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45 and Reflections: Work, Growth, Wisdom

45 and Reflections: Work, Growth, Wisdom

Life is a learning journey and at 45 I have learned a lot about success, balance and personal growth.

The Early Years of Entrepreneurship

I started my journey in late middle school where I began building virtual brands and selling computer hardware. PC2000, my custom PC brand was my first entrepreneurial venture. The internet in 1997 opened up new opportunities with ticaretmerkezi.com, a corporate directory website that became a money maker.

The Workaholic

Throughout my 20s and 30s work was my constant companion. Weekends, holidays, even beach vacations – I was always working. My bulk email software, a simple tool in 1998, became a complex business ecosystem.

The Shift

Entering my 40s was a big shift. I started prioritizing:

  • Mental and physical health
  • Experiences over material possessions
  • Meaningful relationships
  • Personal growth and self awareness

Living Lean

My businesses became leaner. I started building lean businesses monthly, focused on efficiency and purpose. My social circle became more intentional, I kept only the relationships that truly mattered.

The Most Important Things

Now I value:

  • My wife and children
  • Every moment of life
  • Personal experiences
  • Mental and physical strength

The Biggest Lesson

I learned that importance creates imbalance. Releasing the grip on goals, materials and experiences makes for a more balanced life journey. Dreams are important but not at the cost of life’s overall balance. At 45 I feel hopeful. The best is yet to come and I’m ready for it with wisdom, intention and joy.

My Random Thoughts

Life Events: Your Reaction Shapes Their Impact

Life Events: Your Reaction Shapes Their Impact

Good things create positive momentum. People get over excited and lose focus during good times. Keep your normal habits during good times. The CEO of Microsoft, Satya Nadella, kept the same work ethic and decision making process during Microsoft’s record breaking quarters and tough times.

1/27/2025
Being Down is Normal – Even for Optimists

Being Down is Normal – Even for Optimists

Humans don’t process like machines. Your brain releases cortisol in tough situations. Research shows this biological response helped our ancestors survive. Instead of fighting it, accept these natural reactions.

1/7/2025
Stop Rushing: How Moving Slow Helps You Achieve More

Stop Rushing: How Moving Slow Helps You Achieve More

FOMO, or the “fear of missing out,” is a term we often hear in stock trading. It’s that anxious feeling that you’re missing out on something great that everyone else is part of.

2/4/2024