On Friday, February 1st Julius Peppers retired from the NFL after 17 years.  He will surely be a first ballot Hall of Famer.  Peppers announced his retirement through the wonderful and classy video shown above.  It is something ever leader should watch.

Here are just some of Pepper’s career accomplishments:

  • 9 Pro Bowls
  • 52 forced fumbles (2nd all-time)
  • 159.5 sacks (4th all-time)
  • 175 tackles for loss (2nd all-time)
  • 4 interceptions for touchdowns as a defensive end.  6 non-offensive touchdowns total.
  • the first player in NFL history with 100 sacks and 10 interceptions

As you listen to his final words as a player to the Carolina Panthers fans, we learn 22 Things Leaders Are Thankful For When Their Career Has Ended:

  1. Victories
  2. Good Times
  3. The Lessons
  4. Times We Desire More
  5. The Sacrifices
  6. The Fans (or your company’s) Belief In Him And The Team
  7. Their Confidence In Him And The Team
  8. Their Unwavering Support
  9. Their Spirit
  10. Their Resolve
  11. The Attitude To Keep Pounding
  12. The Things You Show Us About Life Bigger Than Our Job
  13. A Second Chance.  A New Beginning.
  14. The Memories
  15. The Friendships
  16. The Laughs
  17. The Culture We Created
  18. Their Understanding
  19. Being Family
  20. All The Years
  21. All The Cheers
  22. Being Home Now And Forever

When I walk away from my career in 15-20 years, may I be able to say the same things.  May you as well.

Julius, thank you for a wonderful 17-year career.  No one ever retired in a more classy fashion.  Enjoy your family and the next stage of your life.  We’ll see you in Canton!

My book Timeless: 10 Enduring Practices Of Apex Leaders is available for purchase.  If you have ever wanted to become the leader God created you to be, this book is for you!  By combining leadership lessons from biblical heroes like Jesus, Daniel and Joseph, along with modern day leaders like Bill Gates, Nick Saban, Kobe Bryant and multiple pastors, Timeless will equip and inspire you.  This book is not to be read alone.  Discussion questions are included in each chapter allowing you to develop those in your circle of influence.  Click HERE or on the image provided and order your copies TODAY.

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