16 things my mentors told me, and I realized those are gold after a year in Amsterdam. Plus six pieces of advice to the younger me.
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I obtained these lessons some years ago before moving to Amsterdam. After a year and a half stepping out from my routines in Jakarta, I have encountered several occasions where I go, “o shit they were right!”
So I decided to write those lessons here, after witnessing its validity is universal (JKT-AMS).
This note is badly categorized, and I apologize for that.
This note is an ode to people that made me.
This note is a reminder
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From my Guru, my former boss.
1. I’m not that great. Agree greatness takes time.
2. You can’t please everyone, so don’t try.
3. You’ll never know when you start to be mediocre, it lurks.
4. Don’t be predictable.
5. Have fun.
6. Life will never serve your wish on a silver platter. Ask. The worst can happen only a no.
7. Punch above your weight.
8. ‘If the mountain does not come to Muhammad, then Muhammad must go to the mountain.’
With this mindset, you will never lose. The outcomes are either winning or learning.
9. Rehearse. That’s what separates the amateurs and the pros.
From former colleagues who I now reckon as big brothers:
1. If you believe in something, then do it.
2. Professionalism means the work gets done. Always deliver. A great idea means tiny until it is finished.
3. Find things that matter, those that brings joy, laughter, and love. Hint: It is not a job.
From my former teammate turned bros.
1. Data gives us nuance; people tell us stories. Know how to get it, use it and sell it.
2. Don’t be afraid to learn something new.
3. Read a goddamned book.
From my former execs:
1. Be yourself, don’t justify yourself to others. You will be unstoppable.
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Pieces of advice to the younger me:
1. Be humble.
2. Don’t be a dick.
3. Be happy. Embrace uncertainty. You can’t control everything. Learn to let go.
4. Don’t burn the bridge.
5. “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”
When you were young, don’t blindly chase big bucks that you will just spend on overpriced ice tea. Focus on getting yourself a fucking mentor, find big works, be helpful, be open, lastly please appreciate the free lunch.
6. Stay humble.
Rosinsko Hiro 