I created Living ROI as a passion, to share my experiences and support others who want to live more authentic, joyful and fulfilling lives.
Dear Friends,
I was inspired recently when I came across the 25-Year Framework concept by Dan Sullivan. Basically, Dan talks about looking at your life in 25-year chunks, as opposed to the more traditional planning time frames of one-year and five-years.
When I ask myself, “What do I want to accomplish in the next 25 years?” the possibilities expand exponentially! In 25 years, I will be 79-years-old. That’s young for today! What would be possible for me to make happen between now and then?
The types of ideas that come to mind are grand adventures—rafting down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, hiking epic hut-to-hut treks, flying around the world with my pilot husband in the plane of his dreams, and more.
Other ideas relate to family—creating a family “compound” on several acres where we grow food, raise animals and have houses nearby each other, as well as communal space to share meals and spend time together. I envision my daughters (who are both interested in this idea, amazingly) and their families close by, but still having their own privacy.
Still more possibilities for a 25-year time frame include having a significant philanthropic impact, writing books, learning a language and creating more opportunities as an entrepreneur. I would also like to influence the culture of the corporate world, increasing the global understanding that employees who are healthy and balanced are what will drive success versus employees who are burned out and overwhelmed. That concept is relevant throughout the organization, and needs to start with leadership.
When I think of these goals in a one-year framework, or even a five-year framework, they seem impractical and overwhelming. But when I ask myself, “Could I do these things in the next 25 years?” I say, “Sure!”
One quote that has stuck with me from Tony Robbins is, “Most people overestimate what they can do in a year, and underestimate what they can do in two or three decades.” The power of compounding works in all elements of our lives, both in the positive and the negative. Savings will compound, as will debt! Our incremental efforts add up over time and then expand exponentially.
Another benefit of looking at your life through the 25-year framework is that you suddenly have enough time. In fact, you have more than enough time. Our environment of time scarcity is a creativity and innovation killer. When we believe we have enough time, we can relax and look at the big picture. As Dan says, “It puts you in a winning position.” You’re able to get things done without a sense of rushing or panicking. You suddenly have time for what’s important and you become an excellent role model to those around you.
Dan talks about viewing the 25-Year Framework as 100 quarters. Each 90-day period is just 1% of your 25 years. It’s enough time to build, improve, sequence goals and even learn from mistakes. It will also focus you on the level of goals that will still matter in 25 years (health, family, impact).
You can download Dan’s eBook for free.
What would be on your 25-year list?
With possibilities galore!
Barbara Fagan-Smith
CEO, ROI Communication
Chief Catalyst, Living ROI
