Day 62 of Embracing the Wonders of Life – The Wonder of Many Voices
There is something deeply grounding about being in the city where your roots lie—especially when the reason is music. And even more so when that music is brought to life by someone you admire.
That evening, I had the privilege of seeing Sabine Devieilhe perform. I have seen Sabine sing before, and every time she surprises me. Opera, romantic Strauss, Mozart—each time a new colour, a new emotional texture. But this evening was different. More intimate. Almost disarming.
A programme that moved effortlessly between “go-to-bed songs” and French chansons. Music that doesn’t demand your attention—but gently takes it. Music that doesn’t impress—but stays with you.
What struck me again, as it always does, was not just her range of styles, but the depth of her expression. The astonishing diversity of her voice. The way she inhabits a song emotionally, not as a soprano performing, but as an artist revealing something.
You are not watching a soprano. You are witnessing a complete artist—layered, vulnerable, precise, playful, and utterly present. And that is no accident.
Sabine Devieilhe’s mastery is built on years of rigorous classical training at the Conservatoire in Paris, yes—but also on something far more rare: the courage to move beyond labels. She has never confined herself to a single box, a single genre, or a single “safe” identity. Opera, baroque, contemporary works, chansons—each explored not as a side project, but with full commitment and respect for the craft.
This is what mastery looks like when discipline meets curiosity. And this is where the lesson extends far beyond music.
True thought leadership works the same way. The most compelling thinkers are not those who repeat one message louder and louder. They are the ones who develop range without losing coherence. Who deepen their core while expanding their expression. Who dare to show different facets of themselves—intellectual, emotional, reflective—without diluting their credibility.
Like Sabine, they don’t perform expertise. They embody it.
The tip:
If you want to grow as a thought leader, don’t ask yourself how you can be more visible. Ask yourself how you can become more complete. Master your foundation—but keep exploring new voices, formats, and emotional registers. Depth creates authority. Diversity creates resonance.
And when both come together—people don’t just listen.
They feel.
Day 61 of Embracing the Wonders of Life – When Snow Rewrites Time
This afternoon in Utrecht, something rare happened. Not just snow—real snow—but something even more unexpected: time bent.
Parents and children flooded the streets with sleighs, laughter, and red cheeks. No hesitation. No planning. Just an instinctive yes to the moment. Watching them, I felt something stir that I hadn’t visited in a long while. A familiar intensity. The kind you only recognize once it’s back. I was suddenly young again.
I remembered that strange magic of winter evenings: the sky slowly darkening, streetlights flickering on, parents calling out “just a few more minutes,” and you bargaining—silently—that this moment could last forever. The cold didn’t exist. Not really. Enthusiasm overruled temperature. Joy overruled time.
Snow does that. It resets the world. It removes layers of routine and replaces them with wonder. Ordinary streets become playgrounds. Strangers become co-conspirators in joy. And adults—if only briefly—remember what it feels like to be amazed.
That, I think, is a true gift of life: the ability not just to remember joy, but to relive it.
As I stood there on my balcony, watching sleighs slide and laughter echo through the streets of Utrecht, it struck me how rare this skill becomes as we grow older. Somewhere along the way, efficiency replaces curiosity. Certainty replaces exploration. We stop playing and start optimizing.
And this is exactly where thought leadership quietly loses its edge.
Great thought leadership does not come from knowing more. It comes from seeing freshly. From staying amazed. From being willing to look at familiar landscapes as if snow has just fallen on them for the first time.
The best ideas feel playful. They carry curiosity. They dare to ask questions that others stopped asking because they thought they already knew the answers. Like children on a sleigh, true thought leaders are not afraid to slide into unknown terrain—simply to see what happens. Snow reminds us of this.
That progress doesn’t always come from moving faster, but from pausing long enough to feel wonder again. To notice. To play. To stay open.
Maybe the real leadership skill of the future isn’t expertise alone—but the courage to remain amazed.
And perhaps, just like tonight in Utrecht, that’s when the most meaningful journeys begin.
Day 60 of Embracing the Wonders of Life – Lessons from a Christmas Jam Session
This week, I had the privilege of playing with the Capgemini band at our Dutch Christmas party. The band already had two talented guitarists, yet they invited us to join as extras. What happened next was pure magic.
We launched into classics like “Take a Piece of My Heart”, “Proud Mary”, and “Walking on Sunshine”. But beyond the music, the experience revealed something deeper.
What struck me first was the openness of the band. They embraced us without hesitation, creating space for everyone to shine. There was no ego, no competition—just a shared desire to make great music together. That selflessness, the willingness to play for the sheer joy of it, is something that always amazes me.
Then came the ease of blending in. After 30 years away from playing in a large group, I expected it to feel awkward. Instead, it was effortless. We listened, anticipated each other’s moves, and adjusted in real time. It reminded me how powerful true collaboration can be when everyone is tuned in to the same rhythm.
And of course, leadership played its part. Our singer, the amazing Roma Vaessen, stepped up like a true conductor—clear, confident, and inspiring. With just the right amount of direction, the rehearsal flowed seamlessly, and everyone knew their role.
Finally, there was the sheer joy of playing together. The energy, the smiles, the sense of connection—it’s something I’ll carry with me for a long time. The smile is still not off my face.
What can we learn from this in the corporate world?
In a band, collaboration is instinctive. Everyone listens, adapts, and contributes to the collective sound. Imagine if we applied the same principles in business:
Embrace diversity and inclusion the way musicians welcome new players.
Lead with clarity and confidence, while allowing creativity to flourish.
Anticipate and adapt to each other’s rhythm for seamless teamwork.
Harmony isn’t just for music—it’s the foundation of high-performing teams.
Big thanks to Rens de Leeuw, Femke van Riel, Johanna (Joke) Achterberg and Willem de Paepe (Ph.D.) for thinking of me and the amazing Capgemini band for accepting me :)
Day 59 of Embracing the Wonders of Life: The Power of Wandering to Find New Melodies
Sometimes I go wandering on the internet without any specific intention. We often treat this as unfocused time. A waste. A distraction. But sometimes wandering is exactly what opens new doors.
A few weeks ago I found myself drifting through short movies on YouTube. One video led to another – until suddenly I ended up deep into the world of guitar performance videos. That’s where I came across Lari Basilio. I have many guitar heroes and inspirations. But Lari immediately went to the top of the list. Not only because she is a world-class virtuoso. Not only because her skill is exceptional. But because her compositions are deeply melodic, emotional, intentional. It is not her technique that makes the difference. It is the melody she creates from her technique.
Last week I actually had the opportunity to meet her at a concert in the Netherlands. And that experience left me with two reflections that I want to share.
The first: wandering is not always a negative thing. We have created a world where we over-structure everything. We add productivity to every minute. We treat every moment that is not “purposeful” as waste. But sometimes stepping outside your path, exploring a new field, letting curiosity lead – is how you discover something new. Serendipity is not an accident, it is an ingredient.
The second: mastery is not only about capability. In music. In thought leadership. In our careers. In business. Technique is only the foundation. Knowledge is only the raw material. What creates impact is what you build from it. It is the melody. It is the story. It is the emotional translation of skill into meaning.
As a thought leader, this is sometimes forgotten. We invest massively in skill and knowledge. We optimize technique. But the world remembers those who create melody. We follow those whose ideas carry emotion and resonance. We are moved by the story behind the capability.
Day 59 of Embracing the Wonders of Life: Leading Yourself Towards Brighter Horizons
Walking through Chicago airport recently, I paused to capture a moment that spoke louder than words. Chicago—a city buzzing with headlines and political debates—was, for me, a backdrop to something far more inspiring: energy, ambition, and resilience.
On this trip, I met teams brimming with enthusiasm, tackling economic challenges head-on. I spoke with clients who refuse to settle for today’s reality. They are not waiting for the future to happen—they are creating it. That mindset is contagious. It reminds us that progress doesn’t come from standing still; it comes from leaning forward.
This picture represents more than a travel memory. It’s a metaphor for leadership—personal leadership. Believing that things will get brighter is essential, but belief alone isn’t enough. You need to lead yourself first. In times of uncertainty, when the world feels complex and unpredictable, the most powerful step you can take is to own your direction. Shape your path. Drive your growth.
Leadership starts with clarity: What do you want to achieve? Then comes courage: Are you willing to act, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed? And finally, consistency: Will you keep moving, even when the road gets tough?
The future belongs to those who dare to imagine it—and then work relentlessly to make it real. So, next time you find yourself in a moment of pause, ask: Am I waiting for change, or am I leading it?
Because brighter days don’t just happen. They are built—by leaders who start with themselves.
Day 58 of Embracing the Wonders of Life
This week, I fulfilled a long-held wish: visiting Alcatraz. For years, the island was a symbol of mystery and resilience in my mind, thanks to Clint Eastwood and classics like Escape from Alcatraz. Standing there in person, walking through those cold corridors, was surreal. It felt like stepping into a piece of history that shaped my youth.
Yet, the most thought-provoking moment came at the end of the tour. A video explained that Alcatraz was one of the first “super prisons”, designed to deter crime through toughness and isolation. The logic seemed simple: harsher punishment equals less crime. But reality told a different story—crime didn’t decline; it rose. The takeaway? Tougher measures aren’t always the solution.
This struck me as a powerful metaphor for leadership and thought leadership. In times of complexity, the instinct is often to tighten control, impose stricter rules, or double down on old models. But like Alcatraz, rigidity rarely solves systemic challenges. What truly makes a difference is perspective.
Perspective means stepping back, questioning assumptions, and seeing the bigger picture. It’s about asking: What outcome do we really want? and What approach creates lasting impact? For leaders, this isn’t just a skill—it’s a responsibility. In a world flooded with noise and quick fixes, people look to thought leaders not for more walls, but for windows—views that inspire, challenge, and guide.
Alcatraz reminds us that strength isn’t in confinement; it’s in clarity. Whether in business, society, or personal life, progress comes from those who dare to reframe the problem and illuminate new paths forward.
So next time you face a challenge, don’t build a bigger prison. Build a broader perspective.
What’s your “Alcatraz moment”? A time when you realised the obvious solution wasn’t the right one? Share your thoughts below—let’s inspire new perspectives together.
Day 57 Embracing the Wonders of Life – One Year On
A year ago, I began a journey called Embracing the Wonders of Life. It started in London, during the closing session of the Thoughtleader Development Training. What began as an assignment for the participants quickly became something more personal. I realised I had just as much to gain from reflecting on life’s wonders as those I was guiding.
Since then, I’ve shared many pictures and stories—snapshots of moments that moved me, inspired me, or simply made me pause. The response has been heartwarming. I’ve received so many kind messages, and even gentle nudges when I hadn’t posted in a while. It’s clear that we all crave a bit of optimism, a spark of inspiration, and reminders of the beauty that surrounds us.
Last week marked the closing session of the 2025 Thoughtleader Training. The new cohort brought fresh energy, insight, and a powerful reminder of why I started this series in the first place. Their openness to learn, to transform, and to truly connect was a wonder in itself. It reignited something in me—and reminded me that it had been too long since I last wrote.
So here it is: a new post, and a new picture. Not just of a place or a moment, but of a group of people coming together with purpose and passion. You all pulled it off. You inspired me. You reminded me that the wonders of life aren’t just found in nature or travel—they’re found in each other.
Thank you for being part of this journey:
Lisa Eckersley Hilde Marit Nilsen Manasi Gaikwad Revathy Rajendran Luuk van der Velde Robert Cagnell Tanja Wittig Daniela f. Rittmeier Chris Gurney Harpreet Saluja Simone Conrad Douwe van de Ruit Daniel Gábor Flores Lars Beumann Josephine Latreille Jonathan Sugden Elin Heir
Also big thanks for all contributions of the following amazing people:
Caroline Segerstéen Runervik Dr. Rainer Mehl Rosemary Stark Dr. Cara Antoine Alex Bulat- van den Wildenberg Raj Kumar Podder Pam Mandair Ian Wallace Rob Walker Robert Kingston Henk Vermeulen Sabine Rachor Bal Gill Nathan Vennekens
Day 56 of Embracing the Wonders of Life!
Last weekend at the North Sea Jazz Festival, I witnessed something extraordinary: Matteo Mancuso. A guitarist who doesn’t just play music—he reinvents it. Without a pick, using traditional fingerpicking techniques fused with tapping, jazz phrasing, and metal intensity, he’s created a style that’s uniquely his own. It’s not just impressive—it’s transformative.
Mancuso stands out, even among today’s wave of guitar innovators. Think of Mike Dawes, whose fingerstyle playing turns a single acoustic guitar into a full band. Or Tim Henson of Polyphia, who blends fusion, rock, and hip-hop into a futuristic soundscape. These artists are not just playing—they’re reinventing. But what sets Mancuso apart is how he returns to the basics—no pick, just fingers—and then builds something entirely new from that foundation.
Mancuso’s performance reminded me of something we often overlook in the tech world: the power of fundamentals. In an age where Generative AI and Agentic AI are reshaping how we work, it’s tempting to believe that tools alone will define the future. But just like Mancuso’s mastery of the guitar, true innovation comes from those who deeply understand the basics and then dare to reimagine them.
Think of developers who’ve spent years honing their understanding of systems, architecture, and logic. When they embrace AI, they don’t just automate—they elevate. They become the Mancusos of our industry: blending tradition with experimentation, precision with creativity.
This is the moment for craftsmanship to shine. The tools are powerful, yes—but in the hands of someone who knows how to wield them with intent, they become revolutionary. Whether you're coding, designing, leading, or strategising, the call is the same: invest in your fundamentals. Understand the “why” behind the “how.” Then, use today’s technologies not just to do more—but to do better.
Take 30 minutes this week to revisit a foundational skill—be it in coding, architecture, or leadership. Then, explore how AI can amplify it. Don’t just adopt the new—infuse it with your expertise. That’s where the magic happens.
Because the future won’t just belong to those who use AI. It will belong to those who, like Matteo Mancuso, blend mastery with imagination—and play a whole new tune.
Day 55 of Embracing the Wonders of Life!
This time, not a photo I took myself, but the mysterious album cover of Thom Yorke’s Anima. Yesterday, I had another inspiring music session with my daughter. We practised our repertoire, inching closer to performing together. That creative flow carried into the evening, where I found myself on the couch, immersed in music videos on YouTube. One piece stood out again: Anima, the short film by Thom Yorke. A masterpiece where styling, choreography, and sound converge into something transcendent.
The highlight for me is Dawn Chorus. It’s not just a song—it’s an emotional experience. DJ Zane Lowe once admitted he cried the first time he heard it, as it tapped into everything he’d lived through. For me, it’s the seamless fusion of emotion, sound, and visual storytelling that opens something deep within. It touches parts of us we didn’t know were there.
This got me thinking: why do we reserve this kind of emotional resonance for art and music? In business—especially when we communicate strategy or prepare presentations—shouldn’t we aim to create our own Dawn Chorus moments? Moments that don’t just inform, but move people. That connect on a human level.
Artists have a unique ability to blend authenticity, emotion, and craft. If we can learn from them, we can elevate how we communicate in the corporate world. Not by mimicking art, but by infusing our work with intention, clarity, and emotional truth.
Next time you prepare a presentation or strategic message, ask yourself: What do I want people to feel? Not just understand, but truly feel. Use storytelling, visuals, and tone to craft a message that resonates. Aim for connection, not just comprehension. That’s how we create our own Dawn Chorus—in boardrooms, not just concert halls.
Day 54 of Embracing the Wonders of Life!
Last Saturday, I had the privilege to meet Jeroen Brandsma, an enthusiastic individual who has turned his passion for guitar playing into an even bigger passion: building electric guitars. As a big fan with a nice collection of signature series guitars, I was thrilled to meet him and have the opportunity to play on a custom-made Hynder, his brand name that refers to his Fries roots.
The passion Jeroen has for his craft is evident in the quality of the sound, the materials used, and the overall playability of his guitars. The moment I strummed the strings of the Hynder, I could feel the difference between my factory-made guitars and this handcrafted masterpiece. The sound was richer, the materials felt more authentic, and the way the guitar responded to my playing was unparalleled. I almost sounded like a good guitar player.
This experience taught me a valuable lesson: when you put dedication and passion into something, you can create something truly unique. Jeroen's journey from a passionate guitar player to a master guitar builder is a testament to the power of following one's passion. His dedication to his craft has not only made him a thought leader in the world of custom guitars but also an inspiration to anyone looking to turn their passion into excellence.
In a world where mass production often overshadows craftsmanship, Jeroen's Hynder guitars stand as a reminder that true quality comes from the heart. Whether it's building guitars, pursuing a career, or any other endeavour, putting your heart and soul into what you love can lead to extraordinary results. Jeroen Brandsma's story is a shining example of how passion and dedication can lead to thought leadership and excellence in any field.
Day 53 of Embracing the Wonders of Life!
Recently, I had the unforgettable experience of visiting the Formula Experience in Amsterdam—a birthday gift from my son. Among the many awe-inspiring exhibits, one stood out starkly: the remains of Romain Grosjean’s Formula 1 car, split in two and scorched from the fireball crash he miraculously survived. Seeing it up close was sobering—and deeply inspiring.
What struck me most wasn’t just the violence of the crash, but the fact that Grosjean walked away with only minor burns. That survival wasn’t luck—it was design. Every inch of that car had been engineered with the driver in mind. From the halo device to the fire-resistant suit, Formula 1 has become a masterclass in user-centered design.
A few years ago, Design Thinking was the buzzword in business circles. But it was often confined to product development or digital front ends. What if we expanded that mindset to every corner of our organizations? What if we applied Design Thinking not just to what we build, but to how we operate—our processes, policies, meetings, even our internal tools?
Formula 1 shows us that when you relentlessly prioritize the user—in this case, the driver—you don’t just protect lives; you unlock performance. The same principle applies in business. Technology should not just serve the system; it should serve the people in it.
My recommendation? Bring Design Thinking back—but this time, embed it everywhere. Start every design conversation with one question: “What does this mean for the user?” Make it a habit, a mindset, a non-negotiable. Because when we design for people first, everything else—efficiency, loyalty, innovation—tends to follow.
Day 52 of Embracing the Wonders of Life!
In my previous blog, I wrote about how “winter is coming,” but “spring is always around.” Yesterday, this thought came to life while I was on my bike and spotted a stunning cluster of purple crocuses. Their vibrant color stood out against the brown, lifeless ground—a reminder that even after the harshest winters, new beginnings are inevitable.
The deep purple of the flowers immediately made me think of Prince. Interestingly, I had just listened to a New York Times: The Daily podcast about the unreleased Prince documentary on Netflix. The project was shelved because the filmmaker dug deep into Prince’s life, uncovering not just his musical genius but also a more complex, darker side.
According to the documentary, his difficult upbringing, filled with rejection, played a significant role in shaping both his artistry and his interpersonal relationships. Hence, the family of Prince did not want to release it to the public.
This made me reflect on how we often shy away from acknowledging the complexities of people. Society tends to celebrate genius while dismissing the struggles that shape it. But as the podcast narrator put it, these struggles don’t diminish Prince’s legacy—they add depth to it. His pain and challenges didn’t just exist in the background; they gave his music even more meaning.
It’s a lesson for all of us: instead of avoiding the difficult parts of someone's character, we should try to understand whythey are the way they are. Everyone has layers, and the beauty of human connection lies in our willingness to look beneath the surface.
So next time you see a crocus breaking through the cold ground, think about the resilience and depth that lies within all of us. Who in your life might have more layers than you’ve taken the time to explore?
Day 51 of Embracing the Wonders of Life!
Today, I took a simple walk to the store—a mundane task, yet it turned into something more. The sun was on my face, offering a hint of warmth despite the lingering chill in the air. There was something different today, though—something that made me pause. The trees, still bare from winter’s grasp, were beginning to show the first signs of life. Tiny buds, almost unnoticeable, were shaping into the promise of flowers.
It gave me hope.
Lately, I’ve been watching Game of Thrones, a series where the phrase “Winter is Coming” holds deep meaning. And if we look at the world today, with its shifting geopolitics and unpredictable decisions from global leaders, it certainly feels like winter—cold, uncertain, and sometimes terrifying. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, to let the weight of these events press down on us.
But today, standing beneath that tree, I was reminded of something just as powerful: Spring is always coming. No matter how long or dark the winter, the seasons change. Life pushes forward. And while world leaders may shape policies, it is the small actions of everyday people—of you and me—that create ripples of change.
So, let’s do our part. Be kind. Help where you can. Lift others up. These little things, collectively, shape the world into a better place.
Winter may come, but spring always follows. Keep your head up. Keep moving forward. And never forget—you, too, can be part of the change.
Day 50 of Embracing the Wonders of Life!
During our recent kick-off event in the south of France, we enjoyed a delightful gala dinner with our partners and clients. I found myself seated next to my amazing colleague Marlous Jansen-Joosten, and as our conversation flowed, I jokingly suggested that we should take a bath in the sea the next morning. To my surprise, Marlous immediately agreed, and from that moment, there was no backing out.
The next morning, we took the plunge into the chilly sea. The experience was invigorating, providing an unexpected rush of refreshment. This spontaneous dip made me realize the importance of seizing the moment and embracing our seemingly crazy ideas. Often, these impulsive actions reveal our true desires and passions, which we might otherwise dismiss with rational arguments.
Reflecting on this experience, I understood that spontaneity can lead to profound insights and personal growth. By stepping out of our comfort zones and acting on our whims, we open ourselves up to new experiences and opportunities. This can be especially valuable in both our personal and professional lives, where routine and predictability often dominate.
Incorporating spontaneity into our daily lives doesn't mean abandoning all plans and responsibilities. Instead, it's about finding a balance and allowing ourselves the freedom to act on our impulses occasionally. Whether it's taking a spontaneous trip, trying a new hobby, or simply saying "yes" to an unexpected opportunity, these moments can bring joy, excitement, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Suggestions:
1. Embrace the Unexpected: Allow yourself to act on a whim every now and then. You might discover new passions and interests.
2. Say "Yes" More Often: When faced with an unexpected opportunity, consider saying "yes" instead of overthinking it.
3. Reflect on Your Experiences: Take time to reflect on spontaneous actions and what they reveal about your true desires and values.
In conclusion, sometimes it's the unplanned moments that bring the most joy and insight. So, the next time a crazy idea pops into your head, don't argue it away. Embrace it, and you might just find a refreshing new perspective on life.
Day 49 of Embracing the Wonders of Life !
Walking through Stockholm recently, I passed a pond where children were joyfully skating. This simple scene transported me back to my youth, a time when winters were colder, and skating was a regular pastime. This nostalgic moment made me reflect on the changes in our climate and the role I must play in creating a more sustainable world.
Research has shown that memories, especially those tied to positive emotions and significant life events, can have a profound impact on our behavior and decision-making. According to a study published in Psychology Today, long-term memories are not only accurate but also provide life lessons that guide and motivate us for many years (https://lnkd.in/exBB3kSe)
These memories can serve as powerful reminders of what we value and what we stand to lose if we do not take action.For instance, the vivid memory of skating on frozen ponds during my childhood highlights the stark contrast with today's milder winters. This personal recollection underscores the urgency of addressing climate change to preserve such experiences for future generations. By tapping into these memories, we can find the motivation to make more sustainable choices in our daily lives.
Moreover, positivity plays a crucial role in preserving and recovering memories, as noted in another article from Psychology Today (https://lnkd.in/eSnYzSau)
When we focus on positive memories, we are more likely to engage in behaviors that align with those positive experiences. This means that by recalling fond memories of nature and outdoor activities, we can inspire ourselves and others to take actions that protect and preserve our environment.In conclusion, our memories are not just remnants of the past; they are powerful tools that can inspire positive change.
By reflecting on cherished moments from our youth, we can find the motivation to act in ways that contribute to a more sustainable world. Let us all take a moment to remember the beauty of our natural world and commit to making choices that ensure its preservation for future generations.
Call to Action: Reflect on your own cherished memories of nature and outdoor activities. How can these memories inspire you to make more sustainable choices today?
Day 48 of Embracing the Wonders of Life !
As 2025 unfolds with its relentless pace, it's worth pausing to reflect on the moments that made 2024 special. Yesterday, while traveling, I enjoyed watching such a highlight: Handel's Il Trionfo del Tempo performed by the extraordinary Sabine Devieilhe. This masterpiece has held a special place in my heart since I first encountered it years ago on a flight to San Francisco. That initial exposure ignited a deep admiration for both Handel’s music and Sabine's remarkable talent.
2024 marked the fulfillment of a long-held dream: seeing Sabine Devieilhe live at Amsterdam’s iconic Concertgebouw. Having previously watched her mesmerize audiences in Paris as Lakmé, this experience felt profoundly personal. Meeting her afterward for a photo and autograph was a moment of pure exhilaration. To my daughter’s amusement, I—a grown man in my fifties—was as nervous as a teenager meeting his hero. That encounter was more than just a fleeting thrill; it was a reminder of the power of art and the enduring presence of our inner child.
Music, when performed by the right person, has a unique ability to touch the soul, evoking emotions we might otherwise overlook in the rush of daily life. It reminds us of the importance of creating space for inspiration and wonder, no matter our age. These moments, where art connects us to something deeper, remind us to nurture our inner child—a source of awe, creativity, and joy.
As I look ahead, I’m already counting down to Sabine’s next performance. For now, though, I carry the beauty of 2024’s highlights, cherishing the lesson to stay open to the magic that art and life offer. Find your own moments that stir the soul, and let your inner child lead the way.
Day 47 of Embracing the Wonders of Life !
A couple of nights back, I had the immense pleasure of surprising my sister Petra Wammes with a special dinner at the Rijks, an exquisite restaurant located next to the iconic Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The Rijksmuseum, a masterpiece of Dutch architecture, provides a stunning backdrop for this culinary gem, blending history and modernity in a truly unique way.
This dinner was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of life and the unbreakable bond we share. Having lost our parents at a young age, particularly our mother, my sister and I have always leaned on each other for support and strength. As we approach the age our mother was when she passed, we are reminded of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Our upbringing instilled in us the value of family and the significance of staying connected. Despite the challenges we've faced, our bond has only grown stronger. We have always been there for each other, providing comfort, encouragement, and unwavering support. This dinner was a testament to our enduring friendship and the deep love we have for one another.
As we savored the delicious dishes and reflected on our journey, we felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the life we've built together. The Rijks provided the perfect setting for this heartfelt celebration, with its elegant ambiance and exceptional cuisine.
In closing, I want to remind everyone of the importance of family and true friendship. Life is fleeting, and it's the connections we make and nurture that truly matter. Take the time to appreciate your loved ones, celebrate your bonds, and create lasting memories. Through all of life's ups and downs, it's the people who stand by us that make the journey worthwhile.
Day 46 of Embracing the Wonders of Life !
Imagine a diner composed of coquilles, mushrooms, figs, and radishes. Not a traditional meal, but an intricate artwork—each element meticulously placed to create a visual masterpiece. It’s a picture that invites curiosity, compels a closer look, and challenges expectations. What does this have to do with thought leadership? Everything.
Thought leadership, like this unique diner, isn’t about following conventional formulas. It’s about crafting a story that stands out—one that invites people to think differently. Much like the unconventional diner, the best thought leadership pieces combine familiar elements (data, trends, insights) in unexpected ways to surprise and delight their audience. The goal isn’t merely to inform, but to evoke curiosity and spark conversations.
Consider how the diner art might inspire a compelling story. Each ingredient, while common on its own, gains new meaning in the context of the whole. Similarly, as a thought leader, your role is to take familiar ideas and present them with fresh perspective—connecting dots others haven’t seen. Maybe it’s blending disciplines, reimagining old paradigms, or finding lessons in unrelated fields.
The diner also reminds us of the importance of artistry. In a world overloaded with content, thoughtful presentation sets your ideas apart. Whether through vivid metaphors, stunning visuals, or immersive storytelling, the "how" you tell the story can be as impactful as the "what."
So, the next time you share your insights, ask yourself: Are you crafting a meal, or an artwork? Push beyond the predictable. Find inspiration in the unexpected, and take your audience on a journey they’ll remember.
Curious to hear how you turned a great thought into a piece of artwork and invite you to share some of your stories in the comments.
Day 45 of Embracing the Wonders of Life !
As a music lover, my life has been a melody of inspiration and discovery. It all began in my youth, with Elvis Presley setting the stage for my first deep connection with music. From there, my journey took a turn after some initial resistance, embracing the iconic sounds of Prince. These stepping stones led me to an expansive world of musical experiences, spanning the grandeur of Mozart’s compositions to the electrifying riffs of Metallica.
Throughout this journey, certain artists stood out as profound sources of inspiration. Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, with his raw emotional delivery, and Nuno Bettencourt of Extreme, whose guitar mastery continues to amaze, became my heroes. My love for guitar also introduced me to a pantheon of guitar legends who shaped my own creative endeavors.
And then came Jacob Collier—a revelation. His brilliance transcends music production; it’s his infectious passion and authenticity that captivate. Whether it’s his rich arrangements, bold stylistic choices, or even his distinctive clothing, Jacob embodies fearlessness in self-expression. Experiencing his live performance in Amsterdam was nothing short of magical. Witnessing his famed audience choir, where he seamlessly weaves the crowd into his musical tapestry, was a moment of pure euphoria.
Jacob's artistry is a powerful reminder that creativity knows no bounds. His fearless exploration and willingness to share his creations inspire me to continue delving into my own talents. His example teaches us the value of experimentation and the courage to showcase our work, even in the face of self-doubt.
So, here’s my recommendation: take a page from Jacob Collier’s book. Dive into your own endless pool of talents, explore, and share what you create with the world. You never know who you might inspire along the way.
Day 44 of Embracing the Wonders of Life !
In turbulent times, where business pressures and political discord often overshadow the topic of sustainability, a surprising and inspiring truth emerges: people genuinely want change. I had the privilege to host the Capgemini Innovation days centered on sustainability and innovation, where over 900 business leaders came together—not out of obligation, but from a shared conviction that the future demands action. Their presence signaled a collective desire to not just respond to today’s challenges but to embrace a new paradigm where humanity thrives in harmony with the planet.
One of the most striking remarks from the event was the idea that we must learn to “dance with the planet.” This metaphor encapsulates a profound truth: our relationship with Earth cannot be one of domination or exploitation but must be one of rhythm, balance, and mutual respect. Dancing requires us to listen, adapt, and move in sync—qualities that businesses and individuals must embody to address the complexities of climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity.
I also learned that we can draw wisdom from the Native American concept of the “seven generations.” This principle urges us to consider the long-term impacts of our decisions, ensuring they will benefit people and the planet seven generations into the future. In the business world, this mindset challenges us to move beyond quarterly profits and short-term gains, pushing for innovations and strategies that build resilience and prosperity for the long haul.
The enthusiasm and engagement of so many leaders at this event highlight a deep-seated recognition that sustainability is not a luxury but a necessity. The path forward requires us to embrace these lessons, prioritize innovation that aligns with nature’s rhythms, and adopt a long-term perspective that honors future generations. Together, we can shape a future where businesses don’t just coexist with the planet but thrive alongside it—dancing in harmony for generations to come.