I learned about the difference between the Bureaucratic Mentality and the Entrepreneurial Mentality from a leader – K. – during one of his sharing sessions in Talent Green House Program. It left a strong impression on me and stayed in my mind. Later, in a BD Master Class, the formal Supplier Ombudsman shared the same table again. It’s a simple comparison, but I’ve since adopted it as my compass to navigate my work life.

After a conversation with another leader – M., I shared this comparison with her – and she loved it as much as I do. She asked me, “Will you take initiative and do a little extra?” Then she mentioned some projects I might be interested in, like recycled materials for steel, which led to a potential connection with the materials manager.

I believe I’ve often involved myself in different projects and assignments beyond my role as a Business Developer. However, after learning this mindset comparison, I started to take on even more. Some I lead, some I co-lead, some I simply contribute to, and some I inspire others to do. Eventually, I realized these assignments and projects are a real source of motivation and energy that helps me start my day with purpose.

It’s easy to excuse ourselves from taking on extra projects outside our job description. There are many valid reasons—and I understand and relate to them. But as I reflect on the right column — The Entrepreneurial Mentality — I’ve started using those statements as guiding questions. Is the person I want to be on the right side or the left side? Is the kind of person I want to work with on the right or the left?

For example, when I have a new idea, should I set it aside and just focus on my daily work—or should I do something differently? Lately, I’ve decided to share my ideas with others. Some of them are already turning into reality, even though they started as something small and simple. I’m especially hopeful about the social entrepreneur (SE) project I’m working on. I hope this small idea becomes a real bridge between SE and the “X” company.

When I take on a new challenge or face change, I no longer fear the chaos and unknown—because I’ve prepared myself for it. I ask myself: do I want to work with someone who always says, “It’s not my task”? Or would I rather work with someone who says, “That’s a great assignment, let’s do it together”? And even more importantly — who do I want to be?

I know I’m still on the journey to fully develop my Entrepreneurial Mentality, but this journal is a reminder to myself: this is who I want to become, and these are the kinds of people I want to work with — people with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Thank you.