Making Mistakes, Learning, and Moving On
I’m usually pretty critical with my writings (and of my team members’). I’m also very critical of myself, which I believe is one of the necessary success factors of any startup. It’s the typical entrepreneur personality.
So when I f__k up, I’m among the first to stand up, bow, and apologize – which is what I’m doing now. I have always followed this principle. People who have worked with me know that I’m open to critique and also open to making changes.
Over the last week, I pissed people off with this post. I sincerely apologize to William and to e27. I stand sincere with no ill intentions, and I’m also reaching out to have coffee with them to see how we can work together moving forward. My criticism of William was more destructive than it was constructive, and that wasn’t cool. It was impulsive, and I should have been more thoughtful. It hurts not only the community that we’re trying to help build, but it also hurts our reputation as a blog. Bashing is just wrong; I regret it, and I have learned from it.
When you’re down, people usually react differently. Some shake their heads with arms folded; but some reach out to help and/or advice. These are the rare gems who keep the community moving and should be applauded. (Thanks Martin Hartono, @Andyzain, and @Nuniek).
I’m going to end off with a quote from serial entrepreneur, Didi Nugrahadi, who recently told me:
Once you want to start a business, just do it. Failure is your best teacher.