Jan Karres - That's how he rolls

When did you last laugh heartily and what about?

Jan Karres: I laughed heartily today, yesterday and I guess also two days ago. I enjoy the little everyday things and statements that happen in a different way than expected.

What have you always been wanting to do and why have you never done this so far?

Jan Karres: If I want a something, I usually do it. But I also do not always have the time for things I would like to try due to the fact that it would be a challenge because of my disability. I would like to do tandem paragliding for example, because I think it would be nice to fly across rooftops and between the mountains. And I would also like to make a trip around Asian countries in order to experience their culture. But this would also mean that I want to continue my trip every day and I assume that this would bring me to my physical borders regarding my ability to walk. But I still want to face this challenge.

Which person has influenced you most?

Jan Karres: Many people have already influenced me - my family, friends, workmates and also totally unknown people I talked to by chance. A person whose way of life inspires me every time is Steve Jobs. He is a person with a mind of his own, but he pursued his visions in a way only a few people did, I think.

You have the chance to become the German Federal Commissioner for the Disabled. What would you do first?

Jan Karres: I would not assume this office, because I think that there are people who could do it much better. I prefer giving teenagers and young adults an understanding of the topic disabilities in a casual and humoristic way - for example in my YouTube channel called "SoBehindert" (English: So disabled) But I'm quite sure that there are people who know a lot more about the rights for disabled people in a political way than I do.

Your life is made into a film: Who would represent you?

Jan Karres: If I would not play the role myself, I would not care about a special person to do it. But it should be someone who can identify with myself and therefor represent me in a convincing way.
  
I would like to be ...

Jan Karres: Actually I'm satisfied with myself. So it is enough for me to be me.

Which questions would you like answered the most?

Jan Karres: A typical question a lot of people ask themselves if and if yes what comes after death. I think it is an interesting question, but much more interesting in my opinion is the question where we come from. Especially if there is a circle of life - where is the beginning of this circle?

What I finally want to say...

Jan Karres: Enjoy your life and try to see the positive things in it. Because there are so many beautifil little things we fail to see - due to the fact that we focus on the things that do not work.