Keynote Lecture by Graham Weaver

Introduction

• Introduction of Graham Weaver as a legendary figure.
• Personal anecdote about taking a safe corporate job post-graduation from Stanford GSB.

Experience at Off-site in Napa

• Attended a three-day off-site filled with tedious presentations.
• Developed an "escape plan" during a frustrating meeting.
• Sneaked out to go for a run, leading to a moment of self-discovery.

Runner's High and Self-Discovery

• During the run, experienced a "runner's high" and heard an inner voice encouraging self-reflection.
• Notable experiences during the run:
  • Encountered a reflection that made him feel empowered, reminiscent of Rocky Balboa.
  • Realization that he was hiding from his company while exercising.
• Committed to listening to his inner voice going forward.

Inner Conflict

• Discussed the conflict between two inner voices:
  1. Voice of Fear
     • Instinctual, loud, filled with anxiety and worries.
  2. Voice of True Self
     • Quieter, speaks through intuition, body, and emotions.
• Voice of fear leads to a limited life; true self leads to fulfillment and potential.

Three Promises to Access Your Voice

• Promise 1: Take the Nail Out of Your Head

  • Acknowledged common obstacles keeping people stuck, categorized as:
    1. Bad habits
    2. Unresolved past experiences
    3. Self-imposed rules and assumptions
    4. Fear of change
  • Importance of speaking your truth and acknowledging problems.

• Promise 2: Follow Your Energy

  • Encouraged to pursue what gives energy rather than just passion.
  • Introduced the concept of "nine lives" exercise to explore different exciting paths.
  • Energy is seen as the language of the soul, directing toward fulfillment.

• Promise 3: Go All In Now

  • Emphasized the dangers of hesitancy and being half-committed.
  • Shared a personal story of overcoming fear of failure with the help of a student.
  • Importance of commitment: "Until one is committed, there is always hesitancy."

Personal Reflection and Meaning of Life

• Shared personal anecdotes regarding his sons leaving for college, prompting reflection on life's finite moments.
• Explored the meaning of life through various philosophical perspectives.
• Conclusion: The meaning of life is to live it at full power and that the power is already within each individual.

Conclusion

• Final exhortation to listen to the second voice and commit to living fully.
• Encouraged the audience to choose which voice to listen to—fear or true self.
• Thanked the audience for their attention.