When I first stepped into the corporate world, I was obsessed with the “what.” I wanted the big names, the prestigious brands—the companies everyone aspired to join. And I succeeded. For the first year, I was riding the high of being the “guy who made it.”
But soon, I realized that being in a great company wasn’t the goal; it was just the starting line.
Embracing the “Undesirable”
I wasn’t the guy with the pedigree or the genius-level background. My currency was grit, observation, and a relentless work ethic. I naturally gravitated toward the tasks others avoided—the complex, the messy, the “unwanted” projects. I quickly realized a simple truth: if I could excel at the work everyone else was trying to run away from, I would become indispensable. And that’s exactly what happened.
Those years in sales—both domestic and global—taught me more about business than any textbook ever could. Listening to the owners of SMEs, understanding their経営 (management) philosophy, and observing their hustle became my real MBA.
The Mid-Life Crossroad: Shanghai and Beyond
At 40, I hit a crossroads: stay in the corporate lane or venture into business for myself. Life, however, had its own rhythm. A nine-year expatriate assignment in Shanghai transformed my perspective, not just on business, but on life.
When I returned to my home base, I had to make a calculated choice. I chose the stability of the corporation—the benefits, the security for my children’s education, the resources to support my family. But choosing the “stable” path didn’t mean putting my dreams on ice.
The “Goose Dad” Hustle: 18 Years and Counting
Today, as an 18-year senior marketer, I find myself at the midpoint of my career. I still have roughly as many years left until retirement as the years I’ve already put in. That realization hit me hard: The game is only half over.
I don’t shy away from the hard stuff. I manage end-to-end operations—from the granular, hands-on tasks to the high-level strategic leadership of pricing and volume distribution. I am still doing the work that moves the needle.
Why I’m Still “Testing the Waters”
Do I feel lazy sometimes? Sure. Do I procrastinate on perfecting my resume? Absolutely. But I have one rule that keeps me moving: “If you don’t try, there is no result.” I am currently:
- Feeding the AI Wave: I’m educating myself on AI to ensure my skill set evolves with the industry.
- Testing My Value: I’m sending out resumes, not because I’m desperate, but because I want to know my market value. It keeps me sharp. It reminds me that I am still a competitor in this global market.
Looking Ahead: Why Easy is Boring
I don’t want a flat, easy road for the next 18 years. A path without challenges is a path of stagnation. If a global company comes along that recognizes the value of my experience—my A-to-Z leadership, my global perspective, and my ability to thrive in the “undesirable” spaces—I will be ready to pack my bags.
To those in their mid-40s wondering if it’s too late to shift gears: It’s never too late to try. We are not done yet. We are just entering the most experienced, strategic, and capable phase of our lives.
I am curious about what lies ahead. I don’t know where the next turn will take me, but I know one thing: It won’t be boring.
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