Thread by @justinkan

This year has been a massive one for self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-improvement for me. I wrote out what I learned about myself in 2018 and thought I would share it here:

I am a naturally reactive person (as opposed to a naturally curious one). This makes me a good “0 to 1” or war-time CEO: I am very good at short term problem solving to get to a short term goal. I am very good at laser-focusing on the top 1 to 3 problems.

But one’s greatest strength can be their greatest weakness. Unfortunately this same quality makes it hard to build sustainable operations over time: constant focus on the problem of the day means you aren’t building for the long term.

To address this, I’ve committed myself to focus my reactivity specifically to the needs of my more operationally minded leaders. I.e. harness my power of busting through walls specifically on the problems my first team highlights.

Reading Leadership & Self Deception showed me that while I am good at treating team members who are doing well like people, sometimes I am not as empathetic towards team members who I perceive aren’t performing.

This can create big downstream negative consequences, like creating a culture where people are afraid to fail.

I am working on this by trying to lead every interaction I have in 2019 with empathy.

In 2018 I discovered the power of meditation, diet and gratitude as transformational. By creating daily practices I think I have significantly improved my baseline personal happiness.

Headspace, 5 Minute Journal, and eating one meal a day were easy ways to get started.

As a naturally shy extrovert, I have always wanted to connect more deeply with people around me. In 2018 I discovered the power of being vulnerable, and telling my friends, family and coworkers how I really feel.

I’ve also learned that despite it sometimes feeling awkward, it can be very powerful to honestly tell your relationships directly that you love them and what you love about them.

I’ve (re)-learned that no amount of achievement or success or material possessions will create happiness. To tie your ego’s wellness to achievement is an unhealthy linkage, even though we do it every day. I've been trying to focus on the present (& not the past or the future)

A few years ago I was very frightened of death (going so far as to research longevity and invest in a longevity fund!). This year I realized I’m not as afraid any more, and accepted the hard fact that all things I’ve clung on to will eventually end.

No matter who you are, there is more to learn about yourself. Looking forward to continuing the journey and an even more personally impactful 2019. Happy holidays to you all.