Are you Dead in Business at 67?

Take a look at the Forbes 400. You rarely see anyone on that list who really retires. Even Warren Buffet, who is over 80 years old, is still going strong. George Ross, my coach and Donald Trump’s right hand man for the last 40 years, still loves what he does and tells me that working four days a week for Trump keeps him sharp.

Michael Eisner’s film deal shows what many of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs tell me – that the older you get, the bigger the deals you do. And it’s not because of the money, but because it’s fun and leaves a lasting legacy that will outlive them long after they are gone.

That brings up an important lesson: When you are negotiating or networking with people that are more successful than you, focus on their why rather than telling them how much more money they will make. After a certain point, the money just doesn’t matter anymore.

And remember, whether you are 18 or 80, you are never too old to secure your own legacy and enjoy the thrill of starting and growing new business ventures. Nothing beats that. Michael Eisner’s latest film deal proves it.

How do you feel about the work you do, and retirement? Please tell me in the comment section below.