Perspectives on the Important Things in Life

In my inaugural blog I wrote about New Year’s Resolutions and goal setting. I thought that it’s only fitting that my second blog should state what my personal aspirations are for the year ahead. It’s worth noting that some of these have been carried forward from 2017 as I think it’s only appropriate that if you set your mind on something you should see it through (even if it’s not to the time scale that you might have liked).

Here is my list for 2018 and I’d feel pretty good if I successfully achieve all of them.

Keep on track with part-time doctoral research at Cranfield University – using my spare time to be at the forefront of innovative research
Convert garage to gym (this is one that I should have completed in 2017)
Update blog on monthly basis
Go on a hot air balloon trip (another one that I should have completed in 2017)
Buy property in Budapest
sdnaskcihc (not to be overly cryptic, but this is something that is important to me)
Run a marathon (who’s up for it?)
Complete triathlon (similarly, who’s up for the challenge?)
Hike to the summit of Mont Blanc (hopefully with my colleagues, but if not, I’ll do this as part of my summer break)
Take time to enjoy pairings of cheese and wine every month to find out what I enjoy, detest and can tolerate – I’d like to say more than just “notes of raspberry and smoked cedar”

But are my ambitions shared with those who have reached the pinnacle of success? Well, the last words of Steve Jobs indicate that he shares some of my philosophies:

"I have come to the pinnacle of success in business. In the eyes of others, my life has been the symbol of success. However, apart from work, I have little joy. Finally, my wealth is simply a fact to which I am accustomed.

At this time, lying on the hospital bed and remembering all my life, I realize that all the accolades and riches of which I was once so proud, have become insignificant with my imminent death. In the dark, when I look at green lights, of the equipment for artificial respiration and feel the buzz of their mechanical sounds, I can feel the breath of my approaching death looming over me.

Only now do I understand that once you accumulate enough money for the rest of your life, you have to pursue objectives that are not related to wealth.

It should be something more important:
For example, stories of love, art, dreams of my childhood.

No, stop pursuing wealth, it can only make a person into a twisted being, just like me. God has made us one way, we can feel the love in the heart of each of us, and not illusions built by fame or money, like I made in my life, I cannot take them with me. I can only take with me the memories that were strengthened by love. This is the true wealth that will follow you; will accompany you, he will give strength and light to go ahead.

Love can travel thousands of miles and so life has no limits. Move to where you want to go. Strive to reach the goals you want to achieve. Everything is in your heart and in your hands.

What is the world's most expensive bed? The hospital bed.

You, if you have money, you can hire someone to drive your car, but you cannot hire someone to take your illness that is killing you. Material things lost can be found. But one thing you can never find when you lose: life.

Whatever stage of life where we are right now, at the end we will have to face the day when the curtain falls. Please treasure your family love, love for your spouse, love for your friends. Treat everyone well and stay friendly with your neighbours."

Steve Jobs was perhaps one of a kind. However, in more general terms, I want to focus on becoming more active, to stop procrastinating and facing the reality that in order to reach my potential I have to work hard, remain focused and never listen to the naysayers. Happiness in my personal life will afford me balance and perspective that I can bring to my professional life. For those of us that aspire to be successful, it’s important to think beyond our current position in life and to spend time doing things that you love and can be proud of.

And after all, what would you attempt if you knew you could accept failure? Will you do it now? If not now, when?