Amble about trying to do some good. Likes silly jokes and cheese and onion sandwiches. Please don't pitch me .
Random ripples:):):)
#Internationalmensday2024 700+ Applications. Rock Bottom. And Then… LinkedIn Saved Me. July 2023 was meant to be one of the happiest months of my life. My wife and I were days away from welcoming our second child, Sonny. But just one week before his birth, I was made redundant from my senior product manager role—a job I loved. After Sonny was born (via c-section), I decided to take time off to support my wife, bond with my newborn, and care for my other four children. Initially, I planned to take the rest of the year off. But my wife was more sensible and suggested I start job hunting. I agreed. What followed was 800+ job applications, countless rejections, and dwindling savings. Letters from creditors arrived daily. The pressure was relentless, my beautiful marriage was strained, and I truly hit rock bottom. I could see no way out. It was then I realised: This is the place where so many men aged 45–49 don’t make it out alive. My wife and I even attended the funeral of her friend’s husband, who had tragically made a permanent decision to a temporary problem. For the first time, I understood why someone might feel that way. In my darkest moment, I found myself hopelessly scrolling LinkedIn. That’s when I came across Doug Scott’s post, offering to chat with anyone feeling lost. Desperate, I reached out. Doug kept his promise. Our conversations were a turning point, giving me the strength to start climbing out of the darkness. Doug introduced me to Alex Dunsdon and Vladimir Mulhem 🔗🧠, whose kindness and wisdom reignited a spark in me. The biggest lesson I’ve learned? If you can’t find the light at the end of the tunnel, you have to create it. Today, my marriage is stronger, my children are thriving, and I’m part of, building a travel tech idea I’m passionate about. 9 Lessons I Learned ... 1️⃣ Reaching out is a sign of strength. People are willing to help—you just have to ask. 2️⃣ Silence feeds darkness. Talking breaks the cycle of shame. Share your struggles. 3️⃣ Focus on what you can control. Even small steps can shift the momentum. 4️⃣ Create your own light. Seek positivity wherever you can—through people, books, or small acts of kindness. 5️⃣ We’re all one situation away from ‘Shit Creek.’ While you can’t prevent life’s challenges, preparation can soften the blow. 6️⃣ Be empathetic. The kindness I’ve been shown has humbled me. I’m committed to improving in this area. 7️⃣ People are always watching. Some will engage with your posts, most won’t—but they’re still paying attention. Be kind! 8️⃣ You’re not defined by your lowest moment. What you do next matters most. 9️⃣ Kindness is a ripple effect. Doug Scott’s generosity inspired me. Pay it forward. Thanks Imran Anwar for the push to draw a line under everything and take back control. There’s no better place to do that than here, where my professional network became my lifeline. To anyone feeling overwhelmed: You’re not alone. Hold on. Keep going. The light will return.
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Venture Capital | Strategic & growth advisory | M&A | NED & Chair
4wI concur - always a pleasure to interact with people like you and Alex Dunsdon!