Celebrate the future
“A nation that does not know its history cannot shape its future.” Helmut Kohl, (1930–2017), German politician (CDU), sixth chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany (1982–1998)
I like to celebrate, even my birthday. My younger brother never celebrates his, because he thinks it’s just a reminder of his coming end. This year there plenty of significant anniversaries to celebrate, such as D-Day’s 80th. Besides that there are a number of corporate anniversaries, including the Maersk shipping group’s 120th or the 50th anniversary of British Airways – and the 85th anniversary of the International Transport Journal ITJ.
Anniversaries represent an opportunity to dwell on the past, revel in the present and look to the future. The danger, of course, is to remain too much in the past, and thus appear dusty and no longer up-to-date to customers. Clients from emerging nations with a young population are particularly interested in dynamic developments and prospects.
Anyway, if some of the pioneering founders hadn’t taken any risks, then some reputable logistics industry companies might not even exist today.
Everything always starts with a course set for the future. That’s why an anniversary is an excellent occasion to find a vision, to push ahead with changes, to give the starting shot, to do things differently than in the past, to aim for completely new goals. An anniversary has much more potential than just celebration.
An anniversary party, some might moan. Where will I find the time to prepare? A get-together at an anniversary can also contribute to improving the climate in the company, customer relations and the like. It can make views appear more rosy.
This is especially important when the present is rather grey and full of negative headlines. Those who have lived long enough know that every downturn is followed by an upturn. We won’t necessarily be discouraged, but will rather show courage, discipline and perseverance and look optimistically to the future – like an athlete who may have trained for years with sweat and renunciation before success kicks in.
Celebrating is part of our cultural DNA, at least mine. I like to celebrate all of the holidays as they arise, whether it be Christmas, Easter, christenings, weddings, birthdays, my grandson’s high school graduation. A new phase of life has just begun for him. He’s looking forward to moving to a new city, the forthcoming challenges and his many new acquaintances.
My birthdays are an opportunity to gather together my extended family that’s scattered over several countries. Outings and meals together, exchanging memories and anecdotes, strengthens the otherwise loose contact between the generations and gives youngsters impulses with which to shape their futures.
A beautiful concert can be a celebration. Sometimes a sunset on a terrace by the sea with a glass of wine in hand is enough to create a festive mood. You don’t have to break the bank to celebrate the future.
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“Time for Reflection” – Guest author
Ursula Schmeling has been a journalist and communications specialist for 40 years. She was the ITJ’s editor-in-chief from 1999–2009, as well as its managing director for eight years.