I have not posted here for three months now. About as long as it has taken me to accept the offer from McKinsey. Finally, my iPhone notes have taken shape as my last post for 2011. Which inevitably has to be a ramble. In no particular order.
On music.
Once more, I yearned to be reborn. For music. With music.
On possibility.
I have picked up some cues from close friends on the theme of possibility. On going back to school. On giving back to society. On writing that book. On backing that dream by plainly acting on it.
On cost.
Leaving Vopak was one of the most difficult decisions in my life. Bidding adieu to what has been the most enjoyable work environment in all my career. Worst of all, I leave hurting some people. Who had bet on giving me an opportunity; a break that I had used well. Too well. I take away an important lesson. On the cost of not pursuing what you truly want. Of taking a step that feels good, but you know is not towards where you want to go. You hurt people. Who have had nothing to do with your aimless wandering. Who have only been generous.
Giving up a good thing is more painful than having it taken away.
On Thatha.
I was never that close to Thatha. Or, I have not been, over the years that I have been away from India (15 to the day). My most vivid memories of him are from our annual summer holidays in Srirangam. Each year indistinguishable, yet no less enjoyable than the one past. Many things about me are invariably linked to a gene or two from his stock. My affinity for words - language, to be more precise. For photography. For books. My colour-blindness. And, as I recently realised, the infinite pleasure that I derive from and during a good shave. I do a lot of my thinking while shaving. Many ridiculous ideas, which have then gone on to affect the course of my life, have taken shape during the early morning ritual in front of the foggy mirror. Recently, I have given myself the allowance of relaxing in the hairdresser's chair at a Japanese salon, at least once a month. Just to feel good. Haircut, shampoo, shave. I remembered his daily ritual. Played out in front of us, every summer morning. The short stool. The hand mirror. The fine brush. The barber's soap. The double-edged razor blade. The after-shave. Today, my ritual. Rest in peace.
On investing.
This year was a terrible one for those of us looking for the great investment opportunity. Perhaps, I should have invested in myself. A truly unexpected series of events has resulted in a doubling of earnings, after all.
On hard work.
If there is one thing I really admired about and learnt from Ian, it is the virtue of relentless hard work. Considering what I have signed up for, that is a lesson to keep handy.
On age.
The day I saw the little boy execute a clear running jump over a garbage bin almost as tall as me. I cringed. About days long gone.
On progress.
When I was working on my photography and had an ah moment. On how lessons I had learnt in those first few months were now instinctive and ingrained. I could spot my own progress.
On decision-making.
Scissors-Paper-Stone when deciding which frame to pick.
On identity.
I am Anxious Man (as described by James Lasdun).
I am not my resume. I am not the sum of my experience, but of my experiences.
On reminiscing.
Walking to Keppel Club. Stephen Fry on the iPad. Down Dunearn Court and Chiltern Park in memory lane.
On hypocrisy.
Finding out that China lets the highest proportion of its women work, and India the lowest. A few hours after remarking to self that the Communist Party junket in Yangpu, Hainan was nothing but a testosterone-fueled orgy.
Seeing white friends who uphold the ideal of gender equality as practised in the West, make a beeline to the reddest-lit districts in Indonesia and Vietnam, because the going there is just a lot easier.
Wondering how the biggest deals get done by people waking up with the worst hangovers.
On communal hygiene.
How my home society has no conception of it.
On grief.
Do all those people who weep for Steve Jobs really feel grief - at the death of a salesman? No, thinks Max Hugo.
On Vopak.
Visionaries at the top.
Exceptional businessmen. Leo. Mark.
Friends for life.
No pretense.
The external interface.
The red carpet.
KNOC. EIPL. Balikpapan. Hastings.
Great manager. Deficient leader.
I met a Dutchman. The expensive solution to every problem. Petty when it comes to corporate subscriptions.
Write a report. Destroy a soul.
Analysis paralysis.
Cycle of exhaustion.
On 2011.
Surely, the most interesting year in my life yet.
Another year of marital bliss.
Turning 30.
Stepping out of a shell.
Two more jobs for me. One less for Apple.
The ultimate gift to God. At the Wankhede.
Asia Renewables. Self-renewal. Joanna coach.
Going fully digital with the Economist.
My first e-book. The biography of Steve Jobs. Read on an iPad 2.
Bhutan and the Himalayan Dreams.
East Africa and the holiday of a lifetime that we nearly did not go on.
A half-marathon half-run.
Winning a camera in a lucky draw and giving it away to make someone's day.
A friend lost at sea. Many years too soon.
Farewell to Thatha. After a full life.
Swinging clubs. Pushing pedals. Lifting weights.
First time on the A380.
The first few meals of Julie's.
Blissful weekends like the one of 20 November that went: Holland Village with friends, Toast Box, Neighbours over for home-cooked lunch, Affordable Art Fair, Baliwag Manok & Sanskruti at Lau Pa Sat, The Ides of March, Stephen Fry, Golf. Happy.
Saturday 31 December 2011
Thursday 29 September 2011
Vantage
Why do I have this job in PSA Building? To see Bukom burn right in front of my eyes?
It hurts. I wish them well. And, I hope. I know how tough it is.
It hurts. I wish them well. And, I hope. I know how tough it is.
Wednesday 14 September 2011
Respite
Guangzhou / Hong Kong was good fun.
Chimelong circus - these acrobats always make you go Wow!
The White Tiger restaurant with three real white tigers in the backyard.
Disneyland - Mickey and Donald will never fail to put that Goofy smile on your face.
And, friends.
Chimelong circus - these acrobats always make you go Wow!
The White Tiger restaurant with three real white tigers in the backyard.
Disneyland - Mickey and Donald will never fail to put that Goofy smile on your face.
And, friends.
Utility
This morning, as I walk into the office, I find our Analyst making excellent use of our Financial Times subscription: table mat for her mee goreng.
Tuesday 30 August 2011
Con
They can get you too.
I was walking back from lunch for the problem-solving test that was part of my McKinsey interview. I was feeling pretty good about how the earlier interview went, and was deep in thought about a work situation that we were trying to resolve. As I was striding purposefully towards Centennial Tower, a sardar sidles up to me from nowhere.
He reckons I seem to be deep in thought. Assures me that everything I wish for will happen, and that great news awaits me on Sep 10. Convinces me that I have never wished evil for anybody else and have never wished for money, so only good things can happen to me. Predicts that a person whose name has an S will make great things happen for me. Insists that my future consists of me running a business. Scribbles something on a scrap of paper and thrusts it into my hand. Asks me to pick a number between 3 and 7 and the name of a flower. As statistical probability would have it, I pick 5 and Rose (as Navneet says, I should have picked champa or chameli instead). Lo and behold, I unwrap the scrap and 5 and rose, it is. He points that out as the strongest sign that only good news awaits me.
I panic. I also sense myself consciously sinking into a con, but don't see a way out. The special circumstances of being on my way to an interview make me even more nervous.
He asks for money. I don't want a curse. I give him $10 and dash.
Vikram and Eruku confirm later that this is the well-known conman of Lau Pa Sat (now of Centennial Tower, I suppose).
I am not sure what will come out of the McKinsey interaction, but it sure has cost me $10.
I was walking back from lunch for the problem-solving test that was part of my McKinsey interview. I was feeling pretty good about how the earlier interview went, and was deep in thought about a work situation that we were trying to resolve. As I was striding purposefully towards Centennial Tower, a sardar sidles up to me from nowhere.
He reckons I seem to be deep in thought. Assures me that everything I wish for will happen, and that great news awaits me on Sep 10. Convinces me that I have never wished evil for anybody else and have never wished for money, so only good things can happen to me. Predicts that a person whose name has an S will make great things happen for me. Insists that my future consists of me running a business. Scribbles something on a scrap of paper and thrusts it into my hand. Asks me to pick a number between 3 and 7 and the name of a flower. As statistical probability would have it, I pick 5 and Rose (as Navneet says, I should have picked champa or chameli instead). Lo and behold, I unwrap the scrap and 5 and rose, it is. He points that out as the strongest sign that only good news awaits me.
I panic. I also sense myself consciously sinking into a con, but don't see a way out. The special circumstances of being on my way to an interview make me even more nervous.
He asks for money. I don't want a curse. I give him $10 and dash.
Vikram and Eruku confirm later that this is the well-known conman of Lau Pa Sat (now of Centennial Tower, I suppose).
I am not sure what will come out of the McKinsey interaction, but it sure has cost me $10.
Sunday 21 August 2011
Lottery
They say you need impossible luck to win the lottery.
I would say I have won three near-lotteries in my life.
- My birth, to parents who, given the context, would turn out to be marginally more open-minded than could have been expected, with a desire to give me as good a start as they could visualise.
- The opportunity to move to Singapore at a crucial stage in my adolescent life. That experience has played a considerable role in shaping my character, and in bringing about my current quality of life.
- Julie.
All that adds up to a nice state of bliss. Touchwood.
I would say I have won three near-lotteries in my life.
- My birth, to parents who, given the context, would turn out to be marginally more open-minded than could have been expected, with a desire to give me as good a start as they could visualise.
- The opportunity to move to Singapore at a crucial stage in my adolescent life. That experience has played a considerable role in shaping my character, and in bringing about my current quality of life.
- Julie.
All that adds up to a nice state of bliss. Touchwood.
Sobriety
Even as my brother described his latest drinking episode to me, I realized that I have never really been drunk in my life.
And, trends indicate that is probably not going to change anytime soon.
And, trends indicate that is probably not going to change anytime soon.
Tether
Alain de Botton says that boys carry psychological baggage from their fathers and girls from their mothers.
Sometimes, I wonder why I have a nagging sense of insecurity about my career - why I don't see myself taking a six-month self-discovery break from work and at the end of it, backing myself to find any job that I want with not too much difficulty, when the record suggests that I would probably have a better than even chance of managing that.
Does it have to do with my father? And how his career blew up midway? Especially after the family had bet everything on it, in spite of largely unpromising signs? Perhaps.
Sometimes, I wonder why I have a nagging sense of insecurity about my career - why I don't see myself taking a six-month self-discovery break from work and at the end of it, backing myself to find any job that I want with not too much difficulty, when the record suggests that I would probably have a better than even chance of managing that.
Does it have to do with my father? And how his career blew up midway? Especially after the family had bet everything on it, in spite of largely unpromising signs? Perhaps.
Drive
I really do not enjoy golf.
I have to reluctantly drag myself to my weekly lessons.
Yet, I guess what keeps me going is the realisation that it is actually an incredibly difficult activity (I refuse to call it a sport). Hence, the nagging desire to get better at it. My specialty?
I have to reluctantly drag myself to my weekly lessons.
Yet, I guess what keeps me going is the realisation that it is actually an incredibly difficult activity (I refuse to call it a sport). Hence, the nagging desire to get better at it. My specialty?
Gripe
Talking about riding, I am beginning to develop a gripe about a certain type of free-rider.
At the risk of stereotyping and generalising, I have this much to say about first world expatriates in Singapore.
In today's environment, where the West's entitlement culture built on untenable borrowing from the future is facing strong headwinds, I am starting to take issue with the growing number of Western expatriates in Singapore, who seem to be closeting themselves in a new kind of comfort bubble.
I am not sure that the average quality of life and renumeration they enjoy in Singapore is anywhere proportionate to the average contribution they make to their employers or to society. Singapore is not a faraway swampy badland, but a most modern and convenient first world city state, so nothing warrants the hardship benefits they enjoy. Most of these expatriates would kill to have the kind of life they enjoy here.
And that is what is killing me. Sour grapes?
At the risk of stereotyping and generalising, I have this much to say about first world expatriates in Singapore.
In today's environment, where the West's entitlement culture built on untenable borrowing from the future is facing strong headwinds, I am starting to take issue with the growing number of Western expatriates in Singapore, who seem to be closeting themselves in a new kind of comfort bubble.
I am not sure that the average quality of life and renumeration they enjoy in Singapore is anywhere proportionate to the average contribution they make to their employers or to society. Singapore is not a faraway swampy badland, but a most modern and convenient first world city state, so nothing warrants the hardship benefits they enjoy. Most of these expatriates would kill to have the kind of life they enjoy here.
And that is what is killing me. Sour grapes?
Cycle
Nearly twenty years ago, I taught my little brother how to ride a bicycle.
For my thirtieth birthday, he gave me a bicycle. This weekend, I took it out for my first decent ride in a long, long time and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Riding through the roads of Singapore as part of a cycling club in the pre-dawn hours of a Saturday is the latest new thing I have enjoyed doing.
For my thirtieth birthday, he gave me a bicycle. This weekend, I took it out for my first decent ride in a long, long time and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Riding through the roads of Singapore as part of a cycling club in the pre-dawn hours of a Saturday is the latest new thing I have enjoyed doing.
Tuesday 16 August 2011
Industry
I worked hard today. It has been some time since I have felt that.
Granted, quite a bit of it was emailing and setting up customer meetings and conference plans, while sitting at my computer. Well, that is the nature of my work.
Curiously, for once, the momentum built itself up. I had to force myself to take that short afternoon nap, given the tonsillitis medication.
Rare are such days, but they bring a good feeling.
Granted, quite a bit of it was emailing and setting up customer meetings and conference plans, while sitting at my computer. Well, that is the nature of my work.
Curiously, for once, the momentum built itself up. I had to force myself to take that short afternoon nap, given the tonsillitis medication.
Rare are such days, but they bring a good feeling.
Friday 12 August 2011
Humble
Today, I discovered yet again, the humbling power of a stumble.
As I stepped off an unstable boat onto a makeshift pier stairway, I lost my balance on the slippery clay and fell flat on my back. Fortunately, I was not hurt, and did not get into any serious trouble.
But, it was a close shave. I could have fallen overboard into the mangrove swamp. I could have landed on a rusty nail protruding from the wooden stairs. I could have dropped my bag into the water - passport and mobile phones included.
I was lucky enough to have been able to just stand up, assess the damage (amounting to a brown clay streak across the back of my trousers and a slightly damaged shoe) and walk off slightly dazed. To my credit, I did not lose my composure and completed the field trip in relatively good spirits.
I will be more careful next time. And, I will also remember that sometimes, stuff just happens.
As I stepped off an unstable boat onto a makeshift pier stairway, I lost my balance on the slippery clay and fell flat on my back. Fortunately, I was not hurt, and did not get into any serious trouble.
But, it was a close shave. I could have fallen overboard into the mangrove swamp. I could have landed on a rusty nail protruding from the wooden stairs. I could have dropped my bag into the water - passport and mobile phones included.
I was lucky enough to have been able to just stand up, assess the damage (amounting to a brown clay streak across the back of my trousers and a slightly damaged shoe) and walk off slightly dazed. To my credit, I did not lose my composure and completed the field trip in relatively good spirits.
I will be more careful next time. And, I will also remember that sometimes, stuff just happens.
Wednesday 3 August 2011
Thursday 21 July 2011
Test
cricket. I am a Test cricket kind of person, am I not?
Here's to the 2000th.
About patience, about class, about discipline, about rigour, about endurance, and about second chances.
Here's to the 2000th.
About patience, about class, about discipline, about rigour, about endurance, and about second chances.
Korea
Happily drowning in work in my hotel room, I look out the window for a brief moment, and I realise - I am in Korea.
Seoul Tower in a little bit.
Seoul Tower in a little bit.
Sunday 17 July 2011
3.0
That is what she has decided to call the milestone's passing.
More than anything, I'd like to thank God, Providence, the Laws of the Universe or what not, for bringing me to this point in great company, fine fettle, good health and bright spirits.
Life has been good and keeps getting better. So much has been experienced, and yet there is so much to look forward to. Built around a core of happiness, contentment and a peace of the mind.
More than anything, I'd like to thank God, Providence, the Laws of the Universe or what not, for bringing me to this point in great company, fine fettle, good health and bright spirits.
Life has been good and keeps getting better. So much has been experienced, and yet there is so much to look forward to. Built around a core of happiness, contentment and a peace of the mind.
Flight
As I wait for my flight to Incheon, I ask myself: How many times have I been on a plane?
'81-'96: less than 10 times
'97-'03: 5 times a year
'04-'05: 12 times a year
'06-'10: 20 times a year
And, just this year, if it all happens as I now know, 60 times.
That's a total of ~230 flights before the year is out. Half a lifetime back, I would have laughed at the suggestion.
'81-'96: less than 10 times
'97-'03: 5 times a year
'04-'05: 12 times a year
'06-'10: 20 times a year
And, just this year, if it all happens as I now know, 60 times.
That's a total of ~230 flights before the year is out. Half a lifetime back, I would have laughed at the suggestion.
Saturday 25 June 2011
Sample
6-7 Complete presentation (Powerpoint start to a day, would you believe it?)
9-12 Play host to senior ministerial delegation and roll out red carpet. Or rather, orange boat. Personalized engraved Pewter and laminated group photograph - nice touch.
12-2 Attend networking lunch with industry partners in the Tower Club, Raffles Place. Only points of note: seriously impressive view of Singapore and spotting of airhead.
3-4 Lay out ideas to squeeze out a bit more in negotiations with aforementioned delegation.
5-6 Have difficult discussion with customer whose market capitalisation is ~100 times that of employer.
A bit of a change.
9-12 Play host to senior ministerial delegation and roll out red carpet. Or rather, orange boat. Personalized engraved Pewter and laminated group photograph - nice touch.
12-2 Attend networking lunch with industry partners in the Tower Club, Raffles Place. Only points of note: seriously impressive view of Singapore and spotting of airhead.
3-4 Lay out ideas to squeeze out a bit more in negotiations with aforementioned delegation.
5-6 Have difficult discussion with customer whose market capitalisation is ~100 times that of employer.
A bit of a change.
Friday 6 May 2011
Bhattura
An interesting first week. Emotionally, a little roller-coaster.
Change is like the Bhattura (especially the one at Komala's, that was a steady part of my poor man's Sunday diet in 1997-1998). You look forward to the meal when you order it. Yet, as Navneet says, it is theoretically impossible to finish a Bhattura. Invariably, a case of biting more than can be chewed. And, of subsequent regret. Yet, that does not stop you from ordering it again the following weekend.
I have ordered this Bhattura. There have been moments when I have wondered if I am up for this. I guess that is what happens after 8 years of familiarity that bred contempt.
Yet, I should say, I see myself settling in quite nicely.
The culture is familiar, but refreshingly different. Crisp. I am now big fish in small pond. The company is going through an exciting transformation - from big, small company to small, big company - and is led by young visionaries. Nice timing. I'll just need to find a nice seat from where to row.
People have been helpful and generous. My experience is valued, and it seems I can choose how to make a material difference.
I have been through serious change a couple of times in the past - the first time I arrived in Singapore as a 15-year-old, and again, when I started work in the Philippines. Things turned out alright. Also, I admire her for how she has adapted to life here. New job, new country, new flatmate, new friends. An example to follow.
From where I sit in my new office, the picture window from the 32nd floor has a spectacular view of the Singapore harbour. Straight-on, the frame has two imposing island complexes side-by-side. Vopak's Sebarok terminal - the jewel in its crown. And, right beside it, Shell's Pulau Bukom refinery-petrochemical complex - Shell's own Koh-i-noor, where I learnt some of my most important professional lessons. A simple reminder, if anything.
Game on.
Change is like the Bhattura (especially the one at Komala's, that was a steady part of my poor man's Sunday diet in 1997-1998). You look forward to the meal when you order it. Yet, as Navneet says, it is theoretically impossible to finish a Bhattura. Invariably, a case of biting more than can be chewed. And, of subsequent regret. Yet, that does not stop you from ordering it again the following weekend.
I have ordered this Bhattura. There have been moments when I have wondered if I am up for this. I guess that is what happens after 8 years of familiarity that bred contempt.
Yet, I should say, I see myself settling in quite nicely.
The culture is familiar, but refreshingly different. Crisp. I am now big fish in small pond. The company is going through an exciting transformation - from big, small company to small, big company - and is led by young visionaries. Nice timing. I'll just need to find a nice seat from where to row.
People have been helpful and generous. My experience is valued, and it seems I can choose how to make a material difference.
I have been through serious change a couple of times in the past - the first time I arrived in Singapore as a 15-year-old, and again, when I started work in the Philippines. Things turned out alright. Also, I admire her for how she has adapted to life here. New job, new country, new flatmate, new friends. An example to follow.
From where I sit in my new office, the picture window from the 32nd floor has a spectacular view of the Singapore harbour. Straight-on, the frame has two imposing island complexes side-by-side. Vopak's Sebarok terminal - the jewel in its crown. And, right beside it, Shell's Pulau Bukom refinery-petrochemical complex - Shell's own Koh-i-noor, where I learnt some of my most important professional lessons. A simple reminder, if anything.
Game on.
Monday 2 May 2011
Resumption
Magical holiday in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Normal service resumes tomorrow. New venue. Different sport.
Normal service resumes tomorrow. New venue. Different sport.
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Wednesday 13 April 2011
Timing
I went to meet my new boss today. I came back (still) really excited about my new job. A lot has changed even within Vopak in the 3 months, yet, I could feel my goosebumps.
I come back to my desk at Shell. A Certificate of Service. An email announcement of my move, citing "pursuit of opportunities outside".
21 July 2003 - 30 April 2011. It has been perfect while it has lasted. Thank you Mama Shell.
I come back to my desk at Shell. A Certificate of Service. An email announcement of my move, citing "pursuit of opportunities outside".
21 July 2003 - 30 April 2011. It has been perfect while it has lasted. Thank you Mama Shell.
Pace
I am guilty of having disappeared from here. Here is why (this is the update that I sent to my career coach):
"
1. Within Shell, my focus really has been on ensuring a professional closeout. I have done my best to make sure my work is neatly handed over to my successor. Now, I am tying up all loose ends. Senior leaders made a couple of attempts to offer me roles within Shell, to see if I would change my mind and stay on. Unfortunately, the roles were not very attractive anyway, so we have agreed to let things be. It is also an indication of the current environment within the company that good jobs are just not there. At least, that lets me leave on the note that my departure would be a loss. I hope to leave on very good terms, as one never knows what the future brings. Yet, to put it simply, I am reasonably confident that if sometime in the future, I wanted to return to Shell, the doors would remain open.
2. The most exciting bit has been my work in the renewable energy area:
· The fund manager has voluntarily transformed himself into my mentor figure.
· He insists that we need to create a personality for me as an expert in the field (e.g., if people google my name, I should turn up as a renewable energy expert).
· Upon his urging, I have spoken in a couple of conferences in KL and Shanghai as a renewable energy expert, in his place. I am also co-authoring an article or two. I am also considering volunteering to be on the advisory board of some clean energy NGOs.
· I have worked deals on his behalf, in Bangkok and Chennai, as a representative. Meeting potential investors (some, politically very well-connected) was a great experience for me, especially finding out that I could deal with them convincingly and confidently. Also, I realized I know a lot more subject matter than I thought.
· During a chat about what my career vision really was (about the time that Shell was trying to retain me), he challenged me to go back to Shell with an offer, saying, make me a senior vice president for the renewable energy work that Shell is doing, and I will take full responsibility to deliver. Well, somehow, I never found the courage to do that, even though he repeatedly urged me to.
· He is a degree-maniac, and has accumulated any number of credentials in economics, theology, sustainable development, etc., say one every five years, part-time. He also believes in actively participating in alumni networks to maintain his networks and to give back. He introduced me to some interesting further education opportunities – very different from the glamour MBAs that I was considering not too long ago. I also realized I have remained very quiet in my alumni networks for the last 12 years. The only time I got in touch with one, I ended up with this renewable energy opportunity – I wonder what else lies out there if I choose to harness the full potential of my existing contacts, given that I went to pretty decent schools. Also, I think I would be keen to give back to the schools that made me. I have listed this out as one of my mid-term projects. I might also pick a distance learning course on sustainable development (not now), to get some insights into the field and also to round out my qualifications in engineering and business.
· He has also asked me to help with another fund that he is managing, in the area of my expertise (petrochemicals). It is exciting work, combining my knowledge in petrochemicals and finance to make a $2 bln project happen, challenging senior management about their business model, etc.
· He has also let me know that he will eventually return to the US in government service. He would like me to pick up half the stakes in his company (more a brokerage/fund management company, so no assets, and hence very low costs to me) and then use the brand name to build my own business, while paying him a share for any business I might bring in. Also, I can help oversee some of the stuff he might leave behind. Some say it sounds too good to be true. It will be on top of my full-time role (he insists I look at it as a sapling venture I can nurture while doing a day job) – so I am trying to do my homework first to see if it will work. For all we know, I might be a clean energy entrepreneur-on-the-side, soon.
· In line with creating an online persona for myself, I intend to set up a climate change blog + editorial. I even thought of calling it “The Bridge”. I have not started on it yet, as I have just not had the time.
3. During those days contemplating MBAs and high-paying Investment Banking / Consulting careers, I had sent in a casual application to McKinsey (a leader in management consulting). Out of the blue, I was called for a telephone interview yesterday. It went unexpectedly well, as I was generally feeling relaxed. Also, I had a wonderful time telling them really honest stories about my pro-bono work, my intended career transition from conventional to renewable energy, my entrepreneurial and leadership ideas/ambitions. It seems I might have struck the right cord, thinking aloud in this manner. Let us see if something brews. Just keeping my mind open to possibility.
4. Photography:
· I spent a Saturday trying to learn how to use the editing software that my wife bought for me in January. To my pleasant surprise, I found out it was just what I was looking for, to help me build my photography portfolio.
· I also went on my 4-day photography workshop with a well-known travel photographer in Vietnam (a gift from Julie as well). It was perfect, and the highlight was a full morning that we spent walking the streets, just me and the photographer, me trying to pick up the tricks of his trade. It was a relaxed trip as well, a letup from all the rush. I am excited about processing my photographs from that trip.
5. My wife, brother and I also discovered a volunteer organization run by young visionaries to help domestic helpers in Singapore pick up life skills and come out of the vicious cycle. Julie and my brother have already started committing their time to it, but I look at it as another volunteering opportunity for the future.
6. Overall, things have been moving at speed, and have been very colorful. I have burnt some midnight oil, and more or less woken up every morning not knowing what to expect from the day. Sometimes, I also worry that this pace is not sustainable. My reliable indicator – the number of unread issues of The Economist (now 2.5) – does not look good. I have not exercised (my fitness is heading in the wrong direction). I have not read a single book. My blog lies dormant. I have to consider slowing down at some point. In a couple of weeks, Julie and I have a 11-day holiday in magical Bhutan, where we intend to slow down, put our feet up, and take stock (and photos, of course).
7. Yet, I have still found time to do some of the things I (and we) really love. I supported India’s successful cricket world cup campaign every step of the way, even flying down to India to watch a couple of games in person. Seeing Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni finally triumph reinforced my belief in the virtues of professionalism and balance. We watched the Lion King musical, yet, in line with the general theme, we almost did not make it to the show on time. We thoroughly enjoyed another Korean-pop musical with very close friends and enjoyed a couple of great meals during Singapore Restaurant Week. We visited my parents and ailing grandparents in India. Life seems more or less normal.
8. Of course, on top of this, I have my new job to start on 1 May, right after we return from Bhutan. The only preparations I am making for that change are those in my mind (and buying a new suit). I am excited.
"
"
1. Within Shell, my focus really has been on ensuring a professional closeout. I have done my best to make sure my work is neatly handed over to my successor. Now, I am tying up all loose ends. Senior leaders made a couple of attempts to offer me roles within Shell, to see if I would change my mind and stay on. Unfortunately, the roles were not very attractive anyway, so we have agreed to let things be. It is also an indication of the current environment within the company that good jobs are just not there. At least, that lets me leave on the note that my departure would be a loss. I hope to leave on very good terms, as one never knows what the future brings. Yet, to put it simply, I am reasonably confident that if sometime in the future, I wanted to return to Shell, the doors would remain open.
2. The most exciting bit has been my work in the renewable energy area:
· The fund manager has voluntarily transformed himself into my mentor figure.
· He insists that we need to create a personality for me as an expert in the field (e.g., if people google my name, I should turn up as a renewable energy expert).
· Upon his urging, I have spoken in a couple of conferences in KL and Shanghai as a renewable energy expert, in his place. I am also co-authoring an article or two. I am also considering volunteering to be on the advisory board of some clean energy NGOs.
· I have worked deals on his behalf, in Bangkok and Chennai, as a representative. Meeting potential investors (some, politically very well-connected) was a great experience for me, especially finding out that I could deal with them convincingly and confidently. Also, I realized I know a lot more subject matter than I thought.
· During a chat about what my career vision really was (about the time that Shell was trying to retain me), he challenged me to go back to Shell with an offer, saying, make me a senior vice president for the renewable energy work that Shell is doing, and I will take full responsibility to deliver. Well, somehow, I never found the courage to do that, even though he repeatedly urged me to.
· He is a degree-maniac, and has accumulated any number of credentials in economics, theology, sustainable development, etc., say one every five years, part-time. He also believes in actively participating in alumni networks to maintain his networks and to give back. He introduced me to some interesting further education opportunities – very different from the glamour MBAs that I was considering not too long ago. I also realized I have remained very quiet in my alumni networks for the last 12 years. The only time I got in touch with one, I ended up with this renewable energy opportunity – I wonder what else lies out there if I choose to harness the full potential of my existing contacts, given that I went to pretty decent schools. Also, I think I would be keen to give back to the schools that made me. I have listed this out as one of my mid-term projects. I might also pick a distance learning course on sustainable development (not now), to get some insights into the field and also to round out my qualifications in engineering and business.
· He has also asked me to help with another fund that he is managing, in the area of my expertise (petrochemicals). It is exciting work, combining my knowledge in petrochemicals and finance to make a $2 bln project happen, challenging senior management about their business model, etc.
· He has also let me know that he will eventually return to the US in government service. He would like me to pick up half the stakes in his company (more a brokerage/fund management company, so no assets, and hence very low costs to me) and then use the brand name to build my own business, while paying him a share for any business I might bring in. Also, I can help oversee some of the stuff he might leave behind. Some say it sounds too good to be true. It will be on top of my full-time role (he insists I look at it as a sapling venture I can nurture while doing a day job) – so I am trying to do my homework first to see if it will work. For all we know, I might be a clean energy entrepreneur-on-the-side, soon.
· In line with creating an online persona for myself, I intend to set up a climate change blog + editorial. I even thought of calling it “The Bridge”. I have not started on it yet, as I have just not had the time.
3. During those days contemplating MBAs and high-paying Investment Banking / Consulting careers, I had sent in a casual application to McKinsey (a leader in management consulting). Out of the blue, I was called for a telephone interview yesterday. It went unexpectedly well, as I was generally feeling relaxed. Also, I had a wonderful time telling them really honest stories about my pro-bono work, my intended career transition from conventional to renewable energy, my entrepreneurial and leadership ideas/ambitions. It seems I might have struck the right cord, thinking aloud in this manner. Let us see if something brews. Just keeping my mind open to possibility.
4. Photography:
· I spent a Saturday trying to learn how to use the editing software that my wife bought for me in January. To my pleasant surprise, I found out it was just what I was looking for, to help me build my photography portfolio.
· I also went on my 4-day photography workshop with a well-known travel photographer in Vietnam (a gift from Julie as well). It was perfect, and the highlight was a full morning that we spent walking the streets, just me and the photographer, me trying to pick up the tricks of his trade. It was a relaxed trip as well, a letup from all the rush. I am excited about processing my photographs from that trip.
5. My wife, brother and I also discovered a volunteer organization run by young visionaries to help domestic helpers in Singapore pick up life skills and come out of the vicious cycle. Julie and my brother have already started committing their time to it, but I look at it as another volunteering opportunity for the future.
6. Overall, things have been moving at speed, and have been very colorful. I have burnt some midnight oil, and more or less woken up every morning not knowing what to expect from the day. Sometimes, I also worry that this pace is not sustainable. My reliable indicator – the number of unread issues of The Economist (now 2.5) – does not look good. I have not exercised (my fitness is heading in the wrong direction). I have not read a single book. My blog lies dormant. I have to consider slowing down at some point. In a couple of weeks, Julie and I have a 11-day holiday in magical Bhutan, where we intend to slow down, put our feet up, and take stock (and photos, of course).
7. Yet, I have still found time to do some of the things I (and we) really love. I supported India’s successful cricket world cup campaign every step of the way, even flying down to India to watch a couple of games in person. Seeing Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni finally triumph reinforced my belief in the virtues of professionalism and balance. We watched the Lion King musical, yet, in line with the general theme, we almost did not make it to the show on time. We thoroughly enjoyed another Korean-pop musical with very close friends and enjoyed a couple of great meals during Singapore Restaurant Week. We visited my parents and ailing grandparents in India. Life seems more or less normal.
8. Of course, on top of this, I have my new job to start on 1 May, right after we return from Bhutan. The only preparations I am making for that change are those in my mind (and buying a new suit). I am excited.
"
Wednesday 2 March 2011
Tuesday 1 March 2011
March
"The grand essentials of happiness are:
Something to Do,
Something to Love, and
Something to Hope For."
Bingo.
Something to Do,
Something to Love, and
Something to Hope For."
Bingo.
Wednesday 16 February 2011
Analogy
Today, I initiated a sale of all my Shell stocks.
She offered up an analogy: "Removing old shoes, one shoelace at a time"
Difficult. Unreal.
She offered up an analogy: "Removing old shoes, one shoelace at a time"
Difficult. Unreal.
Monday 14 February 2011
Tuesday 8 February 2011
Traveload
7-16 January The Philippines
26-29 January Mumbai
2-6 February Sri Lanka
7-9 March Bangkok
18-21 March Chennai
25-28 March Hoi An
20 April-2 May Bhutan
And, then, I start travelling for work.
26-29 January Mumbai
2-6 February Sri Lanka
7-9 March Bangkok
18-21 March Chennai
25-28 March Hoi An
20 April-2 May Bhutan
And, then, I start travelling for work.
Sunday 23 January 2011
Ninety
Internship
B2B Marketing book
66 kilos
Swim - Yoga - Gym
Lanka
Chennai?
Bhutan?
Hoi An
Photography course
Lightroom
Website skeleton
10 books
World Cup
B2B Marketing book
66 kilos
Swim - Yoga - Gym
Lanka
Chennai?
Bhutan?
Hoi An
Photography course
Lightroom
Website skeleton
10 books
World Cup
Zoom!
2011 is off with a bang!
Dreamy first anniversary on a piece of paradise. Jojo's wedding brought back memories of our own perfect wedding(s).
A new job. Welcome change. Excitement. Growth. More upside than downside. It will turn out to be what I make of it. It's time to crank up the engines and enjoy the ride.
A break up with the only employer I have ever known. A particularly generous employer. After a near-perfect 8 years. The memories have all been special. It will be with difficulty, and with gratitude. It crushes me to succumb to the adage that all good things must come to an end.
My interesting little adventure - unpaid, part-time internship with the renewable energy fund manager. How my eyes lit up during my first briefing with William and the two idealistic high school kids! Time to learn, and to work hard.
A year full of promise!
A 90-day plan.
A happy love life.
Work that is new. Work that I like.
Care of the plumbing and wiring. Diet. Exercise. Meditation.
Time behind the shutter. Hoi An. Web portfolio. Lightroom. Gallery.
Her own compass. Her inner peace.
Our nest egg. Our own nest?
Time for the word. For the road. For the deep blue.
Dreamy first anniversary on a piece of paradise. Jojo's wedding brought back memories of our own perfect wedding(s).
A new job. Welcome change. Excitement. Growth. More upside than downside. It will turn out to be what I make of it. It's time to crank up the engines and enjoy the ride.
A break up with the only employer I have ever known. A particularly generous employer. After a near-perfect 8 years. The memories have all been special. It will be with difficulty, and with gratitude. It crushes me to succumb to the adage that all good things must come to an end.
My interesting little adventure - unpaid, part-time internship with the renewable energy fund manager. How my eyes lit up during my first briefing with William and the two idealistic high school kids! Time to learn, and to work hard.
A year full of promise!
A 90-day plan.
A happy love life.
Work that is new. Work that I like.
Care of the plumbing and wiring. Diet. Exercise. Meditation.
Time behind the shutter. Hoi An. Web portfolio. Lightroom. Gallery.
Her own compass. Her inner peace.
Our nest egg. Our own nest?
Time for the word. For the road. For the deep blue.
Monday 3 January 2011
Passage
2010 was special.
Our first full year of married life. Blissful companionship. We love it. A memorable honeymoon in the Maldives. Homemaking. Kiwi road-trip. A really Merry Christmas.
Rough and tumble on the career front. Joyless, easy work. Uncertainty. Complexity. Near-misses. A rather unremarkable resolution. More of the same. Some pots on the fire. Interesting times. Desperate for work that gets me out of bed.
General good health (touchwood). Just the unwelcome bulking up and the risk of prematurely clogging up the plumbing.
Photography has enjoyed some devotion. I can see progress. Especially after Xinjiang. A bit more persistence and a steady supply of visible encouragement should push me along. There is more lined up.
More travel ahead. A bit of diving. Language in spurts. Grossly under-read.
Some great friendships built and re-built. Money to manage. Perhaps a home?
The search within continues. Now, with some structure, momentum and professional help.
Our first full year of married life. Blissful companionship. We love it. A memorable honeymoon in the Maldives. Homemaking. Kiwi road-trip. A really Merry Christmas.
Rough and tumble on the career front. Joyless, easy work. Uncertainty. Complexity. Near-misses. A rather unremarkable resolution. More of the same. Some pots on the fire. Interesting times. Desperate for work that gets me out of bed.
General good health (touchwood). Just the unwelcome bulking up and the risk of prematurely clogging up the plumbing.
Photography has enjoyed some devotion. I can see progress. Especially after Xinjiang. A bit more persistence and a steady supply of visible encouragement should push me along. There is more lined up.
More travel ahead. A bit of diving. Language in spurts. Grossly under-read.
Some great friendships built and re-built. Money to manage. Perhaps a home?
The search within continues. Now, with some structure, momentum and professional help.
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