Frank Sinatra was, and I expect remains, one of the most beloved crooners and actors of all times. His career spanned 60 years from the mid 30’s to the mid 90’s. I’m sure that some will argue for and some against his signature song being “My Way,” but I am casting my vote for and for a very good reason.
Now what do Frank Sinatra and a song have to do with a blog about career transition, coaching and choice? Good questions. Let’s look at the lyrics and see.
The lyrics of "My Way" actually tell a story of a man reminiscing on his life as it draws to a close. He takes full responsibility for his actions, how he dealt with life and its challenges, its ups and its downs. The words tell us he maintained his integrity throughout and is comfortable with his choices.
The central theme, having lived his life his way, on his terms, is clear. There is something to be gleaned from and a lesson to be learned in each line of the song. Goals were set, planned out and met. He stepped out of his comfort zone, felt fear and doubt, but in the end had it turn out. He was bold, he was true to himself, and he bowed to no one. He lived life on his terms.
Whether it makes sense to you or not you are living life on your terms right now. Are these the terms of your greatest potential? Are these the terms of your greatest satisfaction? Check yourself. Are you doing it “Your Way?”
At some time each of us will face our mortality squarely and, if lucky, will have the time to reflect upon our lives. What will your song lyrics be?
Here are the credits and lyrics to the song, and a clip so Frank can to sing it to you.
My Way
Artist: Frank Sinatra
Writer: JACQUES REVAUX, CLAUDE FRANCOIS, GILLES THIBAUT, PAUL ANKA
And now, the end is near;
And so I face the final curtain.
My friend, I'll say it clear,
I'll state my case, of which I'm certain.
I've lived a life that's full.
I've traveled each and ev'ry highway;
But more, much more than this,
I did it my way.
Regrets, I've had a few;
But then again, too few to mention.
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption.
I planned each charted course;
Each careful step along the byway,
But more, much more than this,
I did it my way.
Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew.
But through it all, when there was doubt,
I ate it up and spit it out.
I faced it all and I stood tall;
And did it my way.
I've loved, I've laughed and cried.
I've had my fill; my share of losing.
And now, as tears subside,
I find it all so amusing.
To think I did all that;
And may I say – not in a shy way,
"No, oh no not me,
I did it my way".
For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught.
To say the things he truly feels;
And not the words of one who kneels.
The record shows I took the blows -
And did it my way!
Thank you so much for sharing this great message and video Rick! I wasn’t born when Sinatra was in his prime, but I became a fan the first time I heard his music … the words to his songs were always so inspirational and this song is certainly an example of that.
marquita herald recently posted..Until You Value Yourself, You Won’t Value Your Time
[Reply]
Rick Reply:
May 1st, 2012 at 3:08 pm
Hi Marty,
The Chairman appeared to have lead a charmed life. I miss the days when he and his “boys”, The Rat Pack, would come down to Miami and hang out at the Fontainebleau. But the lesson of this song is unmistakable. Glad to share it with you.
RICK
[Reply]
Great post, it is one of my favorite songs of Frank Sinatra. I like the message. It brought me great memories, thanks for sharing.
alicia@yboggle recently posted..Our Close Relationship to Water
[Reply]
Rick Reply:
May 10th, 2012 at 12:32 am
You’re welcome, Alicia. If we can’t have life on our terms then we’re living it for someone else.
RICK
[Reply]