Podcast Summary
Age and Dreams: It's never too late to pursue your dreams and make an impact, as individuals in later years often have valuable experiences and perspectives to share
It's never too late to pursue your dreams or make a significant impact on the world, regardless of your age. MoRaka's book, "Rock to Genarians," shares inspiring stories of individuals who achieved greatness or had a new creative surge in their later years, from entrepreneurs and artists to actors and even a tortoise. During an interview with Chance the Rapper on NPR's Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me, MoRaka was reminded of this when Chance seriously responded to her joke about becoming a rapper at 46. This experience made MoRaka realize that as we get older, we are more likely to have meaningful experiences and perspectives to share, rather than feeling like opportunities are closing off. Additionally, MoRaka enjoys interviewing older people because they tend to have better stories and are more comfortable in their skin, allowing for more authentic conversations.
Lack of self-consciousness: Focusing outward and acting without obsessing over image can lead to remarkable results, as shown by Colonel Sanders and older people who put the greater cause above their own concerns
Self-consciousness can hinder us, especially in a culture that prioritizes constant self-reflection. The example of older people, who seem to lack self-consciousness in a good way, shows us the value of focusing outward and acting without obsessing over our image. This idea is exemplified in the story of Colonel Sanders, who turned his life around and built a successful business by simply doing what he had to do, without being hung up on how he looked or what others thought. Similarly, Samuel Whitmore, who fought in the American Revolution at the age of 78, showed courage and determination by putting the greater cause above his own concerns. These stories remind us that bold action, regardless of age or circumstances, can lead to remarkable results.
Age and Inspiring Public Service: Age should not limit individuals from making a meaningful impact on the world through public service, as shown by the inspiring stories of Civil War veteran John L. Burns, General Wesley Clark, and architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
The spirit of public service and dedication to country, even in the face of great personal risk, can be particularly inspiring, especially when it comes from older individuals. This was evident in the stories of the Civil War veterans, one of whom was a civilian named John L. Burns, who fought despite being too old for military service. Another example is General Wesley Clark, who found his sense of fraternity and service intensified after being injured in the Vietnam War. The idea that one must achieve their best work or make their mark before a certain age is a common notion, but there are numerous examples of individuals, such as architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who did some of their most significant work late in life. These stories serve as a reminder that age should not be a barrier to making a meaningful impact on the world.
Adversity and Creativity: Adversity and loss can lead to new opportunities and creative breakthroughs. Persisting through challenges can result in iconic works and new passions.
Adversity and loss can be transformative, leading to new opportunities and creative breakthroughs. Frank Lloyd Wright's unwavering belief in himself and his vision, despite criticism and changing times, resulted in the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Jorge Luis Borges' loss of vision led him to explore poetry and find a new creative outlet. Matisse's cancer diagnosis forced him to adapt, leading to his renowned paper cut-out art. These individuals' determination to push through challenges and find new ways to express themselves serves as a reminder to never give up on one's passions, no matter the age or circumstances.
Embracing aging: Embracing the challenges of aging can lead to a more youthful appearance and attitude, and success later in life through persistence and having supportive relationships
Embracing the limitations and challenges that come with aging can lead to a more energetic and youthful appearance and attitude, rather than constantly fighting against it. The book shares stories of individuals, like Tyrus Wong, who achieved great success later in life after years of hard work and dedication. Wong, who grew up poor in China and came to America at a young age, went on to study art and work for Disney, where he created the distinctive look for the film "Bambi." Despite his contributions, he was laid off during a strike and didn't receive recognition until later in life. Another example is Estelle Getty, who dreamed of being an actor from a young age but didn't find success until she was in her 60s, when she was cast as Sophia in "The Golden Girls." These stories illustrate the importance of persistence and the value of having a supportive partner or champion in life. Additionally, having other passions or relationships outside of work can provide a sense of purpose and resilience during difficult times.
Never too late: Determination and proactivity can lead to success, even when faced with challenges earlier in life. It's never too late to pursue your dreams and ask for what you want.
Determination and proactivity can lead to success, even later in life. Estelle Getty and Morgan Freeman both faced challenges in their early careers and had to wait until they were older to achieve their greatest successes. Getty, who dreamed of acting since childhood, put her career on hold to raise a family, but later forced herself on a playwright to secure a role that led to her breakout on "The Golden Girls." Freeman, who had integrity and refused to accept demeaning roles, struggled for years before finding success in films like "Brewbaker" and "Street Smart," and eventual Oscar nominations and iconic roles. Both actors serve as reminders that it's never too late to pursue your dreams and ask for what you want.
Present-mindedness and Passion: Successful individuals are deeply engaged in their current experiences and not fixated on the past or fretting about the future. They continue to grow and achieve late in life by staying passionate and committed to their pursuits.
Successful individuals, whether they are actors like Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood, or a tortoise named Mr. Pickles, are present-minded and not fixated on the past or fretting about the future. They are deeply engaged in their current experiences and not overly concerned with what others think of them. Another pattern observed is a return to an early love or unfinished business. These individuals have continued to grow and achieve late in life, defying the notion of a set career arc. Instead, they remain passionate and committed to their pursuits, inspiring us all to stay engaged and focused on the present.
