#486: Marshall Goldsmith: How to Live the Earned Life
Oct 21, 2024
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Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, the World’s #1 Executive Coach and author of 55 books, dives into life’s joys in his latest work, The Earned Life. He discusses the importance of savoring current achievements over delaying gratification, sharing powerful anecdotes from his coaching career. Goldsmith also explores how AI can revolutionize personal coaching and storytelling, especially in sales. He emphasizes the significance of crafting a compelling brand narrative and the challenges young professionals face in self-promotion within the digital landscape.
Marshall Goldsmith advocates for savoring achievements in the present rather than postponing happiness until future goals are met.
The effectiveness of coaching is linked to selecting clients who demonstrate courage, discipline, and a willingness to embrace change.
Deep dives
The Principle of Enjoying the Journey
The discussion revolves around the concept presented in Marshall Goldsmith's book, The Earned Life, which challenges the notion of delayed gratification. Goldsmith advocates for savoring the fruits of one’s labor rather than postponing enjoyment until goals are achieved. He cites the example of Albert Bourla, CEO of Pfizer, who despite significant achievements, felt anxiety about future expectations. This highlights that the pursuit of achievement alone does not guarantee happiness, underscoring the importance of enjoying the present moment.
Customer Selection in Coaching
Goldsmith emphasizes the significance of customer selection in effective coaching, arguing that the clients who succeed are those who possess courage, discipline, and humility. He shares his experience coaching former Ford CEO Alan Mulally, noting that he learned a valuable lesson: the best results come from clients who are genuinely willing to change and grow. This approach focuses on picking clients who not only want to improve but also actively seek feedback and accountability. Goldsmith's insights suggest that a coach's effectiveness is directly correlated to the qualities of the clients they choose to work with.
The Connection Between Achievement and Happiness
The episode also explores the misconception that achievement alone leads to happiness, with Goldsmith warning against the relentless pursuit of success. He references the experience of Olympian Michael Phelps to illustrate that even monumental achievements can lead to feelings of emptiness if one does not derive joy from the journey. Goldsmith stresses that happiness is independent of success and cannot be bought with accolades or wealth. Understanding this relationship is vital for anyone striving for balance in their professional and personal lives.
The Role of Storytelling in Coaching and Personal Branding
The importance of storytelling in coaching and personal branding is a central theme in the conversation. Goldsmith highlights how effective storytelling enables individuals to connect with others and convey their message more profoundly. He explains that storytelling aids in building empathy, simplifies complex ideas, and enhances emotional engagement with the audience. By promoting their own narratives, individuals can better establish their personal brand and differentiate themselves in a competitive environment, encouraging relationships that drive success.
Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, ranked as the World’s #1 Executive Coach and author of 55 books, shares leadership insights found in his new book, The Earned Life.
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