Cristian Bârsan

Last year I turned 40, the year I moved with my family from Romania to Sweden. As today I turn another year older, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve embarked upon over the past year. The move was more than just a geographical shift; it was a profound reset, a chance to redefine my purpose in life, a new beginning for our family – planting the roots to a completely new land for us.

It helped me enormously to have in Honeywell a great company to work for, and I was so lucky to meet an amazing man, a family man, a true leader, who trusted me and who supported me to get here – to build a long-lasting career and a bright future for my family.

I wanted to make this new life special and meaningful. So, I started a blog about my journey, to have a systematic approach, one that will last and be truly deep, an approach that will help me and my family to navigate through change, an approach that will leave traces behind me and when I will no longer be on this earth, my trace to remain alive through my children and grandchildren.

I divided this journey into six parts, or chapters, each lasting ten years.
The first chapter, which I’m still at the beginning (it’s only been a year), is about learning to be kind, to always keep trying, and to never give up.

Looking back on this first year, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. I’ve made significant progress in developing the qualities I set out to nurture. Empathy has become a cornerstone of my interactions, enabling me to connect with others on a deeper level. A growth mindset has empowered me to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. And resilience has proven to be my unwavering shield, helping me overcome life’s challenges with strength and determination. The people around me – family, friends and colleagues at work – say that I have changed, that I am calmer and more patient. So, it seems to work.

In this journey of self-discovery, I’ve also discovered my personal ethos: “Forgiveness is my power, resilience is my armor, discipline is my sword. Never give up! Never surrender!“
This creed has become my guiding light, providing me with the courage and conviction to face any obstacle that comes my way. It is tattooed in my mind. It will also reach the skin.

As I embark on the second year of this chapter, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. I know that the road ahead will not be without its challenges, but I am confident that with the ethos I’ve forged and the progress I’ve made, I am well-equipped to navigate whatever comes my way.