Omid Kordestani (Google’s SVP for Global Sales and Business Development) gave some advice on the value of “Ah Ha!” moments- essentially going with your gut. Probably one of the best commencement addresses I have heard that helps with the Quarter Life Crisismany of my friends experience.
I just arrived back from Austin, TX: the South by Southwest (SXSW-Interactive) to be exact. I’m catching up on e-mails and other business-related material. I had a great time (will blog more about it later) and met a lot of “ah ha” people.
Here’s Omid’s commencement address at San Jose State University on May 26, 2007:
His “Ah Ha!” Moments:
- He must think and act like an immigrant- discover, be optimistic, and have a sense of place. Don’t let anyone tell you that “you cannot.” Believe in your immigrant routes.
- Follow your instincts, not the money. Don’t be an engineer just becaused you’re trained, don’t be in i-banking just because of your experience.
- It’s all about the path. Work and family is still a tough balance- now it is a work-life blend. You’re the never done learning or understanding your ultimate path… don’t be defined or limited by the steps you have taken in life or the degree you have chosen. Don’t worry that you have no idea what you want to do next.