Richard Branson
Dear Richard (aka Grand-dude)
You’re now 65 years old, and what a great time it is to be alive! Yes, the human race is currently facing so many challenges, but the spirit of entrepreneurship is flourishing, and doing great things to work towards creating a world where all people and the planet thrive.
Ten years ago you started non-profit foundation Virgin Unite with the mission to show just how much business can be a force for good – and, wow have we come a long way since then. But we’re nowhere near finished yet. Keep focused. Virgin Unite-incubated initiatives – like the B Team, The Elders, the OceanElders and the Carbon War Room – are doing great things, and have the potential to set the world on a better course.
Image from Virgin.com
A world where climate change no longer poses such a massive threat; human rights are afforded to all; animals are cherished and conserved; and war no longer rages, is within reach. We might not get there in your lifetime, but it’s important that you help set the wheels in motion to secure a bright future for your grandchildren.
Use being a grand-dude as your moral compass. Be the person that you hope Etta, Artie and Eva-Deia can be proud of. Keep having fun, taking risks and looking for the best in people. Keep dreaming big and saying yes to your heart’s desires. Keep looking at the world with wide-eyed enthusiasm, and believing that together we are more powerful than the problems that confront us. Keep your zest for life, passion and the fire in your belly – always remembering Steve Jobs’ words: “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.”
Image by Owen Buggy Photography
Most importantly, keep immersing yourself in the world – it will always be the best way to learn and look forward. I can assure you, there will be so much to look forward to. Now is no time to slow down; your best years are still yet to come – so keep your body and mind active, and love in your heart.
Good luck
Richard