:: Robin Sharma

Create your body of work

Robin Sharma

It is early morning as I write this. Relaxing in my library. Listening to Luciano Ligabue, an extraordinary Italian rock star who I got introduced to in Rome and whose music has been shaking the foundation of our home for the past few weeks. And I'm reflecting - about leadership and life.

I read a little piece in an issue of Vanity Fair on Art Buchwald, the writer, 80, when he was battling kidney failure (Buchwald passed away on January 17, 2007). Coming close to death brings a human nearer to what's most important in life. Brings tremendous clarity. Strips away all the accessories that we think are so essential when we are younger. Connects us with the truth (and the truth sets us free, doesn't it?).

He was asked, "What is your idea of perfect happiness?" "Being healthy" was the reply. He was asked, "Which talent would you most like to have?" "Living" was the reply. Then he was asked, "What is your most treasured possession?" "All of my writing - my 32 books and all of my columns". The point of wisdom that you and I can take away? Greatness comes when you create something with your life that is not only bigger than you but outlasts you. Legitimacy and recognition and prestige and material things are all fine and are all very human pursuits. But there's something far more important: Legacy. Making a difference. Having an impact. Creating something special. And meaningful.

What body of work will you create over your life so that the generations who follow will know that you've been here? What bold acts and brave moves will you make this very moment to let the greatness that slumbers within you come out and visit the light of this very day? What will your "most treasured possession" look like? And, at the end, what will you have done with all that talent with which you've been blessed? Just wondering.

- Excerpted from The Greatness Guide 2 by Robin Sharma. Published by Jaico Publishing House, jaicopub@vsnl.com