I recently turned 40 and it sure felt different. Life had shifted into a space where I could pause, take stock, and see patterns more clearly. Over the past two decades, I’ve had the privilege of working with leaders, visionaries, and change-makers across industries and continents. Through these experiences, I’ve distilled a handful of truths — not as rigid rules, but as guiding principles that continue to show up.
To celebrate the milestone, I chose to reflect — not just on my life, but on the lessons that shaped years of coaching leaders, realigning high performers, and challenging organisations to raise their standards. That reflection became ‘40 Lessons at 40’, a workshop where I share the most impactful insights I’ve gathered over more than 15 years, distilled into practical, actionable strategies for leaders at every stage.
In a world built to distract, my priority is always clear intention. To find the truth, we have to look beneath the surface. ‘40 Lessons at 40’ draws from the insights, challenges, behaviours, and growth I’ve seen first-hand across industries and continents. The faces change, but the lessons don’t.
A few of the key takeaways:
After 20 years in rooms with world-class performers, I can tell you this: the most important work you can do is on yourself and your team. Investing in mindset and skill development is a true game-changer for any business.
A Few More Quick-Fire Lessons from 40 at 40:
If you take one thing from 40 Lessons at 40, let it be this: stay a student of yourself. Keep learning. Keep applying. Question everything. Let go of what’s not working, and put your energy into what moves the needle. Don’t wait for permission. Move. Lead. Decide. Your future, your team, and your results are waiting for your clarity — and clarity begins with the courage to look within and change what’s not working.
And while leadership is a personal journey, it doesn’t have to be walked alone. Coaching matters — not because leaders are weak, but because they’re smart enough to know they can’t see everything. Mentorship provides the mirror: shifting perspective, showing blind spots, and holding you to your highest standard when the pressure is on.
Having a strategic coach isn’t a compromise — it’s a competitive edge. It’s how you protect your clarity, multiply execution, and stay aligned when everyone else is distracted.
About the Author
Aidan O’Brien is a globally recognised strategic advisor, executive mentor, and keynote speaker whose work has impacted nearly one million people worldwide. Over his 15-year career, he has guided Fortune 500 companies, billion-dollar direct sales firms, and high-growth startups across five continents, helping leaders and teams unlock performance, align strategy with mindset, and achieve sustainable success.
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