That’s the question CD Baby founder Derek Sivers faced when he sold his company.
His answer: He gave it all to charity.
I told them, “I don’t even really want the money. I want it all to go to charity anyway. I just want to know that I don’t have to get a job at some point later in life. I want to know that I’m taken care of, but I think it could be harmful for me to have $20 million.”
Which reminds me of Fred Gratzon’s definition of success:
Here is how I know someone is successful — If you are able to give from your abundance then you are successful.
– Fred Gratzon (source)
That’s a great way to look at life. It’s funny how we get something (more money) and all we want is more.
By having the wisdom to realize what is really important to him he is able to find happiness very easily.
Alex, great find. Thanks for sharing.
Wow!
I’m actually speechless. That is awesome!
That is a very inspiring story. I am sure the charities were also very happy!
Wow, a most inspiring story. You are a far far far stronger man than me. I would be too afraid to do what you did, and that is the honest truth. I would love someday to be like you in this respect, to have that inner peace and letting go (or what is it????) that would enable me to do this. Actually, I would love Derek to tell us more about this, if possible. Wow!