Barry Griswell: The Adversity Paradox

Former Chairman & CEO of Principal Financial Group shares life lessons on overcoming adversity and creating enduring success.

I absolutely adore speaking with world-class leaders and achievers to learn about what they’ve done right, what they’ve done wrong, and how they’d make improvements the next time around.

I especially love it when I get to do this with folks from humble beginnings, who found their inner compass and defied the odds.

Barry Griswell is just such a person. He’s the former Chairman & CEO of Principal Financial Group, Co-Author of The Adversity Paradox, and is a Horatio Alger Association’s Distinguished American Award Recipient. He is one remarkable human being.

Barry sat down with me a few years ago to share the 3 Common Characteristics in Overcoming Adversity, including:

1. Personal Accountability.
2. Optimism.
3. An Attitude of “And Then Some.”

I asked him if leaders and achievers can ever expect a life free of adversity.  Watch the video below to hear Barry’s answer.

How has the Adversity Paradox, or just plain adversity, molded your life?  I’d be honored if you shared your thoughts and comments below.