Lloyd Blankfein: No One Cares Who You Used to Be

 Way back in 1991, now-with-Yale Jeffrey Sonnenfeld nailed it in his book "The Hero's Farewell." Former CEOs just can't let go. They do what it takes to stay on stage. 

At Disney Bob Iger succeeded at that. He managed to climb back on. However, as we recall, his re-entry was rough. He initially hadn't gotten it that the media landscape had changed. His charm offensive looked manipulative.

Currently, it seems that former Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein is struggling to use a side door to re-enter the force field of extreme influence. That is, he published the memoir "Streetwise" and is giving scary interviews about the possibility of another 2008.

Those still with the titles and with the influence could turn on him. The fearmongering could kill off business. Actually, as we know, the prediction of disaster could bring on the disaster. 

The book is doing well. On Amazon it ranks 139. But, come on, it's the usual saga of up from less-than-nothing - that is, growing up in public housing and a rough neighborhood. And lessons learned. How long is that platitude sustainable on the market?

The authentic lesson for other "formers," especially those sidelined by the Epstein Files, is to find something else to do. Don't try to reset in the old box. Had Blankfein moved on to something else sticky he might not have had to unleash a terror scenario, based on the problems with private credit. We're in enough upheaval with the war in Iran, surging price of oil and plunging futures this morning. 

At Paul, Weiss the high-profile Brad Karp has been able to duck the hero's farewell syndrome. Although his leadership title went poof due to Epstein emails he has been able to hold onto his book of business. That's what counts. Clients stuck with him. At the core, Karp is a brilliant litigator. The next media frenzy will focus on his courtroom presence during a landmark case.

Another brilliant litigator John Tarantino has established just the right template for prominent players who can retain the influence magic. He has maintained continuing practicing law at Adler, Pollock but also expanded his identity to another sphere. That's being a global inspirational speaker and fundraiser for cancer. That shift kicked off with the Ted Talk "Redemption Stories." It's had 27 million views. Yes, begin the new journey while still retaining influence and power. 

I consider myself blessed. I have been able to let go the decades-long identity of being successful in content-creation. I left behind many bottom-fishers who are hanging on. Or trying to. Yeah, 2-cents a word. 

In intuitive coaching/tarot reading I hammer this reality: No one cares who you used to be. What counts is this: What can you for employers, clients and customers now?

Success is a mental game. Failure comes from being done in by the “committee” in your head.

Together, we liberate your thinking. Then we change your story. And, unleash success. Meanwhile, we focus on bringing in income. That puts you in a position of strength.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, becoming a solopreneur and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk.

Don’t give up before the miracle.