A1 Diesel CEO Aldis Ozols Shares 4 Ways to Overcome Suicidal Thoughts After Losing Everything

Accra-based entrepreneur Aldis Ozols, who lost a €17 million empire and fell into €7 million debt during the 2008 financial crisis, has revealed the four key steps he took to rebuild his life and business.

Speaking candidly on JoyNews’ Personality Profile with Lexis Bill on Thursday, December 11, 2025, the Founder and CEO of A1 Diesel Limited admitted that contemplating suicide is a “quite natural” reaction to such devastating loss.

Ozols, author of the recently launched “Win Life, Lose Millions,” shared his personal journey from financial ruin to establishing a thriving enterprise in Ghana. He emphasized that recovery demands significant mental and physical discipline.

No Alcohol Tolerance

The first, and most crucial, step, according to Ozols, is complete abstinence from alcohol. “Number one, no alcohol. No alcohol because alcohol will pollute your brain, and you will lose your focus, and that can lead you to jump from the window,” he stated.

He explained that even a smaller loss of wealth can trigger suicidal thoughts, making a clear mind essential. “People jump from the window even when they go from the billions to the millions. And he goes and commits suicide. It’s human nature.”

Discipline Through Movement

Ozols stressed the importance of physical activity in combating depression. “Discipline and move your body. Move your body. When you are depressed, if you are sitting, it is like being stuck in water; it will start to smell. Move your body. Move your body. If you cannot run, walk. Whatever. Do push-ups and pull-ups. It’s necessary.”

He encouraged leveraging environments like the gym for motivation. “If you can still afford the gym, super. Go to the gym because others will give you motivation.” He also highlighted the benefits of “long walks” for quiet reflection.

Seek Inspiration from Others

Ozols advised finding motivation in the success of peers. “Somebody will look at you and say, ‘Hey, that’s what you can carry?’ Prove him (wrong), and then you can carry more. Somebody in that same gym is doing well, quietly working hard. That’s your example. This is how you need to become.”

Reconnect with Childhood Dreams

The final pillar of recovery, Ozols believes, is revisiting one’s childhood aspirations. “Listen to yourself. Hear yourself. Remember your childhood dreams. Ask yourself what you wanted to do when you were a child. What were your dreams? And have you done at least one of them?”

He concluded, “I think that’s important. And this is where you can come out from any grave.”

Ozols arrived in Ghana in 2010 and founded A1 Diesel Limited, specializing in diesel fuel injection systems and automotive diagnostics. The company now serves over 50,000 customers in more than 60 countries and has a modern repair centre on Spintex Road in Accra.

“Ghana gave me a second chance,” Ozols said, acknowledging the country’s welcoming environment and economic opportunities. He also referenced a quote from Russian entrepreneur Oskar Hartmann: “Before you lose $1 billion, don’t condemn yourself. You are still good to go.”

His book, “Win Life, Lose Millions,” launched at Marina Mall in Accra, is available for €23 on his website and is being described as a “brutal comeback manual” for those facing adversity. It details his journey, lessons learned, and practical strategies for rebuilding a life from scratch.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE