The sky’s the limit. To be fair to the phrase it was supposedly coined by Cervantes in his famous masterpiece, Don Quixote, back in the 17th century or at least it came from an early translation into English. Since then we’ve been to the moon, and back, so Larry Page’s coined ‘moon shot’ is perhaps now more applicable. Regardless, the intent is the same, be ambitious, think big, and push yourself. Aim for the stars. That’s going to be my mantra for 2017 as I have something really exciting to focus on.
Before I explain more, I would like to share a personal story with you.
Don Quixote’s journey reminded me of one I took myself back in early January 2014. Exactly three years ago. On the third of January, I woke up on a sunny Sydney morning to the below email:
“Dear all,
this morning when the hospital called me, I thought it would be about Walter's transfer to Portalegre. Only when they brought me into a special room and made me sit down, I realised it must be something serious. Walter has quietly passed away last night. …”
Walter was my father. The email was from his wife. He had died suddenly aged 66 in Lisbon, Portugal following an earlier stroke prior to Christmas.
Before I knew it I was on a plane to Portugal. Once we had collected my Father’s ashes a few days after arriving, his wife and I headed off on a train journey across Europe to his final resting place in Germany. We crossed five countries, visited five cities along the way including Lisbon, Madrid – we were walking around the city three years ago today - Barcelona, Paris and Hamburg. We also managed the final voyage in five days. I’ll never forget it. It had its downs, but ultimately it had a lot more highs and even a laugh or two. It was a befitting tribute to my father, a man whom travelled the world and seven seas.
So why share this with you? Well, life sure does have a habit of throwing us surprises, both bad and good. I am a strong believer that from these surprises there is always a life changing experience, a lasting memory and many a story to be told. We are always growing, learning and changing. We should not be afraid of challenges, we should take them on and head into the unknown. More often or there lies an opportunity we never considered.
To end this post, I would like to share my ow news. Late last year, two people I know, greatly respect and trust offered me the opportunity to join them in setting up a new company this year. These two people are Steve Urwin and Paul Mead of Kernel Property. At the time it was a surprise. I said yes, and start today on a journey unknown but one filled with great potential building on a high quality of service and dedication to our clients . I can’t wait to get going.
One thing for sure, I will give it everything I have. After all, the sky’s the limit!
Thanks for reading.
Kai
