People are living longer. This sounds like a good thing. But, is it? It seems to me we are poorly prepared in many ways. Is this due to a lack of ability to handle this situation or is it that we have a weak context for figuring out the actions we need to take?

Way back in history, in most cultures the elders were revered and held in great esteem. They were honored for the sum of their experiences and the wisdom derived from them. They were taken care of. How did we get to the place that the elderly are a problem and that being old has their value diminished?

I have an idea about this given I have been working with college athletes for over 50 years (Oh, my god! He is really old! What could he possibly know? I’ll bet he is technically challenged? Does he even have a cell phone?).

I think all the “new stuff” is amazing. But, does it make us better human beings? Have our problems decreased? Are we happier or just more entertained? Are we, perhaps, going so fast that we have less interest in each other and more interest in what is in it for me? Do we think we shouldn’t have to take all the steps; that we are entitled to something?

Being an effective and productive adult is a process. It has problems, issues and concerns. There are no shortcuts to growing up. What is possible is to learn from all those bumps in the road. I can continue to operate from my self-interest which everyone does. How about making one of your self-interests what you can contribute to others?

Almost all organizations today talk about their “team.” Most of the players have no idea what it takes to be a great team; championship caliber if you will. Therefore, even when they are paying attention to teamwork, the process fails to provide the expected satisfaction.
Everyone is on a team already, i.e., family, work, projects, athletics, etc. The question really is at what level is our team? Championship teams are not accidental. They are committed, purposeful, and completely concerned about their teammates and what can be accomplished together. By the way this is win, lose or draw. If this is happening the results will take care of themselves.

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