DISQUS

LifeDev: What U2 Can Teach You About Being Timeless

  • Mark Arnold · 1 month ago
    Very unique take on influencing what creation with the band! It is a very good idea to use current trends and events to incorporate in your creation but keep the focus to be timeless as you mentioned. Think Huge when making your timeless creation, look at the big picture but achieve it through smaller contemporary but unique actions!
  • Dayne | TheHappySelf.com · 1 month ago
    I'm a huge U2 fan ("Achtung Baby" is my favorite album of all time). In fact, I had tickets to this concert but was unable to make it. :(

    In any case, I loved your post and the way you bridged U2 and the concept of being timeless. Great stuff!

    Cheers,
    Dayne
  • Glen Stansberry · 1 month ago
    While trying to pick a favorite U2 album is like choosing between favorite children, Achtung Baby, Joshua Tree and How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb are probably my top 3.
  • DonnaKFreeman · 1 month ago
    Fantastic! I'm a huge fan of Us and have been for 20+ years. Thanks for taking their success apart and applying it so we may learn form their example. Can't wait for when they visit my hometown next June, just bought the tix yesterday. Will reflect on your comments again while enjoying the concert.
  • Girlie | Digital Room · 1 month ago
    Another inspiring post. I always feel good and inspired everytime I read your blog posts.

    Keep the good posts coming!
  • Glen Stansberry · 1 month ago
    Thanks so much :) That's what I love/need to hear!
  • Armen Shirvanian · 1 month ago
    Hey Glen.

    I do keep a solid focus on each of these things. The point about not being tied to time is useful. It is quite easy to latch on to things that will go away soon enough, but that is not a long-term way to go. Once the fad rolls away, the foundation is weakened, and then you wish you had not latched on to anything. It is worth it to put in a little more effort to stay latched onto your own message, instead of what is popular.

    That point about showing you can outlast is also highly relevant. Presenting your creation for an extended period lets people know that it represents you well, because no one can fake creation or production of some kind for that long without starting to fall apart. There is only so much a person can handle that isn't of their own doing.

    Cool points here.
  • Jason of Kim & Jason · 1 month ago
    Interesting take, Glen. I also got a chance to see their first show in Chicago back in September and it was great. I'd also add their authenticity as a reason for their timelessness. Certain bands and artists are poseurs, trying to be something their not. It may be hard to tell at first, but after a few albums, it becomes pretty obvious. U2 has always been sincere in their efforts to make great music, make a difference, and push themselves to be the best they can be. They're always trying to top themselves and that always comes through in their music, their interviews, and their live shows.
  • Ideas With A Kick · 1 month ago
    A kinda had this impression about U2 of being timeless, which i think is rare in the music industry. Now I know why. Thx.

    Eduard
  • davidglover · 1 month ago
    Glen, relevant spot on comments. I hope you live in Oklahoma we need more people like you here.
  • bedroom dresser · 1 month ago
    I also idolize U2 because of their music. Even after many years, they still manage to make a name to sustain their popularity.
  • J.D., Meier · 1 month ago
    Good stuff.

    I'm a fan of timeless and enduring, while evolving. I think the key phrase is "built to change" over 'built to last" (where change is the key to lasting :)

    In the book business, we call these "Evergreens."

    Your post reminded me of the book, The Living Company, which is about why some companies can last for 200, 500 or 700 years while others can't make it through their first 3. You hit a key point when you said it can't all be about the money or fame ... it does need to include impact on society ... and it is about evolving. It's also about value ... and that too isn't static.
  • Door Hanger Printing · 1 month ago
    Great post I think it is really important to do more than just focus on money. You need to give back and be more involved in your industry and helping others.
  • ThisIsInspired · 2 weeks ago
    Spot on. Well done - I agree U2 has built a brand (in a sense). Their true strength isn't necessarily in singing (Bono honestly can't carry a tune in a bucket) or their (initially) simplistic guitar, but in the connection they make with their music and with their fans. You can tell they perform from the soul. Being honest like that about any job will bring success... either secularly or just in personal contentment.

    While you say you're a fan it's not obvious from the neutrality of your writing - thank you. I like them as well, but it adds credibility to the piece by remaining neutral.