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Tim Ferriss's Best X Posts

@tferriss

Author of The 4-Hour Workweek. Writer, blogger, podcaster.

Tim Ferriss has grown a big (and profitable) audience on X.

One of the reasons? The ability to create engaging content that got a lot of engagement.

Here are the 10 best posts (and why they worked):

Post #1

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
“He who jumps into the void owes no explanation to those who stand and watch.” — Jean-Luc Godard

Why This Post Performed Well

This post taps into the rebellious spirit that many of us secretly admire. It’s a quote that speaks to the inner daredevil in all of us. The idea of "jumping into the void" is thrilling and mysterious, conjuring images of taking risks and living life on your own terms. For those scrolling through their feeds, this can be a refreshing reminder to break free from the mundane and embrace the unknown. The quote also subtly challenges the reader, implying that those who play it safe are merely spectators. This can spark a sense of urgency or FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) in the audience, encouraging them to take action in their own lives. And let’s not forget the power of a good quote. It’s concise, thought-provoking, and easy to share. People love to repost things that make them look introspective and bold. This post nails that vibe perfectly.

Post #2

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
Tony Robbins believes that, in a lowered emotional state, we only see the problems, not solutions. Let’s say you wake up feeling tired and overwhelmed. You sit down to brainstorm strategies to solve your issues, but it comes to naught, and you feel even worse afterward. This is

Why This Post Performed Well

This post taps into a universal human experience: waking up feeling tired and overwhelmed. It's relatable and instantly connects with the audience because everyone has been there. By referencing Tony Robbins, the post gains credibility. Robbins is a well-known figure in personal development, and his name adds weight to the message. The post cleverly uses a hypothetical scenario to draw readers in, making them visualize their own experiences. This technique makes the content more engaging and personal. It also highlights a common cognitive bias: when we're in a negative emotional state, we tend to focus on problems rather than solutions. This insight is both enlightening and reassuring, as it suggests that the issue isn't with the person, but with their temporary state of mind. Finally, the post leaves readers with a sense of curiosity and the desire for a solution, encouraging them to seek more information or engage further with the content.

Post #3

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
Slow down and remember this: Most things make no difference. Being busy is a form of laziness—lazy thinking and indiscriminate action. Being overwhelmed is often as unproductive as doing nothing, and is far more unpleasant. Being selective—doing less—is the path of the productive. Focus on the important few and ignore the rest.

Why This Post Performed Well

This post resonates because it challenges a common societal belief: that busyness equals productivity. For many 30-year-olds, juggling careers, relationships, and personal growth, the idea of slowing down is both appealing and radical. It taps into the growing minimalist and mindfulness movements, which emphasize quality over quantity. The post uses a counterintuitive statement—"being busy is a form of laziness"—to grab attention. This juxtaposition makes readers pause and reconsider their own habits. By framing busyness as "lazy thinking," it flips the script, making readers feel empowered to prioritize and focus. The message is simple yet profound: do less to achieve more. This aligns with the desire for work-life balance, a hot topic for millennials. The language is straightforward, making it easily digestible and shareable. Overall, it offers a refreshing perspective that encourages introspection and change, which is why it likely resonated and performed well.

Post #4

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
Perhaps I’m just getting old, but my definition of luxury has changed over time. Now, it’s not about owning a lot of stuff. Luxury, to me, is feeling unrushed.

Why This Post Performed Well

This post resonates because it taps into a universal truth that many people experience as they age: the shifting definition of luxury. By framing luxury as "feeling unrushed," it challenges the traditional notion that luxury is about material possessions. This perspective is refreshing and relatable, especially for those in their 30s who are often juggling careers, families, and personal aspirations. The post's success lies in its simplicity and relatability. It speaks to a common desire for more time and less stress, something that many people crave but find elusive. The use of "Perhaps I’m just getting old" adds a touch of humor and self-awareness, making the post feel more personal and authentic. It invites readers to reflect on their own definitions of luxury, sparking engagement and conversation. Overall, the post's introspective nature and universal theme make it highly shareable and relatable, driving its success.

Post #5

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer the negative elements in your life, don’t sit at home and think about it. Go out and get busy!” — Dale Carnegie

Why This Post Performed Well

This post hits home for a lot of people because it tackles a universal struggle: the battle between action and inaction. First off, it's a quote from Dale Carnegie, a name many associate with self-improvement and success. That gives it an immediate credibility boost. The message is straightforward and empowering. It flips the script on the common tendency to overthink and encourages taking action, which is something many people need to hear. The juxtaposition of "inaction breeds doubt and fear" versus "action breeds confidence and courage" is powerful. It paints a clear picture of the consequences of both choices, making the benefits of action feel tangible and immediate. Plus, it taps into the fear of missing out on personal growth. No one wants to be stuck in a cycle of doubt and fear, right? Finally, the call to action—"Go out and get busy!"—is direct and motivating, leaving readers with a sense of urgency to change their lives.

Post #6

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
“Above all, do not lose your desire to walk: Every day I walk myself into a state of well-being and walk away from every illness; I have walked myself into my best thoughts, and I know of no thought so burdensome that one cannot walk away from it.” — Søren Kierkegaard

Why This Post Performed Well

This post taps into the timeless appeal of a good quote, especially when it's from a renowned philosopher like Søren Kierkegaard. First, it resonates because it speaks to the universal human experience of seeking mental and physical well-being. Walking is a simple, accessible activity that many people can relate to, making the message inclusive and encouraging. The quote also subtly suggests empowerment—walking as a means to "walk away" from problems—offering a sense of control over one's mental state. Moreover, the poetic language evokes a sense of calm and introspection, which can be particularly appealing in today's fast-paced, often stressful world. The post's success is also due to its shareability. Inspirational quotes are highly shareable content on social media, as they allow users to express their values and aspirations without crafting their own words. In essence, this post combines relatability, empowerment, and shareability—key ingredients for social media success.

Post #7

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
“Don't fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime. In great attempts it is glorious even to fail.” — Bruce Lee

Why This Post Performed Well

This post taps into a universal fear: failing. But it flips the script by suggesting that the real issue isn't failing—it's not aiming high enough. Quoting Bruce Lee, a universally respected figure, adds credibility and inspiration. People admire Lee for his discipline and wisdom, so his words carry weight. The post is motivational without being preachy. It acknowledges that failure is a part of life, but it reframes it as a stepping stone rather than a dead end. The language is simple yet powerful. Words like "glorious" and "great attempts" evoke a sense of heroism and adventure, making the idea of failing seem less daunting and more like a badge of honor. Plus, it’s highly shareable. People love to pass along quotes that make them feel empowered, and this one does just that. Ultimately, it resonates because it encourages people to dream big and take risks, which is both inspiring and relatable.

Post #8

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
“A man is about as big as the things that make him angry.” ― Winston Churchill

Why This Post Performed Well

This quote from Winston Churchill resonates because it taps into a universal truth about human nature. First off, it's a classic name-drop. Churchill is a historical figure known for his wisdom and leadership, which lends credibility and weight to the statement. People love sharing quotes from famous figures because it makes them feel connected to greatness. The quote itself is a mirror reflecting our own insecurities and aspirations. It challenges us to consider what triggers our anger and, by extension, what that says about us. It's a subtle nudge towards self-improvement, which is a hot topic for many. The phrasing is concise and punchy, making it perfect for social media. It’s easy to read, easy to remember, and easy to share. Plus, it sparks conversation. People love to comment with their own interpretations or share stories about personal growth. It's a post that invites engagement, and that's social media gold.

Post #9

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
Ninety-nine percent of people in the world are convinced they are incapable of achieving great things, so they aim for the mediocre. The level of competition is thus fiercest for “realistic” goals, paradoxically making them the most time- and energy-consuming. If you are insecure, guess what? The rest of the world is, too. Do not overestimate the competition and underestimate yourself. You are better than you think. Unreasonable and unrealistic goals are easier to achieve for yet another reason. Having an unusually large goal is an adrenaline infusion that provides the endurance to overcome the inevitable trials and tribulations that go along with any goal. Realistic goals, goals restricted to the average ambition level, are uninspiring and will only fuel you through the first or second problem, at which point you throw in the towel. If the potential payoff is mediocre or average, so is your effort. The fishing is best where the fewest go, and the collective insecurity of the world makes it easy for people to hit home runs while everyone else is aiming for base hits. There is just less competition for bigger goals.

Why This Post Performed Well

This post resonates because it flips conventional wisdom on its head, challenging the status quo in a way that feels empowering. First, it taps into a universal insecurity: the fear of not being good enough. By acknowledging that most people feel this way, it creates a sense of camaraderie and relief—you're not alone in your self-doubt. The post then cleverly repositions "unrealistic" goals as not only achievable but easier due to less competition. This is a fresh perspective that disrupts the common narrative of playing it safe, which is often seen as the smart choice. The language is motivational yet practical, offering a clear call to action: aim higher because fewer people do. The imagery of fishing where "the fewest go" is vivid and memorable, reinforcing the idea that the path less traveled can be more rewarding. Ultimately, it inspires readers to reassess their ambitions and consider the untapped potential within themselves.

Post #10

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Tim Ferriss
@tferriss
“In the end, winning is sleeping better.” — Jodie Foster

Why This Post Performed Well

This post taps into a universal truth that resonates with many: the pursuit of peace and well-being over traditional success. At 30, people often find themselves juggling career ambitions, personal goals, and the quest for a balanced life. This quote from Jodie Foster flips the script on what it means to "win," suggesting that true victory lies in achieving peace of mind and restfulness. It's a refreshing reminder that success isn't just about accolades or financial gain, but also about personal contentment. The post's simplicity and relatability make it shareable—it's a quick, impactful read that prompts reflection. Plus, using a respected figure like Jodie Foster adds credibility and intrigue, drawing in those who admire her work and wisdom. The juxtaposition of "winning" with "sleeping better" challenges traditional views, making it thought-provoking and engaging. Ultimately, it speaks to the heart of what many are seeking: a life well-lived, not just well-earned.

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