SLP346 - The Bennett Factor

In 1881, Otto von Bismarck, the conservative minister-president of Prussia, presented a radical idea to the Reichstag: government-run financial support for older members of society. In other words, retirement.

It took eight years after the idea was presented, but by the end of the 1880s, the German government created a retirement system which provided for living citizens over the age of 70.

Since then, the idea that one only works until they reach a qualified age was set in the conscious of our culture.

Corporations, investment companies, insurance programs; all of these are built on the premise that one lives, works, retires, dies.

BUT WHAT IF…?

• What if one could live many years being productive and doing what they were born to do?
• What if it was possible to do what you loved, love what you do, and keep doing it until you couldn’t do it anymore?
• What if doing that could bring joy, change lives, and leave a legacy that will outlive you?

It is possible, and I have seen it!

Feature Presentation: 

Just a few weeks ago I had the privilege of seeing one of the worlds greatest singers perform here in Dallas. Frank Sinatra referred to this man as the greatest vocalist to ever live.

I am talking about none other than Tony Bennett.

Tony Bennett is 91 years old, and has been singing professionally since early 1946…more than 70 years!

How can someone at his age be SO passionate, SO inspired, SO engaged, and still SO committed to his craft after all these years?

He doesn’t need the money; he doesn’t need the notoriety; he doesn’t need the applause.

So why does he do it?

My Takeaways:

1. This is how I want to live my life
2. When I am old, I want to STILL be doing the thing for which I was born
3. Those who stay in the game, WIN the game
4. Those who quit too early miss the most meaningful rewards
5. Health and strength are directly tied to purpose and meaningful activity
6. Legacy is not about what people remember you for; it’s about the lasting impact you make on those you serve
7. Work is not work when you are in your zone of genius

Tony Bennett is a living example of how to live life, love life, and make an impact on generations.

What about you?

Find your passion and purpose and give yourself to it completely.