This was my speech capping off a wonderful evening of presentations hosted by the IABC/BC. It’s all about embracing regret and seizing opportunity.
A quick speechwriting note: Normally I’m a strong (even harsh) advocate of diving right into what you want to say. But it had been such a terrific range of speakers, offering such amazing, inspirational and often moving advice, that I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to reflect on it.
So I tried something I’ve never done before at this kind of event: an introduction based entirely on the previous hour and a half. I took something from everyone’s presentation (and borrowed from one other event: getting drawn to win a very nice gift basket donated by the folks at Blenz).
I think it worked out pretty nicely. And it was some of the most fun I’ve ever had on stage.
Update: Seattle’s Nancy White has a marvellous and thoughtful take on many of the same themes, and looking more firmly to the future.
You are a butt load funnier than I am, but there is a wee bit of resonance here now that you are turning 50! http://www.fullcirc.com/2013/06/29/igniteseattle21-s-is-it-time-to-think-about-a-legacy/
More than a bit! I loved watching this – and I’d have happily swapped a few of my quips for more of its insight and wisdom.
Dammit. Now I have to start thinking about my legacy.
Yeah man, get on it!
After an extensive visioning process, I’ve decided I want to be remembered as a man with a large collection of jaunty hats.
As long as they are jaunty!
Great job Rob. Good to know that “crossing over” the half-way point hasn’t completely dulled those brain cells, although there’s no getting away from the weakening eyes thing, is there? I particularly liked your “if I knew then what I know now, I’d be 100” line. So true, and so many of us forget that wisdom is mostly the result of having a lot of experience seeing simlar things happen before, so we have a pretty good idea what’s coming next. Life is like that. Keep the good thoughts coming, my friend.