Have you thought about what it means for you to ‘finish well’ – in work and life?

The truth is the whole of your life is preparation for you to finish well

First published on CEOWorld Magazine on 4 October 2018.

Have you thought about what it means for you to ‘finish well’ – in work and life?

As we work and live each day, not too many of us are focused on the finish line. In fact, the whole idea of finishing up does not have very positive associations. It is associated with loss, and even death. A time when options close and ultimately cease. Something we would rather not think about. It is certainly not usually viewed as a motivating subject.

Most people under 40 are just doing whatever it takes to grow their life – relationships, family, career or business. Sometime during our 40’s we start to become aware that this issue requires a little attention. Maybe it is a health issue. Maybe it is a business or career setback. Maybe it is becoming aware that our parents are slowing down and have changing needs.

How does one measure a life?

Some consider life to be about two halves. Bob Buford wrote an influential book, called Half Time. Until 40, Buford observes that life is about success, about making our mark. After 40 he suggests we are better served to aim for a life of significance.

With average life expectancy increasing so dramatically in the past 50 years, Jane Fonda has a TEDx Talk in which she uses a metaphor of life as 3 Acts of a Play. She calls the last segment, from 60 to 90 years, The Third Act. As a very active septuagenarian, she argues that there is huge opportunity for individuals, families and our whole society if we can help more people enjoy their Third Act and finish well.

Click here to read the full article including the 10 key issues each person must work through to finish well in our fast-paced world.