Quite the year…
Who knows what 2021 has in store.
I’m sure it won’t be dull!
Personally, it’s been a good year. I feel a little guilty saying that as it’s been so tough for so many.
It’s been busy. I’ve failed a lot, got a cabin up and running with Ben, and met some wonderful people along the way. Here are my main takeaways…
Too Busy
I’m a “yes” man. Always have been.
It used to get me in terrible trouble during my drink days; “I’ll stay for one” could descend into two days later.
Now it simply results in a busy calendar.
One advantage of this year’s lockdown is that everybody, myself included, got less busy.
It provided an opportunity to reflect.
I’m far happier and more productive, I’ve found, when less busy.
Conventional startup wisdom states that to succeed requires the 60+ hour work weeks. I don’t agree.
I’ve done my best work this year when not working.
It’s then that any insights or good decisions have come. It could be out walking, reading a good book, or simply in a real life conversation. Not sat at my laptop.
In 2021, a big year for Unplugged, I aim to be less busy.
Creating Value
Aside from a clay pot at my parents house, I’m not sure I created anything of value in my 25 years preceding this one.
Whilst it’s early days with Unplugged it’s been a delight to see the work we’re doing actually creating value.
A remarkable thing.
It struck me how this compounds over time. A concentrated and consistent effort can create something remarkable.
I noticed just how much of my time is spent consuming over creating; a balance I’m looking to shift in 2021.
Relationships
I’ve spent a lot of time seeking solitude in the last 18 months.
From silent retreats to digital detoxing, I discovered my inner introvert.
One realisation during this time alone is that a life well lived comes down to the quality of our relationships.
Quality is the key word.
I have, in the past, been guilty of going down the quantity route. That’s a problem. It leaves less time to be proactive with the relationships that mean the most.
I’m extremely grateful for the people in my life; it adds some joy to proceedings. Life is too short not to spend it with those who matter most.
Further more: Relationships compound. A new concept to me and something I’ll be thinking a lot about in 2021.
We’re living in a remarkable time in human history. I, for one, am excited. An interesting year ahead!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Best wishes,
Hector
A final thought:
“The beginning is the most important part of the work.”
– Plato