113: Career 6 - Some reflections on my career so far in 2023

Published December 26, 2023 |

Based on my mindset in 2023, I note down some quick reflections and reviews on what I’ve reflected on a slightly less than straightforward career so far.

A useful exercise to maintain perspective, especially given i) my high tendency for emotionally investing in work; and ii) consistent lack of clear targets and structure since the beginning of my career.

Conditions to thrive:

  • Domain or thematic interest
  • oustanding leaders
  • Great team
  • Hard work is fine, as long as its Good, honest
  • Success and achievement

Reflections on what I like to do - what makes me tick:

  • Strategy big picture stuff
  • Running organised, meetings and hitting meeting outcomes
  • Being trusted, the closed door 1-1 meetings.
  • Interviewing and hiring for character;
  • Mentoring and getting the best out of people (interns) for now

Things i dont like to do:

  • Legal
  • Accounting
  • Making slides (I’m aesthetically challenged)

Curious (haven’t done)

  • Possible regrets: Overseas, structured experience,
  • Working on a production line so as to truly understand the on the ground experience
  • Product development

Key areas to fully complete my skillset in 10 years

  • R&D and technology
  • Production / operations
  • Procurement

The ultimate goal is to complete some level of exposure opportunities to optimise and thrive.

In summary though, I reflect on quite the experience:

In terms of environments, I’ve had experinece across MNCs, Government, Start up and Scale ups.

In terms of functional skill sets, I started with a high level strategic view, to Finance, investor relations and HR. These days, I am involved in Business Development, Sales and Marketing, government relations.

But, as with many things, what I’ve relinquished in depth, I’ve built a strong empathetic view in how many various business functions. A bad process is often built an issue with capability, resources, and common business understanding….and everything in between.