From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks (2022) argues that professional decline arrives earlier than high achievers expect — but that it need not be the end of the story.
- Two curves: fluid intelligence (raw problem-solving) peaks early; crystallised intelligence (judgement, pattern recognition, teaching) keeps growing.
- The move: jump deliberately from the first curve to the second — from doer to teacher, adviser or chair.
- The obstacles: the success habit, tying your identity to the job, and neglected relationships.
- For business owners: succession is the second curve in practice. Plan the change of role while you are still at your best, involve the family early, and make sure your Will and share arrangements follow the plan.
- Weaknesses: some self-help padding, a very American outlook, and spiritual chapters that will not suit everyone.
Verdict: worth reading for the central idea alone.
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Six short reads each week on tax, Wills, family wealth and running a business, from John Ireland. Since 1996, three decades of protecting families.