“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.” — Chinese Proverb
Happy Friday, Brew Nation!
Two weeks ago, we talked about the WHY. Last week, it was the HOW. Today, we are tackling the most critical variable in the transformation equation: WHEN!
I recently read a devotional titled “It’s Never Too Late.” It told the story of “Gene,” a man taking trumpet lessons to enhance his God-given gifts and leave a legacy of adventure for his family. The kicker? Gene was 86 years old.
If you think you’ve missed the boat on your “Uncommon” transformation, look at these late bloomers:
- Morgan Freeman didn’t land a major movie role until he was 52.
- Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first Little House on the Prairie book at 65.
- Colonel Sanders franchised KFC after retiring and facing financial hardship. He was 62.
- Ray Kroc was 52 when he bought McDonald’s.
- Julia Child published her first cookbook at 50.
The Curve of the Uncommon Leader
I just started reading Younger Next Year, a book suggested by a close friend whose own physical health in retirement is a testament to the work he’s put in. Early in the book, the author illustrates the difference between a “traditional” health curve and a “managed” one.
As the chart shows, you can actually extend your healthy years significantly. As a 57-year-old mechanical engineer by education, I love looking at the data. The message is simple: Learn to train for the next third of your life, and you’ll have a ball.
Average vs. Uncommon
Killing the Excuses
So, what keeps us from starting? Usually, it’s one of these three roadblocks:
- Rationalization: “I’m not that far out of shape.”
- It’s HARD: Anything worth doing is uphill.
- Lack of Hope: Thinking genetics means you’re destined to the same fate.
These are all EXCUSES. Your purpose (your “So That”) must be big enough to overcome this inertia!
How to Start (Today)?
Whether it’s your Exercise, Nutrition, Sleep, or Faith, here is the blueprint for the starting line:
- Start Small: Don’t try to exercise like you’re 18 again; that’s a recipe for injury. Instead of reading the whole Bible in a month, try reading the Gospel of John in 30 days.
- Find a Plan: It took me a while to find what worked for me, like my current heart rate zone training.
- Put Skin in the Game: If it’s free, we often don’t value it. Buy the shoes, join the gym, or get a coach. I personally used a coach to help with my goal of improving sleep.
- Go Public: Make your goals known to create a healthy level of social pressure.
- Get a Partner: Find an accountability partner to walk the journey with you.
Uncommon Leaders don’t wait for “perfect” conditions to start. They realize that excellence is a decision made daily. You can be younger next year, but only if you decide to take ownership of your body through better nutrition, exercise, sleep, and faith today.
- Quote of the Week
“Age is no barrier. It’s a limitation you put on your mind.” — Jackie Joyner-Kersee
What you need to do:
Stop negotiating with tomorrow. Pick one area—just one—and take the smallest possible step today. Buy the book or sign up for the gym. The “Uncommon” version of you at age 80 starts with the decision you make at your current age today.
I want to hear from you. Email me at coachjohngallagher@gmail.com with the subject line “HEALTHspan” and let me know:
- Which of the “late-bloomer” stories inspired you the most?
- What is the “small start” you are committing to today?
It’s an honor to be your trusted Friday Coffee Guy. Each week, I bring what I’m learning and living in the trenches of leadership. If this edition challenged or encouraged you, SHARE it with someone who leads, stays faithful, or learns alongside you, then click SUBSCRIBE. Let’s grow Brew Nation together!
Until next week—stay focused, stay healthy, and keep growing, Champions!
