Category Archives: Personal

My One Big Lesson Learnt in 2017

jan wong blog - lesson learnt in 2017
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The year was a train wreck, an avalanche, a catastrophe. I started the year with so much hope, aspirations and dreams. In fact, it was a year I felt that it will be the best yet; only to end the year with everything that can go wrong. Everything collided, went up in flames and caused much distraught from all aspects including mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual. I hated the days, the nights, the celebrations – Christmas, now the new year, and practically everyday.

2017 became the longest year in my life

I never knew time could pass so slowly. As I struggled daily, I was still required to a strong front with friends, colleagues and at home. At other times, I’ll need to be the positive, motivational and entrepreneurial person I’m expected to be. People told me to “talk to someone”, “take things easy”, “chill”, “the darker it is, the brighter the light will be”, “pray”, and the list goes on but really, it’s easier said than done. Not forgetting those that gives “advice” but what they are really doing is to judge.

It has been a really dark year and when the K-Pop celebrity Jonghyun left his final note, I could relate. The words he wrote perfectly described how I felt – the emptiness, loneliness, the people around, their expectations vs mine, and why things aren’t exactly working out despite “encouragements”.

Nonetheless, here I am, typing this post 4 hours before 2017 ends, still alive and breathing despite still at my lows.

Through the many months of thinking, pondering, debating, evaluating, analysing and questioning, I came to realise the cause of all of it was a fundamental one.

I let my guard down

You see, I’ve spent my entire life building my career, trying to achieve what is expected of me as a business partner, an entrepreneur, the oldest son in the family, a leader in church, and a partner in my relationship. Does that sound okay to you? If you answered yes, that’s exactly where the problem was for me.

In my pursuit of career, I allowed other areas that are more important to slip, thinking that they could be compensated when the time comes and that I am capable to do that. I continued to pursue “success” over the years, having grown OpenMinds to where it is today with a growing valuation y-o-y in the millions with regional presence, having the privilege to coach and mentor startups, having the opportunities to share my knowledge across different media channels including TV, radio, printed and online media, and of course, the prestigious recognition given by Forbes on the 30 Under 30 Asia list.

I thought I was careful enough and that I could manage all of it – and that’s where I let my guard down. To be honest, I didn’t even know that happened. I allowed myself to be swept away by all that is happening thinking I am fully aware and capable.. only to realise that I am not in the end.

Because of that, I made a ton of mistakes, huge unforgivable ones that has caused many to hurt and severed relationships that I worked so hard to protect.. both knowingly and unknowingly. The guilt combined with the realisation, created months of dark, suffocating days.

What I’ve learnt (the extremely hard way) is that you should never, ever, let your guard down. It’s great to have big dreams and aspirations but in your journey of achieving them, never let your guard down. Never allow yourself to say “It’s okay, I’m bigger than the situation” no matter how capable you think you are.

The higher you go, the higher and greater the guard you need.

That’s my take on 2017 going into 2018. I’ll need to pick up whatever pieces I can find, rebuild my fundamentals, and put up my guards again. There’s no sugar coating it – it’s going to be an extremely tough one, but I’ll do it to the best I can.

The 10/90 Rule

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You’ve probably heard about Pareto’s 80/20 rule, but what about the 10/90 rule?

While usually used in statistics, I recently found that it is also relevant in how we live our lives, run a business, or when making a decision.

Think about it, was there a moment you wished you could go back to change a decision you’ve made that brought you to where you are today? These pivotal moments are pretty much the instances where the 10/90 rule comes in. Sometimes, it just takes a single decision to change your entire life – for better, or for worse.

Knowing this, are you willing to take that one decision, knowing that it may change the course of your life? Whether it is to be that 1 successful startup out of the 9 other that fails, to be that 1 that makes it into that dream job where it’s impossible to get into, or to be that 1 that successfully acquires a dream that is otherwise not attainable, knowing that there is a 90% possibility of not making it?

What if that 1 thing you did ignites that 90% in you, will you take the risk, knowing that the failure is equally as high?

Someone once told me that living a 10/90 life is pretty much the path less taken. That’s why it’s tough, and that’s why only the alternatives dare take that route, despite the consequences and outcome that you’ll need to deal with after.

Just like the chorus in Disney’s Moana:
“I know everybody on this island seems so happy,
on this island everything is by design…
See the light as it shines on the see?
It’s blinding. But no one knows, how deep it goes.
And it seems to be calling out to me, so come find me.
And let me know, what’s beyond that line, will I cross that line?”

I believe risks in defining moments are meant to be taken. These are the moments where one decision can make a world of a difference. The wager is great, but the rewards are also greater.

When were your defining moments in life?

Have you discovered that one thing that ignites the 90% in you?

Will you cross that line despite everything is set by design and it may capsize you?

I have.

11 Things I Learnt in my 11th Year of Startups and Entrepreneurship

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How time flies! About 10 years ago today, I took the first step into a whole new world – the world of startups and entrepreneurship.

I still remember the day I started my first venture as a college student back in 2004. I didn’t know what entrepreneurship was about and what building a startup meant.

There was no elaborate business plan, lean canvas analysis, marketing blueprint or exit strategy. The thought of becoming the next Bill Gates or Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook was in its infancy years then) was also non-existent; I was just fueled with pure curiosity and passion to do what I started off with.

Today, startups and entrepreneurship seems to be the latest trend in town and perhaps, even a norm for some. Almost everyone, both young and old, are wanting to start something of their own for various reasons and that’s cool – but, what does it really mean to start something of your own?

It’s far beyond being your own boss, having flexible hours or even getting rich (ha!). 

What is it then, really? Here are 11 things I’ve learnt (out of the many others) throughout the past decade that will help you at your crossroads, or if you are facing similar situations and lessons, or even if you are just curious and interested about start-ups and entrepreneurship.

#1: Overnight success does not happen to everyone

Running a startup is really unlike how the media tells it – huge overnight acquisitions, closing massive funding rounds and other seemingly quick successes. In fact, a majority of the startups do not experience such situations. Often times you may question your capabilities but don’t waste time salivating and thinking about their success. Be zealous over what you have and build your own success story!

#2: Get used to sacrificing yourself (quite literally)

Many tend to oversee the amount of sacrifice that’s needed for a startup. I’m talking about months and perhaps, even years without a “proper” income, having one too many sleepless nights thinking about how to make things work, taking the heat from your team and for your team, get pushed around by clients or investors, catching up with friends and sometimes, even family time. Honestly, it does not get easier and better over time. In fact, the sacrifice becomes greater and you’re forced to rethink your priorities.

#3: Others will look down on you

Unfortunately, throughout your journey you will meet people who would not believe in what you’re doing, treat you lesser than others, and of course, those who would only come to you when you have accomplished something. Truth is, people will always talk about you despite your successes and failures. Instead of mopping around, pick yourself up and learn how to deal with it. Easier said than done, but it can be pretty tough at times, especially when you’re facing a dry spell.

#4: You cannot do it alone

Your ideas are nothing if there is no team to share it with. I am blessed to have met some really awesome people in the past years. Sure, there were times when our ideas and ideals clashed, and times when the venture didn’t work out. But that does not change the fact that a strong team effort is needed. You would also need a personal support system of your own; be it your loved one, family, friends, or even a bunch of like-minded people. When you’re bursting with ideas or stuck in a rut, you’d want to share it with these people.

#5: It is not all fame and glory

Others tend to put entrepreneurs on a pedestal because of their courage to step out and do something on their own. But truth be told, it’s nowhere near that glamorous at all. You need to be prepared to get your hands dirty to work on every aspect of the business because no one else will. While my name card states that I’m the founder, I am actually the janitor, data entry personnel, human resource executive and basically, anything else that comes to mind. Of course, some of these roles will and can eventually be delegated in the future. But first, it starts with you.

#6: Learn to let go

It is always difficult to let go of something that you’ve invested a lot in. The past 10 years has taught me to identify signs or situations to let go of people and ventures. Personally, I have never liked letting go of things but I’ve learnt that letting go is a critical factor of growth. In fact, keeping things for its sentimental value will only pull you back.

#7: Multitasking is not for you

Startup founders are scatterbrained, but not in a bad way. Most founders I know are always overflowing with ideas; maybe you too! The challenge here is to focus on one idea at a time. Diving head first into multiple ideas will most likely do more harm than good, even when they all seem equally attractive and appealing. Doing multiple things at one time will jam you up. Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize!

#8: Don’t limit ideas and opportunities

This is a tough one to balance. On one hand, you should always be exploring new ideas and on the other, you need to focus on one thing at a time. The art of balancing here is to keep an open mind and never shut off ideas despite how silly they seem. You may not want to work on them now, but it may certainly become useful in the future. What really helps is having a notebook (digitally and physically) to jot these ideas when they come.

#9: Speed beats completeness

I started off thinking that it is better to launch a complete product even if it takes a longer time. I was wrong, simply because the product will never be complete. You’ll find yourself building and enhancing for the umpteenth time and you’ll never be satisfied because there’s just too many ideas to execute! Seeing how fast paced the industry and technology is, what you have in mind would have already been implemented by someone else. You need to be quick and agile to put it out there while it’s hot.

#10: Discipline is key

I’m always intrigued by the daily life of every entrepreneur. Everyone has a unique lifestyle that works for them. But if there’s one thing that’s similar, it has got to be the level of discipline – it ranges from their sleeping behavior, morning routines and right up to their task management; they keep it tight! And they leaving little or no room for procrastination and “doing nothing”.

#11: It’s a faith-building process

I wish I could say that I have perfected the formula to startups and entrepreneurship over the years but I’m nowhere near that. Every day, a new challenge comes and every decision made is a new and an untraveled path. It’s an on-going process that will never be perfected, which is why I rely on God to lead the way. He’s the one that has brought and sustained me thus far and the source of what I have and who I am today.

What is your biggest challenge in starting up or getting into entrepreneurship?

My Top 3 Entrepreneurship Lessons from 2014

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The year came and went by so quickly this time around. I still remember how 2014 started but eventually lost track of time somewhere from June, and only being able to feel the year again during Christmas.

Much has happened, both good and bad. Instead of putting together a long list of things, here are my top 3 entrepreneurship lessons from 2014:

#1: Not everyone is built for startups

Many people are fascinated with startups but that does not qualify them to join one, let alone start one. I say this not only because a startup environment is harsh and challenging to keep up, it also requires one to have different qualities to remain in it. Individuals that prefer stability over uncertainty, structure over flexibility and consistency over adaptability may want to reconsider being a part of a startup; simply because it is always the latter in a startup, especially in its early years (first 3-5 years).

#2: There will be no time unless you make time

I suffered from this greatly in 2014. I’ve always considered myself with pretty good time management skills but the year has proved me wrong, resulting in severe lack of sleep on many occasions that caused a negative domino effect to productivity and relationships in general. You need to make time by purposefully setting aside dedicated time for things that matter – stick to it and throw or delegate the rest. Prioritize! If it’s not working for you, you’re doing it wrong.

#3: The power of saying “no”

Many times we try to play the good guy a little overboard, leaving you overwhelmed, causing you to under perform, compromise and leave you frustrated. No, I’m not suggesting for you to be ruthless and unhelpful, but to pick your fights in your capacity. Saying “no” when you’re already stretched is not only fair to person (since you many not be able to deliver to your fullest anyway), but also to yourself as you won’t be burning yourself out. Evaluate opportunities and requests and weigh them against your time and priorities. If you can’t put your best to it, say “no”.

Apart from those above, I believe that God has a big part in my life this year too! Some calls it an instinct, a gut feel, universal power or just luck; but I believe it’s beyond that.

What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learnt in 2014? Do share them with me too :)

10 Common Mistakes at a Job Interview

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The past few weeks has been a gruelling yet exciting one for me. One of my ventures, OpenMinds went through a time where we needed to expand our workforce to cater to the exciting (and growing) demands of our clients.

Being myself, I take pride in every team member added to the OpenMinds family. I take time to ensure that I meet every candidate that passes through our door to see if they are a right fit. Sad to say more often than not, it has been a disappointment.

Don’t get me wrong now. I’m not saying that they are not qualified for the job. In fact, all of them are. But many candidates tend to slip up on the basics and here are 10 common mistakes at a job interview.

#1: Weak Handshake

You would think that this is a given but let me tell you this: only 3 out of 10 candidates I’ve met was able to give me a good, firm handshake AND looking at me in the eye. A weak handshake without eye contact is a no-no for me.

Why is this important: it shows that you’re confident.

#2: Too long (or short) Resumes

Your resume makes the first impression long before you even step in the door. Having a 5 page resume as a fresh grad does not necessarily make you look good. Instead, you may have too much fluff going in there that’s not bringing you any value at all.

Sure, it’s great knowing what you’ve done during your high school days but will it help you land the job? Probably not. On the flip side, having a seemingly empty resume also mean that you’ve done nothing which isn’t any good too.

Why is this important: most companies only spend about 30 seconds (some say less) on your resume and that determines whether you’ve got what it takes for the job.

#3: Templated Applications

Always adapt your cover letter or career objectives to the company you’re applying to. Having a one size fit all strategy not only shows that you’re lazy but also insincere. Even worse, don’t just copy and paste words that don’t fit you.

There was one candidate that has a well written career objective that caught my eye. However she couldn’t even decipher what it meant!

Why is this important: it is a clear indication that you don’t care enough for the job.

#4: Weak Introductions

Knowing how to introduce yourself in a clear and concise manner wins you lots of points. And no, don’t repeat what’s in your resume. I cringe when a candidate merely tells me what’s on the resume. You should know that I’ve read your resume prior and I’m interested to hear from you so tell me more about yourself.

Tell me how you can fit within the company, why you’re the best fit, how your past experiences can benefit us, your goals, your future plans, your strengths and even your weaknesses!

Why is it important: It shows that you’re passionate, serious about what you want to achieve and most importantly, you’ve got a clear idea of who you are yourself.

#5:  Not Enough Research

Now now, I’m not even going into talking about stepping into an interview without understanding what the company does because you should know that that’s a grave mistake. You do know, right?

I’m talking about basic research, for example, where the company is located and what does the job entails. I’ve seen candidates pulling out from scheduled interviews simply because “it’s too far away” but hey, didn’t you first applied in the first place?

Why is it important: It’s your first chance to prove that you not only know the company and industry well, but is also passionate enough to look things up. After all, information can easily be googled these days.

#6: You’re Invisible Online

In today’s age and time, your social media profiles are a great source of information for companies to get to know you better and trust me, most companies do look you up on your social profiles before even meeting you. Keeping your profiles private isn’t the way to go either.

It gives out the vibe of you hiding something from prying eyes (even though if you aren’t). Yes, privacy on social media is important so if you are not comfortable with people viewing your full profile, always have an alternative channel where people can look you up – twitter, linkedin, blog, etc.

Why is it important: Companies are keen to know you better – on a personal level. To see how you interact with others, what you do on your free time and yes, what kind of a lifestyle you live. Hiding your profile simply shouts “I don’t want you to know me” which isn’t the right vibe you should be giving.

#7: Not Asking Questions

This. I. Can’t. Take. Are you absolutely sure that you have no questions after the interview? Most candidates say “Nope, I’m good”. That statement basically washes every good perception you’ve gained from the beginning, simply because it shows that you’re either not analytical enough, indifferent about the job or plain lazy.

Don’t you want to know more about the company? From how they function to the day-to-day operations, from working hours to attire, from salary to fringe benefits, and even when will the company get back to you with a result?

Why is it important: This shows the inquisitive side of you which is an important trait for most companies. We want people that can ask the right questions and not wait for it to be spoon fed to you.

#8: Not following up

Not just about saying thank you but also to show your understanding towards the matters discussed. Were there any highlights? What were the key take aways? A good follow up can potentially change the course of your application. I for one, have a big thing for follow ups. I would take the effort to look up on the candidate again just as how he / she took the effort to follow up.

Why is it important: it shows that you are attentive and is interested enough for the job.

#9: Talking Too Much / Waffling

Companies are looking for someone that is articulate. Someone that is able to communicate effectively without beating around the bush. While it’s great to demonstrate your understanding to the questions by reiterating them through paraphrases, taking too long to get to your answers will be a bore and a pain to listen.

Why is it important: You are not the only candidate on the list. If you are not able to capture the attention of your interviewers and worse, boring them off, you’re in trouble. Speak audibly, clearly and straight to the point!

#10: Not Preparing a Portfolio

This may not apply to some industries but I always believe that it is good to showcase some of your past work. Many candidates come unprepared and display a puzzled face when asked for their portfolio.

Sure, your certificates are great but what did you actually do? Are there copies of your written research, your best presentation slides, a demo of website you created, a copy you’ve written for a an assignment, a piece of article you’ve written, photographs you’ve took… anything! Showcase your best efforts, and make sure you are ready to present them.

Why is it important: Action speaks louder than words. It also actively demonstrates your presentation skills which is a plus point for many people-facing industries.

Have you done any of the above? If so, it’s time to change that for your next interview!

Internet Blackout in Malaysia Against Section 114A

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When I first heard the news, I thought it was a joke somebody is trying to pull… but it isn’t. Section 114A is real.

What is Section 114A?

Section 114A is an amendment made recently to the Malaysia’s Evidence Act 1950 and gazetted on 31st July 2012 with the purpose of holding those that publish seditious, defamatory, or libelous content online accountable to their actions. While it seems harmless, this takes a toll on any owner, administrator, host, editor, subscriber of a network, website or digital devices.

Yes, that includes just about anyone!

Here’s a very helpful infographic on how Section 114A works (click for larger view):

How will Section 114A impact you

3 Reasons Why Section 114A May Impact Businesses In Malaysia

#1: Bloggers and social media managers will have to be extra vigilant

As illustrated in the infographic, you will need to be responsible for the comments left on your blog or Facebook page as you may be penalized for what is posted by your friends, fans, followers AND strangers. This may also mean that it will be a better idea to delete these comments upon sight rather than leaving them public.

#2: Public WiFi networks will have to be taken off

Unless you have certain monitoring methods in place, it may be a better idea to no longer share your WiFi network. Doing so may risk the potential of others in utilizing your network to post defamatory remarks with you taking the blame.

#3: WiFi will not be used at workplaces or homes

Similar to #2, if someone taps into your network and breaks the rules, you are to be blamed! Unless you can prove otherwise, that is.

Section 114A comic strip

So, do we really need Section 114A?

My answer is no. While I see there is a good intention behind it, it really makes no sense to penalize internet users (especially when they already are the victim). Section 114A really seems like the easy way out by saying “since we can’t catch the culprit, let’s catch the network’s owner instead”.

What are your thoughts?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KL Social Media 2012

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FB - Socially Devoted Countries [2012]

Social media is not something new in Malaysia and is widely utilized as a marketing channel across businesses and corporate organizations alike. In fact, a recent research by SocialBakers reported that Malaysia is among the top 10 most socially devoted countries on Facebook, led by corporate titans such as AirAsia!

However, many businesses are still trying to catch up with the rapid pace to see how can they effectively reach out to their target audience on social media networks as Malaysia is quite diverse in culture after all.

That said, there’s an upcoming event that I’m pretty excited about – the KL Social Media 2012 which is a gathering of different industry players to network, share ideas and to learn more about the ever changing landscape of social media.

KL Social Media 2012

The event will be held on the 25th August 2012 (a Saturday), from 3pm to 6pm at Midi57 Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur with a range of speakers from various industries on topics such as mobile marketing and the usage of LinkedIn for businesses.

If you’re interested, do drop them a line at [email protected] or call 03-21697386. Tickets are sold for only 60MYR, inclusive of food and drinks and a special door gift.

To find out more info about the event, the speakers, the topics and the prizes you may take home (including a book by Neal Schaffer!) lined up, head over to the event page and join the fun!

I will definitely be there so if you’re coming along, do drop me a note and we can probably meet up to have a chat over coffee or something. See you there! :)

Disclaimer: this event is organized by a friend of mine which is an advocate for making online marketing more human and blogs over here.  

Social Media for Entrepreneurs: An Introduction

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About two weeks ago I was invited to speak to 120 aspiring entrepreneurs at a workshop hosted by Prudential Malaysia under the RU Ready campaign, specifically targeted towards college / university students and young adults. It was an exciting opportunity as I always enjoy sharing with young people but yet a humbling experience to be speaking alongside two well established entrepreneurs, Candice Lee (Sales Director of Capital Asia Group) and Timothy Tiah (Co-founder of Nuffnang).

Speaking to young entrepreneurs always reminds me of the excitement of being an entrepreneur, especially when you’ve a new idea in mind. You just can’t stop thinking and talking about it with the intention to grow the idea and eventually commercializing it. However, any entrepreneur would tell you that the journey won’t be easy. It’ll be tough. That’s because…

Entrepreneurship isn’t science

One of the key attributes of an entrepreneur is to not fear failure, so much so that if you’re afraid of failing, you won’t cut it as an entrepreneur. It is a never ending journey of trial and error and what worked for Mark Zuckerberg or Steve Jobs may not work for you, simply because there’s no one fixed formula to success in entrepreneurship.

Similarly, there is no fixed formula to social media success

In the excitement of establishing a new business as an entrepreneur, many approach social media as if it is the cure to business problems or the formula to a successful business. The thing is, entrepreneurs must remember that building your social media presence is similar to building a business. It takes time, commitment and dedication that grows through time.

Social media can be part of the cure or formula, but never THE cure or formula

Social networks are a gift to entrepreneurs. It is only until the introduction of social networks that entrepreneurs are able to start at a faster pace. Think about it – you’ve resources on blogs, video content on YouTube, and a whole world to explore and to be in contact with potential investors, partners or buyers via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Is there more?

This is the introduction to a 4-part series on social media for entrepreneurs so stay tuned for more!

[ Introduction | Part 1: The Basics | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 ]

Here are the slides to my sharing session at the workshop if you’re interested:

Social Media for Entrepreneurs

Quick access to the series:
[ Introduction | Part 1: The Basics | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 ]

A Crawling Restaurant Experience @ The Hungry Hog

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It was my mum’s birthday last weekend and we decided to head to a nearby cozy local restaurant for a simple celebration dinner. It wasn’t our first time there so we ordered our usuals and all was well… until my dad started swinging his leg about. He stood up and lo and behold, a cockroach fell out of his trousers. Yes, it crawled into his trousers when we were eating. Disgusted, we decided to get the bill and leave.

Being concerned customers, we told the waiter (or what seemed like the boss) what happened and to my disbelief, she just shook her head saying:

“Sorry, it’s too bad. I just got in so I didn’t see what happened.”

Followed with the bill, with a 10% service tax and the usual 6% government tax.

What was she thinking!?

Now, we weren’t expecting a discount or a free meal but it would be nice if we got a (nicer) apology rather than a (very) poor excuse. While you’re nodding your head in agreement (I’m guessing you are), it’s amazing to see similar occurrences happening even on digital platforms. From the recent Paul Christoforo to Versace’s Facebook wall-closing incident, we can learn two things:

1. Treat your customers like customers. Sure, some customers can be a pain and customers are not always right but they’re still your customers. Did you know that for every 1 complaint received, there are 26 others that did not complain, making up to 10,000 dissatisfaction?

2. Avoiding the situation won’t make things better. In fact, it’ll get worse. In the case of Christoforo, let’s just say that his career is over. As for Versace, well, they got a whole lot of blasting themselves from fans and supporters.

With all that said, it is important for businesses today to remember that…

Customers today are social customers

They no longer are customers who purchase blindly and allows you to get away with things easily. The proof?

social media supporting consumer decision making in malaysia

click for larger image

Malaysians actually rely pretty heavily on social networks to receive advice prior to making a purchase. On top of that, 78% of the Malaysian internet population are on Facebook and 31% of them has a blog on Blogger (source: Nielson Research). This also means that if they don’t like you, there’s a 78% chance you’ll end up on their Facebook wall or in a blog post somewhere in the digital world.

What happens in the digital world? It gets worse

Not only the complaints are visible to potential customers, they are permanent. And since these content are user generated, you have no way of removing them. A well optimized complaint on a blog will probably guarantee frontage results across search engines. Same goes to negative reviews on FourSquare, Amazon, eBay or TripAdvisor and shared across Facebook and Twitter.

Think about it – would you really want that for your business? What if you’re able to turn that around to a positive testimonial instead? Wouldn’t that be good? I’m sure it is.

With an experience like that, will we go back there again? We won’t. Will you?

Have You Stopped Improving Yourself? 4 Ways to Stay In The Game!

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I’ve always enjoyed the game of badminton and I’ve been playing the game ever since I could remember. I could safely say that I’ve been a decent player with some tournament wins here and there and have also learnt a great deal from this sport. As time passed, I got pretty busy. From playing the game everyday (in high school) to thrice a week and now, barely once a month. Needless to say, my plays naturally declined as I wasn’t playing enough to improve – and that got me thinking.

It is really the same in real life

I’ve known of some really talented tech guys when I first started exploring the industry and I’ve learnt quite a bit from them. However, over the years they’re seen repeating what they already know over and over again to the point where it became obsolete, especially when technology advances so quickly. To cut the long story short, they switched to a different industry. Mind you, they were experts before.

What does this mean?

Many great teachers will tell you that you stop improving when you stop learning, and it is true. No matter how good you are in what you do now, time CAN take its toll on you if you’re not constantly practicing, learning, improving and sharpening your skills. In fact, I think one of the most important trait of a teacher / expert / leader is the willingness to learn and to continuously improve as people will respect that.

A good example would be Mark Schaefer (@MarkWSchaefer) – he’s already good at what he does, he has his own business going, a huge blog community and he can as well just make money by selling his thoughts. But what I think made him so successful in what he does is that he never stops listening, he never stops learning and he never stops growing (which is the name of his blog community, by the way). I would also say the same for Robert Dempsey (@rdempsey), he never stops testing and experimenting on different marketing ideas and strategies and documents them on his site.

What should you do?

#1: Don’t be contented or comfortable on the level you’re at

Yesterday you’ve 10 Friendster accounts with thousands of friends and testimonials (those were the days) in every one of them… today, Friendster is no more. Are you ready to lose out just like that, knowing that you may have the ability to achieve what you could have achieved? Challenge yourself consistently.

It doesn’t need to be big but keep yourself on your toes. Spend some time daily to learn something new. Read articles, watch videos, do something that can help you improve your knowledge / skills in what you do.

#2: Stop giving excuses

Ah, how easy it is to put a task off. We are all master procrastinators at one point or another. The best part is that we often argue ourselves out of it. After all, it makes sense right? Wrong. Here’s the deal – if you’re not gonna make it work, nobody will! So if you really want to improve yourself, get moving!

goal setting checklist#3: Set achievable goals

I’ve been reading a number of posts saying new year resolutions don’t matter simply because you won’t fulfill them. I say that’s rubbish. You couldn’t fulfill them simply because you’re doing #2 or you’ve set goals that you may not have been able to achieve anyway! Set goals that are within your means to reach (at least of a start).

Set a short (smaller) term goal followed by a longer (bigger, accumulated) goal. You can’t possibly run for an hour everyday if you haven’t done that in years so start once a week then twice and slowly add to it. You’ll find your goals easier to achieve that way.

#4: Don’t be too hard on yourself

It is very easy to give up, trust me, I know. At times it seems as though all the effort was flushed down the gutter and you feel like throwing the towel. You know what, giving up is easy. But what makes an entrepreneur an entrepreneur is that he / she does not give up.

If you ever find yourself in such a situation, you need someone that you can trust to be your support system. Whether it is a loved one, a family member, business partner or a friend, that’s where you should go to, vent, and move forward from there. I definitely have mine.

Have you ever found yourself falling back on what you (or used to) do best?