Goodbye 2020!
By Alice Arandia, Commercial Director
This new decade started, for me, with an overwhelming feeling of optimism and expectation as I watched a spectacular firework display, wrapped up from the cold, in my hometown of Stonehaven, in North East Scotland. I’ve seen in many New Years in this little town that is steeped in history, with an ancient fireball procession that attracts thousands of visitors to this tiny town every year. As always, I was making the most of my time with family and friends, before returning to Kazakhstan for work but I was looking forward to returning to Scotland within a few weeks as my husband and I had finally decided it was time to settle down back home in Scotland. I could have never imagined though what that homeward journey would be like just a few weeks later.
Sat alone on the shuttle between terminals at Heathrow airport, mid March, I felt like I had been transported into a film set. Everywhere was eerily quiet. My phone buzzed as a text came in from a Kazakh friend alerting me to news that Kazakh borders had closed and asking if I had left Atyrau. I had left just in time, an hour before they closed the borders and days before the first lockdown in the U.K.. It all felt very surreal, but I was very glad to be back in Stonehaven.
2020: The Year of Reflection
2020 has undoubtedly served as a year of reflection too. At least that has been my take from the year. I adopted a healthier eating pattern early on in lockdown and established a routine of doing yoga before work. I found myself more disciplined than usual in the simplified life, able to focus on building my business, with time to absorb all the research material I have gathered over the years, and often had little time to read in detail. I’ve appreciated the time I have managed to spend with close family more than ever. I yearn now for a vibrant social gathering, but it will come, and instead of moaning I’ll appreciate it. Working from home has become the norm. I have discovered it has many benefits though I look forward to the innovation, motivation and support that comes from being able to meet up with colleagues and clients in person. Here’s hoping that will happen soon.
And now, despite all the challenges, I am grateful to be closing the year with a somewhat similar feeling of optimism and expectation as I take the opportunity to reflect and look forward to 2021 with renewed anticipation of all that I hope the year brings.
Firstly, of course, lets hope this world pandemic ends this year. That needs to come at the top of the list – or at least it does on mine.
I’ve taken some of my gifts from family members as a hint..and I am not arguing with them either. I am impressed by how well they know me. I am definitely taking on board the title of a book that my daughter kindly gave me: “You are a writer – so start ACTING like one”! And another one: “Ditch Imposter Syndrome” by Clare Josa. I came across her excellent podcasts recently, so I am looking forward to reading her book, and adapting my mindset accordingly too. I already started reading one of my other gifts: “Crossing Borders” by Nathan Lustig. I thought I knew a lot about doing business in Latin America, from first-hand experience and research, but this has been a welcome addition to my knowledge. It is a really good guide for venture capitalists and a young person’s perspective into opportunities in tech and e-commerce that I must admit I had limited knowledge of. He writes from an American perspective but with a refreshing understanding of Latin American culture and potential, which I really appreciate.
So, in 2021 I will definitely add this information to my portfolio of opportunities when discussing business development in Latin America with clients. I am sure some of his apt insights into Latin American culture will trickle into my courses too.
So 2021, is going to be the year that I ditch the imposter syndrome, act like a writer .. and an entrepreneur for that matter.. and embrace every opportunity that comes my way (and yes, I am confident many will come from Latin America).
Wishing you a healthy, happy and prosperous year.. Be grateful for all you have, move on from the losses or mistakes, and take responsibility for your future. WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST.
