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Writer's pictureDebbie Petropoulos

Invaluable Lessons On Life and Legacy

Updated: Oct 4



Dying Professor's Last Lecture Offers A Timeless Lesson

"Time is all you have. And you may find one day that you have less than you think."

Sharing this heartfelt message as a reminder to reflect and appreciate how precious life is.


Invaluable Life Lessons

These words are on the vision board in my office:

  • Always Have Fun

  • Dream Big

  • Ask For What You Want

  • Dare To Take a Risk

  • Look For the Best in Everybody

  • Tell The Truth

  • Let Kids Be Themselves

  • Don't Obsess Over What People Think

  • Show Gratitude

  • Make Time for What Matters

Over the years, these words have served as helpful reminders. These thoughts about what matters most were extracted from invaluable life lessons shared in The Last Lecture. This New York Times best-seller was co-authored by Randolph (Randy) Pausch, an educator and professor. Pausch learned he had pancreatic cancer in September 2006, In August 2007, he was given a terminal diagnosis. In September 2007 he spoke at Carnegie Mellon and gave a lecture titled, "The Last Lecture: Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams" which became a popular YouTube video. Pausch died in July 2008 at the age of 47.


What Matters Most

Years ago, while reading The Last Lecture, I felt compelled by Pausch's words. They still hold meaning and significance for me today.


The true value of time was understood by Pausch. He wrote:

"Ask yourself: Are you spending your time on the right things"
"You may have causes, goals, interests,"
"Are they even worth pursuing?"

Many times, over the years, I've referred back to the insight he shared. His words have provided direction and guidance.


Leaving A Legacy

Loss of loved ones and close friends create reason for deeper reflection on life.


My hope is sharing this will move and inspire you to think about what matters most in your life.


It's important that we think about the type of life we want to live, how we want to live it, and then live it fully.


Sharing the words Pausch wrote in his book:

"What wisdom would we impart to the world if we knew it was our last chance?"
"If we had to vanish tomorrow, what would we want as our legacy?"

If you have goals you want to reach, a challenge you're navigating, or you'd like help to reflect on life and realize your future, One True You, LLC specializes in leadership, career, and life coaching for leaders in transition or nearing retirement.

Select a date and time from the calendar that’s best for you and reserve your Complimentary Clarity Call to get acquainted.


We’ll talk about what’s happening in your life, the changes you’d like to make, a next step you can take, and how coaching can support your needs.


One True You, LLC clients lead more fulfilling lives. They transition to new careers, change companies, enhance their personal and professional development, start up new businesses, retire early, relocate to warmer climates, renew relationships, realign with their core values, and so much more!


Their personal stories and successes are a testament to the type of results you can expect and what could be possible for you if we decide to work together. https://www.onetrueyoucoaching.com/post/one-true-you-coaching-testimonials-and-success-stories


About the Author:

Deborah Petropoulos is a Transformational Coach and Founder of One True You, LLC.

Debbie inspires successful outcomes for professionals experiencing career and life transition challenges.


Leaders benefit from her 33 years of corporate experience in Global Pharmaceuticals coaching, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams and individuals.


Deborah is a professional coach accredited through the Co-Active Training Institute Program. Deborah holds a Bachelor's in Business Management and is an International Coaching Federation member.


Debbie specializes in personalized leadership, career and life coaching for executives, leaders, and professionals in mid-life or nearing retirement.


As an Inspirational Speaker, she shares insightful ways to “Make Your Best Even Better” with business networks, universities, and entrepreneurs throughout the greater Chicago area.


Debbie was recently featured on The Power of the Pivot Podcast with host Alicia Webb. Listen to The Power of Resilience


Debbie enjoys travel, volunteering with Ronald McDonald House Charities, and time spent with her family and three granddaughters.

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