In the quiet reflection that follows the loss of a loved one, we often find ourselves contemplating the essence of life and the legacy we’re building with each passing day. My father, John Eastwood, was a successful ‘gentleman’, whose recent passing has profoundly reminded me of the values that underpin not only my personal life but also the foundation of our company, E Equals Why. Our commitment to authentic leadership, treating people with dignity and respect, and achieving meaningful results is a direct reflection of the lessons my father provided throughout his 84 years.
John’s life was a testament to the power of simple yet profound principles. Growing up in Astoria, Queens, during a time when life’s pleasures were found in stickball games and listening to baseball classics on a transistor radio, he learned the value of hard work, community, and the joy in small victories. These early experiences shaped the man who would later serve his country with pride, lead with humility, and build a family grounded in love and laughter.
The most enduring lesson my father imparted was the importance of walking a mile in another’s shoes before passing judgment. This principle of empathy and understanding is crucial for today’s leaders. In a world quick to judge and slow to understand, adopting this mindset can transform the way we lead and influence those around us.
John’s eulogy did not dwell on his professional achievements or material success but celebrated his character, his relationships, and his impact on those he touched. It’s a strong reminder that our eulogy is written not in the twilight of our lives but in the everyday moments, choices, and interactions that define our existence.
As leaders, we have the unique opportunity to craft our legacy with each decision we make, each relationship we nurture, and each challenge we overcome. Authentic leadership is not about title or position but about the authentic self we bring to our roles and the genuine connections we forge with others. It’s about leading with dignity, respecting the inherent worth of every individual, and accomplishing our goals in a way that honors our core values.
The key to a great eulogy is to start with a vision of how you want to be remembered. It’s about embodying the values and principles that you hold dear and ensuring that your actions and interactions reflect those beliefs. It’s about building a legacy that, when the time comes for your eulogy to be read, will be a true reflection of the life you lived and the leader you were.
My father’s journey, from the streets of Queens to the C-Suite, without a college degree, is a testament to the power of integrity, authenticity, and genuine human connection. He taught us that leadership is not about the accolades or the titles but about the lives we touch, the values we uphold, and the difference we make.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of leadership in today’s world, let’s use John’s story as an inspiration. Let’s strive to be leaders who are remembered not only for what we achieved but for who we were, how we made people feel, and the positive impact we had on the world around us.
My challenge to you, ‘How do you want to be remembered? What values do you want your leadership to embody? And most importantly, how can you start living your eulogy today?’
Please join me in honoring my dad and others who have inspired us by becoming the leaders who inspire others, leading not just with our minds but with our hearts, and making a difference that will be felt for generations to come.
