109: Life's Great Question, with Tom Rath

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“The main takeaway for me would be that we need to weave a discussion about contribution into more and more conversations, because it’s a way to repair the broken relationship between people and the work that they do today.” - Tom Rath

When today’s Finding Brave guest was 16 years old, he learned he had a rare and catastrophic genetic mutation, one that would lead to cancers in multiple organs. After living for more than 25 years since his diagnosis—three years longer than doctors predicted—he has not only beaten the odds but has learned that time is more valuable when you can see your mortality on the horizon. His inspiring messages for listeners today focus on the impact of contribution, not only for others, but for yourself as well.

Tom Rath is a renowned, bestselling author and researcher who has spent the past two decades studying how work can improve human health and well-being. His 10 books have sold more than 10 million copies and made hundreds of appearances on global bestseller lists. Tom’s first book, How Full Is Your Bucket? was an instant #1 New York Times bestseller and led to a series of books and activities for kids that are used in classrooms around the world. His book StrengthsFinder 2.0 is Amazon’s top selling non-fiction book of all time. His other bestsellers include Strengths Based Leadership, Wellbeing, Eat Move Sleep, and Are You Fully Charged? In Tom’s latest book, LIFE’S GREAT QUESTION: Discover How You Contribute to the World, Tom shares the details of his personal story, explores what makes life worthwhile, and offers actionable advice on how to create meaning by focusing on what you can contribute to others.

During his 13 years at Gallup, Tom was the Program Leader for the development of Clifton StrengthsFinder, which has helped over 10 million people to uncover their talents, and went on to lead the organization’s employee engagement, well-being, and leadership practices worldwide. Tom has served for the past five years as a Gallup Senior Scientist. He also served as Vice-Chair of the VHL cancer research organization and has been a regular lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania.

I find Tom’s writings so rich, and every single word he writes contains a universe of messages within them. I know you’ll get as much value from this episode as I did in speaking with him.

To learn more about today's guest, visit: https://www.tomrath.org/