Since when have I ever obeyed the speed limit?
Today is my birthday. And it is a big one. A ‘speed limit’ number I was graciously reminded by a friend. The 31st anniversary of my 29th birthday.
Birthdays are often about reflecting back on the past. And as I have approached this day, I have done quite a bit of reflection and hard work as I seek to learn from my mistakes and move towards a flourishing future.
This move is not just figurative, or abstract. I left an organization I love after 14 years to launch my own venture, Tamim Partners, just a few weeks ago. A very big move.
The decision for this move came after a lengthy discernment process that included working with an executive coach and mentor, doing some therapeutic work and seeking wise counsel from people who I trust to speak truth in my life.
The conclusion of this process was that my focus and attention needed to shift a different kind of work in this season.
Just today Arthur Brooks, President of the American Enterprise Institute, published an article in The Atlantic entitled Your Professional Decline is Coming (much) Faster than you Think.
Based on his timeline, the decade I am entering is one of steep decline ‘professionally’. Oh No!
But as you read further in the article, he is making a much wiser and more nuanced case for continued contribution in these ‘declining’ years. That when we reach a certain season, we should move out of ‘success pursuit’ (my words) and towards wisdom distribution. That contribution in these years is much more about pouring out and giving away accrued learning and wisdom to those coming behind us.
I agree with this, but for me that does not mean retiring to the porch rocking chair and sipping tea (or scotch) with anyone willing to listen to my ramblings.
I understand this season to be one where I can offer my best, serve in specific ways that God calls me to,and that in many ways, my best work is still ahead.
I take great hope from the late, great Peter Drucker who wrote more than 60 books, 40+ after the age of 65.
I am clearer now that I have ever been about my understanding of the coherent life and what it means to live faithfully, obediently and as a good steward of what I have been given. This is the work for these next years, not a slow steady decline into obscurity. But rather an energized and purposeful engagement of good work and contribution.
Embrace the future, don’t fear it. Speed limit birthday? Since when have I ever obeyed the speed limit? So bring it on!