I've found that I've accomplished a lot more at once this year, even though I didn't know how to do it at first. My story has two beginnings and no end. There is no finish line, because John C. Maxwell recommends thinking without an ending in mind. More on that in a moment.
In late 2022/early 2023 I began an intensive coaching program. This coaching consisted of 3 months of individual coaching and 3 months of group coaching. I was particularly impressed by the enthusiasm with which my coach and I spent an hour together. It was a weekly highlight. Instead of losing energy because we were so focused and happy with each other, I was always top fit and highly motivated when the hour was over. It was all about taking it to the next level. In other words, challenging what I do and what I want to do. I found a whole series of issues that I wanted to fix. Metaphorically speaking, I was not thinking of cosmetic repairs, but a facelift in the areas of life energy, friends, career success, hobbies, and family.
In early 2023, my lower back became tense. The muscles tightened so much that I could not move without severe pain. Lying down hurt! Sitting did not work. Standing did not work. Moving was not possible. Painkillers hardly helped. I felt really set back. Nothing worked.
The muscle cramping quickly made it clear to me what I did not want to experience again. And the masseur made it also perfectly clear to me, without saying a word, that sometimes it takes a painful effort to free yourself. And that it often doesn't work without help!
I couldn't have done it without my family either. They took me to the masseur. And that was extraordinary because it was a Sunday afternoon. Normally, I would have felt sorry for the masseur because he was open on Sundays. All of them together did their best on a Sunday afternoon to help me get back on my feet: morally, psychologically, and physically.
I was very surprised when, after a good half hour, the masseur told me to get up and walk around the bench. I got up, smiled and walked. Not completely free of pain, but without crutches. He, who had hurt me badly, had relieved my tension. I could not have done it on my own.
Today, almost 8 months later, I still follow his advice: exercise, go swimming and live healthy!
A healthy, stimulating life is not possible without exercise. Exercise makes me physically and mentally agile. This is wonderful!
At the same time, exercise allows me to grow in other areas of my life, such as nutrition, career, vocation, family and friends. And I can't do that either without other people. I just can't do it alone. Tomorrow I'll be happy to share more about what I have moved forward in a big way this year.
John C. Maxwell recommends not focusing on an ending. He advises to see the journey as an opportunity to learn more and more, to broaden your horizons, to stretch yourself, to be on the road with people, to take the lead and yet not arrive. The constant growth helps him to enjoy his life. So he doesn't fall into the hole that sometimes opens up when you reach your goal.
I think it's wonderful to be a lifelong learner, to be attentive and curious, to meet great people time and again, and to go part of the way with them. I am grateful that this idea fits my outstanding life.
I look forward to meeting you too. Feel free to contact me if you would like to.
Have a great day!
