If you had a freeway billboard, what would it say?

In today’s fast-paced world, people often drive by countless billboards without giving them a second thought. But imagine if one of those billboards stopped you in your tracks—if only for a moment—and sparked a change in how you think or act. If I had the opportunity to place my own message on a freeway billboard, it would read:

“LOVE FREELY • PROTECT OUR PLANET • LIVE AUTHENTICALLY.”

Each phrase captures something essential about living meaningfully. Love Freely encourages us to share kindness and understanding with everyone we meet. Protect Our Planet urges us to become more conscious of our environmental footprint, reminding us that our actions today shape the world of tomorrow. Finally, Live Authentically invites us to be true to who we are, celebrating the unique qualities that each individual brings to society.

A freeway billboard can only grab attention for a brief second, but even that fleeting moment can sow the seeds of a more caring, conscious, and genuine way of life. If a single message can inspire people to be a bit kinder, a bit greener, and a bit more authentic, then the billboard’s purpose is fulfilled.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

What is something others do that sparks your admiration?

Humanitarian work has always been a source of admiration for me. The selflessness and compassion required to dedicate one’s time, skills, and resources to improving the lives of others is truly inspiring. Whether it’s offering medical care in underserved regions, providing education to children in remote areas, or delivering relief to disaster-stricken communities, these acts of kindness remind me of the immense capacity for good within humanity.

What makes humanitarian work so remarkable is the courage it often takes to step into challenging environments and face harsh realities. It’s not just about helping others; it’s about bridging divides, fostering hope, and creating opportunities where none seemed possible.

To me, those who engage in humanitarian work embody the best of what it means to be human. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, compassion and empathy can light the way forward.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

What could you do less of?

As I reflect on the passing years and the chapters of my life, one question keeps surfacing: what could I do with less? Less stress, less rush, less relentless striving. In the field of exploration drilling, where every day brings new challenges, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing more, pushing harder, and rarely pausing to evaluate if it’s truly necessary.

I’ve been fortunate to build a career that spans decades, countries, and countless drilling sites. But with time comes wisdom or at least a deeper understanding of one’s limits. I’m no longer in my twenties, nor am I the tireless supervisor I once was. The body and mind, like any well-used machine, deserve maintenance, care, and the occasional slow-down.

Maybe the answer to “what could be done with less?” is work. Not in the sense of abandoning my responsibilities but learning to delegate, trust others, and create a better balance. Letting go of the idea that everything needs to be done perfectly or solely by me. It’s not an easy mindset shift for someone who has been immersed in a demanding industry for nearly 30 years.

But perhaps “less” doesn’t mean giving up it means making space. Space for family, for hobbies, for rest, and for the unexpected joys that life offers when you’re not constantly moving at full speed.

As I look toward the future, I feel it’s time to reframe what success means. Maybe it’s not measured by how much I do but by how well I live, how much I contribute without compromising my health, and how deeply I can enjoy what I’ve built over these decades.

So here’s to doing less, but living more. It’s a challenge I’m learning to embrace, one day at a time.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

Do you ever see wild animals?

I’ve been fortunate to see many beautiful wild animals throughout my life, especially during the years I spent working in Africa. From majestic elephants to agile cheetahs, every encounter was a reminder of the incredible beauty and diversity of our planet. The vast landscapes of Africa hold a special place in my heart, not only for the work I did but for the breathtaking wildlife that made every day unforgettable.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

What is one thing you would change about yourself?

Everyone strives for perfection at some point in their life, but the truth is, perfection is unattainable. As we grow older, our perspective shifts, and the things we once wanted to change about ourselves start to seem less important.

When I think about this question now, I realize that at my age, these concerns feel trivial. I have lived long enough to understand that imperfections are a natural part of being human. They shape who we are, teach us resilience, and give us character.

If I were younger, I might have wished to be more patient, more confident, or perhaps better at balancing work and personal life. But today, I feel content with who I am. Life has taught me to accept myself as I am and focus on what truly matters—relationships, experiences, and personal growth.

So, if someone were to ask me what I would change about myself, my answer would be simple: nothing. After all, every flaw and imperfection tells a story, and those stories are what make us unique.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

What technology would you be better off without, why?

It’s difficult to pinpoint a specific technology that we would be better off without because technological advancement is essential for progress. Innovations, when used correctly, are designed to help and support us in countless ways.

That said, we do use plenty of gadgets and tools that might seem unnecessary or excessive. However, the real question lies in our habits and choices. Whether a technology becomes useful or wasteful depends entirely on how we utilize it. At any time, we have the freedom to set it aside if we choose to.

The challenge isn’t about technology itself but about how we strike a balance in its use, ensuring it enriches our lives instead of overwhelming them.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

Do you or your family make any special dishes for the holidays?

The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, and indulging in delicious meals that warm both the heart and soul. In my family, Christmas is not just a day but a cherished tradition filled with time-honored recipes passed down through generations. Every year, we prepare traditional dishes that remind us of our heritage and the joy of being together.

One of the star dishes on our Christmas table is Halászlé, a traditional Hungarian fisherman’s soup. This rich, spicy soup is made with a variety of freshwater fish, generous amounts of sweet paprika, onions, and tomatoes. The deep red broth and the aroma of spices fill the house, signaling that the festive feast is about to begin. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also connects us to the culinary traditions of Hungary.

Another family favorite is Töltött Káposzta, or stuffed cabbage rolls. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of minced pork, beef, rice, and spices, then slowly cooked in a tangy tomato sauce. This hearty dish symbolizes comfort and togetherness, and it’s always a delight to see the serving platter empty by the end of the meal.

No Christmas is complete without indulging in Bejgli, a classic Hungarian pastry roll filled with poppy seeds or walnuts. The golden-brown crust encases a sweet, moist filling that’s simply irresistible. Baking Bejgli is a family affair; we gather in the kitchen, rolling the dough and preparing the fillings while sharing laughter and stories from past holidays.

We also love making Mézeskalács, traditional honey gingerbread cookies. Decorating these cookies is one of the highlights for the younger ones in the family. Armed with icing and sprinkles, they let their creativity run wild, and their handcrafted treats often become edible ornaments for our Christmas tree.

These special dishes are more than just food; they’re a celebration of our cultural heritage and family bonds. The process of preparing and enjoying them brings us closer, creating memories that we cherish year after year.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

Name your top three pet peeves.

Life is full of small annoyances, but I’ve never been one to dwell on them for long. By nature, I prefer focusing on solutions rather than letting problems linger in my mind. That said, here are three things that occasionally test my patience:

1. Inefficiency

Whether it’s at work or in everyday situations, I find inefficiency frustrating. Time is valuable, and watching it get wasted due to poor planning or unnecessary bureaucracy can be maddening.

2. Negativity Without Action

Everyone has bad days, but constant complaining without any attempt to change or improve the situation gets under my skin. I believe in taking responsibility and finding a way forward rather than wallowing in problems.

3. Disregard for Safety

As someone who works in a high-risk industry, I have zero tolerance for careless behavior that compromises safety. It’s not just frustrating it’s dangerous.

While these annoyances crop up from time to time, I remind myself not to let them consume my energy. Life is too short to get stuck on irritations; instead, I focus on finding constructive ways to address them and move on.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

Beach or mountains? Which do you prefer? Why?

When it comes to choosing between the beach and the mountains, the answer is simple for me: mountains and nature every time. I absolutely love being outdoors, immersed in the serenity and majesty of towering peaks and lush forests. There’s something profoundly rejuvenating about the crisp mountain air, the sounds of wildlife, and the breathtaking vistas that unfold with every hike.

Sure, the beach is a wonderful place. The sound of waves crashing against the shore and the warmth of the sun can be relaxing. However, for me, it doesn’t offer that extra boost of rejuvenation that I find in the mountains. The beach is enjoyable, but it doesn’t invigorate my spirit in the same way.

In the mountains, I feel a deeper connection to the world around me. Every trail explored and every summit reached fills me with a sense of accomplishment and peace. It’s this profound connection with nature that keeps drawing me back to the mountains, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

What are your family’s top 3 favorite meals?

In our family, we’re definitely meat lovers who appreciate flavorful and spicy dishes. Hungarian cuisine plays a central role in our daily lives, offering a wide variety of meals that ensure we rarely eat the same thing twice in a week.

If we had to choose our top three favorites, here’s what would make the list:

1. Gulyás (Goulash): A rich and hearty beef stew with paprika and vegetables, perfect for family gatherings or cold days.
2. Paprikás Csirke (Chicken Paprikash): Tender chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, served with homemade nokedli (dumplings).
3. Kolbász with Lecsó (Hungarian Sausage with Ratatouille): A spicy, smoked sausage paired with a vegetable medley of peppers, tomatoes, and onions.

These meals capture the essence of our Hungarian roots and showcase why we love our cuisine so much. Each dish brings the family together, filling the kitchen with delicious aromas and creating cherished memories around the dinner table.

What are your family’s favorite meals? Share in the comments below!

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos