Back in Tokyo for just about a week, and I now find myself at the airport again — this time heading to Europe. As I write this from the boarding gate, I’ve been reflecting on the past few days: slowly easing back into the fast-paced rhythm of life in the big city while trying to hold on to the focus and sense of solitude I found during my time in the US.
Here’s how my week 1,535 unfolded.
🎥 What I Created
Projects:
WIP: An article on the topic of working at a global company.
Story behind it:
The Japan team that I’ve been part of has been growing rapidly — it’s now twice as big as it was last year. To succeed in the Japan market, we’re learning to find the most effective balance between globalization and localization in the way we work. I’m hoping to share my own working experience as I believe what I’m experiencing now offers valuable insights into how a global company can succeed in Japan.
🏃 How Much I Ran
Distance / Time:
30.94 km / 3 hrs 33 mins
Body & mind notes:
I enjoyed watching a muted news broadcast on the treadmill screen. Without sound, I was able to stay grounded and maintain a sense of inner peace throughout the run.
I earned one-third of the distance on Sunday, when I ran outside while visiting a friend in Berlin.
📚 What I Read
Book / Article / Podcast:
Continuing Surrounded by Bad Bosses and Lazy Employees.
Quote that stuck:
The style of communication isn’t what’s important; rather, what distinguishes a successful boss from a less successful one is being aware of that style of communication, whatever it may be. The more a boss learns about themself, the better they are at leading others.
🤝 Who I Met or Spoke To
Who:
A former colleague from the first company I joined out of college. We were on the Japan expansion team at a Europe-based startup. She had a true hacker’s mentality — bringing positive energy and creative breakthroughs in even the toughest situations. At the time, she was my role model. I remember thinking, “I want to be like her someday.”
Memorable moments:
We joined a running group she’s part of and did a 10K run through the streets of Berlin in the morning. One of the runners gave me a mini tour during the course, so it felt like I checked off a bit of sightseeing, too. Afterwards, we visited a friend/former colleague of hers for brunch. It turned into a full, precious day of getting to know her world. We talked about how cool it would be to run a marathon together next year. TBD!
🔭 Next Week’s Peek
Looking forward to:
I’ll be visiting Amsterdam for the entire week. It’s the one time each year when people from all our global offices come together in person and look back on the journey so far.
Why it matters:
The last time I was in Amsterdam was exactly two years ago. Since joining the company, this will be my second time attending the week. A lot has changed since then — both within the company and within myself. It’s a special opportunity to connect with colleagues from around the world, reflect on what we’ve been working on, and taking a moment to revisit why we do what we do.
Hope you had a nice week.
Catch you next Sunday!