Leading, not as a captain but as a shipwright

It's always been the case that people always wanted to become the best, but sometimes, they look-up to the wrong persona, wanting to be the best. Before having a desire of becoming the best, ask yourself "the best of what?". That way, you're certain who you wanna become and your whys will align with what you're doing.

I see myself as a builder, someone who loves crafting, engineering, tinkering of anything that interest me. I didn't have a formal education, so it's important for me to have in-depth hands-on experience so I can learn a thing — and sometimes, it becomes so expensive because it's an investment you put into yourself over time — and as they say, time is the most precious resource you have in the world. However, in return, you'll know things pretty well, more than what's common to most. And this is where specialization is honed and mastery is solidified!

If you're following One Piece, you've probably heard about the King of Pirates, Gol D. Roger. Behind his success is Tom, a shipwright known for his craft. If it wasn't for the masterpiece he built for Roger, the now known pirate king wouldn't be able to conquer the vast seas of the Grand Line.

Tom built some of the best sea transportation vessels, one is Oro Jackson, the ship of the Roger Pirates. Tom's work on Oro Jackson, The Sea Train, and the blueprint of Pluton is a testament to his craftsmanship, and his persona is definitely one I admire the most.

Why Tom?

• because he doesn't want anything aside from being able to build something that he can call his. He sticks to what he is passionate about.
• because he maintains a low profile, even though he knows that his mastery could give him a fortune.
• because he doesn't brag about what he has done, but the people who knew his accomplishments knows that he's one-of-a-kind, and this is how he gained those people's respect.
• because he doesn't keep his knowledge to himself and taught everything he knows to his apprentice. Who now became great shipwright themselves (Franky and Iceburg).
• because he didn't want any of the fame, and rather pursue self-fulfillment from his work.
• because he is committed to quality and excellence — and challenges his abilities to the extreme, aka leading himself.

If there is one person responsible for Roger's success, it would be Tom. He's the one who put Roger onto the map! And surely, his work is worth more than the Pirate King's bounty.

Success is what we define it. Some find it by attaining money, fortune, and fame. Some find it by acquiring skills, mastery, and specialization. Whatever you're up to, be successful in what you're doing!