The art of doing nothing

It takes $12.5 million to retreat into a life of nothing. Yes, I’ve done the math. The premise? You check out at 50. During the lead-up to that point, you’ve built something—a business, a personal brand, a career, a family. Something. Without that foundation, “nothing” will turn to boredom faster than a 6.0 tennis player beating a beginner (which, let’s be honest, is fun for a while).

We can argue the exact amount, but I won’t.

I’m not here to get too specific about what “nothing” looks like, but here are a few thoughts:

1) Nothing is Fluid Effort

At its core, “nothing” is a state where all effort becomes fluid. Your mind is free from worry—about tomorrow, your next meal, money, or shelter. You’re unbound by the things that keep most people tethered.

2) Nothing is a Few Spaces

“Nothing” isn’t a single place—it’s three to five spaces where you truly belong in that season of life. These are places where you can just be—free of ambition and fully aligned with your higher self.

3) Nothing is Starting with What You Have

Doing “nothing” doesn’t mean doing nothing. It’s about effortless work that begins with what’s already around you.

A fine artist? You’ve got your canvas, paints, and brushes.

A musician? You’ve got your instruments and recording equipment.

It’s not about building; it’s about exploring what’s already there.

4) Nothing is Reappearing (When It Matters)

When you’re in a state of “nothing,” you reappear on your own terms—not for promotion, but for air. You engage with the world as it feels meaningful, not out of obligation.

5) Nothing is Being with Someone Who’s Also Nothing

“Nothing” is about shared solitude—a connection with a friend for the end of the world, someone who gets it. Someone who is also living their version of “nothing.”

6) Nothing is Leaving with Nothing

You leave the world the way you entered it—with nothing. Donate it all. Simplify completely.

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If you want to boil it all down, it’s this: stop trying.

The art of doing nothing