When was the last time you did something for the first time?

Me? Usually, I try many things. The variety keeps me dynamic. For example, I’m starting a new project this year, and I’m doing many things for the first time, things that I didn’t use to do in my previous jobs.

But unlike my younger self who takes pride in knowledge, I’m quicker to say the three most powerful words one could ever admit.

I don’t know.

Saying “I don’t know” is a signal that you’re open to new experiences. That events might not always happen the way you expected. That you’re willing to be curious and to learn.

In Japanese, this mindset is called “shoshin” or the beginner’s mind and heart. It’s not only thinking, but also feeling like a beginner, and that’s how you stay young at any age.

For the first time in years, I also didn’t plan for this year. It’s a strange feeling to have when I have to let go and be flexible. I’m still getting used to this feeling because in the past, I was a chronic planner.

Instead of planning, I read my old journals from the previous years. While browsing an old notebook, I came across this entry.

Everything I wrote in this journal entry already happened, except for two things. Care to guess what they are? Reply to this email with your guess and if it’s correct, you’ll get a special treat.😉

Now, I understand if you’re hesitating to do something for the first time.

You fear the potential failure.

You fear rejection.

You fear the risks.

But that same fear can get you stuck in the same place forever.

And before you knew it, the years have gone by.

Your priorities changed.

New fears replaced the old ones.

Until you're on your deathbed and you're full of regrets.

Think about all the years ahead of you.

How many of your big dreams will come true sooner if you already started small?

How to read these journals?

I'm happy to invite you as a beta reader of my upcoming book, "Survive and Thrive: How to Unlock a Fulfilling Global Career and Life Adventure".

You have several options (depending on your preference and the time that you have):

Option 1: Review directly on the Google Docs copy. Comment on sections where you started to lose interest, or that you found confusing. You can find the docs version here. Would greatly appreciate if you can do this on/before 31 Jan 2026.

Option 2: Write your feedback in a Google form while responding to specific questions. Here's the form. Would greatly appreciate if you can do this on/before 31 Jan 2026.

Option 3: Upon book launch, write a review on Amazon. The book is scheduled for release on 20 Feb, 2026. You'll be able to write your reviews only after this date. You can write your reviews at any time after finishing the book, and also disclose that you received an advanced reader's copy. Visit the Amazon order page here.

Regardless of your choice, you can read the advanced copy here. Note that this is a draft copy, but it's more or less close to the final version.

Here are a few reminders as you read the book and review:

Are you unable to do your review within the requested timeframe? No worries. You can support the book in other ways, e.g.,

Again, here's the Amazon order page https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2SZHCRP

In case you have questions, feel free to reply. Thank you so much for your help!

PS. Do you know that “Survive and Thrive” now has a LinkedIn page? Visit the page and follow for updates!

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