Thursday 21 August was World Seniors Day. When I thought about it, one image came to mind instantly – my grandfather, John Ewing Armour. To everyone else, he was Jack. But to us, he was Grandpa.

Grandpa loved his family and his garden. He had a collection of old Australian sayings, many of which have long disappeared from our language. His farewell was always ‘See you in the soup.’ And when his little car struggled up a steep hill, he’d rock back and forward in his seat – a horse-riding habit transferred to driving. (And no, it didn’t make the car go faster!)

1. Look the part
Grandpa always changed his shirt and put on a hat before leaving the farm. As Matt Church says, ‘Superficial is anything but.’ First impressions count. People make up their mind about us in the initial few seconds of a first meeting, and then we either fulfill that or struggle to change that perception.

2. Take the opportunity
At 19, struggling with a science degree, I wanted to quit. Grandpa convinced me to finish, reminding me I had a rare opportunity. He was right – it gave me choices.

3. Build for the future
With his brother, Grandpa started an apple orchard that’s now a significant local employer. Next year Armour’s Apples celebrates 100 years. The farm is part of my identity and remains my safe ‘home base’ – something I share in my Fearless Leadership® keynote.

What have your elders taught you?

Thanks, Grandpa. And Happy World Seniors Day to all our elders — the ones who teach us, guide us, and remind us what really matters.

Go fearlessly – Corrinne