Life According to Sam

No matter what I choose to become, I believe I can change the world. – Sam Berns

The documentary Life According to Sam (streaming on Max) follows the incredible story of Sam Berns, a teenager living with Progeria, a rare disease causing rapid aging. Sam led an extraordinary life filled with passion, determination, and resilience despite his condition. His approach to life offers valuable leadership lessons - specifically, resilience, optimism, and purpose.

Sam’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience. Faced with immense challenges, he refused to let Progeria define or limit his aspirations. His ability to maintain a positive outlook despite obstacles is truly inspiring. Watching Sam, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of resilience in leadership—it’s about staying the course and motivating others to persevere.

One of Sam's most remarkable traits was his optimism. He focused on what he could do rather than what he couldn't - finding joy and purpose in every moment. One of my favorite quotes is by Jonathan Reams , who said, "Leaders create the weather." Leaders can learn a lot from Sam’s example. By fostering a growth mindset (see Carol Dweck's work), they can create an environment where challenges are viewed as opportunities for growth and innovation. Seeing Sam’s joy in everyday activities made me realize how crucial it is for leaders to focus on opportunities rather than limitations.

Sam also lived his life with a clear sense of passion and purpose. He was deeply involved in activities he loved, such as playing the drums and participating in his school’s marching band. This passion and sense of purpose are essential for effective leadership. Leaders driven by a meaningful mission inspire their teams by demonstrating enthusiasm for their goals. Sam’s dedication to his interests reminds us of the importance of passion in motivating and engaging our teams. It’s about aligning work with a meaningful mission.

Lastly, Sam’s authenticity and vulnerability left a lasting impact. His authenticity helped build trust and credibility, which is crucial for effective leadership (see Credibility by Kouzes and Posner). Leaders who embrace authenticity and integrity foster a culture of honesty and openness, encouraging team members to be their true selves. Sam’s empathy and compassion were evident in his connections with others, reminding us that understanding and appreciating the feelings and experiences of those around us is key to building strong relationships.

Sam Berns' legacy is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary potential of leadership grounded in resilience, optimism, and purpose.

To close, I want you to be aware of this additional resource. In 2013, Sam delivered a wonderful TED Talk titled My Philosophy for a Happy Life. It's worth your time.