What alternative career paths have you considered or are interested in?
After spending 35 years dedicated to one profession, I’ve reached a point where I’m satisfied with the achievements and milestones I’ve accomplished. I poured my passion and energy into my career, and it’s been a fulfilling journey that met all my aspirations.
At this stage in my life, I don’t plan on building another career. Instead, I’m looking forward to embarking on the next chapter: active retirement. This new phase isn’t about climbing professional ladders but embracing the freedom to explore hobbies, interests, and experiences that I may have set aside before.
I’m excited to see how these active retirement years will unfold. It’s a different kind of “career building”—one that focuses on personal growth, enjoyment, and perhaps giving back in new ways. Here’s to seeing what the future holds! 😊
That’s a great question! I love eating, and I also enjoy cooking good food. Hungarian cuisine is incredibly diverse and flavorful. One of my favorite dishes to make is pörkölt with galuska (stew with dumplings) as the main course. I also love Brassói aprópecsenye (a traditional Hungarian pork and potato dish), which I’ve been told I make quite well. But honestly, I could go on forever, as there are countless delicious dishes we prepare. Anyone who visits Hungary will certainly not leave hungry!😊
Over the past 53 years, Europe has experienced significant historical events that have shaped the continent as we know it today. Reflecting on these moments, I feel fortunate that we have enjoyed relative peace, but certain events stand out in my memory:
1. The Dismantling of the Iron Curtain (1989): This monumental event marked the end of the Cold War era. The removal of physical and ideological barriers between Eastern and Western Europe paved the way for increased freedom and the reunification of families and nations.
2. Withdrawal of Russian Troops (1990-1991): Following the fall of the Iron Curtain, Soviet forces began withdrawing from Eastern European countries. This withdrawal was a significant step toward the sovereignty and independence of nations that had been under Soviet influence for decades.
3. Dissolution of the Soviet Union (1991): The breakup of the Soviet Union led to the emergence of 15 independent republics. This seismic shift altered the global political landscape and ended the bipolar world order that had existed since World War II.
4. The Yugoslav Wars (1991-2001): A series of conflicts erupted following the breakup of Yugoslavia. These wars were some of the most devastating in Europe since World War II, reminding us of the fragility of peace and the horrors of ethnic conflict.
5. Formation of the European Union (1993): The signing of the Maastricht Treaty established the European Union, aiming to foster economic cooperation and prevent future conflicts through integration and shared governance.
6. The UK’s Exit from the EU (Brexit) (2020): The United Kingdom’s decision to leave the EU marked a significant moment in European history, raising questions about the future of the union and its member states.
These events have not only shaped Europe’s political and social landscape but have also impacted the lives of millions. Remembering them highlights how much our world has changed and the importance of working towards a peaceful and unified future.
What’s the biggest risk you’d like to take — but haven’t been able to?
If I had to choose one risk I’ve always been drawn to, it would be skydiving. There’s something about the thrill of jumping out of a plane that’s both terrifying and exciting at the same time. It’s a real adrenaline rush, and I’ve always imagined what it would feel like to be free-falling through the air.
However, I’ve held back from trying it, mostly because I do see it as genuinely dangerous. The idea of putting my life in the hands of a parachute and some carefully calculated physics is both thrilling and daunting.
That said, I can’t shake the feeling that one day I’ll take the plunge. Skydiving has always been something I’d love to cross off my list — if not for the experience itself, then for the story that would come with it.
When I reflect on my life and consider what I’m most proud of, the answer comes effortlessly: my child. He is the success story of my life, the embodiment of love, hope, and endless possibilities. Watching him grow, learn, and navigate the world fills me with a joy that’s incomparable.
Everything else pales in comparison. Careers, achievements, material possessions—all these are secondary. The true measure of my success lies in the smiles we share, the challenges we overcome together, and the person he’s becoming. His kindness, curiosity, and resilience are daily reminders of what’s truly important.
In a world that often emphasizes individual accomplishments, I’ve found that my greatest pride comes from being part of his journey. He is not just my child; he is the heart of my life. And for that, I am profoundly grateful and proud.
For the past 35 years, I’ve devoted my career to exploration drilling. This field has filled my professional life and, over time, has transformed into my hobby because I genuinely love what I do. Each day brings new challenges and discoveries, keeping my passion alive and thriving.
I’m excited to share that I’ve written two books about my experiences and insights in exploration drilling. Published last year, these books are now available to anyone interested in delving deeper into this fascinating industry. Writing them was a rewarding endeavor, allowing me to reflect on my journey and contribute knowledge to others.
If you’re curious about exploration drilling or want to explore the intricacies of this field, I invite you to read my books. I’m always eager to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share the passion that has driven me for over three decades.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Many people imagine that I lead a charmed life, having traveled to countless places—from the deserts to the Arctic Circle, and almost everywhere in between. They see the exciting destinations and think about the incredible experiences I must have had. But what most people don’t know is the downside that comes with this lifestyle.
Behind the breathtaking views and adventurous stories are the challenging conditions and low living standards in many of the places where I work. Often, I’m cut off from civilization for weeks or even months at a time. The comforts of modern life are distant memories when you’re isolated in remote areas with minimal resources.
While I’m grateful for the unique experiences and the opportunity to see the world from different perspectives, it’s not always as glamorous as it seems. The hardships and isolation are the hidden truths that few people see. These experiences have taught me resilience and adaptability, but they’ve also shown me the stark realities that exist beyond the tourist spots.
So next time someone says how lucky I am to have been everywhere, I smile and think about the parts of my journey that remain unseen by most—a side of the world that has profoundly shaped who I am.
Do lazy days make you feel rested or unproductive?
I have so little free time that whenever I can, I schedule lazy days—and I absolutely love them. These rare moments not only give me a much-needed break but also lift my spirits in ways I never imagined.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to get caught up in endless to-do lists and responsibilities. Between work, family, and personal commitments, free time becomes a precious commodity. That’s why I’ve started to intentionally carve out days where I do absolutely nothing productive.
On these lazy days, I allow myself to sleep in, lounge around in pajamas, binge-watch my favorite shows, or get lost in a good book. There’s no agenda, no deadlines, and no pressure to be “on.” It’s just me, embracing the art of doing nothing.
What surprises me the most is how rejuvenated I feel afterward. These lazy days recharge my batteries, boost my mood, and enhance my overall well-being. They remind me of the importance of self-care and taking a step back from the constant grind.
If you find yourself overwhelmed and short on free time, I highly recommend scheduling a lazy day. It might seem counterintuitive, but sometimes the best way to boost productivity is to take a deliberate pause. Trust me, your mind and body will thank you.
When you think of the word “successful,” who’s the first person that comes to mind and why?
When you think of the word “successful,” who’s the first person that comes to mind and why?
Success often evokes images of wealthy entrepreneurs, renowned artists, or influential leaders. Yet, it’s important to recognize that not every successful person is exceptionally intelligent, nor is every intelligent person necessarily successful. Everyone is the architect of their own destiny, and achieving success often requires a significant amount of luck in addition to hard work.
Many individuals have poured immense amounts of effort into their pursuits to reach their goals, and this dedication is truly commendable. Their journeys remind us that while hard work is crucial, external factors and opportunities also play a vital role in the outcome.
Ultimately, success is a personal and multifaceted concept. It’s shaped by a combination of effort, opportunity, and sometimes sheer chance. Acknowledging this can inspire us to define success on our own terms and strive towards it with both diligence and an openness to life’s unpredictable twists.
A good neighbor plays a crucial role in fostering a positive and harmonious community. At the heart of being a good neighbor is respect—respect for privacy, personal space, and the shared environment. They maintain a considerate level of noise, keep common areas tidy, and acknowledge the boundaries of others.
Kindness and politeness further strengthen neighborly bonds. A good neighbor offers help when needed but understands when to step back, balancing support with respect for independence. Communication is key, as clear, respectful dialogue helps avoid misunderstandings and resolves conflicts before they escalate.
Lastly, good neighbors contribute to the community. They engage in local events and help create a welcoming, safe atmosphere. In short, being a good neighbor is about finding a balance between connection and respect, helping to build a friendly and supportive living environment.