Christmas wishes (and not only wishes) became within last few years a tradition of mine.
Before, mostly in Polish and on social media to my friends, colleagues and clients.
Starting today as a new tradition. On blog of my educational institute. Hoping, that I will reach more of You.
A part of this tradition was not only simple and surface wishes. But a kind of thoughtful summary of last year. What has happened, what I have learned and what I wish you all from my heart.
Year 2020…
That one was crazy. Very unlucky for some and very lucky for me.
Many colleagues of mine lost their jobs. And this year many companies were not too fast to hire. When I think about this, a feeling of guilt appears. Because for me, it was an excellent year for my career. With new opportunities, more money, more recognition.
Many of us were sad, annoyed and confused because of new forced rules which changed our freedoms. Social life for many of us got like ten times smaller. For me, it created an opportunity to have more time to settle and develop my Institute. As usual, there were some delays (my perfectionism doesn’t let me published not perfect book), but I also created some useful things I haven’t planned.
The unpredictability of some early decisions of governments at the spring of this year. I was stressed because my partner was in another country, and her way back was highly influenced by mess and panic, which we were able to observe then. But then more happiness from simple joys and just being together. More appreciation from both sides for the other person.
Our plan to ascend the Kilimanjaro was scrapped. But instead, we have seen some beautiful places in Germany (Sächsische Schweiz with Bastei, Berchtesgaden with Watzmann, multiple times Eifel with Monschau) and Austria (Dachstein with Hallstatt) and we experienced there wonderful moments. I haven’t seen so many stars in the sky for a very long time. What made me think – what do I really want to achieve in my life?
Separation with my parents and daughter – lockdowns, more complicated travel rules and holiday rules in my company. It worked against me, and due to it, I decided to have (yes, it is not a joke) my first Christmas with my new Nepali family in Germany. I miss thou my family members who live in Poland.
And annoyance. To people who said that Covid-19 is not killing. Well. I lost my uncle and aunt within two days one after another. Pain is not so significant. I am more annoyed by people who don’t care for other people. And sad for my cousins.
Yes, year 2020 was a crazy one. With lots of lows and highs. And the thoughts and wishes?
I wish you an ability to be grateful for all privileges you have (those you notice and those you don’t). You live. You breathe. You have hands and legs. You have easy access to medicine and all help and opportunities which advanced countries provide. It is just about “wanting” and going after what you want. Most barriers you will encounter are… only in your mind.
I wish you elasticity – notice and seize opportunities which life creates you. Even when there is such a crazy phase like this one, it is sometimes about reframing your perception.
I wish you strength – don’t stress. Sometimes to survive is more than enough, and it is a reason to be happy and proud. If you are unable to reframe, it is also ok. Then survive. Surround yourself with family and friends. Make yourself cosy, warm and safe.
I wish you a clear understanding of yourself – your values, your beliefs, your emotional reactions. Use this year as a mirror for your soul. Learn new things about yourself. And use this to grow.
I wish you foresightedness – use your experiences and intellect. Predict. And make the right choices to secure yourself and your family. If you and your family will be sound and healthy with a possibility to grow – there will be very few (proportionally) of us on this planet alone, for whom we will have to organize an extra help. And yes – very often the right choices have a price. Be brave. Hope for the best and be ready for the worst.
And I wish you Merry, Warm (socially), Wonderful Christmas!
Maciej Czekaj
Founder of DSR® Institute
Team Coach, Trainer and Author of “DSR®: Mastering Communication”