Member-only story
Gratitude and Reflections on 2019
A year of change and the start of a new venture
A good friend of mine recently asked upon hearing of my impending career change what I planned to do next. I had lots of big plans rattling around in my mind, but without hesitation I responded, “I plan to relax, to reflect, and to be thankful.”
By all accounts, this was a challenging year. I had put all of my energy into building a new region halfway around the world from my home. I spent more time in planes and airports and hotel rooms than with my family. I scuttled plans to move to Hong Kong as political tensions engulfed the city. I left a company that I loved for the better part of three years as it rapidly lost the culture and people I deeply cared about.
These all sound like significant, gut-busting setbacks, but I could not be more grateful for the travails. This year turned out to be one of personal and professional revelation.
The people I met and the friendships I forged inspired me. I traveled to places like Vietnam and Philippines for the first time. I supported events promoting diversity in tech, a personal mission I took on this year. The talks and writing I shared helped motivate and educate thousands. I even launched a podcast! My work had more meaning and purpose than at any other point along my professional journey.
For all of this, I want to thank you. You…
