To Inspire:

I just finished a book study with a group of clients; discussing the book Life After Power: Seven Presidents and Their Search for Purpose Beyond the White House by Jared Cohen.

Earlier today our group met, and we discussed the post presidencies of Herbert Hoover, Jimmy Carter, and George W Bush. Politics aside, our group was impressed with how George Bush let go of the reins of power so easily and has pursued a very different path in retirement – a focus on wounded veterans, painting, and his family. Hoover and Carter were more similar in their post presidencies – driven to repair their reputations as failed presidents, and to continue making contributions on the global stage.

Here are two lessons I’m taking from this book:

1. Let’s not allow past success or failure determine how we live out the post career chapters of our life. Rather, seek out those pursuits that give you joy, reflect your values and make a contribution to others. Whatever failures or successes you had in the past, let them be.
2. Be motivated by love. At the end of our earthly life, we won’t care much about career accomplishments. We will care about the love we gave and received from those who mean the most to us, and how we impacted their lives and the lives of those in need. The years after a busy career are a wonderful time to focus on those people most important to us. Our everyday acts of love and kindness lived consistently and intentionally day after day and year after year will leave a powerful impact now and a beautiful legacy after we are gone.

Pursue that kind of life – a life of true greatness – and joy and gratitude will be sure to follow.

Have a great weekend!!

Written by Matt Palmer, Partner & Co-Founder