Holstee

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About a year ago to the day, I saw the Manifesto for the first time while searching for a new direction to take myself. My life had been taking dramatic turns very quickly; I was about to graduate, my relationships were evolving as I was quickly getting older, but I was not feeling like I was really “growing up.” I was browsing through a list of entrepreneurs, trying to narrow down the five that I would beg to let me work for them. And then, I saw the Manifesto. I must have read it ten times in a row. I knew from that moment on, regardless of where life took me, the words on the Manifesto would always have an impact on my life. Later that same night, I had a date scheduled, my first with this particular girl. As I sipped my margarita, I remembered the words on the Manifesto, and decided to be myself: open, naive, and to put all my awkwardness right on the table. “I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. I want to change the world. Do something crazy. I just applied for these programs. I’m either going to Cali or NYC. I have to get out of here and take a risk on something.” “That’s awesome! I think you should explore outside of the Midwest.” She replied. “I want to teach Earth and Space Science…and shave my head.” Our Mexican meal turned into hours of talking about life, death, fears and passions. I credit a large portion of our conversation on the Manifesto. It pushed me away from typical ice breaker questions and down a path of intellectual exploration, which led to genuine interest, insight and sparked amazing conversation. “If you don’t like something, change it.” How true. I’m in NYC. She’s bald and beautiful. And life is short. - Cody Beck

About a year ago to the day, I saw the Manifesto for the first time while searching for a new direction to take myself. My life had been taking dramatic turns very quickly; I was about to graduate, my relationships were evolving as I was quickly getting older, but I was not feeling like I was really “growing up.”

I was browsing through a list of entrepreneurs, trying to narrow down the five that I would beg to let me work for them. And then, I saw the Manifesto. I must have read it ten times in a row. I knew from that moment on, regardless of where life took me, the words on the Manifesto would always have an impact on my life.

Later that same night, I had a date scheduled, my first with this particular girl. As I sipped my margarita, I remembered the words on the Manifesto, and decided to be myself: open, naive, and to put all my awkwardness right on the table.

“I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. I want to change the world. Do something crazy. I just applied for these programs. I’m either going to Cali or NYC. I have to get out of here and take a risk on something.”

“That’s awesome! I think you should explore outside of the Midwest.” She replied. “I want to teach Earth and Space Science…and shave my head.”

Our Mexican meal turned into hours of talking about life, death, fears and passions. I credit a large portion of our conversation on the Manifesto. It pushed me away from typical ice breaker questions and down a path of intellectual exploration, which led to genuine interest, insight and sparked amazing conversation.

“If you don’t like something, change it.” How true.

I’m in NYC. She’s bald and beautiful. And life is short.

- Cody Beck

1 week ago  3 notes View high resolution

I was first introduced to Holstee and the Manifesto by a good friend of mine who inspired me to go out and use my passion for doing great things. It all sounded good on paper but I didn’t know where to start, how to use my passion proactively, and I was completely stuck. I was working a job I didn’t enjoy at all but knew it was just a part-time thing until I found something more. The only problem was that I couldn’t find what in my heart was looking for. Another thing that fueled my fire was Project M, a platform for social good using creativity in a new way known lovingly as “Thinking Wrong,” and this changed my life dramatically. Those two weeks involved in Project M solidified my desire to do good in the world and focus on what I can do using my knowledge and skill set to inspire others and make positive change in my community. Once again the words of the Manifesto were intertwined with my life and my aspirations. I was inspired to leave my job and pursue something more, to be a student of life and strive to constantly learn and grow. Ultimately I was led to Holstee and found a position as their design intern, which is where I am today. I never thought I would end up in New York City with an amazing group of people, but I certainly appreciate every moment here and look forward to what lies ahead. I’m grateful for that first experience with the words of the Manifesto and truly believe that everyone should go out and do what they love, and do it often. And no matter how bleak things may look if you keep working and keep searching for your passion, you’ll find your place. - Andrew Martis

I was first introduced to Holstee and the Manifesto by a good friend of mine who inspired me to go out and use my passion for doing great things.

It all sounded good on paper but I didn’t know where to start, how to use my passion proactively, and I was completely stuck. I was working a job I didn’t enjoy at all but knew it was just a part-time thing until I found something more. The only problem was that I couldn’t find what in my heart was looking for.

Another thing that fueled my fire was Project M, a platform for social good using creativity in a new way known lovingly as “Thinking Wrong,” and this changed my life dramatically. Those two weeks involved in Project M solidified my desire to do good in the world and focus on what I can do using my knowledge and skill set to inspire others and make positive change in my community.

Once again the words of the Manifesto were intertwined with my life and my aspirations. I was inspired to leave my job and pursue something more, to be a student of life and strive to constantly learn and grow.

Ultimately I was led to Holstee and found a position as their design intern, which is where I am today. I never thought I would end up in New York City with an amazing group of people, but I certainly appreciate every moment here and look forward to what lies ahead.

I’m grateful for that first experience with the words of the Manifesto and truly believe that everyone should go out and do what they love, and do it often. And no matter how bleak things may look if you keep working and keep searching for your passion, you’ll find your place.

- Andrew Martis

2 weeks ago 

In 2010, after I got dumped from my 20 year job at a company I had lost belief in, it was like I was shot out of a velvet cannon into everything I was meant to be.  Without the chaos and self-sabotage of a daily toxic environment, I was able to gain elevation and see things from a different view, a higher open view.  Not being in a cage unlocked my knees and legs and I feel like I’m running, full speed, toward who I am meant to be and doing what I am meant to do.  When I read the Holstee Manifesto, I felt like it had been etched in my bones a million years ago.  It felt like whatever that ineffable thing is that’s truer than truth.  It reminded me that all those years at a job that flattened my heart served the fine purpose of reminding me over and over and over that I am an expert at having a flattened heart! —- so know I will be an expert at open, huge, lively heart!  xoxo - Amy Shouse

In 2010, after I got dumped from my 20 year job at a company I had lost belief in, it was like I was shot out of a velvet cannon into everything I was meant to be.  Without the chaos and self-sabotage of a daily toxic environment, I was able to gain elevation and see things from a different view, a higher open view.  Not being in a cage unlocked my knees and legs and I feel like I’m running, full speed, toward who I am meant to be and doing what I am meant to do.  When I read the Holstee Manifesto, I felt like it had been etched in my bones a million years ago.  It felt like whatever that ineffable thing is that’s truer than truth.  It reminded me that all those years at a job that flattened my heart served the fine purpose of reminding me over and over and over that I am an expert at having a flattened heart! —- so know I will be an expert at open, huge, lively heart!  xoxo

- Amy Shouse

2 weeks ago  View high resolution

“GET BUSY LIVING, OR GET BUSY DYING.” In 2004, I weighed in at almost 310 pounds!  I had never before been so unhealthy - I smoked cigars, had high blood pressure and was pre-diabetic.  Always short of breath, I really was a mess. Despite my poor health, I wanted to do something I had not done since I was a child - ride a bicycle.  Though I was terribly out of shape I bought myself wheels.  At first it was difficult to get going and I only rode once in a while.  I always thought, however, if I remained faithful to riding I would one day do something I had always thought about - ride my bicycle across the United States.  My wife thought I was nuts. Convinced I had to do this crazy thing, I began to ride more often.  I commuted to work once in a while, then every day.  I planned routes across the United States and even went on a few overnight trips with friends. I traveled everywhere by bike - to work, the market and was more and more consumed with the dream of traveling across the United States. In 2012, the year I turned 50, I finally realized my dream.  I started on April 22 from Ventura, CA and ended 50 days later in Cape May, NJ.  During my trip, I met many wonderful people.  My friend Ray rode the second day of the trip with me to keep me company.  My wife met me in the hotel every night for three weeks of the trip.  My sister Kathy and I trekked across Kansas together, and my son Zach rode for 10 days with me.  I met George Rossi, the school teacher in Kansas who was also a 50 year old bike rider.  Aaron, in Indiana, was so concerned I would get hit by a car he insisted on giving me a ride and we spent a few hours together.  I will never forget the excitement I had while alone on the road, but could always count on a wave from passing motorists, a smile from a store clerk or texts and posts from my friends reading the “joeonabike.com” blog.  Now 9 years after I got back in the saddle, I am 70 pounds lighter and no longer have hypertension or diabetes.  I am happier in work, my marriage, my relationships and in my life. Albert Einstein said “There are only two ways to live your life.  One is as though nothing is a miracle.  The other is as though everything is a miracle.” Living life, on YOUR terms, is a miraculous, wondrous thing. Peace, - Joe Greene, joeonabike

“GET BUSY LIVING, OR GET BUSY DYING.”

In 2004, I weighed in at almost 310 pounds!  I had never before been so unhealthy - I smoked cigars, had high blood pressure and was pre-diabetic.  Always short of breath, I really was a mess.

Despite my poor health, I wanted to do something I had not done since I was a child - ride a bicycle.  Though I was terribly out of shape I bought myself wheels.  At first it was difficult to get going and I only rode once in a while.  I always thought, however, if I remained faithful to riding I would one day do something I had always thought about - ride my bicycle across the United States.  My wife thought I was nuts.

Convinced I had to do this crazy thing, I began to ride more often.  I commuted to work once in a while, then every day.  I planned routes across the United States and even went on a few overnight trips with friends. I traveled everywhere by bike - to work, the market and was more and more consumed with the dream of traveling across the United States.

In 2012, the year I turned 50, I finally realized my dream.  I started on April 22 from Ventura, CA and ended 50 days later in Cape May, NJ. 

During my trip, I met many wonderful people.  My friend Ray rode the second day of the trip with me to keep me company.  My wife met me in the hotel every night for three weeks of the trip.  My sister Kathy and I trekked across Kansas together, and my son Zach rode for 10 days with me.  I met George Rossi, the school teacher in Kansas who was also a 50 year old bike rider.  Aaron, in Indiana, was so concerned I would get hit by a car he insisted on giving me a ride and we spent a few hours together. 

I will never forget the excitement I had while alone on the road, but could always count on a wave from passing motorists, a smile from a store clerk or texts and posts from my friends reading the “joeonabike.com” blog. 

Now 9 years after I got back in the saddle, I am 70 pounds lighter and no longer have hypertension or diabetes.  I am happier in work, my marriage, my relationships and in my life.

Albert Einstein said “There are only two ways to live your life.  One is as though nothing is a miracle.  The other is as though everything is a miracle.”

Living life, on YOUR terms, is a miraculous, wondrous thing.

Peace,

- Joe Greene, joeonabike

3 weeks ago  1 note View high resolution

After a few years working for a large mining company, I found myself repeatedly looking at the computer screen, and asking myself: “Why am I doing this?” It had no meaning, had no real conetion, there was an inconsistency within the enterprise system, and I tried to resist for longer, I resigned, and fortunately I came to see life through different eyes, more maturely.I moved to Sao Paulo, and started working with my father, and come the time that everything changed. Strong and profound changes, so there’s no coming back, I always say, “knowing the truth, I can not stay in ‘convenience,’ I must be part of the solution, not the problem.”I realized that I sold organic products, and like me, producers should consume and promote this chain. I’ve engaged in Sao Paulo group, which discusses and puts into practice requests from farmers along the organs responsible government. A year after many meetings, and we made a change of a organics law, thanks to the joint efforts of farmers, traders and consumers of organics in São Paulo.Promoting the sale of products that replace pesticides in our farm, and in 2010 I discover that I am “social entrepreneur,” another radical change in my perception of identity and community. Inside The Hub, I found people who are like me, do a radically better world. Before, I felt alone because hardly among my friends people had engaged in transformation.Last year, climbed nearly 50% in our revenue, coming in 425 thousand reais, employ 14 people, all with their labor rights guaranteed. We are proud of our employees.After a few years, “sold my life,” everything that I “had” turned into money, or was happy to be in the house of some friends, and my brother, even my car was stolen, and since then, the bike is my best friend & transport.I spent so much time in hard traffic, so today I’ve decided to travel by bike, feeling life with another rhythm and path.On the way, the expedition Ciclocultura will be planting permaculture knowledge, and exchanges ancestors wisdom mixed with modern technologies. We intend to lead workshops, such as bicycles that generate energy for locations without electricity, as well as bioconstrution and gardens, root seeds exchange and fostering fair trade economy.A year is the expectation on the farm until we hit the Amazon, were my farm is located, on the Pará state.Living the dream really, believe in the heart, go fearlessly, answers reside within each one.As our trip is collaborative, we ask please to share it! ALso you can send suggestions for routes, receive us into your homes, towns!   Grateful!   - Romina Lindemann

After a few years working for a large mining company, I found myself repeatedly looking at the computer screen, and asking myself: “Why am I doing this?” It had no meaning, had no real conetion, there was an inconsistency within the enterprise system, and I tried to resist for longer, I resigned, and fortunately I came to see life through different eyes, more maturely.

I moved to Sao Paulo, and started working with my father, and come the time that everything changed. Strong and profound changes, so there’s no coming back, I always say, “knowing the truth, I can not stay in ‘convenience,’ I must be part of the solution, not the problem.”

I realized that I sold organic products, and like me, producers should consume and promote this chain. I’ve engaged in Sao Paulo group, which discusses and puts into practice requests from farmers along the organs responsible government. A year after many meetings, and we made a change of a organics law, thanks to the joint efforts of farmers, traders and consumers of organics in São Paulo.

Promoting the sale of products that replace pesticides in our farm, and in 2010 I discover that I am “social entrepreneur,” another radical change in my perception of identity and community. Inside The Hub, I found people who are like me, do a radically better world. Before, I felt alone because hardly among my friends people had engaged in transformation.

Last year, climbed nearly 50% in our revenue, coming in 425 thousand reais, employ 14 people, all with their labor rights guaranteed. We are proud of our employees.

After a few years, “sold my life,” everything that I “had” turned into money, or was happy to be in the house of some friends, and my brother, even my car was stolen, and since then, the bike is my best friend & transport.

I spent so much time in hard traffic, so today I’ve decided to travel by bike, feeling life with another rhythm and path.

On the way, the expedition Ciclocultura will be planting permaculture knowledge, and exchanges ancestors wisdom mixed with modern technologies. We intend to lead workshops, such as bicycles that generate energy for locations without electricity, as well as bioconstrution and gardens, root seeds exchange and fostering fair trade economy.

A year is the expectation on the farm until we hit the Amazon, were my farm is located, on the Pará state.

Living the dream really, believe in the heart, go fearlessly, answers reside within each one.

As our trip is collaborative, we ask please to share it! ALso you can send suggestions for routes, receive us into your homes, towns!
 
Grateful!
 
- Romina Lindemann

3 weeks ago  View high resolution

I tore down the posters from my wall, moved out of a beautiful apartment four blocks from the beach, quit an amazing job that I had enjoyed for three years, packed up all of my belongings, put them into storage and traveled to South America for six months. Why? I realized that life is short and I needed to live my passion. I had been climbing for the past eight years but I never was able to fully immerse myself in the sport because of other obligations. I had an amazing life, but for some reason it didn’t seem real to me—-something was missing. I had become too comfortable. I needed something fresh and something different. There were parts of my life that I didn’t like and that I wanted to change. I knew the only way to change was to restart. So I decided to commit first and figure everything else out later. I said goodbye to beautiful, sunny Santa Monica and booked a flight to South America.  The plan was simple: Pack up all of my mountaineering geer and spend six months traveling and climbing throughout South America. I knew the only way to find myself was to get lost. I had no structure and no obligation. I cut the cord and took off.  I had a life-changing trip. It was filled with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. I spent entire weeks worth of time vomiting out of both ends, I lost 15 pounds of weight from my already skinny body, I failed trying to climb my first two objectives, I was stuck in my tent in a horrific storm of negative 40 degrees and 100km winds. Most tragically, I had two friends die while climbing in the same mountain range. But the tragedy pushed me to dig deep inside. It forced me to reflect on my own life and see how ephemeral and precious it is. It made me realize that life is about living now. I knew that some opportunities would only come once. So I seized the moment. The remainder of the trip was filled with dreams to last a lifetime. Climbing 20,000 foot peaks in alpine style, technical ascents of 2,000 foot big walls high in the Andes, soloing an 18,500 glaciated mountain and journeying back to the US to climb the 3,000 foot granite monolith known as El Capitan - just to name a few.  I climbed all over the country stopping in Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil. Over the next six months I realized that life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. I created life-long friendships and sacred bonds along the way. I didn’t know what I was missing until I stated doing the things I loved.  In the end, I realized that life is simple. When I arrived back, small things began to confuse me like, what month is it again, why are people going to work, why can I note relate to my friends’ Facebook status updates, how is it possible to have one stick of toothpaste last six months, how do you say that in Spanish, why are stores closed on Sunday, what’s a siesta, what is that cow doing in the middle of the road and many other unanswered questions. But I realized that continued travel opened my mind and heart to so many differing cultures. With everything realization comes remarkable insight into my life and others as well as amazing friendships and experiences.  If I never took the chance, I also never would have found love: she was sitting across from me at my local cafe and I was inspired to tell her she was beautiful. We are still together to this day.  I came back a changed man. I tossed my smart phone in the trash, stopped watching TV and moves, vowed to check email only twice per day, made sure not to work more than 40 hours each week. And always saved time to live life with passion. What’s your passion? - Jared Vagy

I tore down the posters from my wall, moved out of a beautiful apartment four blocks from the beach, quit an amazing job that I had enjoyed for three years, packed up all of my belongings, put them into storage and traveled to South America for six months.

Why? I realized that life is short and I needed to live my passion. I had been climbing for the past eight years but I never was able to fully immerse myself in the sport because of other obligations. I had an amazing life, but for some reason it didn’t seem real to me—-something was missing.

I had become too comfortable. I needed something fresh and something different. There were parts of my life that I didn’t like and that I wanted to change. I knew the only way to change was to restart. So I decided to commit first and figure everything else out later. I said goodbye to beautiful, sunny Santa Monica and booked a flight to South America. 

The plan was simple: Pack up all of my mountaineering geer and spend six months traveling and climbing throughout South America. I knew the only way to find myself was to get lost. I had no structure and no obligation. I cut the cord and took off. 

I had a life-changing trip. It was filled with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. I spent entire weeks worth of time vomiting out of both ends, I lost 15 pounds of weight from my already skinny body, I failed trying to climb my first two objectives, I was stuck in my tent in a horrific storm of negative 40 degrees and 100km winds. Most tragically, I had two friends die while climbing in the same mountain range.

But the tragedy pushed me to dig deep inside. It forced me to reflect on my own life and see how ephemeral and precious it is. It made me realize that life is about living now. I knew that some opportunities would only come once. So I seized the moment.

The remainder of the trip was filled with dreams to last a lifetime. Climbing 20,000 foot peaks in alpine style, technical ascents of 2,000 foot big walls high in the Andes, soloing an 18,500 glaciated mountain and journeying back to the US to climb the 3,000 foot granite monolith known as El Capitan - just to name a few. 

I climbed all over the country stopping in Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil. Over the next six months I realized that life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. I created life-long friendships and sacred bonds along the way. I didn’t know what I was missing until I stated doing the things I loved. 

In the end, I realized that life is simple.

When I arrived back, small things began to confuse me like, what month is it again, why are people going to work, why can I note relate to my friends’ Facebook status updates, how is it possible to have one stick of toothpaste last six months, how do you say that in Spanish, why are stores closed on Sunday, what’s a siesta, what is that cow doing in the middle of the road and many other unanswered questions.

But I realized that continued travel opened my mind and heart to so many differing cultures. With everything realization comes remarkable insight into my life and others as well as amazing friendships and experiences. 

If I never took the chance, I also never would have found love: she was sitting across from me at my local cafe and I was inspired to tell her she was beautiful. We are still together to this day. 

I came back a changed man. I tossed my smart phone in the trash, stopped watching TV and moves, vowed to check email only twice per day, made sure not to work more than 40 hours each week. And always saved time to live life with passion. What’s your passion?

- Jared Vagy

1 month ago 

It was just a few short months ago that I was led to Holstee through means of social media where I discovered & fell in love with the Manifesto. Upon reading, I embraced and shared the concept with everyone I could. Immediately, I ordered a poster, which now hangs in my dining room. I feel like I’ve always been somewhat in tune with its message, however it’s now applicable on a much deeper more personal level.   New Year’s Eve 2013 brought about change in a big way. At 25 years old, I sat in the doctors office 20lbs lighter being told that I had advanced testicular cancer. The following days were filled with doctor’s appointments, anxiety, and within 5 days I was scheduled for a surgery. What was expected to be an outpatient procedure became a week stay in hospital with immediate chemotherapy. My world became abruptly flipped and distorted. Being bulldozed with such an intense experience left me breathless, but never once did I feel sorry for myself. I instinctively became focused and determined while the Holstee Manifesto burned intently in the back of my mind.Currently, Ive completed 3 cycles of treatment and have one more ahead of me. I continue to impress my doctors and, according to them, am the first to not get sick on my regimen. I fully attribute my success to my lifestyle consisting of the healthiest foods, exercise, a strong, positive attitude, and a support system including the most amazing family and friends. Reading the Manifesto daily fills me with the greatest inspiration that I hope to be paying forward. This healing journey has been an incredible gift and I’m so excited to see what opportunities are generated because of it. So many fantastic things have already been falling into place and Im beyond grateful. This new lease on life is exhilarating. Each day is a gift. There is not a moment to waste. Go live YOUR life and smile. - Brian Hastings

It was just a few short months ago that I was led to Holstee through means of social media where I discovered & fell in love with the Manifesto. Upon reading, I embraced and shared the concept with everyone I could. Immediately, I ordered a poster, which now hangs in my dining room. I feel like I’ve always been somewhat in tune with its message, however it’s now applicable on a much deeper more personal level.  

New Year’s Eve 2013 brought about change in a big way. At 25 years old, I sat in the doctors office 20lbs lighter being told that I had advanced testicular cancer. The following days were filled with doctor’s appointments, anxiety, and within 5 days I was scheduled for a surgery. What was expected to be an outpatient procedure became a week stay in hospital with immediate chemotherapy. My world became abruptly flipped and distorted. Being bulldozed with such an intense experience left me breathless, but never once did I feel sorry for myself. I instinctively became focused and determined while the Holstee Manifesto burned intently in the back of my mind.

Currently, Ive completed 3 cycles of treatment and have one more ahead of me. I continue to impress my doctors and, according to them, am the first to not get sick on my regimen. I fully attribute my success to my lifestyle consisting of the healthiest foods, exercise, a strong, positive attitude, and a support system including the most amazing family and friends.

Reading the Manifesto daily fills me with the greatest inspiration that I hope to be paying forward. This healing journey has been an incredible gift and I’m so excited to see what opportunities are generated because of it. So many fantastic things have already been falling into place and Im beyond grateful. This new lease on life is exhilarating. Each day is a gift. There is not a moment to waste. Go live YOUR life and smile.

- Brian Hastings

1 month ago  View high resolution

Since first stumbling on to the Manifesto, my life has been an altered course. At the end of 2011, I stopped taking clients, cleared my plate of things that divided my time or stressed me out, dropped the guilt and caught up on everything unfinished, and I stopped saying someday. Someday is now. 2012 became my Year of the Phoenix and I spent the year dusting off projects and journals full of ideas that I’d never had the time to act on. There were so many wonders, a cross between Christmas morning and Pandora’s box. From that moment, I decided to make each day about doing more of what I love, being present right now, and spending more time creating (art, memories, time) with those I love. At the end of 2012, I spontaneously decided we were going to Europe. I had no idea how, but I knew that we would go if we were meant to, so I put it out there. Two weeks later a door opened. I am launching a magazine, my art group is going nonprofit, and we now have tickets to spend three weeks with some of our dearest friends - we will be spending three weeks in Portugal, Germany, and Sweden. We will also be spending a few days doing the most magical things (like riding the Sultan’s Elephant) in Spain and France for my magazine. Getting rid of all that “stuff” and saying no was incredibly freeing. I am doing things for me now, which makes me a happier person for my family, and my family and I are doing more as a result. We are savoring every bite of our lives and we are changed. Thank you. Someday is now. - Ana Maria Selvaggio

Since first stumbling on to the Manifesto, my life has been an altered course.

At the end of 2011, I stopped taking clients, cleared my plate of things that divided my time or stressed me out, dropped the guilt and caught up on everything unfinished, and I stopped saying someday.

Someday is now.

2012 became my Year of the Phoenix and I spent the year dusting off projects and journals full of ideas that I’d never had the time to act on. There were so many wonders, a cross between Christmas morning and Pandora’s box. From that moment, I decided to make each day about doing more of what I love, being present right now, and spending more time creating (art, memories, time) with those I love.

At the end of 2012, I spontaneously decided we were going to Europe. I had no idea how, but I knew that we would go if we were meant to, so I put it out there. Two weeks later a door opened. I am launching a magazine, my art group is going nonprofit, and we now have tickets to spend three weeks with some of our dearest friends - we will be spending three weeks in Portugal, Germany, and Sweden. We will also be spending a few days doing the most magical things (like riding the Sultan’s Elephant) in Spain and France for my magazine.

Getting rid of all that “stuff” and saying no was incredibly freeing. I am doing things for me now, which makes me a happier person for my family, and my family and I are doing more as a result. We are savoring every bite of our lives and we are changed. Thank you.

Someday is now.

- Ana Maria Selvaggio

1 month ago 

Life is about the people you meet and what you create with them!  So start creating. I like the entire Manifesto but this line holds the truth for this time in our collective consciousness. Connecting with others is food for our life force and soul and dancing and creating so that we have our joy is what it is about! Thanks! - Lisa Faremouth Weber

Life is about the people you meet and what you create with them!  So start creating.

I like the entire Manifesto but this line holds the truth for this time in our collective consciousness. Connecting with others is food for our life force and soul and dancing and creating so that we have our joy is what it is about! Thanks!

- Lisa Faremouth Weber

1 month ago 

It was around two years ago, shortly after we were married, that my wife and I seriously started wondering: “What would our lives be like if we quit our jobs and set out to travel the world for a year?” Once the idea was in our heads, we couldn’t get it out, so we started started socking away as much money as possible. As our scheduled date of departure got closer, we started getting nervous about everything we were walking away from.  Then she discovered the Holstee Manifesto online and I immediately ordered a print.  We framed it and kept a copy on our desk for the next month before we left to remind us that we were making the right choices.  Then, finally, on the agreed-upon day, we both reluctantly walked away from our successful Silicon Valley careers with one-way tickets to the Philippines and backpacks full of photography gear.   Now, the trip is winding down, we’re living in London, and we’ve had a lot of time to reflect about the incredible experiences that we had while traveling.  I put together a short (5 min) video with some of the highlights from our trip and I used the text of the Holstee Manifesto in the video to help tell the story.  - Adam Brill

It was around two years ago, shortly after we were married, that my wife and I seriously started wondering: “What would our lives be like if we quit our jobs and set out to travel the world for a year?” Once the idea was in our heads, we couldn’t get it out, so we started started socking away as much money as possible. As our scheduled date of departure got closer, we started getting nervous about everything we were walking away from.  Then she discovered the Holstee Manifesto online and I immediately ordered a print.  We framed it and kept a copy on our desk for the next month before we left to remind us that we were making the right choices.  Then, finally, on the agreed-upon day, we both reluctantly walked away from our successful Silicon Valley careers with one-way tickets to the Philippines and backpacks full of photography gear.  

Now, the trip is winding down, we’re living in London, and we’ve had a lot of time to reflect about the incredible experiences that we had while traveling.  I put together a short (5 min) video with some of the highlights from our trip and I used the text of the Holstee Manifesto in the video to help tell the story. 

- Adam Brill

1 month ago  1 note View high resolution

“Nice Guys Finish Last.” I have unfortunately been the epitome of this statement. In my time, I have been cheated on, dismissed and utterly disappointed in myself from what others believed of me. But never in my life had I realized this statement to be more accurate, until recently. I would like to peg myself as a romantic.  Unfortunately, that also means I do enjoy being in a relationship.  I found myself wandering around flower shops thinking of someone I could buy flowers for. One of my most recent relationships, I finally thought that I had found the one.  I even had a bank account set up for a ring.  Granted, I am young, (turned 26 this year) but I truly believed I found someone special.  Turns out… I was not the only one.  We held onto a long distance relationship for 2 years of the total four.  It wasn’t until a week prior to her moving back that she broke things off with me. Devastated, I sought friend’s advice. This friend told me, “Don’t give her up without a fight. This shouldn’t have just come out of the blue.” So I fought. I put myself out there to figure out what it was that I had done: What drove us apart? It couldn’t have been the distance, I felt, because things seemed to go right when we were around each other. But she assured me she had been feeling distant and she just did not feel the same about me anymore. I was crushed. But somehow still felt some sort of hope. A week later, I found the real reason as to why she wanted to break things off. Turns out she was with seeing a guy from work, while she was seeing me. A “drunken” encounter of hers led to me hitting rock bottom. I wish I could say this was the first time this had ever happened to me.  But it’s not. I’ve been cheated on a few times, actually.  It lead me to wonder: Why do girls go for the “bad boy?” When all I hear is complaints from friends about how they’re treated, and how they need a nice guy in their life, guys like us were dismissed.  I saw my ex girlfriend about a month later. I went to see a mutual friend for her birthday. I gave the birthday girl a hug and went to the bar to order her a drink. In front of me, was a group of guys who were adamant about keeping their bar seats. I ordered between them and awaited the drinks.  My ex and her friend actually started hitting on the group of guys that were in front of me. This was literally before my eyes. I dropped my head, grabbed the drinks, gave them both to my friend, proceeded to walk out the door and to the next bar.  It was after this encounter, that I finally had an epiphany. And I actually smiled as I met a few of my closest friends at another bar.That people deserve to be happy. But it is in that path to find that happiness that reveals one’s true character. For a long time, I did look down on myself.  I felt like if I had been cheated on this many time, then it must be me. Right? Everything does have a silver lining.  Maybe one day I will find that person that cares about me the way I care about them. They say that nice guys finish last. And although I might have that time, I picked myself up, with the support of my friends and family (Including spending time with my twin nephews seen in this picture).  They made me realize it’s about time I finish first. The funny thing is, if I could have changed my past, I wouldn’t. It’s our pasts that shape who we are today. After all that I got a new job, moved to the city, lost about 50 lbs and have really worked on turning my life around.  I may not have reached the silver lining yet, but I’m MUCH closer than I was.- Brett Baldwin 

“Nice Guys Finish Last.”

I have unfortunately been the epitome of this statement. In my time, I have been cheated on, dismissed and utterly disappointed in myself from what others believed of me. But never in my life had I realized this statement to be more accurate, until recently.

I would like to peg myself as a romantic.  Unfortunately, that also means I do enjoy being in a relationship.  I found myself wandering around flower shops thinking of someone I could buy flowers for.

One of my most recent relationships, I finally thought that I had found the one.  I even had a bank account set up for a ring.  Granted, I am young, (turned 26 this year) but I truly believed I found someone special.  Turns out… I was not the only one.  We held onto a long distance relationship for 2 years of the total four.  It wasn’t until a week prior to her moving back that she broke things off with me. Devastated, I sought friend’s advice. This friend told me, “Don’t give her up without a fight. This shouldn’t have just come out of the blue.”

So I fought. I put myself out there to figure out what it was that I had done: What drove us apart? It couldn’t have been the distance, I felt, because things seemed to go right when we were around each other. But she assured me she had been feeling distant and she just did not feel the same about me anymore. I was crushed. But somehow still felt some sort of hope.

A week later, I found the real reason as to why she wanted to break things off. Turns out she was with seeing a guy from work, while she was seeing me. A “drunken” encounter of hers led to me hitting rock bottom.

I wish I could say this was the first time this had ever happened to me.  But it’s not. I’ve been cheated on a few times, actually.  It lead me to wonder: Why do girls go for the “bad boy?” When all I hear is complaints from friends about how they’re treated, and how they need a nice guy in their life, guys like us were dismissed. 

I saw my ex girlfriend about a month later. I went to see a mutual friend for her birthday. I gave the birthday girl a hug and went to the bar to order her a drink. In front of me, was a group of guys who were adamant about keeping their bar seats. I ordered between them and awaited the drinks.  My ex and her friend actually started hitting on the group of guys that were in front of me. This was literally before my eyes. I dropped my head, grabbed the drinks, gave them both to my friend, proceeded to walk out the door and to the next bar. 

It was after this encounter, that I finally had an epiphany. And I actually smiled as I met a few of my closest friends at another bar.

That people deserve to be happy.

But it is in that path to find that happiness that reveals one’s true character. For a long time, I did look down on myself.  I felt like if I had been cheated on this many time, then it must be me. Right?

Everything does have a silver lining.  Maybe one day I will find that person that cares about me the way I care about them. They say that nice guys finish last. And although I might have that time, I picked myself up, with the support of my friends and family (Including spending time with my twin nephews seen in this picture).  They made me realize it’s about time I finish first.
 
The funny thing is, if I could have changed my past, I wouldn’t. It’s our pasts that shape who we are today. After all that I got a new job, moved to the city, lost about 50 lbs and have really worked on turning my life around.  I may not have reached the silver lining yet, but I’m MUCH closer than I was.

- Brett Baldwin 

2 months ago  1 note View high resolution

It started as a Facebook Share, I really couldn’t stop thinking about how it (the Manifesto) and I had the same philosophy.  Then I searched for the words outside of the Facebook photo, found the posters, then found the video. I tagged people I know and love on particular lines throughout the Manifesto and received amazing feedback. I read it again. I watched the video again…then posted the video…then watched the video again.   My life, my travels, my spirituality, my need to give and receive, my need for love, my inner “little Chrysty,” my drive and ambition, my zest for living all gravitated towards the words on paper. I wanted to share the philosophy so I bought 5 posters (one for me and 4 for my group of “girls” who came together when one of us got cancer 9 years ago)…we like to say we’re a circle of SIX (even though there are only 5 of us) because that 6th person is ANYONE and EVERYONE who needs the strength of a group of amazing women! The Holstee Manifesto gives me hope and encouragement and reminds me to LIVE MY LIFE OUT LOUD! The world would be a better place if we all lived and loved in the Holstee manner.  I am grateful for EACH and every person who has crossed my path; and I will continue to find value in each and every one. - Chrysty Beverley Fortner

It started as a Facebook Share, I really couldn’t stop thinking about how it (the Manifesto) and I had the same philosophy.  Then I searched for the words outside of the Facebook photo, found the posters, then found the video. I tagged people I know and love on particular lines throughout the Manifesto and received amazing feedback. I read it again. I watched the video again…then posted the video…then watched the video again.  

My life, my travels, my spirituality, my need to give and receive, my need for love, my inner “little Chrysty,” my drive and ambition, my zest for living all gravitated towards the words on paper. I wanted to share the philosophy so I bought 5 posters (one for me and 4 for my group of “girls” who came together when one of us got cancer 9 years ago)…we like to say we’re a circle of SIX (even though there are only 5 of us) because that 6th person is ANYONE and EVERYONE who needs the strength of a group of amazing women!

The Holstee Manifesto gives me hope and encouragement and reminds me to LIVE MY LIFE OUT LOUD!

The world would be a better place if we all lived and loved in the Holstee manner.  I am grateful for EACH and every person who has crossed my path; and I will continue to find value in each and every one.

- Chrysty Beverley Fortner

2 months ago  View high resolution

True to the worst that is said of my generation, I’m usually more into snarky ironic stuff.  Actually, I only came across the Holstee Manifesto in the course of holiday shopping for my friend and then housemate, Kandyce (pictured here).   Kandyce loves mottos, quotes, and pretty much anything that could be classified as inspirational about as much as I eschew them, and I had promised that I would get her some “cheesy shit” for Christmas. Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. The significance of the Holstee Manifesto is that it serves as a reminder of someone with whom I have shared three (and counting) years of mistakes, changes, opportunities, travel, dreams, and wonderful meals. It is a thank-you to her for keeping me heartfelt, and a little love song to everything we’ve created. - Katie Perry

True to the worst that is said of my generation, I’m usually more into snarky ironic stuff. 

Actually, I only came across the Holstee Manifesto in the course of holiday shopping for my friend and then housemate, Kandyce (pictured here).  

Kandyce loves mottos, quotes, and pretty much anything that could be classified as inspirational about as much as I eschew them, and I had promised that I would get her some “cheesy shit” for Christmas.

Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them.

The significance of the Holstee Manifesto is that it serves as a reminder of someone with whom I have shared three (and counting) years of mistakes, changes, opportunities, travel, dreams, and wonderful meals.

It is a thank-you to her for keeping me heartfelt, and a little love song to everything we’ve created.

- Katie Perry

2 months ago  View high resolution

I first came across Holstee in 2011. A friend emailed me the Holstee Manifesto and it felt like I’d come home!  And thinking back on the decisions I’d made over the years of my life until that point, I’d been living it, too. In 2005 I started retraining as a personal trainer.  I’d realized that I loved to be active, outside, not in an office and instead helping people feel energized, confident and good about themselves!  And by 2007 I was brave enough to quit my job as an investment banker.  I really didn’t like my investment banking job and more importantly I didn’t like who I was as an investment banker – I wasn’t Sammy, Sam, ME! But then by 2010 after 15 years of living and working in London I had lost myself. So I sold my house and I went travelling, hoping to find myself!  Over the next few years, I did get lost but I did find myself. And I did fall in love - I was doing the things I loved! And now I’m embarking on a whole new chapter of my life, hoping to create something with some of the amazing and inspiring people I’ve met. I heard something yesterday: “We all have the choice to change our stories, to step up from the caves of our lives and choose our own adventures. And when we decide to lead our own narratives, we become true heroes in our own life stories.” Life is short.  Live your dream and share your passion. - Sammy Sam

I first came across Holstee in 2011. A friend emailed me the Holstee Manifesto and it felt like I’d come home!  And thinking back on the decisions I’d made over the years of my life until that point, I’d been living it, too.

In 2005 I started retraining as a personal trainer.  I’d realized that I loved to be active, outside, not in an office and instead helping people feel energized, confident and good about themselves!  And by 2007 I was brave enough to quit my job as an investment banker.  I really didn’t like my investment banking job and more importantly I didn’t like who I was as an investment banker – I wasn’t Sammy, Sam, ME!

But then by 2010 after 15 years of living and working in London I had lost myself. So I sold my house and I went travelling, hoping to find myself!  Over the next few years, I did get lost but I did find myself. And I did fall in love - I was doing the things I loved!

And now I’m embarking on a whole new chapter of my life, hoping to create something with some of the amazing and inspiring people I’ve met.

I heard something yesterday: “We all have the choice to change our stories, to step up from the caves of our lives and choose our own adventures. And when we decide to lead our own narratives, we become true heroes in our own life stories.”

Life is short.  Live your dream and share your passion.

- Sammy Sam

2 months ago  View high resolution

Back in 2011, I was working in a good job and had my life set out before me. Completely unexpectedly, I was struck down by a mystery illness whereby I was unable to stand or walk for 4 months. I am happy to say now that it is gone but the doctors still do not know what was wrong with me and cannot promise it will not come back. While I was sick, I decided that even if I was wheelchair bound, I wanted to make a difference to the world. So I applied for a Masters Degree in Engineering for Sustainable Development at the University of Cambridge in the UK. Initially I went and traveled around Europe and Asia and then went back to my old job. I was then shocked to found out I had been accepted and offered a scholarship. Fast forward 12 months, I put my career on hold (maybe?) and here I am studying in the UK. I have literally no idea what I am going to do at the end of this year and I have never felt so alive in my life.Life can throw out the most unexpected and unusual challenges. How you decide to deal with them will determine how happy in life you are and how much of difference you will make to the world. - Randolph James Brazier   

Back in 2011, I was working in a good job and had my life set out before me. Completely unexpectedly, I was struck down by a mystery illness whereby I was unable to stand or walk for 4 months. I am happy to say now that it is gone but the doctors still do not know what was wrong with me and cannot promise it will not come back.

While I was sick, I decided that even if I was wheelchair bound, I wanted to make a difference to the world. So I applied for a Masters Degree in Engineering for Sustainable Development at the University of Cambridge in the UK. Initially I went and traveled around Europe and Asia and then went back to my old job. I was then shocked to found out I had been accepted and offered a scholarship. Fast forward 12 months, I put my career on hold (maybe?) and here I am studying in the UK. I have literally no idea what I am going to do at the end of this year and I have never felt so alive in my life.

Life can throw out the most unexpected and unusual challenges. How you decide to deal with them will determine how happy in life you are and how much of difference you will make to the world.

- Randolph James Brazier   

2 months ago  1 note View high resolution

About a year ago to the day, I saw the Manifesto for the first time while searching for a new direction to take myself. My life had been taking dramatic turns very quickly; I was about to graduate, my relationships were evolving as I was quickly getting older, but I was not feeling like I was really “growing up.” I was browsing through a list of entrepreneurs, trying to narrow down the five that I would beg to let me work for them. And then, I saw the Manifesto. I must have read it ten times in a row. I knew from that moment on, regardless of where life took me, the words on the Manifesto would always have an impact on my life. Later that same night, I had a date scheduled, my first with this particular girl. As I sipped my margarita, I remembered the words on the Manifesto, and decided to be myself: open, naive, and to put all my awkwardness right on the table. “I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. I want to change the world. Do something crazy. I just applied for these programs. I’m either going to Cali or NYC. I have to get out of here and take a risk on something.” “That’s awesome! I think you should explore outside of the Midwest.” She replied. “I want to teach Earth and Space Science…and shave my head.” Our Mexican meal turned into hours of talking about life, death, fears and passions. I credit a large portion of our conversation on the Manifesto. It pushed me away from typical ice breaker questions and down a path of intellectual exploration, which led to genuine interest, insight and sparked amazing conversation. “If you don’t like something, change it.” How true. I’m in NYC. She’s bald and beautiful. And life is short. - Cody Beck

About a year ago to the day, I saw the Manifesto for the first time while searching for a new direction to take myself. My life had been taking dramatic turns very quickly; I was about to graduate, my relationships were evolving as I was quickly getting older, but I was not feeling like I was really “growing up.”

I was browsing through a list of entrepreneurs, trying to narrow down the five that I would beg to let me work for them. And then, I saw the Manifesto. I must have read it ten times in a row. I knew from that moment on, regardless of where life took me, the words on the Manifesto would always have an impact on my life.

Later that same night, I had a date scheduled, my first with this particular girl. As I sipped my margarita, I remembered the words on the Manifesto, and decided to be myself: open, naive, and to put all my awkwardness right on the table.

“I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. I want to change the world. Do something crazy. I just applied for these programs. I’m either going to Cali or NYC. I have to get out of here and take a risk on something.”

“That’s awesome! I think you should explore outside of the Midwest.” She replied. “I want to teach Earth and Space Science…and shave my head.”

Our Mexican meal turned into hours of talking about life, death, fears and passions. I credit a large portion of our conversation on the Manifesto. It pushed me away from typical ice breaker questions and down a path of intellectual exploration, which led to genuine interest, insight and sparked amazing conversation.

“If you don’t like something, change it.” How true.

I’m in NYC. She’s bald and beautiful. And life is short.

- Cody Beck

I was first introduced to Holstee and the Manifesto by a good friend of mine who inspired me to go out and use my passion for doing great things. It all sounded good on paper but I didn’t know where to start, how to use my passion proactively, and I was completely stuck. I was working a job I didn’t enjoy at all but knew it was just a part-time thing until I found something more. The only problem was that I couldn’t find what in my heart was looking for. Another thing that fueled my fire was Project M, a platform for social good using creativity in a new way known lovingly as “Thinking Wrong,” and this changed my life dramatically. Those two weeks involved in Project M solidified my desire to do good in the world and focus on what I can do using my knowledge and skill set to inspire others and make positive change in my community. Once again the words of the Manifesto were intertwined with my life and my aspirations. I was inspired to leave my job and pursue something more, to be a student of life and strive to constantly learn and grow. Ultimately I was led to Holstee and found a position as their design intern, which is where I am today. I never thought I would end up in New York City with an amazing group of people, but I certainly appreciate every moment here and look forward to what lies ahead. I’m grateful for that first experience with the words of the Manifesto and truly believe that everyone should go out and do what they love, and do it often. And no matter how bleak things may look if you keep working and keep searching for your passion, you’ll find your place. - Andrew Martis

I was first introduced to Holstee and the Manifesto by a good friend of mine who inspired me to go out and use my passion for doing great things.

It all sounded good on paper but I didn’t know where to start, how to use my passion proactively, and I was completely stuck. I was working a job I didn’t enjoy at all but knew it was just a part-time thing until I found something more. The only problem was that I couldn’t find what in my heart was looking for.

Another thing that fueled my fire was Project M, a platform for social good using creativity in a new way known lovingly as “Thinking Wrong,” and this changed my life dramatically. Those two weeks involved in Project M solidified my desire to do good in the world and focus on what I can do using my knowledge and skill set to inspire others and make positive change in my community.

Once again the words of the Manifesto were intertwined with my life and my aspirations. I was inspired to leave my job and pursue something more, to be a student of life and strive to constantly learn and grow.

Ultimately I was led to Holstee and found a position as their design intern, which is where I am today. I never thought I would end up in New York City with an amazing group of people, but I certainly appreciate every moment here and look forward to what lies ahead.

I’m grateful for that first experience with the words of the Manifesto and truly believe that everyone should go out and do what they love, and do it often. And no matter how bleak things may look if you keep working and keep searching for your passion, you’ll find your place.

- Andrew Martis

In 2010, after I got dumped from my 20 year job at a company I had lost belief in, it was like I was shot out of a velvet cannon into everything I was meant to be.  Without the chaos and self-sabotage of a daily toxic environment, I was able to gain elevation and see things from a different view, a higher open view.  Not being in a cage unlocked my knees and legs and I feel like I’m running, full speed, toward who I am meant to be and doing what I am meant to do.  When I read the Holstee Manifesto, I felt like it had been etched in my bones a million years ago.  It felt like whatever that ineffable thing is that’s truer than truth.  It reminded me that all those years at a job that flattened my heart served the fine purpose of reminding me over and over and over that I am an expert at having a flattened heart! —- so know I will be an expert at open, huge, lively heart!  xoxo - Amy Shouse

In 2010, after I got dumped from my 20 year job at a company I had lost belief in, it was like I was shot out of a velvet cannon into everything I was meant to be.  Without the chaos and self-sabotage of a daily toxic environment, I was able to gain elevation and see things from a different view, a higher open view.  Not being in a cage unlocked my knees and legs and I feel like I’m running, full speed, toward who I am meant to be and doing what I am meant to do.  When I read the Holstee Manifesto, I felt like it had been etched in my bones a million years ago.  It felt like whatever that ineffable thing is that’s truer than truth.  It reminded me that all those years at a job that flattened my heart served the fine purpose of reminding me over and over and over that I am an expert at having a flattened heart! —- so know I will be an expert at open, huge, lively heart!  xoxo

- Amy Shouse

“GET BUSY LIVING, OR GET BUSY DYING.” In 2004, I weighed in at almost 310 pounds!  I had never before been so unhealthy - I smoked cigars, had high blood pressure and was pre-diabetic.  Always short of breath, I really was a mess. Despite my poor health, I wanted to do something I had not done since I was a child - ride a bicycle.  Though I was terribly out of shape I bought myself wheels.  At first it was difficult to get going and I only rode once in a while.  I always thought, however, if I remained faithful to riding I would one day do something I had always thought about - ride my bicycle across the United States.  My wife thought I was nuts. Convinced I had to do this crazy thing, I began to ride more often.  I commuted to work once in a while, then every day.  I planned routes across the United States and even went on a few overnight trips with friends. I traveled everywhere by bike - to work, the market and was more and more consumed with the dream of traveling across the United States. In 2012, the year I turned 50, I finally realized my dream.  I started on April 22 from Ventura, CA and ended 50 days later in Cape May, NJ.  During my trip, I met many wonderful people.  My friend Ray rode the second day of the trip with me to keep me company.  My wife met me in the hotel every night for three weeks of the trip.  My sister Kathy and I trekked across Kansas together, and my son Zach rode for 10 days with me.  I met George Rossi, the school teacher in Kansas who was also a 50 year old bike rider.  Aaron, in Indiana, was so concerned I would get hit by a car he insisted on giving me a ride and we spent a few hours together.  I will never forget the excitement I had while alone on the road, but could always count on a wave from passing motorists, a smile from a store clerk or texts and posts from my friends reading the “joeonabike.com” blog.  Now 9 years after I got back in the saddle, I am 70 pounds lighter and no longer have hypertension or diabetes.  I am happier in work, my marriage, my relationships and in my life. Albert Einstein said “There are only two ways to live your life.  One is as though nothing is a miracle.  The other is as though everything is a miracle.” Living life, on YOUR terms, is a miraculous, wondrous thing. Peace, - Joe Greene, joeonabike

“GET BUSY LIVING, OR GET BUSY DYING.”

In 2004, I weighed in at almost 310 pounds!  I had never before been so unhealthy - I smoked cigars, had high blood pressure and was pre-diabetic.  Always short of breath, I really was a mess.

Despite my poor health, I wanted to do something I had not done since I was a child - ride a bicycle.  Though I was terribly out of shape I bought myself wheels.  At first it was difficult to get going and I only rode once in a while.  I always thought, however, if I remained faithful to riding I would one day do something I had always thought about - ride my bicycle across the United States.  My wife thought I was nuts.

Convinced I had to do this crazy thing, I began to ride more often.  I commuted to work once in a while, then every day.  I planned routes across the United States and even went on a few overnight trips with friends. I traveled everywhere by bike - to work, the market and was more and more consumed with the dream of traveling across the United States.

In 2012, the year I turned 50, I finally realized my dream.  I started on April 22 from Ventura, CA and ended 50 days later in Cape May, NJ. 

During my trip, I met many wonderful people.  My friend Ray rode the second day of the trip with me to keep me company.  My wife met me in the hotel every night for three weeks of the trip.  My sister Kathy and I trekked across Kansas together, and my son Zach rode for 10 days with me.  I met George Rossi, the school teacher in Kansas who was also a 50 year old bike rider.  Aaron, in Indiana, was so concerned I would get hit by a car he insisted on giving me a ride and we spent a few hours together. 

I will never forget the excitement I had while alone on the road, but could always count on a wave from passing motorists, a smile from a store clerk or texts and posts from my friends reading the “joeonabike.com” blog. 

Now 9 years after I got back in the saddle, I am 70 pounds lighter and no longer have hypertension or diabetes.  I am happier in work, my marriage, my relationships and in my life.

Albert Einstein said “There are only two ways to live your life.  One is as though nothing is a miracle.  The other is as though everything is a miracle.”

Living life, on YOUR terms, is a miraculous, wondrous thing.

Peace,

- Joe Greene, joeonabike

After a few years working for a large mining company, I found myself repeatedly looking at the computer screen, and asking myself: “Why am I doing this?” It had no meaning, had no real conetion, there was an inconsistency within the enterprise system, and I tried to resist for longer, I resigned, and fortunately I came to see life through different eyes, more maturely.I moved to Sao Paulo, and started working with my father, and come the time that everything changed. Strong and profound changes, so there’s no coming back, I always say, “knowing the truth, I can not stay in ‘convenience,’ I must be part of the solution, not the problem.”I realized that I sold organic products, and like me, producers should consume and promote this chain. I’ve engaged in Sao Paulo group, which discusses and puts into practice requests from farmers along the organs responsible government. A year after many meetings, and we made a change of a organics law, thanks to the joint efforts of farmers, traders and consumers of organics in São Paulo.Promoting the sale of products that replace pesticides in our farm, and in 2010 I discover that I am “social entrepreneur,” another radical change in my perception of identity and community. Inside The Hub, I found people who are like me, do a radically better world. Before, I felt alone because hardly among my friends people had engaged in transformation.Last year, climbed nearly 50% in our revenue, coming in 425 thousand reais, employ 14 people, all with their labor rights guaranteed. We are proud of our employees.After a few years, “sold my life,” everything that I “had” turned into money, or was happy to be in the house of some friends, and my brother, even my car was stolen, and since then, the bike is my best friend & transport.I spent so much time in hard traffic, so today I’ve decided to travel by bike, feeling life with another rhythm and path.On the way, the expedition Ciclocultura will be planting permaculture knowledge, and exchanges ancestors wisdom mixed with modern technologies. We intend to lead workshops, such as bicycles that generate energy for locations without electricity, as well as bioconstrution and gardens, root seeds exchange and fostering fair trade economy.A year is the expectation on the farm until we hit the Amazon, were my farm is located, on the Pará state.Living the dream really, believe in the heart, go fearlessly, answers reside within each one.As our trip is collaborative, we ask please to share it! ALso you can send suggestions for routes, receive us into your homes, towns!   Grateful!   - Romina Lindemann

After a few years working for a large mining company, I found myself repeatedly looking at the computer screen, and asking myself: “Why am I doing this?” It had no meaning, had no real conetion, there was an inconsistency within the enterprise system, and I tried to resist for longer, I resigned, and fortunately I came to see life through different eyes, more maturely.

I moved to Sao Paulo, and started working with my father, and come the time that everything changed. Strong and profound changes, so there’s no coming back, I always say, “knowing the truth, I can not stay in ‘convenience,’ I must be part of the solution, not the problem.”

I realized that I sold organic products, and like me, producers should consume and promote this chain. I’ve engaged in Sao Paulo group, which discusses and puts into practice requests from farmers along the organs responsible government. A year after many meetings, and we made a change of a organics law, thanks to the joint efforts of farmers, traders and consumers of organics in São Paulo.

Promoting the sale of products that replace pesticides in our farm, and in 2010 I discover that I am “social entrepreneur,” another radical change in my perception of identity and community. Inside The Hub, I found people who are like me, do a radically better world. Before, I felt alone because hardly among my friends people had engaged in transformation.

Last year, climbed nearly 50% in our revenue, coming in 425 thousand reais, employ 14 people, all with their labor rights guaranteed. We are proud of our employees.

After a few years, “sold my life,” everything that I “had” turned into money, or was happy to be in the house of some friends, and my brother, even my car was stolen, and since then, the bike is my best friend & transport.

I spent so much time in hard traffic, so today I’ve decided to travel by bike, feeling life with another rhythm and path.

On the way, the expedition Ciclocultura will be planting permaculture knowledge, and exchanges ancestors wisdom mixed with modern technologies. We intend to lead workshops, such as bicycles that generate energy for locations without electricity, as well as bioconstrution and gardens, root seeds exchange and fostering fair trade economy.

A year is the expectation on the farm until we hit the Amazon, were my farm is located, on the Pará state.

Living the dream really, believe in the heart, go fearlessly, answers reside within each one.

As our trip is collaborative, we ask please to share it! ALso you can send suggestions for routes, receive us into your homes, towns!
 
Grateful!
 
- Romina Lindemann

I tore down the posters from my wall, moved out of a beautiful apartment four blocks from the beach, quit an amazing job that I had enjoyed for three years, packed up all of my belongings, put them into storage and traveled to South America for six months. Why? I realized that life is short and I needed to live my passion. I had been climbing for the past eight years but I never was able to fully immerse myself in the sport because of other obligations. I had an amazing life, but for some reason it didn’t seem real to me—-something was missing. I had become too comfortable. I needed something fresh and something different. There were parts of my life that I didn’t like and that I wanted to change. I knew the only way to change was to restart. So I decided to commit first and figure everything else out later. I said goodbye to beautiful, sunny Santa Monica and booked a flight to South America.  The plan was simple: Pack up all of my mountaineering geer and spend six months traveling and climbing throughout South America. I knew the only way to find myself was to get lost. I had no structure and no obligation. I cut the cord and took off.  I had a life-changing trip. It was filled with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. I spent entire weeks worth of time vomiting out of both ends, I lost 15 pounds of weight from my already skinny body, I failed trying to climb my first two objectives, I was stuck in my tent in a horrific storm of negative 40 degrees and 100km winds. Most tragically, I had two friends die while climbing in the same mountain range. But the tragedy pushed me to dig deep inside. It forced me to reflect on my own life and see how ephemeral and precious it is. It made me realize that life is about living now. I knew that some opportunities would only come once. So I seized the moment. The remainder of the trip was filled with dreams to last a lifetime. Climbing 20,000 foot peaks in alpine style, technical ascents of 2,000 foot big walls high in the Andes, soloing an 18,500 glaciated mountain and journeying back to the US to climb the 3,000 foot granite monolith known as El Capitan - just to name a few.  I climbed all over the country stopping in Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil. Over the next six months I realized that life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. I created life-long friendships and sacred bonds along the way. I didn’t know what I was missing until I stated doing the things I loved.  In the end, I realized that life is simple. When I arrived back, small things began to confuse me like, what month is it again, why are people going to work, why can I note relate to my friends’ Facebook status updates, how is it possible to have one stick of toothpaste last six months, how do you say that in Spanish, why are stores closed on Sunday, what’s a siesta, what is that cow doing in the middle of the road and many other unanswered questions. But I realized that continued travel opened my mind and heart to so many differing cultures. With everything realization comes remarkable insight into my life and others as well as amazing friendships and experiences.  If I never took the chance, I also never would have found love: she was sitting across from me at my local cafe and I was inspired to tell her she was beautiful. We are still together to this day.  I came back a changed man. I tossed my smart phone in the trash, stopped watching TV and moves, vowed to check email only twice per day, made sure not to work more than 40 hours each week. And always saved time to live life with passion. What’s your passion? - Jared Vagy

I tore down the posters from my wall, moved out of a beautiful apartment four blocks from the beach, quit an amazing job that I had enjoyed for three years, packed up all of my belongings, put them into storage and traveled to South America for six months.

Why? I realized that life is short and I needed to live my passion. I had been climbing for the past eight years but I never was able to fully immerse myself in the sport because of other obligations. I had an amazing life, but for some reason it didn’t seem real to me—-something was missing.

I had become too comfortable. I needed something fresh and something different. There were parts of my life that I didn’t like and that I wanted to change. I knew the only way to change was to restart. So I decided to commit first and figure everything else out later. I said goodbye to beautiful, sunny Santa Monica and booked a flight to South America. 

The plan was simple: Pack up all of my mountaineering geer and spend six months traveling and climbing throughout South America. I knew the only way to find myself was to get lost. I had no structure and no obligation. I cut the cord and took off. 

I had a life-changing trip. It was filled with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. I spent entire weeks worth of time vomiting out of both ends, I lost 15 pounds of weight from my already skinny body, I failed trying to climb my first two objectives, I was stuck in my tent in a horrific storm of negative 40 degrees and 100km winds. Most tragically, I had two friends die while climbing in the same mountain range.

But the tragedy pushed me to dig deep inside. It forced me to reflect on my own life and see how ephemeral and precious it is. It made me realize that life is about living now. I knew that some opportunities would only come once. So I seized the moment.

The remainder of the trip was filled with dreams to last a lifetime. Climbing 20,000 foot peaks in alpine style, technical ascents of 2,000 foot big walls high in the Andes, soloing an 18,500 glaciated mountain and journeying back to the US to climb the 3,000 foot granite monolith known as El Capitan - just to name a few. 

I climbed all over the country stopping in Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil. Over the next six months I realized that life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. I created life-long friendships and sacred bonds along the way. I didn’t know what I was missing until I stated doing the things I loved. 

In the end, I realized that life is simple.

When I arrived back, small things began to confuse me like, what month is it again, why are people going to work, why can I note relate to my friends’ Facebook status updates, how is it possible to have one stick of toothpaste last six months, how do you say that in Spanish, why are stores closed on Sunday, what’s a siesta, what is that cow doing in the middle of the road and many other unanswered questions.

But I realized that continued travel opened my mind and heart to so many differing cultures. With everything realization comes remarkable insight into my life and others as well as amazing friendships and experiences. 

If I never took the chance, I also never would have found love: she was sitting across from me at my local cafe and I was inspired to tell her she was beautiful. We are still together to this day. 

I came back a changed man. I tossed my smart phone in the trash, stopped watching TV and moves, vowed to check email only twice per day, made sure not to work more than 40 hours each week. And always saved time to live life with passion. What’s your passion?

- Jared Vagy

It was just a few short months ago that I was led to Holstee through means of social media where I discovered & fell in love with the Manifesto. Upon reading, I embraced and shared the concept with everyone I could. Immediately, I ordered a poster, which now hangs in my dining room. I feel like I’ve always been somewhat in tune with its message, however it’s now applicable on a much deeper more personal level.   New Year’s Eve 2013 brought about change in a big way. At 25 years old, I sat in the doctors office 20lbs lighter being told that I had advanced testicular cancer. The following days were filled with doctor’s appointments, anxiety, and within 5 days I was scheduled for a surgery. What was expected to be an outpatient procedure became a week stay in hospital with immediate chemotherapy. My world became abruptly flipped and distorted. Being bulldozed with such an intense experience left me breathless, but never once did I feel sorry for myself. I instinctively became focused and determined while the Holstee Manifesto burned intently in the back of my mind.Currently, Ive completed 3 cycles of treatment and have one more ahead of me. I continue to impress my doctors and, according to them, am the first to not get sick on my regimen. I fully attribute my success to my lifestyle consisting of the healthiest foods, exercise, a strong, positive attitude, and a support system including the most amazing family and friends. Reading the Manifesto daily fills me with the greatest inspiration that I hope to be paying forward. This healing journey has been an incredible gift and I’m so excited to see what opportunities are generated because of it. So many fantastic things have already been falling into place and Im beyond grateful. This new lease on life is exhilarating. Each day is a gift. There is not a moment to waste. Go live YOUR life and smile. - Brian Hastings

It was just a few short months ago that I was led to Holstee through means of social media where I discovered & fell in love with the Manifesto. Upon reading, I embraced and shared the concept with everyone I could. Immediately, I ordered a poster, which now hangs in my dining room. I feel like I’ve always been somewhat in tune with its message, however it’s now applicable on a much deeper more personal level.  

New Year’s Eve 2013 brought about change in a big way. At 25 years old, I sat in the doctors office 20lbs lighter being told that I had advanced testicular cancer. The following days were filled with doctor’s appointments, anxiety, and within 5 days I was scheduled for a surgery. What was expected to be an outpatient procedure became a week stay in hospital with immediate chemotherapy. My world became abruptly flipped and distorted. Being bulldozed with such an intense experience left me breathless, but never once did I feel sorry for myself. I instinctively became focused and determined while the Holstee Manifesto burned intently in the back of my mind.

Currently, Ive completed 3 cycles of treatment and have one more ahead of me. I continue to impress my doctors and, according to them, am the first to not get sick on my regimen. I fully attribute my success to my lifestyle consisting of the healthiest foods, exercise, a strong, positive attitude, and a support system including the most amazing family and friends.

Reading the Manifesto daily fills me with the greatest inspiration that I hope to be paying forward. This healing journey has been an incredible gift and I’m so excited to see what opportunities are generated because of it. So many fantastic things have already been falling into place and Im beyond grateful. This new lease on life is exhilarating. Each day is a gift. There is not a moment to waste. Go live YOUR life and smile.

- Brian Hastings

Since first stumbling on to the Manifesto, my life has been an altered course. At the end of 2011, I stopped taking clients, cleared my plate of things that divided my time or stressed me out, dropped the guilt and caught up on everything unfinished, and I stopped saying someday. Someday is now. 2012 became my Year of the Phoenix and I spent the year dusting off projects and journals full of ideas that I’d never had the time to act on. There were so many wonders, a cross between Christmas morning and Pandora’s box. From that moment, I decided to make each day about doing more of what I love, being present right now, and spending more time creating (art, memories, time) with those I love. At the end of 2012, I spontaneously decided we were going to Europe. I had no idea how, but I knew that we would go if we were meant to, so I put it out there. Two weeks later a door opened. I am launching a magazine, my art group is going nonprofit, and we now have tickets to spend three weeks with some of our dearest friends - we will be spending three weeks in Portugal, Germany, and Sweden. We will also be spending a few days doing the most magical things (like riding the Sultan’s Elephant) in Spain and France for my magazine. Getting rid of all that “stuff” and saying no was incredibly freeing. I am doing things for me now, which makes me a happier person for my family, and my family and I are doing more as a result. We are savoring every bite of our lives and we are changed. Thank you. Someday is now. - Ana Maria Selvaggio

Since first stumbling on to the Manifesto, my life has been an altered course.

At the end of 2011, I stopped taking clients, cleared my plate of things that divided my time or stressed me out, dropped the guilt and caught up on everything unfinished, and I stopped saying someday.

Someday is now.

2012 became my Year of the Phoenix and I spent the year dusting off projects and journals full of ideas that I’d never had the time to act on. There were so many wonders, a cross between Christmas morning and Pandora’s box. From that moment, I decided to make each day about doing more of what I love, being present right now, and spending more time creating (art, memories, time) with those I love.

At the end of 2012, I spontaneously decided we were going to Europe. I had no idea how, but I knew that we would go if we were meant to, so I put it out there. Two weeks later a door opened. I am launching a magazine, my art group is going nonprofit, and we now have tickets to spend three weeks with some of our dearest friends - we will be spending three weeks in Portugal, Germany, and Sweden. We will also be spending a few days doing the most magical things (like riding the Sultan’s Elephant) in Spain and France for my magazine.

Getting rid of all that “stuff” and saying no was incredibly freeing. I am doing things for me now, which makes me a happier person for my family, and my family and I are doing more as a result. We are savoring every bite of our lives and we are changed. Thank you.

Someday is now.

- Ana Maria Selvaggio

Life is about the people you meet and what you create with them!  So start creating. I like the entire Manifesto but this line holds the truth for this time in our collective consciousness. Connecting with others is food for our life force and soul and dancing and creating so that we have our joy is what it is about! Thanks! - Lisa Faremouth Weber

Life is about the people you meet and what you create with them!  So start creating.

I like the entire Manifesto but this line holds the truth for this time in our collective consciousness. Connecting with others is food for our life force and soul and dancing and creating so that we have our joy is what it is about! Thanks!

- Lisa Faremouth Weber

It was around two years ago, shortly after we were married, that my wife and I seriously started wondering: “What would our lives be like if we quit our jobs and set out to travel the world for a year?” Once the idea was in our heads, we couldn’t get it out, so we started started socking away as much money as possible. As our scheduled date of departure got closer, we started getting nervous about everything we were walking away from.  Then she discovered the Holstee Manifesto online and I immediately ordered a print.  We framed it and kept a copy on our desk for the next month before we left to remind us that we were making the right choices.  Then, finally, on the agreed-upon day, we both reluctantly walked away from our successful Silicon Valley careers with one-way tickets to the Philippines and backpacks full of photography gear.   Now, the trip is winding down, we’re living in London, and we’ve had a lot of time to reflect about the incredible experiences that we had while traveling.  I put together a short (5 min) video with some of the highlights from our trip and I used the text of the Holstee Manifesto in the video to help tell the story.  - Adam Brill

It was around two years ago, shortly after we were married, that my wife and I seriously started wondering: “What would our lives be like if we quit our jobs and set out to travel the world for a year?” Once the idea was in our heads, we couldn’t get it out, so we started started socking away as much money as possible. As our scheduled date of departure got closer, we started getting nervous about everything we were walking away from.  Then she discovered the Holstee Manifesto online and I immediately ordered a print.  We framed it and kept a copy on our desk for the next month before we left to remind us that we were making the right choices.  Then, finally, on the agreed-upon day, we both reluctantly walked away from our successful Silicon Valley careers with one-way tickets to the Philippines and backpacks full of photography gear.  

Now, the trip is winding down, we’re living in London, and we’ve had a lot of time to reflect about the incredible experiences that we had while traveling.  I put together a short (5 min) video with some of the highlights from our trip and I used the text of the Holstee Manifesto in the video to help tell the story. 

- Adam Brill

“Nice Guys Finish Last.” I have unfortunately been the epitome of this statement. In my time, I have been cheated on, dismissed and utterly disappointed in myself from what others believed of me. But never in my life had I realized this statement to be more accurate, until recently. I would like to peg myself as a romantic.  Unfortunately, that also means I do enjoy being in a relationship.  I found myself wandering around flower shops thinking of someone I could buy flowers for. One of my most recent relationships, I finally thought that I had found the one.  I even had a bank account set up for a ring.  Granted, I am young, (turned 26 this year) but I truly believed I found someone special.  Turns out… I was not the only one.  We held onto a long distance relationship for 2 years of the total four.  It wasn’t until a week prior to her moving back that she broke things off with me. Devastated, I sought friend’s advice. This friend told me, “Don’t give her up without a fight. This shouldn’t have just come out of the blue.” So I fought. I put myself out there to figure out what it was that I had done: What drove us apart? It couldn’t have been the distance, I felt, because things seemed to go right when we were around each other. But she assured me she had been feeling distant and she just did not feel the same about me anymore. I was crushed. But somehow still felt some sort of hope. A week later, I found the real reason as to why she wanted to break things off. Turns out she was with seeing a guy from work, while she was seeing me. A “drunken” encounter of hers led to me hitting rock bottom. I wish I could say this was the first time this had ever happened to me.  But it’s not. I’ve been cheated on a few times, actually.  It lead me to wonder: Why do girls go for the “bad boy?” When all I hear is complaints from friends about how they’re treated, and how they need a nice guy in their life, guys like us were dismissed.  I saw my ex girlfriend about a month later. I went to see a mutual friend for her birthday. I gave the birthday girl a hug and went to the bar to order her a drink. In front of me, was a group of guys who were adamant about keeping their bar seats. I ordered between them and awaited the drinks.  My ex and her friend actually started hitting on the group of guys that were in front of me. This was literally before my eyes. I dropped my head, grabbed the drinks, gave them both to my friend, proceeded to walk out the door and to the next bar.  It was after this encounter, that I finally had an epiphany. And I actually smiled as I met a few of my closest friends at another bar.That people deserve to be happy. But it is in that path to find that happiness that reveals one’s true character. For a long time, I did look down on myself.  I felt like if I had been cheated on this many time, then it must be me. Right? Everything does have a silver lining.  Maybe one day I will find that person that cares about me the way I care about them. They say that nice guys finish last. And although I might have that time, I picked myself up, with the support of my friends and family (Including spending time with my twin nephews seen in this picture).  They made me realize it’s about time I finish first. The funny thing is, if I could have changed my past, I wouldn’t. It’s our pasts that shape who we are today. After all that I got a new job, moved to the city, lost about 50 lbs and have really worked on turning my life around.  I may not have reached the silver lining yet, but I’m MUCH closer than I was.- Brett Baldwin 

“Nice Guys Finish Last.”

I have unfortunately been the epitome of this statement. In my time, I have been cheated on, dismissed and utterly disappointed in myself from what others believed of me. But never in my life had I realized this statement to be more accurate, until recently.

I would like to peg myself as a romantic.  Unfortunately, that also means I do enjoy being in a relationship.  I found myself wandering around flower shops thinking of someone I could buy flowers for.

One of my most recent relationships, I finally thought that I had found the one.  I even had a bank account set up for a ring.  Granted, I am young, (turned 26 this year) but I truly believed I found someone special.  Turns out… I was not the only one.  We held onto a long distance relationship for 2 years of the total four.  It wasn’t until a week prior to her moving back that she broke things off with me. Devastated, I sought friend’s advice. This friend told me, “Don’t give her up without a fight. This shouldn’t have just come out of the blue.”

So I fought. I put myself out there to figure out what it was that I had done: What drove us apart? It couldn’t have been the distance, I felt, because things seemed to go right when we were around each other. But she assured me she had been feeling distant and she just did not feel the same about me anymore. I was crushed. But somehow still felt some sort of hope.

A week later, I found the real reason as to why she wanted to break things off. Turns out she was with seeing a guy from work, while she was seeing me. A “drunken” encounter of hers led to me hitting rock bottom.

I wish I could say this was the first time this had ever happened to me.  But it’s not. I’ve been cheated on a few times, actually.  It lead me to wonder: Why do girls go for the “bad boy?” When all I hear is complaints from friends about how they’re treated, and how they need a nice guy in their life, guys like us were dismissed. 

I saw my ex girlfriend about a month later. I went to see a mutual friend for her birthday. I gave the birthday girl a hug and went to the bar to order her a drink. In front of me, was a group of guys who were adamant about keeping their bar seats. I ordered between them and awaited the drinks.  My ex and her friend actually started hitting on the group of guys that were in front of me. This was literally before my eyes. I dropped my head, grabbed the drinks, gave them both to my friend, proceeded to walk out the door and to the next bar. 

It was after this encounter, that I finally had an epiphany. And I actually smiled as I met a few of my closest friends at another bar.

That people deserve to be happy.

But it is in that path to find that happiness that reveals one’s true character. For a long time, I did look down on myself.  I felt like if I had been cheated on this many time, then it must be me. Right?

Everything does have a silver lining.  Maybe one day I will find that person that cares about me the way I care about them. They say that nice guys finish last. And although I might have that time, I picked myself up, with the support of my friends and family (Including spending time with my twin nephews seen in this picture).  They made me realize it’s about time I finish first.
 
The funny thing is, if I could have changed my past, I wouldn’t. It’s our pasts that shape who we are today. After all that I got a new job, moved to the city, lost about 50 lbs and have really worked on turning my life around.  I may not have reached the silver lining yet, but I’m MUCH closer than I was.

- Brett Baldwin 

It started as a Facebook Share, I really couldn’t stop thinking about how it (the Manifesto) and I had the same philosophy.  Then I searched for the words outside of the Facebook photo, found the posters, then found the video. I tagged people I know and love on particular lines throughout the Manifesto and received amazing feedback. I read it again. I watched the video again…then posted the video…then watched the video again.   My life, my travels, my spirituality, my need to give and receive, my need for love, my inner “little Chrysty,” my drive and ambition, my zest for living all gravitated towards the words on paper. I wanted to share the philosophy so I bought 5 posters (one for me and 4 for my group of “girls” who came together when one of us got cancer 9 years ago)…we like to say we’re a circle of SIX (even though there are only 5 of us) because that 6th person is ANYONE and EVERYONE who needs the strength of a group of amazing women! The Holstee Manifesto gives me hope and encouragement and reminds me to LIVE MY LIFE OUT LOUD! The world would be a better place if we all lived and loved in the Holstee manner.  I am grateful for EACH and every person who has crossed my path; and I will continue to find value in each and every one. - Chrysty Beverley Fortner

It started as a Facebook Share, I really couldn’t stop thinking about how it (the Manifesto) and I had the same philosophy.  Then I searched for the words outside of the Facebook photo, found the posters, then found the video. I tagged people I know and love on particular lines throughout the Manifesto and received amazing feedback. I read it again. I watched the video again…then posted the video…then watched the video again.  

My life, my travels, my spirituality, my need to give and receive, my need for love, my inner “little Chrysty,” my drive and ambition, my zest for living all gravitated towards the words on paper. I wanted to share the philosophy so I bought 5 posters (one for me and 4 for my group of “girls” who came together when one of us got cancer 9 years ago)…we like to say we’re a circle of SIX (even though there are only 5 of us) because that 6th person is ANYONE and EVERYONE who needs the strength of a group of amazing women!

The Holstee Manifesto gives me hope and encouragement and reminds me to LIVE MY LIFE OUT LOUD!

The world would be a better place if we all lived and loved in the Holstee manner.  I am grateful for EACH and every person who has crossed my path; and I will continue to find value in each and every one.

- Chrysty Beverley Fortner

True to the worst that is said of my generation, I’m usually more into snarky ironic stuff.  Actually, I only came across the Holstee Manifesto in the course of holiday shopping for my friend and then housemate, Kandyce (pictured here).   Kandyce loves mottos, quotes, and pretty much anything that could be classified as inspirational about as much as I eschew them, and I had promised that I would get her some “cheesy shit” for Christmas. Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. The significance of the Holstee Manifesto is that it serves as a reminder of someone with whom I have shared three (and counting) years of mistakes, changes, opportunities, travel, dreams, and wonderful meals. It is a thank-you to her for keeping me heartfelt, and a little love song to everything we’ve created. - Katie Perry

True to the worst that is said of my generation, I’m usually more into snarky ironic stuff. 

Actually, I only came across the Holstee Manifesto in the course of holiday shopping for my friend and then housemate, Kandyce (pictured here).  

Kandyce loves mottos, quotes, and pretty much anything that could be classified as inspirational about as much as I eschew them, and I had promised that I would get her some “cheesy shit” for Christmas.

Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them.

The significance of the Holstee Manifesto is that it serves as a reminder of someone with whom I have shared three (and counting) years of mistakes, changes, opportunities, travel, dreams, and wonderful meals.

It is a thank-you to her for keeping me heartfelt, and a little love song to everything we’ve created.

- Katie Perry

I first came across Holstee in 2011. A friend emailed me the Holstee Manifesto and it felt like I’d come home!  And thinking back on the decisions I’d made over the years of my life until that point, I’d been living it, too. In 2005 I started retraining as a personal trainer.  I’d realized that I loved to be active, outside, not in an office and instead helping people feel energized, confident and good about themselves!  And by 2007 I was brave enough to quit my job as an investment banker.  I really didn’t like my investment banking job and more importantly I didn’t like who I was as an investment banker – I wasn’t Sammy, Sam, ME! But then by 2010 after 15 years of living and working in London I had lost myself. So I sold my house and I went travelling, hoping to find myself!  Over the next few years, I did get lost but I did find myself. And I did fall in love - I was doing the things I loved! And now I’m embarking on a whole new chapter of my life, hoping to create something with some of the amazing and inspiring people I’ve met. I heard something yesterday: “We all have the choice to change our stories, to step up from the caves of our lives and choose our own adventures. And when we decide to lead our own narratives, we become true heroes in our own life stories.” Life is short.  Live your dream and share your passion. - Sammy Sam

I first came across Holstee in 2011. A friend emailed me the Holstee Manifesto and it felt like I’d come home!  And thinking back on the decisions I’d made over the years of my life until that point, I’d been living it, too.

In 2005 I started retraining as a personal trainer.  I’d realized that I loved to be active, outside, not in an office and instead helping people feel energized, confident and good about themselves!  And by 2007 I was brave enough to quit my job as an investment banker.  I really didn’t like my investment banking job and more importantly I didn’t like who I was as an investment banker – I wasn’t Sammy, Sam, ME!

But then by 2010 after 15 years of living and working in London I had lost myself. So I sold my house and I went travelling, hoping to find myself!  Over the next few years, I did get lost but I did find myself. And I did fall in love - I was doing the things I loved!

And now I’m embarking on a whole new chapter of my life, hoping to create something with some of the amazing and inspiring people I’ve met.

I heard something yesterday: “We all have the choice to change our stories, to step up from the caves of our lives and choose our own adventures. And when we decide to lead our own narratives, we become true heroes in our own life stories.”

Life is short.  Live your dream and share your passion.

- Sammy Sam

Back in 2011, I was working in a good job and had my life set out before me. Completely unexpectedly, I was struck down by a mystery illness whereby I was unable to stand or walk for 4 months. I am happy to say now that it is gone but the doctors still do not know what was wrong with me and cannot promise it will not come back. While I was sick, I decided that even if I was wheelchair bound, I wanted to make a difference to the world. So I applied for a Masters Degree in Engineering for Sustainable Development at the University of Cambridge in the UK. Initially I went and traveled around Europe and Asia and then went back to my old job. I was then shocked to found out I had been accepted and offered a scholarship. Fast forward 12 months, I put my career on hold (maybe?) and here I am studying in the UK. I have literally no idea what I am going to do at the end of this year and I have never felt so alive in my life.Life can throw out the most unexpected and unusual challenges. How you decide to deal with them will determine how happy in life you are and how much of difference you will make to the world. - Randolph James Brazier   

Back in 2011, I was working in a good job and had my life set out before me. Completely unexpectedly, I was struck down by a mystery illness whereby I was unable to stand or walk for 4 months. I am happy to say now that it is gone but the doctors still do not know what was wrong with me and cannot promise it will not come back.

While I was sick, I decided that even if I was wheelchair bound, I wanted to make a difference to the world. So I applied for a Masters Degree in Engineering for Sustainable Development at the University of Cambridge in the UK. Initially I went and traveled around Europe and Asia and then went back to my old job. I was then shocked to found out I had been accepted and offered a scholarship. Fast forward 12 months, I put my career on hold (maybe?) and here I am studying in the UK. I have literally no idea what I am going to do at the end of this year and I have never felt so alive in my life.

Life can throw out the most unexpected and unusual challenges. How you decide to deal with them will determine how happy in life you are and how much of difference you will make to the world.

- Randolph James Brazier   

About:

We have been consistently amazed and inspired by the community of individuals who have embraced the Holstee Manifesto as their own. This is a celebration of the stories that speak to the truth that life is indeed about the people you meet and the things you create with them.

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