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In order to optimize bearing performance in the 21st Century, bearing life prediction will need to consider bearing ratings (the starting point), the actual environmental conditions in which bearings will operate and will need to identify the appropriate adjustment bridge in order to go from rating life to realistic application life. Generic ratings, as published in Standards, are described in this paper as well as specific ratings for a single type bearing based on explicit, experimentally determined parameters. Life adjustment factors are then discussed covering both the Bearing standards' a1, a2, a3 approach and a more comprehensive life adjustment approach that recognizes the interdependency of the various adjustment factors, subfactors, and the load-life relationship. This concept is demonstrated with tapered roller bearing examples and experimental support for improved bearing life prediction in the more demanding application environments of the future.