Noticing the Gift of a Friend: A Tribute to Will Keiper

Our connection began in November 2022, through a simple yet meaningful message on LinkedIn. I had just finished reading The Leader and The Coach, the book he co-authored with Steve Chandler , and I was moved to reach out. I told him how much I loved the book, and his response was filled with warmth and kindness—true to who he was.

"Thanks for your shout-out," he wrote. "You clearly are a person loved by many for what you do, but I am sure more so for who you are and how you show up. It's an honor to be connected."

That was Will. A man who saw people, really saw them—not just their work, but their essence. From that first exchange, our connection grew into something truly special.

Just a couple of months later, in January 2023, he asked me to be part of something that meant the world to him—the creation of his last book, The Power of Noticing. It was an invitation I was deeply honored to accept. Even then, I could feel how important this project was to him. It was more than just another book; it was his way of distilling a lifetime of wisdom, his gift to the world.

A Mentor, A Guide, A Friend

Last year, I was preparing to visit my family for a month and mentioned to Will that I wanted to get ahead on my ??Limitless Insights?? Newsletter articles, knowing it would be harder to work on them while traveling. Without hesitation, he offered to be a guest writer for one of my editions to help lighten my load and wrote the article titled; "Serendipity". That was the kind of person he was—always willing to lend a hand, always ready to support. His generosity wasn’t just in his words but in his actions. He didn’t just tell people they mattered; he showed them.

Will was also one of my guests on The Ultimate Coach Podcast, and I will always be grateful for that conversation. The episode was originally scheduled to be released in mid-September, but he insisted on recording in early August, knowing that his health was unpredictable. He didn’t want to risk not being able to share his message. That decision speaks volumes about his awareness, his wisdom, and his deep commitment to making an impact while he could. He lived with an extraordinary level of presence—always choosing to show up, to contribute, and to give of himself fully.

What I didn’t expect was that my role in his life would become part of The Power of Noticing book. Will surprised me by adding a bonus chapter at the end, titled Ipek’s Roar—one of three special additions he included. Knowing that he saw me in such a profound way and chose to immortalize our connection in his final work is something I will cherish forever.

He had a way of lifting others, making them feel valued, and guiding them toward meaningful connections. Will introduced me to incredible people, sensing connections before they even happened.

Will was not just an extraordinary writer and leader. He was someone who walked the path of deep self-awareness and transformation. I also had the privilege of guiding him through a one-on-one coaching program for a few months, which wasn’t just about growth—it was about his unwavering commitment to living fully and embracing the richness of every moment.

The Power of Noticing

In The Power of Noticing, Will captured the essence of what it means to be fully present. In his final chapter, he wrote words that now take on an even deeper meaning:

"I can't imagine my life ending without having experienced what has occurred since unlocking stillness and discovering the power of noticing. It has been extraordinary. Though brief by comparison with the prior years, the time has been sufficient to ask and answer the question: 'Can joy and contentment coexist with continuous life challenges, discomfort, and suffering?'

The answer is a resounding 'Yes.'

"Noticing is continuously reinforced for me. It imperceptibly elevates my senses to observe more fulsomely whatever is passing through my life's flow. It doesn't require me to gather myself or bring extra effort or energy. It is always my choice to subtly but deliberately be more aware than unaware in the immediate present."

These words encapsulate the wisdom he shared, not only through his books but also through his life.

A Life That Touched Mine Forever

Will left a profound imprint on my heart. I am honored beyond words to have played a small role in bringing his last book to life. I am grateful for every conversation, every lesson, and for the privilege of being his Positive Intelligence coach. But more than anything, I am grateful to have called him my friend.

His presence in my life was a gift, one I will cherish forever. His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering belief in the power of noticing—these will stay with me, guiding me, just as he always did.

Thank you, Will, for everything. You are loved and will never be forgotten.

Before You Go ??

Video of the Week: The Ultimate Coach Podcast Episode 97: Being Present Through Noticing with Will Keiper

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?? Life is short... Please put yourself first, and do something that gives you joy. Today and every day! And ONLY always!