A company’s culture is the foundation for future innovation. An entrepreneur's job is to build the foundation.

- Brian Chesky, CEO of Airbnb

Whether it be building products or building teams I believe in following the below guiding principles as a way to create a good and sustainable culture.

Be good

Being a good person by being compassionate, kind, tolerant and forgiving.

Run fast & stay flat

Don’t let the old style hierarchy slow you down.  Do what you need / talk to who you need in a repesctful manner to get things done.

Be like water

Adapting to the situation rather than being stressed out or rigid.

(Emotional) Availability

Being there to help each other and our customers is good but just as important is listening.  We need to be there for people during the ups and the downs.

Active transparency & openness

Keep information flowing in all directions to keep people in the know.

No fear

Creating a psychologically safe space so people won’t be afraid to ask questions or try ideas.

Do better

It’s up to each person to make things better.  If you see something that could be done/said better, then do it.

Laughter

Keeping things light hearted and fun is important so that people don’t feel burnt out.  Laughter is the best medicine.

Everyone is responsible for everyone as a whole person

Each person is more than just an employee