I was asked how to translate “Das Leben ist kein Ponyhof”.

I made a short video to explain the idiom, and converted it into a MP3 using Convertio.

And here it is:

If you’ve been following me for some time, you know I try not to use too many idioms.

(Imagine saying “Das Leben ist kein Ponyhof” to a non-native speaker of German!)

So instead of saying, “Life isn’t a bed of roses”, you might like to say, “Life isn’t fair”.

Or, “Life is full of ups and downs”.

“Pick a leader who is strong and confident, yet humble. Intelligent, but not sly. A leader who encourages diversity, not racism. One who understands the needs of the farmer, the teacher, the welder, the doctor, and the environmentalist—not only the banker, the oil tycoon, the weapons developer, or the insurance and pharmaceutical lobbyist.”
Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem

Isn’t this a wonderful definition of a leader?

If you’d like to become a more humble person, look at the 21 attributes here!

Try a small family hotel in Neukölln.

“What is so special about it?”, you might ask.

You can stay in either one of their old caravans or in a wooden cabin. In a former factory courtyard.

You’re not sure if you like the idea?

They also have traditional hotel rooms. With en-suite bathrooms.

Scroll down this page here to watch the videos. You’ll learn how the owners got started and you’ll get an idea of what the place looks like. 

What do you think about the concept? Would you stay there overnight?

See for yourself.

Air New Zealand has lots of great ones.

Listen to one of their latest: The story of Tiaki and The Guardians. 

It only takes five minutes. And if you don’t understand everything, turn the subtitles on.

You’ll find more here.

You’re not sure what to write in a birthday message to a colleague, customer or business partner?

Try one of these messages:

• I wish you a happy birthday and many happy returns of the day.
• Happy birthday, dear (name). Enjoy your special day with your loved ones.
• Have a wonderful birthday and year ahead!
• Wishing you health, happiness and pleasant surprises on your special day.
• Wishing you health, happiness and good luck for the coming year.
• Count your life by smiles. Not tears. Count your age by friends. Not years. May this day bring you all the things that make you smile. Happy Birthday!

Do you have a favourite birthday message, you’d like to share with us?