When most people hear the word “Zen” they think of Buddhism with it’s meditation and enlightenment. ZenHabits.net tends to focus more on productivity through simplicity. The blog is maintained by author Leo Babauta, who is also a runner, vegetarian and family man. Babauta whose book “The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life” has recently attained Best Seller Status. In the about page on ZenHabits.net, Leo explains the theme of his blog.

This blog is really about setting and achieving goals, and the numerous goals that I want to achieve. But I believe that goals — especially ones that are worth reaching — are ultimately achieved through the building of good habits. Do I want to complete a marathon? Then I must cultivate the habit of running 4-5 times a week. I must cultivate the habit of positive thinking. It also helps to become an early riser, a healthy eater, and a non-smoker, as I’ve done.

These habits are not born overnight. You can’t tell yourself, “Hey, self, I am going to become an early riser, starting tomorrow morning!” Well, you can tell yourself that, but if you think that it’s going to happen so quickly, you are clearly delusional.

No, these habits must be cultivated through daily practice. It is my belief that you must practice a habit, as focused as possible, every day for a month. When I only do it for a week, it doesn’t take hold. But when I’ve done it for a month or longer, it does. And that doesn’t mean that I’m successful each and every day … but the important thing is that I try, and when I fail, I learn from those mistakes.

The Zen of the title of this blog is simply a way of reminding myself to be present, to live simply, to keep myself centered and at peace as I make my slow journey to creating good habits and achieving my goals.

So, the themes of meditation and enlightenment can be found on Leo’s blog, it’s purpose is, well, simple. Simplification leads to Productivity.

F&S readers might find these posts found on ZenHabits.net pretty interesting:

• 3 Jedi Mind Tricks to Feel Better in a Nanosecond
• Virus Protection for the Mind
• The 7 Essential Rules To Optimum Health & Weight Loss
• The Little But Really Useful Guide to Creativity
• Three Effective Ways to Enhance Your Willpower

Make sure to check out the entire site too! you can find that here. If you’re one of them tweeps, do the twitter thing here.