Embracing Life’s Lessons: Leadership, Purpose & Intentional Living — A Conversation with David Patterson

In this inspiring episode of “What I Wish I Knew at 30,” leadership and wellbeing coach Fran Harper sits down with David Patterson, widely known as The Bucket List Accountant. With more than three decades of experience guiding professionals and business owners, David shares powerful insights on intentional leadership, mindset transformation, and aligning your career with a purpose-driven life.

This conversation offers a blend of personal growth, executive mindset lessons, and real stories that remind high-achieving leaders what truly matters.

A Journey of Intentional Living

David Patterson, known as The Bucket List Accountant, has spent more than 30 years helping people align their business goals with the life they truly want. But behind the spreadsheets and strategy lies a deeply human story about clarity, purpose, and the courage to stop “winging it” through life.

His journey is not just about career success. It is about awakening to what really matters, honoring personal dreams, and learning to lead with intention.

Key Insights

💡 Clarity & Purpose

David shares that in his younger years, he believed life would simply “fall into place.” Over time, he discovered that without direction, even the most talented leaders drift. Clarity isn’t optional, it’s transformational.

💡 Life’s Wake-Up Calls

The passing of his mother at a young age became a defining moment. It pushed him to reflect on mortality, time, and the urgent need to live meaningfully. This experience shaped his commitment to helping others create lives they won’t regret.

💡 Playing Bigger

David’s advice to his younger self is simple yet powerful:

Follow your passion. Focus on Plan A. And remember, playing small does not serve the world.

He encourages young professionals and leaders to step into their potential without hesitation.

The Bigger Picture

David Patterson’s story reminds us that intentional living is a choice we must make every day. His journey challenges us to set goals, embrace purpose-driven leadership, and live with the awareness that our time is finite, and precious.

His message is clear: Your best life doesn’t happen by accident. It happens by design.

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For more inspiring stories and actionable insights on leadership growth, mindset transformation, and holistic wellbeing, subscribe to “What I Wish I Knew at 30” with Fran Harper.

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