My China Dream

Who still remembers what you did in 16th Jan 2005?

Let me tell you about my experience that day that changed my life and started my China Dream. On Sunday night of the 16th of Jan 2005 I was walking at Nathan Road in Hong Kong. Who has been to Hong Kong before?

At 10PM in the evening I was walking around and had to shufhle my way forward due to the many people on the street. I was interested and fascinated to learn more about this culture and opportunities.

In 2007 I came to China again, but this time for a period of 6 weeks. I traveled to Shanghai, Xi'an, Beijing and even Hengjian where I joined as an extra in a Jackie Chan and Jet Li movie. During this trip I knew that I wanted to work and live in either Shanghai or New York. I just fell in love with the energy and opportunities.

3 years passed by hoping that the international company I worked for would sent me to China. When that didn't seem to happen I booked a trip to China to again meet up with people there hoping to find a job. I met with over 50 people having breakfast, coffee, lunch, dinner, drinks or anything that could get me closer to my dream. Because it was my dream. No one elses. So I had to make this a reality.

All of the people I met were my weak links. People that are friends of friends of friends. I had never met them and that is always a bit weird. I learned that I needed to get in proximity of the people that are doing it in the places where it is happening. Lucky for me two of the people I met were willing to consinder me for a job. Still no job offer just some interest. It took me another 3 months before I signed a contract and booked a flight to start my China dream.

When the day came closer I started to become scared. I thought what have I done. I have good life here. Why I am I giving up on this chasing something. Honestly I could not explain why. I still remember I was crying on the sofa at my brothers place with my older brother and mother next to me. It was hard to let go of a comfortable life into the unknown. A country I hardly spoke the language of and hardly knew anyone. What I did know that if I wouldnot chase this dream I would regret it forever.

Today I want to challenge you. Think about what your biggest dream is? Not getting rich, but something you would regret when you are 80 looking back at your life. Try it and write it down. It will change your life forever

I can proudly say I am living my China dream. It took me 6 years to make it real. Big dreams don't happen over night. It requires baby steps. A baby doesn't run when it comes out of the belly. It takes effort and patience. Keep dreaming and hope all of your dreams will come true.

Thank you!