I recently attended two sessions that changed my perspective on life.
One was a discussion where Eric Schmidt mentioned his close friend, Henry Kissinger, who is known for being a brilliant statesman and initiating China’s unprecedented growth over the past five decades. At the age of 100 on his death bed, Kissinger completed the manuscript of his book titled Genesis, co-authored with Eric, being published this fall.
The second one was a discussion organized by OPEN with Syed Babar Ali, a successful businessmen, and philanthropist, who is known for being the founder of Pakistan’s premiere education institute, LUMS (Lahore University of Management Sciences). At the age of 98, Babar did not hesitate in sharing his wisdom and perspectives on a Sunday with Pakistani professionals and business leaders across the globe.
Other notable nonagenarians or centenarians who continued to be a productive member of society reaching 100 years of age include American President Jimmy Carter, the most successful investors Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, and British broadcaster and climate activist David Attenborough. May God continue to give health and longer life to Syed Babar Ali and all those still alive.
These leaders witnessed arguably the most profound changes in socio-economic and geopolitical history of the world including World War II, establishment of the new world order, formation of nation-states, spread of democracy, globalization, and information revolution. They were born in the age of radio broadcasting and lived to see social media. Learning about the accomplishments and amazing lives of these giants through this much change makes it even more remarkable.
As I pondered about their ultra productive lives, I couldn’t help but make some observations that could help all of us in living a more fulfilling and impactful life. Here are my key take away:
- Live by values and principles
All of them have their core set of values and principles that they never compromised on. For Syed Babar Ali, it is the teachings of Luqman – the wise man mentioned in Quran – to his son. These included praying and working with sincere devotion, being mindful of ones speech in gatherings, being grateful of blessings and not being envious of others, eating sparingly, forgetting other’s hurtful actions and your favors upon others, remembering God at all times, and never forgetting that our time on earth is limited.
All other esteemed elders have their own set of values and principles that have guided their lives.
2. Think bigger than oneself
All of them focused on making lives of others better, rather than being fixated on themselves and their families. Whether a business leader, political leader or a broadcaster, they always looked at how their work could better this world. We may not agree with their stances or approaches, but we can never doubt their intention to improve lives of their countrymen and/or humanity.
3. Be an optimist
They innately have a positive outlook towards the world. They believe in the limitless potential of human beings and that there is nothing that we cannot achieve if we harness the power of people.
4. Make things happen
They don’t wait for others to take action. They set the vision, take initiative and bring about the change they aspire to.
5. Be curious
They are relentless in their pursuit of knowledge, engaging with experts to improve their understanding of diverse areas, and learn about the world through their experience.
6. Lead by example
A key aspect of their personality is their ability to inspire and influence others through their example. They don’t just talk, they walk the talk. They are consistent in their actions and live what they preach.
7. Stay healthy
Finally, eat in moderation and have an active lifestyle. They avoid over indulgence in food and stay away from unhealthy habits. The interesting observation is that they are not extreme athletes, but they are disciplined in their routine, which incudes daily walks.
As I write these observations, I feel like if we become a little more mindful in adopting these attitudes, behaviors and mindsets, we can also live a more fulfilling and impactful life. And perhaps, leave a lasting legacy as well!
Let me know if you agree.
Mashhood
Exponential world 