At the Mastermind 2007 Conference that I attended in San Diego, Brian Buffini interviewed Christopher Gardner. Here are some of the highlights of that interview.
In the "Pursuit of Happyness", actor Will Smith portrayed Christopher Gardner's character as he faced setback after setback while trying to achieve his goal of becoming a stock broker. He was single father...and at one point ended up homeless on the streets of San Fransisco, while serving as an intern. He relentlessly pursued his dream, and at the end of his internship was selected as a stock broker.
Chris Gardner doesn't become an inspiration if he remains homeless.
Chris said that his drive came because he "wanted to be world class at something." His mother was his greatest inspiration. He virtually had no dad and it was important to him break the cycle of the absent dad. He made a promise to himself at 5 years old. he realized that the problem doesn't have to be generational. He said that being there for his son was "The most important thing I've ever done in his life."
Here are some of the highlights in bullet points:
- Although his Mother's dreams were shattered, she still instilled in him that he could do anything and be anything.
- He made conscience CHOICE to go the other way from poverty, alcoholism and child abuse.
- He said the best time to make friends is before you need friends.
- "Always pursue happiness", is what he said when asked the "one thing" needed to live an inspired life.
- When asked if he would like any "do overs" in life he responded, "Absolutely NOT. Change one thing, everything changes afterward."
- When asked, "What kept you from feeling overwhelmed?", he responded, "I embraced the spirit of life that he saw in my Mom. I chose the light."
To learn more about this remarkable man, rent or purchase the DVD movie of his life "The Pursuit of Happyness"
Here is a video clip about Chris Gardner
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