Don’t Ask AI About Future Predictions
Use this proven method instead
Fifteen years ago, I made a decision that changed the course of my life.
I left behind a prestigious government job, influential connections, and the comfort of my homeland in Slovenia to pursue a dream in Spain.
It was a radical move that many didn't understand, but for me, it was about reclaiming our most valuable asset: time.
Life requires time, so time is of the essence.
All that wouldn’t have happened without changing the five people who influenced me.
Early encounters with the people of the Internet and how they shaped my future
My fascination with technology and the limitless possibilities it offered began in the early days of the Internet.
Access to the online world was limited in Slovenia, but I was fortunate enough to be exposed to it through my brother’s work in a bank data center.
On weekends, when banks are closed, he took me to his work. There, I played games and used the Internet.
Well - at that time, there was no Internet; it was the Internet's predecessor. BBS.
I vividly remember the dial-up modem's screeching sound, connecting me to a world far beyond the borders of my small, green, rainy, and foggy country.
The internet opened doors I never knew existed. It allowed me to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds, exchanging ideas and perspectives that expanded my worldview.
These connections forged friendships, sparked intellectual curiosity, and planted the seeds for my future entrepreneurial endeavors.
Mieke from Denmark.
Jim from London.
Samuel from Nigeria.
Gregor from Austria, now living in Miami.
Countless people from the USA and Canada.
In those early chat rooms and forums, I met individuals I would never have encountered in my everyday life.
People in my environment never did.
Why is this important?
Because today, 15 years later, their positions, wealth, and global perspective are the same as they were 15 and 30 years ago.
Same circle, same perspective.
And inevitably, the same future.
The future I didn’t want for me.
Five People Who Shaped My Future
The adage "you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with" resonates deeply with me. Throughout my life, five individuals have played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today:
The Mentor: Early in my career, I had the privilege of working with a mentor who believed in the power of technology to transform businesses and lives. His visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit inspired me to think big and embrace innovation.
The Partner: My wife has been my rock, confidante, and biggest cheerleader. Her support and belief in my abilities have empowered me to pursue my dreams, even when they seemed out of reach. She has been my constant source of strength and encouragement, reminding me of my worth and potential despite adversity.
The Challenging Colleague: In the corporate world, I encountered a colleague who pushed me to my limits. His relentless pursuit of excellence and questioning of conventional wisdom challenged me to think critically. Our spirited debates and collaborations sharpened my skills and fueled my ambition.
The Role Model: As a young entrepreneur, I was deeply inspired by the Croatian entrepreneur. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global business leader resonated with me. Twenty years ago, he consistently generated $100K+ profit months, year after year. Despite his financial success, his most significant influence was his humility and down-to-earth attitude.
The Loyal Friend: Throughout my life, I have been blessed with true friends who have stood by me through thick and thin. His loyalty, honesty, and support have been invaluable. He also pointed out the importance of staying true to my values. Never do anything that would erode my character.
The Power to Predict Our Future
Just as these five people have shaped my life, we all can shape our future by consciously choosing the people we surround ourselves with.
By cultivating relationships with mentors, supportive partners, challenging colleagues, inspiring role models, and loyal friends, we create a powerful network that can propel us toward a life of fulfillment, impact, and legacy.
Jack Ma's Impact on Global Sourcing
Jack Ma's entrepreneurial journey is a well-known example of the transformative power of connecting with the right people.
In the early days of Alibaba, Ma traveled to the United States to meet people who shared his vision of leveraging the internet to revolutionize global trade.
These connections provided him with the knowledge, resources, and support he needed to build Alibaba Group into the worldwide giant it is today.
Ma's story highlights the importance of seeking diverse perspectives and building relationships with people from different backgrounds.
By connecting with Americans, Ma gained insights into the global marketplace and forged partnerships that helped him expand Alibaba's reach beyond China's borders.
Creating a Life Worth Living 1,000 Years
My journey from early internet explorer to "psychic CEO" has taught me that life is too short to settle for mediocrity.
This is why I started writing this newsletter.
To share what I learned.
We all have the potential to create a life that is so fulfilling, impactful, and meaningful that it transcends time limitations.
A life worth living for 1,000 years is not about accumulating wealth or achieving external validation.
It's about maximizing our potential, creating a lasting legacy, eliminating regret, and living fully in the present.
It's about crafting a life so rich in purpose, passion, and contribution that we would gladly live it for a millennium.
One of the critical moving pieces in winning the game of life is our environment and our connections with others.
If you're ready to break free from the ordinary, transcend limitations, and experience a life of unparalleled fulfillment, I invite you to reach out. Together we can create a future you wish would last 1,000 years.