2023… what a year it's been!

The joy

The first six months overflowed with unceasing joy. My professional life was filled with engaging challenges, my contributions were valued, and my wife and I embarked on exciting home projects and travels, all while having great fun. I embodied my usual self: eternally optimistic. Some kept on thinking that for me this was not a challenge since they perceived my life to be free of struggles or drama, just happiness. The only slight shadow during this period was a long-awaited medical examination related to cancer, which fortunately turned out to be okay in the end.

The drama

However, halfway through 2023, the tide turned. TV series like Netflix often depict how individuals use their positions to disadvantage others, driven by jealousy and envy. Sometimes, reality surpasses fiction. I don’t want to enter into details about what happened or who was involved. I hold too much respect for people, and dwelling on these details wouldn't contribute anything valuable to this blog.

What I want to share is that the incident struck at the very core of my identity, my honor and my values. Never before had I been plunged into such depths. It was absolutely dreadful. I think many others pass through similar moments in their lives. My extensive toolkit for personal and situational mastery were very useful in the months following the event. Yes, it took a hell of a time for me to recover. ?I constantly employ NLP based insights and methods to inspire those around me. This time, I was delighted to apply them to myself. The insights kept me away from harmful coping mechanisms like drugs, alcohol and inertia..

The law of attraction

Then came another blow: a letter from the Walloon tax services about a dormant company I preside over, demanding an astronomical sum for supposed tax evasion. Again, I pictured a bleak future. Despite warnings of a lengthy battle from my accountant, lawyer, and business associates, I chose a different approach. I employed a technique I frequently discuss in my coaching sessions, inspired by Carol S Pearson, and adopted the 'orphan' role, one of Carol’s archetypes. In this capacity, I composed a letter to the tax services, carefully adjusting my tone of voice. My entourage was taken aback with surprise when, a few days later, I informed them that the case had been closed without any further action.

What does not kill you, …

2023 taught me more than previous years that it's not about avoiding life's storms, but how you navigate through them. I'm hopeful that 2024 will be devoid of such trials. I look forward to fostering trust, respect, maturity, and success. Despite the events, my optimism and inspiration remain as strong as ever. The experiences of 2023 will only serve to strengthen and amplify my messages. I'm excited about the prospects of fun and achievements with The House Of Coaching, The Digital Comfort Factory, the H.A.A.S. customers, my book “Beyond words” and many other projects set to enrich 2024.

By the way, the 2023 events freed some space in my agenda and bank account. I am available for new ad-hoc opportunities like keynotes and coaching missions. Enjoy this time of year, reflect on your growth, and prepare for the year ahead. Take care of your loved ones and maintain your balance, no matter what comes your way!"