Why “How Starbucks Saved My Life” by Michael Gates Gill Is Important To All Of Us
November 8, 2008
Inspiration for Boomer/Successionists – I read a story not too long ago about Michael Gates Gill and his transformation, at 63, from a Madison Avenue advertising man to a “barista” at Starbucks. Gill tells of hero’s journey from, as he puts it, a life of “worth” to the retail counter. We Boomers, we entrepreneurs, who have founded and run businesses, are sometimes guilty of NOT understanding the importance of what comes next – TO US. A very successful car dealer friend wanted to own a hardware store one day (he chose, instead, to raise beautiful flowers). A computer services entrepreneur, wanted his own antiques/art gallery (I’ll be anxious to see just which way he jumps when the time comes. And we’ve all sacrificed to make something from nothing, which is what entrepreneurship is all about. Can we doubt our next adventure will be any less inventive and exciting?
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I’ve met many entrepreneurs in my line of work as a business broker and many more who wouldn’t classify themselves as such, because they feel that this label implies daring, swashbucking risk-taking in business.
But, no matter how they view themselves invariably the ones that enjoyed lasing, long-term success who “followed their bliss.” Regardless of what others or society in general thought, they went after and discovered their true passion.
Of course, for some of us it’s equally true that this quest is not so much a destination, as it is a journey. Even so, those on their own path are happier, healthier and often wealthier.