The People I Chose
Yesterday, I finished an interview with Tomorrow Education. It gave me a rare chance to reflect on why I started my business and how I studied along the way. Answering those questions made me look back at myself.
I consider myself lucky. In just about seven years, I’ve built a company with around 20 team members, and I’m working joyfully alongside great people. Of course, there are sad and frustrating moments—several times a day even—but emotions are fleeting. What I get to enjoy is far beyond what I imagined, so I try to remain grateful, always.
Today, in particular, I had a dinner gathering with my team. It was such a good time. The new members are wonderful, and I’m especially thankful to the long-time employees who’ve endured through tough periods. As we laughed and talked together, I felt like I wanted that moment to last forever.
I live with the belief that tears shed alone will eventually turn into great joy. That the greatest things are built in places where no one is watching. That when tears fall in moments where no exit seems to exist, those tears will one day be answered.
Today, once again, I slept only four hours and headed to the office to dive into another hectic day. And I find myself wondering—is this what youth feels like? Days filled with painful and lonely battles, but also laughter and tears. Taking risks with a life where I can’t even see what’s right ahead. Fighting with many, yet also smiling in secret joys. I think these moments are truly precious.
I am far from perfect—very intense, sometimes even too aggressive—and I clash with my team several times a day. Resolving those issues has become a routine. But even as I face great happiness and great sorrow each day, I keep moving forward. That’s how I live.
If I could go back in time, I think I’d realize just how valuable every single moment was. Those weekends when I was completely alone, struggling through work and communication… those nights when motivational videos were my only friends… those memories with people I will one day, inevitably, part ways with.
It's a shame we only get one life. When I was younger, there were countless times I wanted to run away from it all. The only ones who helped me hold on were my father, mother, and a few close friends. But now, I have my team, my family, and those I love. And because of them, I want to live this life more fully.
Today is a day full of gratitude and appreciation. I hope this thankfulness I feel reaches everyone who’s been part of my journey.