Jared Cohen, a history buff, discusses what seven American presidents did after leaving office, exploring their challenges, successes, and pursuit of purpose. The podcast also explores the impact of power on individuals, reveals George W. Bush's painting hobby, and highlights the president's focus on family and legacy. It concludes by discussing the lessons on purpose and transition from power to post-presidency.
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Quick takeaways
Former presidents face challenges adjusting to life after office, including loss of power, purpose, and relationships.
Successful transitions for former presidents involve embracing the present, focusing on relationships, and pursuing passions outside of politics.
Deep dives
Life after the presidency is a challenging transition
Life after the presidency presents numerous challenges for former presidents. They lose the immense power and platform they once had, and often feel lost without a clear sense of purpose. Many presidents struggle with issues like health, finances, broken relationships, and lack of purpose after leaving office. Transitioning to a lower station in life can be disorienting as they navigate a world where they are no longer in the spotlight. However, some former presidents manage to find a way to overcome these challenges and discover a new sense of purpose.
Rediscovering purpose in life after power
After leaving office, many former presidents find themselves exploring new avenues and rediscovering their passions. They have the opportunity to pursue causes and projects that may have been overshadowed during their time in office. For example, Thomas Jefferson focused on founding the University of Virginia, while John Quincy Adams became a champion for the abolitionist movement. Each president follows a unique path, but they all find ways to contribute and make a meaningful impact in their post-presidency years.
The importance of unburdening yourself
One common theme among presidents' successful transitions is the ability to unburden themselves from the demands and pressures of the office. Letting go of control and allowing their successors to create their own legacies is crucial. Presidents who resist this process often struggle to move on and hinder their own transitions. By embracing the present, focusing on personal relationships, and pursuing passions outside of politics, former presidents can find fulfillment and a renewed sense of purpose.
The unique case of George W. Bush
George W. Bush stands out among the former presidents as an enigma. Despite not actively investing in his legacy or proactively shaping his post-presidency, his popularity has increased over time. He has fully moved on from the presidency and devotes himself to painting, a hobby that initially served as a means of distraction but has evolved into an endless learning experience. Bush's ability to disconnect from the burdens of his past and focus on family, faith, and personal growth offers insights into finding contentment and peace in life after power.
Jared Cohen is a history buff with a career that boasts its own remarkable story. From the State Department to founding Jigsaw at Google to leading global affairs and innovation at Goldman Sachs, Jared has worked with the world’s top leaders to tackle humanity’s biggest problems. His work in international problem-solving also translates into a passion for U.S. history. His new book, Life After Power, is a fascinating exploration about what seven American presidents did after leaving the most influential job in the world. Adam and Jared discuss the psychology of the founding fathers, debate the pros and cons of pursuing a legacy, and share what these historic figures can teach us all about pursuing and finding purpose. Life After Power is out February 13, 2024. Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts
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