I am frequently inspired by this is a quote from Fernando Flores: “If you want to act powerfully, you need to master “speech acts”: that is, language rituals that build trust between colleagues and customers, word practices that open your eyes to new possibilities. Speech acts are powerful because most of the actions that people engage in — in business, in marriage, in parenting — are carried out through conversation. But most people speak without intention; they simply say whatever comes to mind. Speak with intention, and your actions take on new purpose. Speak with power, and you act with power. We are caught up in a pace of social and technological change that makes our work, business, and education sources of anxiety and unfulfillment. At the same time, thinking about our thinking and observing our observations can bring us a new world in which work becomes a place for innovation, and in which peace, wisdom, friendship, companionship, and community can exist. Let us design this world together.”

We have a tendency to be casual about how we engage with each other and with the extraordinary opportunities that every day brings. We often need a wake up call to remind us to be grateful for all we have. I enjoyed this interview with comedian Louis CK on a visit to the Conan O Brien show who makes the same point with ironical humour: