Don’t wait…
I recently had a conversation with my wife about how we really don't know how much time we have… in a job, in a volunteer role, or even on this earth.
It reminded me of a study I recently came across by Dr. Gerald Bell, a professor and leadership expert. In the study, Dr. Bell asked 70 retired executives one simple question:
"If you could live your life over again, what would you do differently?"
Here is what they said:
I would have taken charge of my life and set my goals earlier. "Life isn't practice; it's the real thing."
I would have taken better care of my health.
I would have managed my money better.
I would have spent more time with my family.
I would have invested more in my personal development.
I would have had more fun.
I would have planned my career better.
I would have given more back.
As I read through the list, I think about transformation and the seasons of life. Sometimes it's simply not the right season, so we put things off. Other times, we're not ready, and it's only through learning and growth that we become prepared to move forward.
I also think about priorities and how, every morning, we get to choose what we will do with the 86,400 precious seconds we've been given that day. We have countless choices. We can spend our days reacting to life, or we can intentionally lead the life we've been given. One is reaction. The other is purpose.
It took me a while to understand this.
I remember it beginning at age 37 when I chose to take a pay cut to change jobs. That decision gave me more flexibility and autonomy over my schedule so I could attend my kids' school events. I still struggle with balance from time to time, but I've been blessed with enough time to keep learning. Some people never get that opportunity. Others wait until it's too late.
In 2020, when my mom's health began to decline, I made a commitment to drive three hours north to see her at least once a month. Whenever possible, I'd schedule a client meeting or event nearby so it was already on my calendar. If I couldn't, I'd make the trip anyway before the month ended to keep the streak alive. She passed away in 2025.
We did the same for my wife's dad before he passed. Every month, we drove two hours north to spend the weekend with him. Looking back, those weekends became some of the most meaningful investments we ever made.
Today, I want to encourage you to review this list. Print it. Post it. Share it with a friend. Someone needs to know you're thinking about them today, and someone is waiting to hear from you.
Don't wait... until it's too late. Take the vacation trip, make the call, sign up for the certification, register for conference, set a goal, make a wish list - what will you add?
By the way, my favorite is #5: Invest in your personal development. It's the foundation that helps you lead yourself well so you can lead well in every other area of your life.
What stands out to you?
Quote of the Day
“Someday is today,” Steve Gleason
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