I just finished reading "I Am Not Good Enough" by Ismail Gafoor.
Ismail Gafoor is Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Propnex, Singapore's largest listed real estate agency.
Breaking free front the humblest of beginnings, he went from delivering newspapers at the break of dawn, to becoming an officer in the army.
The mettle he developed from these early experiences formed the firm foundation upon which he grew a business - one that not only revolutionized the way the industry operated, but also introduced professionalism and integrity to it. In doing so, millions of clients have found their dream homes.
Published in commemoration of Popnex's 25th anniversary, I Am Not Good Enough is more than a biography or corporate history book. It is an award-winning entrepreneur's candid take on what it entails to successfully build a organization. Top of that is being decisive and accountable, qualities which Ismail reinforce ls through multiple anecdotes, conveyed in his signature down-to-earth voice. Also rich in leadership tips and self-enrichment takeaways, and with a foreword by the President of Singapore, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the page-turner is an honest, heartfelt and at times humorous account of this Singapore property's icon's inspiring life.
There are few takeaways from this "I Am Not Good Enough" book:
(1) Education forms the bedrock of the formative years. Education is a lifelong journey, and the early years need not define growth and potential. Staying relevant and having the right knowledge allows for more options in life.
(2) Life may seem difficult and unfair but giving up is not the answer. Taking responsibility is the first step to solving most problems. The light at the end of the tunnel can ben attained with ownership and acceptance.
(3) Accept that life will be filled with tough choices that have to be made. Remain focused, listen to the inner voice and do not lose sight of any ambition. Have faith that dreams can be achieved.
(4) Do not let inferiority complex be a confidence killer. Acknowledging self-worth is a step towards fulfilling any hopes and dreams. Everyone is good enough.
(5) Be brave and face any difficult decisions head on. Decisions should be made with a clear mind by evaluation the situation and being guided by values. Destiny can be charted. Choose to live life to the fullest.
(6) There are dangers to becoming too embedded in a comfort zone. Be brave enough to take calculated risks - sometimes the returns are far greater. Always keep all options open to be able to spot new opportunities.
(7) Expect to occasionally face naysayers and opposing winds. Never accept "no" as the first answer. Stand up and fight. Walk away only after repeated attempts have failed. Be persistent, respectful and empathetic to achieve dreams.
(8) When entering a new playing field, spend time understanding the current situation first. Be bold to add value where it is missing. Contributing to the broader industry creates a better ecosystem to thrive within.
(9) Start small but dream big. Fear can impede progress, and this can be overcome by understanding the limitations and finding solutions for them. A big step forward with the right intentions can lead to new breakthroughs.
(10) Focus on doing good. The money will follow later. Aim high, even if competitors are nipping at the heels. New beginnings bring endless promise and possibility.
(11) In any relationship, the misalignment of values will lead to conflict. When problems arise, assess their root causes and fix them early before the negativity goes exacerbated. New heights can be achieved with positive energy.
(12) Nurture all relationships with partners or run the risk of encountering discord. Keep close those who stand for the same cause and let go of the doubters. Work with like-minded individuals for stellar results.
(13) Do not be short-sighted. Always think for the long-term. Be bold in making tough calls even in the face of dissent. A strong company can only be built with a clear vision, mission, and core values.
(14) Growth and culture take time and effort to implement. Do not be held hostage by disbelievers. Leaders who are consistent in their values and lead fairly without fear of biasness will be respected.
(15) It is normal to spot gaps and inefficiencies within teams or organizations. Be open to trying new things but only keep initiatives that are efficient and effective. Never stop trying to add value.
(16) Do not fall victim to taking on more than can be handled. Periodically make time for reflection and recalibration. Good leaders always set the direction and keep the goal in mind.
(17) Expect the unexpected - especially those can derail carefully laid plans. Know when to walk away for the good of the organization and its people. Every incident has a silver lining - seek it out and learn how to benefit from it.
(18) Keep an open mind and do not allow the ego to obstruct opportunities to learn and grow. Once a commitment has been made, be present in the moment and make the best of it. The opportunity to learn and grow can come in the most unexpected of places.
(19) Understand which is the most indispensable part of any business. People matter the most. Taking care of staff and treating them well will yield positive outcomes. Do the right thing and others will sit up and take notice.
(20) Opportunities can come knocking anytime - including more than once. Do not let a negative prior experience inhibit the way forward. When the second wind blows, ride the waves and be propelled forward by it.
(21) Be prepared by any crisis - including Black Swan events. Do not expect to always be able to be in control. When crafting responses in a crisis, always consider the needs of the primary stakeholders. Even in the darkest hours, when there is a will, there is a way.
(22) Strategize the growth of market share to drive revenue. Give priority to marketing by having reasonable budgets with clear objectives. Gaining consumers' trust and confidence will lead to healthier bottom lines.
(23) Organizations must focus on how to survive and thrive. It is important to future gaze and keep up with the latest advancements and innovations. Maintain a close eye on the indicators that tell how well an organization is performing.
(24) Leadership is a relay race where the baton must intentionally be passed on. Identify staff who are aligned with the company's core values and invest time in training and grooming them. Having a succession plan will see to the continuity of the organization.
(25) Give back to society. Grow the business and build the bonds it has with the community through giving back. Make it part of the company culture. Philanthropy goes a long way.
