Learning from the Masters: My Personal Journey of Growth and Discovery

In the journey of personal growth and self-discovery, we often come across individuals who leave a profound impact on our lives. I am fortunate to have been guided by such people, each from a different discipline: Thomas Emmrich, Thorre Schlaméus, Walter Dieban, Maximilian Könen, Karin Valham, Hedda Rühle and my parents. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences have contributed significantly to shaping my worldview and personal approach to life.

Thomas Emmrich

Thomas Emmrich, a renowned figure in the world of tennis, was born in East Germany in 1953. Despite political restrictions that limited his exposure to international competitions, Emmrich became a prominent tennis player for East Germany, winning 46 German Democratic Republic (GDR) titles between 1970 and 1988. After the German reunification, he proved his ability to compete at a high international level, winning several titles in senior competitions​.

As my tennis coach, Emmrich's resilience, determination, and passion left a profound impact on me. His story instilled in me the belief that no matter what circumstances surround us, our will and determination can lead us to achieve our goals. His legacy continues with his children, Manuela and Martin Emmrich, who also pursued successful careers in tennis, showing the enduring impact of his love for the sport​​.

Thorre Schlaméus

Thorre Schlaméus began his training in traditional martial arts at the age of twelve. He studied various styles under Asian and European masters and grandmasters and eventually decided to follow the tradition of Chinese martial arts. Since 1989, he has been teaching traditional Kung Fu, Sanshou, and self-defense at the DamoChuan School​​.

As my martial arts coach, Schlaméus's dedication to martial arts taught me discipline, focus, and resilience. His lessons extended beyond the physical aspects of martial arts, guiding me to understand the balance between mind and body and the philosophy behind these ancient practices.

Dr. Wim Drozak

During my tenure at Enpal, Wim was an invaluable guide and mentor. His role was arguably among the most challenging within the company, requiring a deep understanding of the energy market's complexities and the skill to scale operations effectively in an environment constrained by stringent regulations and reliant on partner collaborations. Wim consistently imparted a crucial piece of wisdom to me: "How do you eat an elephant? Piece by piece." This metaphor profoundly influenced my approach to problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of deconstructing formidable challenges into manageable segments without losing sight of the overall objectives.

Operations, inherently demanding due to its intricacies, was an area where Wim demonstrated exceptional proficiency. I witnessed firsthand his highs and lows, observing his unwavering commitment and focus. Even during tumultuous phases, Wim's ability to remain concentrated and push forward was not only remarkable but also deeply motivational. His dedication to navigating obstacles and maintaining operational momentum was truly extraordinary and served as a source of inspiration for me and many others within the organization.

Walter Dieban

Walter Dieban is a coach for mindfulness and stress management based in Berlin. His skills span a wide range, including psychological counseling, stress management, coaching, family constellations, meditation, autogenic training, homeopathy, and hypnotherapy​​.

Guided by Dieban, I have learned to maintain a balanced and calm approach to life's challenges. His teachings in stress management and mindfulness have been invaluable in developing my capacity for focus and tranquility, even in the face of adversity.

Hedda Rühle

Hedda Rühle is a psychotherapist who offers individual and couple counseling, integrative psychotherapy, and family constellations. Her approach to therapy perceives personal challenges not as problems but as opportunities for growth​​​.

Through Rühle's therapy sessions, I have gained a deeper understanding of my emotions and reactions. Her perspective on personal challenges as opportunities for growth has reshaped my approach to life's trials and has guided me towards a journey of self-understanding and development.

Maximilian Könen

During my three-month internship under the leadership of Maximilian Könen, I had the privilege of learning invaluable lessons in leadership, personality, and personal development. Maximilian's unique methods and insightful feedback continue to resonate in my mind, shaping my understanding of effective leadership. His approach to communication and understanding different personality types was truly remarkable. I vividly recall how he would join conference calls, mute himself, and then provide guidance on how to effectively engage with individuals based on their personality traits. This demonstrated his deep understanding of human dynamics and the importance of tailoring our approach to different individuals. Maximilian's expertise in leadership and growth enlightened me to the fact that being a leader doesn't mean winning over everyone; some people will naturally connect with your leadership style, while others may not. His teachings have influenced my perspective on leadership, reminding me that true growth comes from embracing individuality and building authentic connections.

Karin Valham

Karin Valham, a seasoned nun residing at Kopan Monastery in Nepal, brings a unique perspective to her teaching and spiritual guidance, shaped by her extensive experience and deep commitment to the Buddhist path. Her role is akin to that of a spiritual mother, always ready to provide wisdom and advice to those who seek her counsel. Her morning meditation sessions and evening teaching discussions are a testament to her dedication to cultivating mindfulness and spiritual growth in her students​​.

What makes her perspective particularly special is her ability to convey complex Buddhist teachings in a way that is accessible and deeply resonant. This is not just about her knowledge of Buddhist scriptures or meditation techniques; rather, it is her embodiment of the teachings, her patience, and her loving kindness that makes her stand out.

She has had a profound influence on my life, not merely as a teacher, but as a guiding light. Her teachings have shaped my approach to mindfulness, helping me to develop a more present and focused mind. She has guided me through challenging times, always pointing the way towards wisdom and understanding. Her example of selfless service, her commitment to the practice, and her unwavering compassion have been a source of inspiration for me, instilling a desire to walk further down the path of spiritual growth. Her influence extends beyond the meditation cushion or the monastery walls, permeating every aspect of my life. She has taught me not just how to meditate, but what compassion truly means.

My parents - Thomas and Susanne Illig

My parents, Thomas and Susanne Illig, have had a profound influence on shaping the person I am today. They are not only incredible individuals but also exceptional parents who have shown me the true meaning of love, resilience, and inner connection. Throughout life's challenges, they have demonstrated unwavering strength and perseverance, never giving up on themselves or on our family. Their love knows no bounds, and their constant support and guidance have been an anchor in my life.

Growing up, I was fortunate to be raised in an environment of unconditional love. My parents always provided a safe space where I felt accepted and encouraged to pursue my dreams. They have been my biggest cheerleaders, offering unwavering support in every endeavor I undertake. Their belief in me has instilled a deep sense of confidence and self-worth. Additionally, their willingness to provide honest feedback, even in challenging times, has helped me grow and learn from my experiences.

What sets my parents apart is their remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Coming from humble backgrounds themselves, they possess a genuine compassion that transcends social barriers. Their capacity to treat everyone with respect and understanding, regardless of their background or status, has been an invaluable lesson in human empathy. I am grateful to have witnessed their open-mindedness and how they foster genuine connections with others.

My parents also exemplify the perfect blend of creativity and structure. My mother, with her artistic talents, dedicates her free time to painting beautiful works of art. Her creativity has inspired me to explore my own artistic side and appreciate the beauty in everyday life. On the other hand, my father's innate sense of structure and efficiency has taught me the importance of organization and how to approach tasks with meticulous planning. Their complementary qualities have shaped my own approach to balancing creativity and structure in various aspects of my life.

In conclusion, I am incredibly fortunate to call Thomas and Susanne Illig my parents. Their love, strength, and unwavering support have been the foundation upon which I have built my life. They have shown me the power of love, the importance of inner connection, and the value of resilience. Through their example, I have learned the beauty of compassion, the importance of embracing individuality, and the significance of balancing creativity and structure. I am forever grateful for the incredible parents they are and the profound influence they have had on my journey.

Conclusion

I am grateful to have met all these amazing individuals.