The Power of Planning: A Conversation with My Grandson
Kerry Grinkmeyer Founder of Best of US Investors
Never Invest in the Present, Invest in Your Future
Last week, I had a memorable dinner with my grandson Aiden and his girlfriend Anna. As we chatted, I reminded Aiden of a conversation we had when he was eight, about setting a direction for his life. Now a junior in college, it felt like the right time to revisit that topic.
Curious about his future plans, I asked Aiden what he was majoring in. He replied that he was considering logistics. When I inquired about his career aspirations post-graduation, he surprised me by mentioning Lockheed Martin. To my next question, whether he knew the CEO, he admitted he didn’t. I encouraged him to look it up, and he quickly found that the CEO is James Taiclet.
I then gave Aiden some unconventional advice: I told him to write to James Taiclet. I suggested he express his ambition to work for Lockheed Martin, seek advice on his studies, and learn as much as possible about Mr. Taiclet. By sharing his own story and expressing a genuine interest in mentorship, Aiden could build a relationship that few others would think to initiate.
Both Aiden and Anna seemed taken aback by my suggestion. I reminded Aiden of our discussion during the Winter Olympics 11 years ago, where we marveled at the athletes’ dedication, a dedication that likely started a decade earlier. Success requires early and sustained effort, much like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, who had clear goals years before founding Microsoft and Apple.
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I shared a personal regret: not writing a similar letter to the CEOs of Eastman Kodak or Polaroid when I was young and passionate about photography. It wasn’t until my 60s that I fully embraced my love for creating—whether it’s painting, photography, writing, or making videos.
So, my message to readers is this: encourage your children and grandchildren to write to the CEOs of the companies they dream of working for. It could open doors they never imagined.
As Aiden and Anna left for Atlanta, I reminded Aiden to copy me on his letter to James Taiclet. I’m confident it will make a significant impact on his future.
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