Two of the questions that I reflect on as I wind down 2017:
What are some of the most important lessons in Business I took away from 2017?
For me, 2017 was a time when I doubled down on my effort and investment on books, events, seminars and networking to find new ideas and opportunities – during a time when business is slow. Lessons learned were not only valuable for my business – on a personal level; it did tremendous job in lifting my spirit.
Recommendations:
Online Courses:
Two of the outstanding courses I invested in this year included: Seth Godin’s The Marketing Seminar, a mind boggling learning experience about marketing and quite simply, connecting to people on a human level. It also gave me a sneak peek on what the future of education looks like.
I also enrolled in Masterclass, to learn from the best in the world on – fictional writing, cooking, acting and performing. My teachers include: James Patterson, Gordon Ramsey, Dustin Hoffman and Usher – 90% of the courses have nothing to do with what I do, but the principles taught by each of the guru were not only universal, but critical and downright applicable.
Events:
A memorable event I paid a lot for this year was a 2 day intensive talk on the Miracles of Capital by Dr Wong organized by a good friend and mentor, Nicky Wong, where I learned about the importance of a well thought after business model, and the power of group think and collaboration in raising capitals to take your business to the next level. 2018’s session in Brunei will be from 26-28 January. You can contact Nicky directly here.
If you are looking for new ways to improve your business or looking to expand beyond Brunei’s border – checkout Property Hunter’s Tradescape event in KK on 17th & 18th January 2018. You will learn tips on fund raising, opportunities with Alipay, and insights on running successful retail business against the online market space. I had been in the audience of one of the two speakers – Mr Chris Tan – a prominent lawyer / celebrity speaker in Malaysia who is extremely lively, funny and yet, substantial.
Question 2
If you’re in business/ working for an organization: Beyond driving a profit, how has your business impacted the community this year?
When we are on survival mode, this is the question furthest from our mind. However, it does not diminish the validity and importance of reflecting on your businesses’ purpose and contribution to the community.
I have been privileged to be involved with Asia Inc Forum in developing a 2 day regional conference next year in Manila on 17 & 18 April entitled The Future Re-Imagined. We will be looking at the future of different sectors through the lens of Corporate Social Responsibility, Innovation, Governance and Greatness of Spirit.
Throughout this experience, I have been exposed to companies after companies with a great conscience and sense of duty that is beyond profit to affect change in the society throughout Asia. In many ways, it changes my perspective on what it means to be in business. The sense of pride and purpose the employees carry when they walked me through their company’s community projects led me to the epiphany of a far superior level of motivating staff to find meaning and loyalty for their work that money can never buy.
Lesson of the year for me?
Doing Good is undoubtedly and simply, just Good for Business!
2017 has been a year of change and steep learning for me. I couldn’t have survived without the exposure to the incredible minds that I intentionally and unintentionally surrounded myself with.
I encourage you to do the same, and keep on learning!
Thank you.
Merry X’mas and Happy Holiday!