Still remember the day I talked to my ex-manager on my wish to move to Jakarta office. He said to me and looked me in the eyes, is it really what you wish for? I plan to promote you this year and send you for expatriation to France next year. Won’t you regret your decision? If you move, you’ll start everything from zero again. I cannot guarantee you’ll have the career path as you wanted there.
And I said, yes Pak, this is what I want. I have chosen the man of life and there’s no way he can work here so I follow him. I won’t regret my decision, why? I’ll earn my promotion in the new place. If it’s later, be it. I won’t complain. Then, expatriation is not the ultimate goal of one’s career. Well, not for me at least.
He then gave his permission for me to leave, with a note that echoes in my ears. Then move Mia, prove that wherever you go, you’ll mean something to your surroundings. Earn your promotion in the new place, I ain’t give you one now, prove that you’ll do good in your new position and tell me good news, ok?
And so, a year after I moved, I got the promotion I wanted. Step by step I learn new things in my new division, make new friends, new network.
Next month will remark my 3 years presence in Jakarta office. I am now leading 4 contracts and on the right track. It’s not an easy road, but I managed to stay well. Got many support from my new bosses, colleagues, and friends here. But the upmost motivation for me is off course the men of my life where I come home to each and every day.
So, Pak, I thank you for having confidence in me that I’ll be doing well in my new place. I’m loving it and wouldn’t be where I am now without your support.