Today, I was asked by management if I could present at a nationally renowned conference in the coming months. I would have the opportunity to display my expertise in a topic of personal preference to various companies within the industry. In doing so, could even gain points where the more conferences I present at or attend, will eventually further my recognition to whatever god-like status including the official certification to prove. Not to mention, would even be able to receive many pats on the back from fellow experts and the higher up. Without hesitation I declined and told the boss how I really felt about such events and people involved. Regardless of the copious amounts of free food and booze on offer, I simply could not ignore what I stand for as a human being (Damn, that sounded rather serious haha). I do understand it may look enviable on one’s resume and an effective mode of networking, but nowadays I simply don’t have the time, energy, nor patience to waste on people I don’t care about. A simple question yet reliable indicator to ask myself is - Would I want to waste my liver function on you? If not, then situation over – no means no.
Similar to my thoughts on the karate world, I guess. Why is it that so many people have the need to belong to a large group? The need of feeling a sense of acceptance? And even worse, the appetite to flaunt anything karate-related plucked from the air (or Youtube) and then wanting to quickly pass it on? Then again, is it just me - a weirdo who prefers to train alone without the craving to impress others? Anyway ladies and gentlemen, the next time I offer you a drink, feel privileged 😈!
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