For over three decades, Bob Buford spearheaded the growth and success of Buford Television, Inc., a flourishing family-owned business that began with an ABC affiliate in Tyler, Texas. As Chairman and CEO, he expanded the company into a vast network of cable systems across the United States before its sale in 1999.
Driven by a desire to uncover the true purpose and fulfillment that lie within the second half of life, Buford authored the groundbreaking book “Halftime” in 1995. This introspective work, born from his own experiences and heartfelt insights, struck a chord with readers seeking a deeper meaning in their journey. Building upon its success, he went on to publish “Game Plan” in 1997, engaging individuals in thought-provoking discussions about their own “halftime” experiences. In 2001, Buford released “Stuck in Halftime: Reinvesting Your One and Only Life,” offering practical guidance for those navigating this critical phase. His tireless dedication to empowering others culminated in the 2004 publication of “Finishing Well,” a captivating compilation of more than sixty inspiring interviews intertwined with his personal wisdom.
Eager to extend his impact beyond the pages of his books, Buford founded Halftime in 1997—an organization dedicated to assisting successful individuals in harnessing their wealth of experience and passions to drive tangible change. Through Halftime’s mission, he sought to inspire and equip leaders to maximize their resources and create lasting transformations in the lives of others and their communities. Today, Halftime continues to serve as a catalyst for individuals transitioning from success to significance, leaving a powerful legacy of transformed lives in its wake.
At the heart of Buford’s efforts lies The Halftime Institute, an immersive 27-hour experience meticulously crafted to accelerate the transition from achievement-oriented success to a life of profound significance. Here, attendees are guided through a transformative journey, uncovering their unique purpose and charting a course toward a legacy that surpasses personal success.
Buford’s own educational background speaks to his commitment to personal growth and excellence. He is a distinguished graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, and he also completed the Owner Managed Program at the prestigious Harvard Business School. His leadership acumen extends beyond the corporate realm, as evidenced by his active roles in esteemed organizations such as the Young Presidents’ Organization and the World Presidents’ Organization. Buford’s dedication to fostering positive change in society is further demonstrated by his service on the board of the Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations at Harvard.
Throughout his illustrious career, Buford has been widely recognized for his contributions to the fields of business and philanthropy. In 2000, he received The Samaritan Institute Award, followed by the Christian Management Association Award in 2005. In 2008, he was honored with the Leadership Award from “Lead Like Jesus,” and in 2009, the Roaring Lambs Ministry acknowledged his exceptional commitment. The following year, the SMU Cary M. Maguire Center for Ethics and Public Responsibility presented Buford with the J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award, solidifying his reputation as a champion of ethical leadership and responsible stewardship.
Bob Buford’s remarkable journey exemplifies a life dedicated to not just achieving success but also embracing a higher calling of significance. Through his visionary leadership, transformative writings, and profound impact on countless lives, he continues to inspire individuals to move beyond mere success and leave a lasting legacy that positively shapes the world.
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Finishing Well
16.999 CFAWhat People Who Really Live Do Differently!
It’s never too late (or too early) to begin finishing well! In a world where success often fades with time, wouldn’t you like to embark on a path that leads to lasting significance? Imagine a life where every moment counts, where your work carries eternal purpose and meaning until the day you take your final breath. Author Bob Buford, driven by the wisdom found in the depths of biblical teachings, presents to you “Finishing Well,” a groundbreaking book that illuminates the way to a rich and purposeful future.
Buford, a visionary leader, has dined with “some of the smartest people on the planet” who have successfully transitioned from mere success to profound significance. Join the likes of Peter Drucker, Jim Collins, Dr. Kenneth Cooper, George Gallup, Howard Hendricks, Roger Staubach, and Bill Pollard as they divulge their secrets to a life that goes beyond the ordinary. Through their inspiring words, you will discover how you too can achieve remarkable feats, leaving a legacy that transcends time.
Drawing from the pearls of wisdom shared by these accomplished individuals, Buford reminds us that the key to finishing well lies in embracing a forward-focused mindset. As he wisely asserts, “If people see their best years behind them, they’re probably not going to finish very well, because you can’t finish well when you’re going backwards.” It’s a call to action, urging you to leave behind the shackles of the past and step into a future brimming with possibilities.
Retirement may mark the end of our professional careers, but it should never signal the end of our calling. Buford reminds us that our purpose transcends the confines of a job or a title. “We can retire from our jobs but we can never retire from our calling.” With “Finishing Well” as your guide, you will uncover the true meaning of work and its role in sustaining a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
The book delves into the profound truth that our earthly existence often falls short of its potential due to our limited understanding of the grandeur that awaits us. Buford echoes the sentiment, “We live pale and empty lives here on earth because we’re ignorant about what lies ahead, and we need to see that the dimensions of life are so much greater than what we can see, hear, and touch today.” Prepare to transcend the ordinary, as “Finishing Well” broadens your perspective and unveils the vast dimensions of life that await your exploration.
Unlocking your potential for a meaningful existence demands a commitment to achievement and sustained growth. Buford highlights the habit of achievement as a defining characteristic of those who reach great heights. He shares, “People who achieve have a habit of achievement that begs for sustaining.” With “Finishing Well” as your ally, you will cultivate the tenacity and determination needed to surpass expectations, time and time again.
Why settle for a life devoid of purpose when there’s an abundance of meaningful endeavors awaiting your attention? Buford challenges us to break free from stagnant routines and embrace a life of continued purpose. He asks, “As long as you’re able to do something meaningful, why would you want to go into some kind of holding pattern?” “Finishing Well” arms you with practical strategies and invaluable perspectives from “second season trailblazers” to ensure your journey remains purposeful and inspiring, regardless of your age or stage in life.
Whether you’re in your twenties or your eighties, “Finishing Well” is a timeless guide that propels you toward a future marked by significance. Don’t let another moment slip away without embracing the transformative power of a life lived with eternal purpose and meaning.
Bob Buford