I got back to the states the other day. Here are the lessons learned from this trip overseas:If it can go wrong, it will go wrong. Mentally prepare for every possibility. Enjoy being surprised when things go right.Markets reflect taste. If you want to know how a food should taste, visit a local market. Bigger cars don’t always mean bigger parking spots. How much of life is about cramming a ton of things into a tiny window of time? Seeing the people who are in your charge as a total person first always creates trust. Your team wants to see you doing things alongside them. Admired leaders don’t need to get angry or be annoying to make a point. Aggression is no substitute for being assertive. Nobody wins from overreaction. Good quality sleep is critical for health. I have a bucket list of things I want to do next time I arrive.Climb Mount ArayatA number of coffee places.Visit a coffee farm in Cavite.Visit a few restaurants that have been added to my map.Visit Ilo Ilo and enjoy Kansi with a friend.Find the best Mexican food in the Philippines. It’s a fun challenge!Travel and being in uncomfortable situations are the best forms of teachers. Period.

Last modified on 2024-02-02