Life is a gift

Life is a gift, and each day on this planet is a lucky opportunity—a chance to learn, enjoy, marvel, and connect. As Marcus Aurelius said, “Live each day as if it were your last.”

Last week, during a meeting, one of the participants mentioned he was about to celebrate turning 30. Hearing that made me reflect on time passing; we went around the room sharing our ages, and to my surprise, I found myself as the oldest—just over 40!

It felt strange, especially since I once was the youngest in similar rooms, learning from those senior to me. Now, I’m on the other side, sharing my own experiences with others.

In French, we call this a “coup de vieux” (a sudden reminder of aging).
But as I thought about it, I realized what a privilege it is.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to learn from generations before me, like Gen X, who taught resilience and adaptability. Now, I’m also learning from younger generations—Millennials and Gen Z—who bring fresh ideas, a digital-first mindset, and new perspectives on work-life balance and innovation.

Each generation has its unique strengths and values, and I appreciate how they enrich our ways of thinking and working.

Getting older isn’t just about gaining experience; it’s about staying open to learning from every generation. It’s a privilege to walk this journey with both young and old, to exchange wisdom, and to embrace the different viewpoints that shape our world. Enjoy the journey, stay curious, and keep growing.