"I have no intention of dying before my death" - Lessons from a Centurion

 

Living Fully and Leading with Intention

"I have no intention of dying before my death." This powerful declaration set the tone for an inspiring morning, offering valuable insights for today’s leaders.

We gathered in a sunlit, glass-enclosed room—a perfect setting for a Sunday filled with meaningful conversations and deep reflections. The atmosphere was warm, the coffee was perfect, but the true highlight of the morning was a discussion with a centenarian who had recently celebrated his 100th birthday.

For the next hour, we were guided through a fascinating conversation about life lessons and their relevance in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world. This centenarian’s wisdom was profound, and as leaders, we were reminded that leadership is as much about character and wisdom as it is about strategy and execution.

Here are some key lessons that stood out, offering valuable guidance for leaders at every stage:

"I have no intention of dying before my death."
This statement serves as a powerful reminder for leaders to live fully and lead with passion. It’s a call to stay engaged, proactive, and intentional in both our professional and personal lives. In leadership, this means continuously driving forward with purpose, never becoming complacent or resigned to the status quo.

"Take the second step only after analyzing the impact of the first step."
Thoughtful decision-making is crucial in leadership. This lesson emphasizes the importance of being deliberate and strategic in every move. Leaders must assess the consequences of their actions before proceeding, ensuring that each step aligns with their long-term vision and values.

"It is important for a leader to have good advisors."
No leader succeeds in isolation. Surrounding oneself with trusted advisors and mentors is essential for making informed decisions. This lesson underscores the value of diverse perspectives and wise counsel, which can guide leaders through complex challenges and help them avoid pitfalls.

"I am not competent to answer; I will study and get back to you."
In a world where leaders often feel pressured to have all the answers, this lesson is a refreshing reminder of the importance of humility and lifelong learning. Admitting when we don’t know something and committing to learning more is not a weakness; it’s a strength that builds credibility and fosters growth.

As I reflected upon the morning, a further insight emerged—not just about what I had learned from him, but about what I had once again learned about myself.

Acceptance = Openness = Opportunities
At the start of the conversation, I noticed myself growing impatient. I wasn’t alone; a few others seemed restless as well. I realized that my resistance stemmed from unmet expectations—I had envisioned the event unfolding a certain way, and reality wasn’t matching up. Recognizing this, I took a deep breath and consciously chose to accept the situation as it was. Almost immediately, I felt the tension within me start to dissolve. By letting go of my expectations, I became more open to what was actually happening, and this openness allowed me to fully engage and absorb the wisdom being shared. This simple shift in perspective made all the difference, enabling me to embrace and internalize the valuable lessons of the day.

For today’s leaders, these lessons serve as powerful reminders to lead with intention, to continuously seek growth, and to approach leadership as a journey of both head and heart. My experience offers a wonderful reminder of the power of acceptance. By embracing these principles, we can not only lead more effectively but also live more fully, ensuring that we, too, have no intention of dying before our time.

Mindfully, 

Sanjay Chaganti 

Leadership and Life Coach

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