In the February 2020 Newsletter
  Today is the Day to Connect!

Editor’s Note

Just over a year ago I received a great opportunity and honor to make a meaningful difference in the lives of ALL Coloradans. Governor Polis appointed me as the State of Colorado’s Chief Information Officer and Executive Director of the Office of Information Technology. It’s my dream job and I love the opportunity of “serving people serving Colorado.” Needless to say, I’ve put my consulting practice on hold. However, I still like to be in contact via my newsletter, so here’s the latest.

Today is the Day to Connect!

I’ve had a wake-up call on the importance of relationships. Today is all any of us have. Tomorrow may never come. It’s key to put time and energy on the important things in life. What is important to you and your life today?

One of the most important people in my life just died after battling ALS (known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) for three years. I was blessed to have Ida Halasz, Ph.D. — brilliant and amazing Ida — as an important part in my professional, personal, and political life for nearly 30 years.

Ida worked together with me on dozens of challenging projects through my consulting firm. She supported my entrepreneurial dream by investing in my first start-up and then being Director of Marketing in its rebirth as Radish Systems. She was an advisor and editor for my research project and book, Pursuit of Passionate Purpose. She helped me raise funds for low-income women to pursue education through the Colorado Women’s Education Foundation. Ida was a loving ‘aunt’ to my daughter. She and I canvassed together and worked to ‘get out the vote’ on important political campaigns. Do you have a special friend or colleague like this? If so, treasure every moment. If not, hopefully you’ll find such a friend.

Despite the terrible disease that brought a ‘litany of miseries’ she kept her positive attitude even when she could not eat, speak, or get up. Through short text messages or notes written on a white board, she continued to share her wisdom, advice, and insights with me and others. She was always helping until the end. Ida’s spirit is now free of her weary body. I know she continues to be there for me and others, just around the corner as I continue on the journey of life.

Practical Pointers

Some of the lessons learned are part of the Connections Strategy (Ch. 11 in Pursuit of Passionate Purpose). “Surround yourself with supportive people,” advised Josephine Heath, former president of a community foundation, who shared her story with me during my research. How?

	REVIEW. Take a look at the significant people in your life. Who plays what role? Are you missing certain kinds of support? Who would you be better off without?
	ADJUST. Make some decisions on who should be part of your life or quest. Sometimes people really want to move on, but need your permission to let go.
	ASK. The Bible says, “Ask and ye shall receive.” People want to be wanted. They like to help. Some are standing on the sidelines wishing they could be involved. Perhaps your passionate purpose can bring meaning to their lives, and it may even become their reason for being.
	APPRECIATE. Be sure to take time to thank the people around you. A little appreciation goes a long way. Let your supporters know you value them.
	HELP OTHERS. It never seems to fail — when you help others, others will help you. You learn a lot in the process, especially about how to involve others in your quest.

Summary

Life is short. Death is sure. Follow your heart, in harmony with your head and hands. Live your passion. Enjoy the journey. Surround yourself with supportive people. Begin now!

Ida wanted to write a book, to bring out a final message beyond her more than 90 publications. She did not have time to do so, but she texted me this message for the book: “Take Chances. Go for the best life to live.” In memory of Ida, a Memorial Scholarship has been established in her name. Learn more and read about her life.

Check out my latest blog posts about business, career, and life performance.

Enjoy the Journey

Theresa M. Szczurek, Ph.D.
Colorado CIO, Certified Management Consultant, Author, and Speaker

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