Despite the prevailing gloom and the geopolitical, economic and societal challenges that mark our times, allow me, for once, to invite you to a moment of positivity.
The media – both traditional and digital – tend to amplify anxiety, highlighting tragedies, conflicts and failures. This is often what attracts attention and what algorithms favour. But that should not prevent us from recognising what works, what moves us forward, what heals – often discreetly, without fanfare or medals.
This is not about being naive or denying the realities of the world. It is about acknowledging that there are also caring, committed, often discreet actors who work without seeking the limelight — in contrast to those who cultivate the spectacle of confrontation.
The end of the year is often fraught with emotion, sometimes uncertainty. Yet maintaining a minimum of optimism is not a luxury: it is a civic duty, a form of courtesy towards others — and towards oneself.
An adage says: ‘When I examine myself, I worry; when I compare myself, I feel reassured.’ ” This is not arrogance, but a sign of mental health: taking a step back, putting things into perspective, refocusing on what we can control.
There is no guarantee that 2026 will be better than 2025 — the signs of geopolitical tension are visible. But why anticipate challenges that we cannot solve alone? We will need others, just as they may need us. So, let’s be ready to act together.
Reserve, critical thinking and questioning — far from being weaknesses — are strengths. They sharpen our vigilance, allow us to anticipate and prepare for what depends on us. This is coming from a baby boomer — who has tested this approach for a long time — but there is a fundamental difference between a critical mind that drives action and sterile negativity that paralyses.
The tone sets the music. It is important to know how to strike the right balance and choose the right tempo so as not to disorientate, but rather to inspire. British humour, in its subtlety, shows that it is possible to say serious things in a way that softens the message — without diluting its force. Not everyone can do this, but everyone can work at it.
In retrospect, and despite some painful exceptions, most people in Switzerland have enjoyed — and continue to enjoy — stable, secure and peaceful living conditions. This is a privilege to be recognised, not complacently, but with gratitude.
Keeping our eyes open to the challenges faced by other peoples, let us choose, at the end of this year, to carry a little optimism with us. It costs nothing — and it does so much good, both to us and to others.
Have a wonderful end to 2025, and may 2026 bring you peace, energy and projects that are close to your heart.
Happy reading — and see you soon.