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What does success truly mean? For many, it’s climbing the corporate ladder, earning more money, and accumulating possessions. But for Larry Kihlstadius, success has always been about something deeper—freedom, impact, and intentionality.
A Legacy of Leadership
Larry’s career is the kind that most professionals aspire to. At his startup, every single direct report he mentored went on to become either a CEO or a managing partner at a top consulting firm. His leadership wasn’t about control or ego—it was about empowering others to thrive.
His philosophy? “Leave people better than you found them.”
Rather than micromanaging, Larry built trust. He invested in relationships, gave people space to grow, and created a culture of accountability. He understood that true leadership isn’t about personal accolades—it’s about lifting others up.
The Courage to Pivot
Despite his professional success, Larry realized that his definition of success needed to evolve. Money and titles weren’t the goal—freedom was.
So he made a radical change. He embraced a minimalist, nomadic lifestyle—no house, no leases, no unnecessary commitments. Everything he owns fits into eight bins in the back of an SUV. He can move anywhere in the U.S. with just two weeks’ notice. More importantly, he works just 15 hours a week—a conscious decision to prioritize time over money.
The Three Pillars of Success
Larry’s story challenges us to rethink our own definitions of success. For him, it boils down to three key areas:
1. Thriving Relationships
Success isn’t measured by wealth, but by the people we uplift. Larry’s leadership helped others reach new heights, proving that investing in people creates lasting impact.
2. True Freedom
Many professionals earn more but live less—constantly tied to meetings, emails, and obligations. Larry’s decision to minimize possessions and commitments gave him the ability to fully experience life on his own terms.
3. Living with Intention
Instead of chasing status, Larry focused on what actually matters. He guards his time fiercely, ensuring that every decision aligns with his values and goals.
The Hardest Truth: Are We Truly Free?
One insight from my conversation with Larry stuck with me: People are more trapped by time than by money.
Even the wealthiest professionals struggle to step away from their work. They take vacations but stay glued to their phones. They achieve financial success but remain mentally and emotionally drained. Larry’s story is a reminder that freedom isn’t about how much you have—it’s about how much control you have over your own time.
What’s Your Definition of Success?
Larry’s journey may not be for everyone, but it raises an important question: If you stripped away society’s expectations, what would success look like for you?
Would it be a bigger house, a higher salary—or more time with loved ones, more meaningful work, and more presence in the moment?
Take a moment to reflect: Are you living your version of success, or someone else’s?
Let’s start a conversation. What would your life look like if you had the courage to define success on your own terms? Share your thoughts below. 👇
#MidlifeRemix #SuccessSecrets #FreedomLifestyle #Leadership #CareerPivots #Happiness #LifeLessons #PersonalGrowth #LarryKihlstadius #stevenmiyao
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