On ownership
why the mindset of being an owner should perpetuate through our lives
"Embrace the mindset of an owner, not a renter" is a lesson often imparted to business leaders, encouraging them to instill a sense of responsibility in their teams. This principle, however, extends beyond the professional realm; it permeates the fabric of our entire lives. It prompts us to scrutinize societal expectations, familial pressures, and friendships, recognizing how these influences shape our ownership of our existence.
Reflecting on my upbringing, I was steered toward math, science, and the goal of attending prestigious institutions. The trajectory seemed foolproof—a secure future, a lucrative job, a predetermined path. Diligently, I immersed myself in my studies, ultimately attending UC Berkeley's esteemed engineering program and graduating at the top of my class. After graduation, I secured top-paying engineering jobs or the option to attend Stanford University for graduate school which I ultimately ended up taking. However, as I ticked off each expected milestone, the clarity of my purpose began to waver. Was this journey truly my aspiration, or a product of the collective mantra urging, "good college, good job, good life"?
The moment struck during an afternoon spent at my friend's house in the lap of affluent suburbia. I was talking with my friend’s father, a distinguished engineer with a three-decade tenure in the same company. He had done it. He had diligently climbed the corporate ladder, ticking off every expected achievement on paper.
Yet, as he was talking, a feeling of emptiness seemed apparent, as if he had unwittingly constructed a gilded cage around himself, tethered to a job that served the singular purpose of sustaining their lifestyle. As if the checkboxes on paper had transformed into bars, limiting his options and confining him.
I came to a stark realization—was I not treading the same well-worn path? This is exactly what I wanted - a prestigious job and a comfy lifestyle in suburbia. Yet, when this vision materialized before me, it felt like the last thing I wanted.
Upon reflection, it dawned on me that my life was not truly my own; it was the convergence of societal expectations.
So what can we do?
Own your life. Own every decision you make, not just at work but also about your goals and wants. Make sure it’s what you truly want so you can commit to it without any hesitation.
For me, I’m still trying to figure out what ownership means in my career. But I’m making sure that what I work on will be something that mirrors my values and dreams. This way, I can put my heart into it, knowing it truly represents who I am. It's a stark contrast to the empty feeling of creating slide decks just because I have to, without any personal connection. Ownership sparks passion, fuels engagement, and gives me the power to control the outcome.