Nov 12, 2023
Lessons I've learned from my managers
Growth
I’ve had the opportunity to work with incredible human beings—masters of their craft, sharp thinkers, and people who were genuinely invested in my growth as a teammate and designer.
Thanks to remote work, I’ve also had managers from a range of countries and cultures. I’ve learned from people who’ve walked very different paths in life. Working with teammates from different continents teaches you to "read through the culture"—a skill that helps you collaborate effectively with people who don’t think like you do.
Naturally, some managers were better than others. Comparison is inevitable. But from each one, I’ve learned something valuable—and that’s what I carry forward.
This is a personal collection of lessons—both professional and personal. Some I learned the hard way; others came from great mentors. All of them have shaped how I work, lead, and mentor others.
It’s okay to do things that don’t scale at first. Your brain needs the context. But once you’ve learned the landscape, build a system.
Talk to strangers—often, across time zones, across cultures. It’s a muscle. Reps matter.
Inquisitiveness is a skill. Be as sure as you can, then ask: What don’t I know yet?
Hard work pays off in the long run, even when the short term doesn’t show it.
Attention to detail. God is in the details.
Set a higher standard. Raise the bar.
Give feedback that lifts, not crushes.
Ask questions that help others grow. You don’t need all the answers—just open thinking avenues.
Try to break your designs multiple times. It’ll make them stronger.
Stories stick. Use them when managing stakeholders—they often lack full context.
Things can be done fast—faster than you think.
Find and trust your voice. Don’t be afraid to use it.
Care deeply about the people you lead.
Trust people. They're capable—and if not yet, they can grow with your support.
And a few I learned the hard way:
Give candid feedback to your manager. They’re not perfect—they’re growing, too.
Stand up for yourself. Bad managers exist.
This is still business. When you see cultural red flags, protect your mental health.