In a recent interview on The Diary of a CEO podcast with Steven Bartlett, Robert Greene, the author of seven influential books, including the renowned The 48 Laws of Power, shared a poignant reflection on his life since suffering a stroke in 2018.

After being struck by a wasp, Greene was left with paralysis on the left side of his body—a profound shift for a man whose mind and words have inspired millions.

What struck me most was his message about the everyday moments we often take for granted. Greene described how even the simplest tasks, like swimming, tying his shoes (which now takes ten minutes), or cutting food, have become challenges.

His story is a powerful reminder of how fragile our abilities can be and how easy it is to overlook the small freedoms we enjoy every day.

Today, as I celebrate my 21st birthday with a few bumps and scratches😊😊, I am grateful. When the clock struck midnight, I played Al Jarreau’s Since I Fell for You and danced around the room like nobody was watching—simply because I could.

I called my twin—the wonderful woman in the picture—to wish her a happy birthday and share the blessing of seeing another year. Many aren’t as fortunate, and I’m truly thankful.

This morning, I was privileged to deliver a talk to 12 businesses spanning South Africa, Tanzania, and Kenya. It brought me so much joy. This afternoon, I’ll indulge in a swim and a sauna—two simple pleasures that I cherish deeply and then dinner with the missus.

My message today is one of gratitude. I am grateful for you—for reading my missives, for allowing me to do work that gives me joy, and for life’s simple gifts.

It’s important to celebrate the little things we often overlook. Appreciate life for what it is, for what you can do, and for the moments that make life beautifully ordinary.