On having children:
“Either have children or become a saint, because eventually, you have to find something you love more than you love yourself.” — Naval
Having a baby is a life-changer. It gives you a whole new perspective on why you wake up every day.
The gurus will tell you to meditate or walk in nature to be at peace. Try observing and appreciating your little one for 10 minutes. That’s what life is about.
On business:
“The three most important ways to lead is by example… by example… and by example.” — Albert Schweitzer
Leadership advice can be overwhelming but simple at a base level. Companies work ethic and culture starts at the top. Employees want to see that your actions mirror what you preach. You are the average of 5 people around you — you either raise or lower your standards accordingly.
On Health:
“Healthy Body = Healthy Mind… And vice versa…” — Unknown
Exercise should be done first thing in the morning. Not due to the physical side, but the mental benefits. I’m naturally more positive towards my work, and family.
The weird period between 25–30:
An odd one to include, but in reflection I struggled with self-identity during this age. I don’t feel this period is discussed enough. A transitional stage — where you question the bigger picture, the meaning of life, starting a family, whilst on the other side, still enjoy the freedom and independence your younger years offer.
My advice: Remember every adult you believe that admire and “have it all figured out” are making it up as they go along. It’s ok to be confused but trust the process. I now have a 9-month-old baby boy, and am shortly to be married — It's the happiest and most content I have felt in my life.
Reflecting on last year goals:
- Double the Adapt Talent team in size for 2021 — We tripled :)
- Continue to advance our automation/AI efforts in recruitment — Implemented software that allows us to be effective as possible. Also hired a good personal friend to head our AI division.
- Improve our marketing/branding efforts. Bi-weekly podcasts. Blog once a week, post on LinkedIn regularly and build out my personal brand. — We hired a part-time marketing specialist, who has improved our SEO dramatically. Podcasts weren’t enough, and LinkedIn / Overall Social Media interaction needs to be improved. I have inc action points to achieve this in 2022 and it will be a big focus.
- 1.5x our company revenue at a minimum. — x2.5!!!
- Become the best father I can possibly be. I— Working on this every day. Family always first.
- Run a sub 5k in 20 minutes, run a sub 10k in 42 mins and run a half marathon at 7 minutes per mile. — Achieved 5k, a baby with sleepless nights destroyed by sub 10k effort. Bring on 2022. Let’s chuck in a marathon as well.
