As you know, I am in the process of my own transition out of my work life; transferring ownership of my firm to my young partner. I trust him and feel good about the future of the company I created.
But I admit, it sometimes makes me a little fearful and unsettled as try and peer over the fence to the next chapter. So I decided to write myself a letter and share it below:
Dear Michael,
You have worked continuously for the last 56 years (yes, I started at age 12) without a break. You’ve experienced some wonderful successes and some crashing crushing failures and you’re still standing.
While many aspects of the next chapter are murky at best, I am confident that your worry and fear is just a normal part of the process and grinding away is not part of a joyful journey.
In other words, Michael, lighten the F up and remember the advice you offer others.
With love,
Michael