic and adventurous...
tina (2017-01-16) #
Hey Derek,

good for you. You deserve it. Your books have been inspirational to me and just makes me want to reach my own success, without having people constant tell me that I can't do it. Once again congrats and may you be prosperous in your life!!
Michele (2017-01-17) #
No worries be happy! Who says the only time we should "quit" is because we're unhappy in one form or another. Leaving what you love to make room for something new to come in is awesome. My hat's off to you!
Consuelo (2017-01-21) #
What a concept...!

I love it.

Will read the post leading up to this one.

C
Paul (2017-01-24) #
That CDBaby.com rips off musical artists. They don't pay us ever. They get rich and get nothing for our blood sweat and tears.
Ken Randall (2017-01-27) #
Youve given lots to lots most will keep draining you forever. Till you move on and then they move on to drain someone else. Yep good move you can only give so much and youve given lots, even though it was for love I can relate to that. Also I am trying to cut from my old life to my new life but we keep the threads alive. Yep great post very timely for me as 2007 is going to be the year for me one has to become a little more selfish me thinks ....Thats easier said than done.
AK (2017-01-27) #
Good for you
Paul (2017-01-27) #
CDBaby.com is hiding sales from artists and not even paying nearly enough.
That's why I quit.
There's a Valentines day song that created itself in my mind.
It will never be written.
Will never be recorded.
Will never be published.
The world will never hear. (except me)
EVER.
Paul Forest
Rosemary Acerra (2017-01-31) #
Quite a mountain of thoughts to ponder - congratulations for the challenge!
Michael Ye (2017-02-02) #
I need you in my life... haha jk that's a dependancy;) but no I completely agree, I also get too attached to things and force myself to quit them when I feel like I'm getting addicted. I think that freedom to change and do what you want is very underrated. We're always putting ourselves in these bubbles of comfort that end up being prisons for us.
steve (2017-02-13) #
You are an interesting dude, there is no doubt. I will continue to look forward to regular and irregular posts from you. Although we have never met, like many people who read your thoughts it feels like an update from an old friend. Some of my friends evolve constantly, while others are more consistent. Both are treasures and life is richer because of them. Keep being who you are, as in keep evolving, because we will continue to treasure the portion of our lives that you touch.
Regina Klein (2017-02-13) #
Hello -- And thank you; I agree with you about opening space by not answering, what must be, a constant stream of email and its questions.

I was reminded that some years ago, I had sent you a message regarding a creative social enterprise for homeless youth. Unfortunately, I never received a response. But no worries, I can empathize that I must have seemed like one of countless seekers.

Nonetheless, I appreciate your sharing your thoughts and perspective through much of your journey.

In gratitude,
Regina Klein
Ryan J Houmand (2017-02-17) #
I love this. Toying with the same thoughts in different contexts. Time to make more than toys of those thoughts.
Carson Hogan (2017-02-19) #
Good for you Brother,
The growth you experience from constant change ever challenges your perspective.
I am new to your story but an uplifted and grateful for the little have nuggets I have taken away so far. Thank you.
Monica Gomez (2017-02-23) #
Congratulations.
Stephanie Kennelly (2017-02-25) #
I LOVE this post. I recently took a leave of absence from a job that I love to do the same thing. People are totally shocked and I just couldn't find the exact words to explain my rationale. I plan on sharing your article. Thank you for writing.
El Gambardella (2017-03-17) #
Love it!! Enjoy life!

El
Jackie Miao (2017-03-23) #
You are such a giving human being, and you give so much of yourself to others, that I suspect that you don't take care of you enough. I'm really happy you decided to quit answering questions, Derek. You don't owe the world an explanation for every question the world has for you. You deserve all the happiness in the world. Bravo for having the courage to quit this!
Richard Blais (2017-04-02) #
Thank you for the article.

I am a music addict.
Phil (2017-04-13) #
Couldn't understand how you could answer all my emails over the years. I didn't send a lot, but you always made me feel special by actually responding. Thank you.
AL (2017-04-24) #
Change is good and sometimes not by choice. My Pop passed away a week before Christmas and we had the funeral on New Years Eve, so I'm just getting to these introspective posts. Thanx.
Gerry Aire (2017-05-03) #
Hi Derek,

The trajectory of your life (as much as I know of it) reminds me somewhat of Solomon, the richest and wisest man of the world B.C..... you may be familiar with his story; after tasting everything this world has to offer, he came to the conclusion that the only thing that will truly satisfy a Man's soul is a simple life of obedience to God. Then later, when Christ came into the world, we learned that the only way to truly be obedient to God is to believe in Christ as your personal savior, which, in doing, makes us wiser than even Solomon was in his time.

"Consider the lilies of the field... Solomon... was not clothed as splendidly as one of these" (a paraphrased quote of Jesus as recorded in the Bible).

I hope you will seriously think (or perhaps, rethink) on these things as you continue your journey through life, because, as they say, of all the great things we might accomplish in this world "only what you do for Christ will last".

Peace, Gerry Aire
Björn Johansson (2017-05-11) #
Dang!

This feels like when "The Ramones" stopped playing 20 years ago, ha ha! There is still a void...

I was in a Van touring through Europe maybe four years ago? We had a little chat about New Caledonia, via e-mail. That's one of my coolest memories from that tour actually!

Here's an update if you ever wondered what happen after that. (It's okay if you didn't. I mean it's been like 100 000 somewhat e-mails that you've answered since then, ha ha!) :

Me and my finally sold everything we owned and moved to that tropical island. The kids are at school as I write this, my wife is having a little meeting in our small apartment right next to me and I'm chilling with a cup of coffee, enjoying the rush of endorphins I got from hitting the gym a while ago. Life is good!

Your availability has been an amazing comfort for your readers throughout the years. You've got some devoted fans because of that!
Thank you for everything Derek!

Lot's of love from New Caledonia
//Bjorn
Maximist (2017-05-19) #
Quitting something you love feels good, it's a release. I'm addicted to luxury, I love it, the question is whether to live with it all my life or to quit. I don't understand your addiction to America, what's wrong with America? Seriously I don't know. Your quitting of all you can't stop doing is the message that anything addictive is bad, but what if it feels good? I suppose it's a release to quit something you love.
Tristan B Gilbert (2017-05-27) #
It seems to me that you have given the independent artist a fair shake with your en devours and for that I consider you to be of musician greatness. I am wondering where to find your recordings so I might play you on our Low Power FM Community Station here in Twisp, Washington with many other great CDBaby Independent Artists that are on my playlist.
Thanks! My music is at sive.rs/music — Derek
Jackie Power (2017-06-24) #
Great advice. It's true addictions take up a lot of our day's space. Even if I love these things, I will clear them for other things, to keep exploring, growing, loving...not to stay stagnant. Thank you.
Jason Henkel (2017-07-12) #
Go D!

Can't wait to see what's next.

J
Jay (2017-07-17) #
All the things you quit were easier for you than the average Joe and Jane. Very few people have the financial security to do what you did. So, while it sounds wonderful, it's merely a pipedream for the rest of us. I find that piece of advice to be damaging. I will quit sive.rs.
G Edwards (2017-07-24) #
Hey there Derek

You've been an inspiration for most of my career. I'm now part of a fintech revolution in London and it's exciting to be around people who are way smarter than me.

When are you next in London? Do pop over to 41 Luke St when you get a moment, or will definitely join a meetup. I'm going to France but will be back 14 Aug. Be good to see you again.

Gaynor
Shea Fairbanks (2017-08-04) #
Hello Derek,

I first heard of you on Tim Ferriss's podcast and have since been following you. Loved your book.

This is where I was at around the same time you first wrote this article. I had everything I thought I wanted, a decent job, and career, a girlfriend that I loved. Then one day it all changed. She left out of nowhere, and I started to seriously question myself about things in my life. My job and the team is was leading improved, started spending more time on self-improvement and found true inner peace and love. It also lead me to discover that my "career" as a record producer was something I was too comfortable in. I need to quit. I had to quit something I love. So that's a long way of saying thank you for this article.

I have since started laying the groundwork and business plan for a new idea. A website and app about something super close to my heart and my strengths!

Thanks for continuing to inspire people around the world and myself!

Bro love,

Shea
☺ — Derek
Travis Gamble (2018-02-08) #
Thanks for that, inspiring. Quit for the future, change from the past.
Anton (2018-07-12) #
I love playing League of Legends but I have no real friend that is still playing that game so I'm thinking about changing my life style in to not play anymore games and just focus on life. Am also thinking that it would be so difficult to give up something that I really like. I've been playing pc games since childhood and I see myself as a mediocre gamer. It's very difficult to just quit something that has been a part of your life for a long time. It feels like a big whole in my heart is opening up just because I have to give it up because I have no friends that are playing the games that I like. They have moved on to other games. I feel that moving on to other games is just overdoing it at my age. I'm 30 years old soon so it's probably a mid-life crisis feeling that I am having.
Ridei Karim (2019-04-25) #
i just finish read you book,
am just curios
do you have wife? a kid?

i love your book, which is translated to bahasa
but, mostly i agree with your idea
Yes ☺ — Derek
Sania Muskan (2019-11-29) #
It must be difficult, right? If its not... It must have been initially? ... How do you do it?
Sean Crawford (2020-11-27) #
I like how you referred to the derivative of the word quit. For me, the joy of taking a course in vocabulary of Greek and Latin was seeing how words we use today had derived.

Every word comes to us trailing a curly smoke trail of connotations... far transcending the denotation of the dictionary definition.

As a child I only sought definitions, as an adult I check my dictionary for more.

Quitting something you love

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