1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

The most challenging task as a leader is the ability to "inspire culture". You need to have relentless pursuit to empower your people, cultivate them to a higher standard, and make sure they are happy with their personal growth. While it is the most challenging, this is also the most important and most fulfilling task for me.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

I would say it is "serendipitous". I started as a freelancer and a lot of my clients would refer me to their network. There was a time where I was working 80h/week to juggle all client demands and that's when I realized that I need to hire people. That's how Pareto Consulting started. It was an offshoot of the demand for my personal work and somehow transformed to bigger demand for other tech clients due to word of mouth and client referrals.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

I wake up at 7AM, freshen up, brew my coffee and clean my apartment for a bit. I start my day with meetings as early as 8AM. In between my meetings, I check on my company's project management tool, "Upbase". All of my tasks are listed and in general, these are tasks that needs my approval or review from my employees.
I work on my Upbase tasks until 1PM while also coordinating with clients/employees on respective communication channels.
I, then, take a quick lunch break until 1:30PM of which most of my food is ordered from Grab or FoodPanda. Around the afternoon, I would take more client meetings but if I don't have a meeting slotted in, I usually just read the news online or binge watch Netflix/Disney+.
My work day typically ends at 6PM especially if meetings are jampacked. After that, I take on my homework and classes as an MBA student. That typically ends by 9PM.
I just relax until then by playing with my dog, calling my friends and family, spending time with my significant other, and just binge watching!
I typically sleep around 11PM.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Being a leader is knowing what matters. This is why I am inspired as well by the Pareto Principle AKA 80/20 rule. This applies in work, strategy, and time management. Every decision, every task, and every project that needs your energy and commitment to needs to follow this 80/20 rule where you're able to maximize your gains with minimal input.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

It would be "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu. This has impacted my leadership by providing enduring wisdom on strategy, decision-making, and leadership principles. It has taught me the importance of understanding my strengths and weaknesses, adapting to changing circumstances, and strategically assessing the competition. The book has influenced my leadership style by emphasizing leading by example, instilling discipline, and fostering trust and loyalty within my team. It has also sharpened my decision-making skills by emphasizing the gathering and analysis of information, weighing risks, and making informed choices.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

"Show Up". Nothing ever goes wrong by showing up! Just be there for people, for your customers, and for anyone who needs you.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One meaningful story that comes to mind from my time as a leader is when I had the opportunity to mentor a junior team member who was struggling with self-confidence and facing challenges in their role. I noticed their potential and believed in their abilities, so I took the time to provide guidance, support, and encouragement. We worked together on setting achievable goals and developing strategies to overcome their obstacles. Over time, I witnessed their transformation as they gained confidence, tackled their challenges head-on, and began to thrive in their role. Seeing their growth and witnessing the positive impact of mentorship reinforced the importance of investing in others, believing in their potential, and empowering them to reach their full capabilities. It was a rewarding experience that reminded me of the profound influence a leader can have on someone's professional and personal development.