tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1220280193312026852023-11-16T07:52:03.507-08:00I want to always feel like part of this was mineMiss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-60663510552785685532012-06-25T16:07:00.001-07:002012-06-25T16:07:36.390-07:00It's going to be worth it.<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile4.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2012-06-25/dbsccEiJEsuzsAmGjayCJIIIvvojcraoxhwgfxbIdpkFjsvxBpdoBhbHtrIg/worthit.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Worthit" height="488" src="http://getfile1.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2012-06-25/dbsccEiJEsuzsAmGjayCJIIIvvojcraoxhwgfxbIdpkFjsvxBpdoBhbHtrIg/worthit.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> "I'm not telling you it's going to be easy. I'm telling you it's going to be worth it."</p> <p>About a year ago I wrote about <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/why-i-love-my-job" target="_blank">Why I love my job</a>. Time flies and another 12 months have gone by, and I am here to say it again one more time - I love my job and I love being a part of Oxygen Cloud. </p> <p>Trying to work at a startup isn't easy. Trying to build a truly game-changing new technology platform isn't easy. Trying to change the world isn't easy. Trying to get the team to stick together and focus isn't easy. There are a lot of challenges, and sorry none of it is ever going to be easy. </p> <p>Sometimes I think people in the Silicon Valley have a somewhat skewed or false sense of perception of what working at the startup really is about. Everyone "knows" someone who works at Facebook, everyone "knows" a friend who is doing another startup that is about to get funding, everyone "knows" someone who knows someone... etc etc. Everyone reads TechCrunch and you hear about all the new "hot" startups being "successful" after launching within a few months or a year - getting more money, getting more users, etc. But ask any of the writers and bloggers about their flooded email inbox - for every startup they choose to cover there are dozens and hundreds more who have pitched them about their new ideas and all the glorious hopes and dreams that the entrepremeur has for the new company. There are so many more startups out there trying to make it but you never hear about them. And even more have failed. And you almost never read about those either. </p> <p>Recently Ben Horowitz wrote an article on TechCrunch called <a href="http://techcrunch.com/2012/06/14/the-struggle/" target="_blank">The Struggle</a>. It's a great read about what all entrepreneurs go through as they start their business. Honestly I think a lot of that struggle also applies to us working at a startup. It applies to the ones who believe in the vision, the ones working tirelessly to improve the product, the ones who constantly think about what we can do better to become successful while we're in the shower, on the bus, and even over family dinner. </p> <p>Ben made a good point - </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;">"The Struggle is not failure, but it causes failure. Especially if you are weak. Always if you are weak.</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;">Most people are not strong enough."</p> <p>So true. So many have left us during my 3+ years here at Oxygen. It's not easy to keep holding on and keep trying to grind it out when the first (or second, or even third) launch doesn't result in some highly anticipated overnight success. It's not easy trying to innovate when it seems like everyone is trying to do the same thing, and there is a new competitor launching every other week. It's not easy to generate awareness and momentum. It's not easy to execute and release your product as planned without hiccups.</p> <p>But at the same time many more have joined us on our journey as well. We share the same vision and we work together to achieve our goals. Oxygen is a home away from home, my team is my family. When we do make it, the sense of accomplishment knowing that we've made a difference -- a real difference that matters, that changes the future of work, will make all the struggle now worthwhile. </p> <p>So don't be a sheep. <a href="http://oxygencloud.com/careers.html" target="_blank">Join us</a> and let's be strong together. It's not going to be easy, but it's going to be worth it.</p> <p>Love,<br />Julia</p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/its-going-to-be-worth-it">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-38404522923036607462012-05-19T13:29:00.001-07:002012-05-19T13:29:01.591-07:00I've missed you so.<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/K0lc8rAtuf/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile4.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/AoaIctDaAykFokoCzaqFelCszslJicdgsklfBqhjCplinGhGciaafIvxwDvJ/media_httpdistilleryi_DaslI.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpdistilleryi_dasli" height="500" src="http://getfile2.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/AoaIctDaAykFokoCzaqFelCszslJicdgsklfBqhjCplinGhGciaafIvxwDvJ/media_httpdistilleryi_DaslI.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/ive-missed-you-so">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-1059988265218544712012-04-19T03:35:00.003-07:002012-04-19T03:35:20.197-07:00Homemade cupcakes by @jmis for #tdhk tweetvengers meetup!<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/JmRi9sgtoc/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile5.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/bpfvHyCgbzlprdgoEvyxFExJbyGhayxJnhrnuecpprIrnBEqBchAgzerpfBd/media_httpdistilleryi_ajBsi.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpdistilleryi_ajbsi" height="500" src="http://getfile1.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/bpfvHyCgbzlprdgoEvyxFExJbyGhayxJnhrnuecpprIrnBEqBchAgzerpfBd/media_httpdistilleryi_ajBsi.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a><br />Taken at FLY <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/homemade-cupcakes-by-jmis-for-tdhk-tweetvenge">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-14465977645961770442012-04-19T03:35:00.001-07:002012-04-19T03:35:18.909-07:00Homemade cupcakes by @jmis for #tdhk tweetvengers meetup!<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/JmRi9sgtoc/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile7.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/oIrxCeraArBvaJoHtArJsovDEhsAEpnylwHgpzzeJwIlivgzAbyBibDgCHhF/media_httpdistilleryi_nuDGl.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpdistilleryi_nudgl" height="500" src="http://getfile3.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/oIrxCeraArBvaJoHtArJsovDEhsAEpnylwHgpzzeJwIlivgzAbyBibDgCHhF/media_httpdistilleryi_nuDGl.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a><br />Taken at FLY <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/homemade-cupcakes-by-jmis-for-tdhk-tweetvenge-10978">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-6218682170599550072011-12-02T00:52:00.001-08:002011-12-02T00:52:09.988-08:00The holidays are here :)<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile7.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/HkrgECevgmnIFusvHEuxlDleusFuxymlCrbrzuDCEegvhsGpDpeuEsDhxjBz/p180.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="P180" height="570" src="http://getfile4.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/HkrgECevgmnIFusvHEuxlDleusFuxymlCrbrzuDCEegvhsGpDpeuEsDhxjBz/p180.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/the-holidays-are-here">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-60781429040278149832011-11-29T06:25:00.001-08:002011-11-29T06:25:01.590-08:00Feeling like I'm 12 again<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile1.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/ojGlADHodxIiEBbnHsEcvkbBurdnurqvphkwHjdeJwgJkvzwyIfcvJaGDIir/p150.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="P150" height="667" src="http://getfile7.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/ojGlADHodxIiEBbnHsEcvkbBurdnurqvphkwHjdeJwgJkvzwyIfcvJaGDIir/p150.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p>Kinder hazelnut chocolate bar and melon soy milk ftw! <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/feeling-like-im-12-again">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-81980937581791143092011-11-27T18:58:00.001-08:002011-11-27T18:58:05.180-08:00A Puppy's Monday Blues<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile5.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-27/gHfIEAsGvgbJkjnidsjBalvludgugGHHqepnHmvCzcxjnzzGGjrEafFaGcDr/MondayBlues.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Mondayblues" height="387" src="http://getfile0.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-27/gHfIEAsGvgbJkjnidsjBalvludgugGHHqepnHmvCzcxjnzzGGjrEafFaGcDr/MondayBlues.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> Gummy is bummed. </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/a-puppys-monday-blues">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-29716637857308157202011-11-22T02:00:00.001-08:002011-11-22T02:00:30.661-08:00Cartoon Cupcakes Galore<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile6.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/tHDpthfesyjGoAcJiClJFCgfIDAvgBJdEmcjfwotjdxkGgceBHiAtzjisBAB/p89.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="P89" height="669" src="http://getfile8.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/tHDpthfesyjGoAcJiClJFCgfIDAvgBJdEmcjfwotjdxkGgceBHiAtzjisBAB/p89.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p>How can anyone be unhappy looking at this cupcake collection? From Toy Story to Spiderman, Sesame Street to Totoro! #loveit <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/cartoon-cupcakes-galore">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-87897716561147992172011-11-19T00:54:00.001-08:002011-11-19T00:54:37.029-08:00Christmas cupcakes :)<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UyCcp/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile7.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/qwgIcaqahFmhBsICsxnqtCsExGpHgaCyueahlbmhBIBfBblgvkkhGvhtvuny/media_httpdistilleryi_hnCnA.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpdistilleryi_hncna" height="500" src="http://getfile6.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/qwgIcaqahFmhBsICsxnqtCsExGpHgaCyueahlbmhBIBfBblgvkkhGvhtvuny/media_httpdistilleryi_hnCnA.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/christmas-cupcakes">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-9936247856926276892011-11-16T01:41:00.001-08:002011-11-16T01:41:28.381-08:00True story: Replaced by Siri<div class='posterous_autopost'><p>My boyfriend's attempt to replace me with Siri.</p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile8.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/pgBHFcrFDlDGhdaEtIrtFEuiAkaGDnkDvyzJceBmhvgBqymdmqdpiAbxisqy/311326_645325660387_34600877_34091983_117531641_n.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="311326_645325660387_34600877_34091983_117531641_n" height="750" src="http://getfile5.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/pgBHFcrFDlDGhdaEtIrtFEuiAkaGDnkDvyzJceBmhvgBqymdmqdpiAbxisqy/311326_645325660387_34600877_34091983_117531641_n.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile0.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/miCEraikIGhIswGolvofzGpxnaotlIhzeCckbmGrnasebeAosACsoknoEhsu/384581_645292841157_34600877_34091865_1057591552_n.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="384581_645292841157_34600877_34091865_1057591552_n" height="750" src="http://getfile9.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/miCEraikIGhIswGolvofzGpxnaotlIhzeCckbmGrnasebeAosACsoknoEhsu/384581_645292841157_34600877_34091865_1057591552_n.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> <div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile7.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/CGesjDhbrkjdwxGJsdzbtnkaaefAtzADknbBBCEahHlbzneIBgkJIuzmmeFA/316436_645292506827_34600877_34091864_48518796_n.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="316436_645292506827_34600877_34091864_48518796_n" height="750" src="http://getfile3.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/CGesjDhbrkjdwxGJsdzbtnkaaefAtzADknbBBCEahHlbzneIBgkJIuzmmeFA/316436_645292506827_34600877_34091864_48518796_n.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> <div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://getfile1.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/GptdfxnhczvcxoqztbCwDmtIrrFugqcCDnHeeJkikgrbIEfpEHlzxrFohbID/310352_645499442127_34600877_34093004_965477635_n.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="310352_645499442127_34600877_34093004_965477635_n" height="750" src="http://getfile1.posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-11-16/GptdfxnhczvcxoqztbCwDmtIrrFugqcCDnHeeJkikgrbIEfpEHlzxrFohbID/310352_645499442127_34600877_34093004_965477635_n.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </p> <p>At least Siri rejected him.</p> <p> </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/true-story-replaced-by-siri">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-11614055850229751372011-11-14T21:08:00.001-08:002011-11-14T21:08:00.620-08:00Re-Adjusting: Coffee<div class='posterous_autopost'><p>I'll have a series of posts coming up that's on how I am re-adjusting to life here in Hong Kong. It'll be bits and pieces of my everyday life: such as joining an expat gym, getting pushed off the MTR by mainlanders, figuring out why I have so many "VIP" memberships from every single retail store, learning how to "turn on" the water heater... </p> <p>And it all started with my daily fix of caffeine. </p> <p>I've been back in Hong Kong for about a month and I have yet to find a favorite coffee place. Well I guess that wasn't all that unexpected, considering the fact that I am still moving next week and living out of suitcases for a while now.</p> <p>The problem is - I can't even order a regular cup of coffee correctly!</p> <p>I was just over at Pacific Coffee Company (only because it's conveniently close but nothing there is that great), and I asked for a coffee to go. Then the cashier asked, "Would you like milk?"</p> <p>"I'd like half and half instead of milk."</p> <p>She gave me this puzzled look. So I decided to clarify, "Not milk, but I'd like coffee cream please."</p> <p>She nodded in acknowledgment. </p> <p>2 minutes later, I have a cup of black coffee with whipped cream on top. </p> <p>And no. That did not taste good. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/re-adjusting-coffee">Living in the cloud</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-43051135549169679652011-09-15T22:08:00.001-07:002011-09-15T22:08:46.631-07:00My baby boy.<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/NMkGF/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/bzCItuatiDdzaIFnijnlDbwqGelqaEbIkheybzknbvxBmqloggIHjzBCvbqo/media_httpimagesinsta_xovyz.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_xovyz" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/bzCItuatiDdzaIFnijnlDbwqGelqaEbIkheybzknbvxBmqloggIHjzBCvbqo/media_httpimagesinsta_xovyz.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/my-baby-boy">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-46907353691306253952011-08-26T18:25:00.001-07:002011-08-26T18:25:32.505-07:00Everything Happens For A Reason...<div class='posterous_autopost'><div><span style="color: rgb(24, 24, 24); font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">"I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together."</span><span style="color: rgb(24, 24, 24); font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </span></div> <p /><div><span style="color: rgb(24, 24, 24); font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">— <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/82952.Marilyn_Monroe" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 0); text-decoration: none;">Marilyn Monroe</a></span></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/everything-happens-for-a-reason">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-35605728794655941442011-08-16T18:43:00.001-07:002011-08-16T18:43:06.694-07:00Best Friend<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-08-16/hFhJdffAGECdDrAvbCntvduHJedvGozelDEjicoCfvaFBnJisFraFDzxxwjt/photo_5_3.JPG.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Photo_5_3" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/temp-2011-08-16/hFhJdffAGECdDrAvbCntvduHJedvGozelDEjicoCfvaFBnJisFraFDzxxwjt/photo_5_3.JPG.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> <span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The one who knows all about me and loves me anyway. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Thank you <3</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.twitter.com/jmis" target="_blank">@jmis</a>. </span></span></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/best-friend">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-36188161123213235352011-07-14T23:29:00.001-07:002011-07-14T23:29:46.532-07:00Don't Settle<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><span style="color: #111111; font-family: Lucida Grande, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px;">"Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. </span></p> <p><span style="color: #111111; font-family: Lucida Grande, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px;"><strong>Don't settle.</strong>" </span></p> <p><span style="color: #111111; font-family: Lucida Grande, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px;">- Steve Jobs</span></p> <p>Watch his full speech here: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLc">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLc</a></p> <p>Text of the commencement address: <a href="http://news.stanford.edu/news/2005/june15/jobs-061505.html">http://news.stanford.edu/news/2005/june15/jobs-061505.html</a></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/dont-settle">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-14917081752253293522011-06-21T15:35:00.001-07:002011-06-21T15:35:06.816-07:00Why I Love My Job<div class='posterous_autopost'><p>I love my job.</p> <p class="p2">And that is an understatement. I love what I do everyday and its more than just a "job" to me. </p> <p class="p2">I had lunch with a new acquaintance I met recently who works at a different company. We shared stories about what we do and she talks about wanting to switch companies/careers because she isn't in a position for growth. While I tried to carry on with the conversation and talk to her about her situation, the whole time I just can't stop thinking, "wow, I am so lucky". </p> <p class="p2">I love going into work everyday. There is never a morning where I dread driving into the office. There is never a day where I would stare at the clock and count down till end of day because I wasn't happy. I enjoy working, even when its busy and stressful (which is a lot of times), it's never miserable.There is rarely a day where I'd wish I don't have to work (okay fine maybe with the rare exceptions of an upcoming trip to Hawaii or something), I'm always happy to be at work. </p> <p class="p2"><strong>3 Years Ago</strong></p> <p class="p2">So I consider myself as a fairly responsible and hardworking person. But when you love what you do, it becomes so much easier.</p> <p class="p2">Three years ago I was working at Bank of America and I hated it. I was overworked & underpaid (they violated all rules to avoid paying me overtime - "Julia lets schedule you two lunches and please work from 8am till 8pm"), but out of a sense of responsibility, I still worked very hard and I did well. I was considered a good, dependable employee and my manager liked me. But I hated it. I was miserable. I went through months feeling completely lost, defeated and unsure of myself. I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life and everyday became a drab. </p> <p class="p2">Finally the moment arrived. I got into a disagreement with my branch manager, and in the middle of the argument I realize - this is pointless. So I calmly told her that I'm officially putting in my two weeks. She was shocked, then she asked me what can she do so I would stay, and I responded, "Nothing. What can you possibly offer me? More money? It's not just about money. Promote me? There is no position here that I want to be in, I don't even want to have your job." After that I was at a point of no return. I turned in my letter and left the bank a few weeks later.</p> <p class="p2">Then out of additional personal reasons (a difficult breakup) I decided that I need to figure out what I want to do and stop wasting time. I packed up my whole life in a U-Haul, left San Diego and moved up to the bay area. </p> <p class="p2">As I browsed craigslist and careerbuilders.com for jobs, I decided that I want to do marketing. Why not? It sounds fun. But then here is the problem, I've never done marketing, I knew nothing about marketing, and I had no clue if I'd even be any good at it. So for a few months I kept applying to entry level positions, even internships, hoping I'd get lucky. </p> <p class="p2">And I did. </p> <p class="p2"><strong>I got really lucky.</strong></p> <p class="p2">Till this day I am convinced that one of the reasons I got the job was because when the director of marketing asked me why he should hire me over someone else with experience, I started giving the standard response of because I am a fast learner I am responsible blah blah blah… then I heard myself. I sounded just like everyone else. Yawn. So I wrapped up my bullshit, and looked at him in the eye and said convincingly, "just teach me and I'll be able to do just as well, <strong>BUT</strong> I'll be much, much cheaper". He laughed. We finished up the interview and a couple weeks later I got an offer to start working at <a href="http://www.leapfile.com" target="_blank">LeapFILE</a> as a new marketing associate. </p> <p class="p2">It's been almost 3 years since the summer I moved up to the bay area in hopes for a new beginning and searching for my sense of self. I've changed. I've learned so much in the last few years and it's finally becoming clear to me what my strengths are, who I am, what I enjoy doing, and what I want to continue to pursue moving forward.</p> <p class="p2">So technically I am no longer working for LeapFILE. But no, I didn't quit or get fired. Over the last two years our company have developed a new product and we've spun out of LeapFILE as <a href="http://www.oxygencloud.com" target="_blank">Oxygen Cloud</a>. Since last July I've taken on the role as Marketing & Communications Manager for Oxygen Cloud and I'm loving it.</p> <p class="p2"><strong>Working at Oxygen Cloud</strong></p> <p class="p2">So why is it so great? Just about everything. (Okay fine I can probably use a bigger desk). </p> <p class="p2">Although we are a startup but its <em>not</em> your typical stereotype Silicon Valley startup where guys play video games like guitar hero and eat a bunch of free food. We're small, we have no venture capital money to spend on company carnivals with bouncy castles and cotton candy machines and call ourselves magical. </p> <p class="p2">It's not like that. And it shouldn't be about that. We have a stocked break room and plenty of beer and a <a href="http://blog.oxygencloud.com/2011/05/27/new-office-in-redwood-city/" target="_blank">brand spanking new office</a>. So yes, perks are nice, but for me, its still about enjoying the work itself.</p> <p class="p2">So here are the real reasons why I love working at Oxygen.* </p> <p class="p2"><strong>1. The people.</strong></p> <p class="p2">I love the people I work with, and yes, that includes my boss. I am very lucky to have come across a mentor - a CEO who strongly believes that people should do what they love, and provide them with the opportunities to develop. As a true entrepreneur, he embraces innovation and creativity. He welcomes new ideas and suggestions on how we can improve our company, improve our product, improve our team. It's not about following the rules, it's not about doing what others are doing, but its up to us - as a team - to find our own way and figure out the formula to be successful. </p> <p class="p2">Everyone is caring, hard working, friendly, smart , responsible and most importantly - passionate. And when people are passionate, it can be contagious. This brings me to the next point...</p> <p class="p2"><strong>2. We believe. </strong></p> <p class="p2">We believe in what we're doing. We believe that cloud storage is the future (and the future is now!). We believe that Oxygen will be THE game changer that can connect millions and millions of businesses to cloud storage. We believe in our vision and technology. We believe that one day Oxygen will be synonymous to cloud computing the way Google is synonymous to search and Microsoft Exchange + Outlook is synonymous to corporate email. We believe we will be successful because we've been developing both the product AND a business model that will allow us to monetize and profit. </p> <p class="p2">Yes, most startups fail. Yes, the boxes exist. </p> <p class="p2">So it won't be easy.</p> <p class="p2">But more importantly, we believe.**</p> <p class="p2"><strong>3. A place to learn, develop and grow.</strong></p> <p class="p2">It's a small company and an intimate environment. There is minimal structure, no office politics, no bureaucracy (weee no Toby!), and one big fat giant opportunity. We're all here to be the best of what we can be, so Oxygen will become successful. </p> <p class="p2">I'm not going to lie. There has been many stressful, difficult, hair-pulling moments where I can't help but question if we're doing the right things and if I'm at the right place. It's taken us a lot longer than expected just to "launch". Each project I've taken on is a lesson on its own. I've been assigned projects where its pretty much just "here is the problem find a solution". There are no rules, no playbook, but just me working learning and figuring things out along the way. </p> <p class="p2">But this is how I see it - challenges are just opportunities in disguise. I've always had wonderful coworkers who'll stick around to lend a helping hand and ones who are more than eager to help me find a solution to whatever problems I've encountered at work. Even if we don't conquer it all in the end, the journey itself is worth it. Lessons I've learned are like a mastercard commercial -- priceless. </p> <p class="p2">The people who thrive here are do-ers, ones who take initiative and value a sense of accomplishment and ownership. From my personal experience, it's a place where you can make the most of what you want to do -- as long as you try and put your best foot forward. There is no bull shit, no doing the minimum just to to get by. So it may not be for everyone, but for those who dare to dream, its the perfect place to learn, develop and grow. </p> <p class="p2"><strong>Take a chance</strong></p> <p class="p2">To all my friends who are unhappy with their jobs. Here is my advice. Take a chance. Take a risk and find something you love doing, and the right environment for you to grow. We're only young once, so what do you have to lose? If you're gonna complain about hating Mondays, hating work, hating your boss, then do something about it. In the end, we're going to spend the majority of our lives working. So it's much better to love what you do, than dread going into work everyday.</p> <p class="p2">I've made my share of mistakes and sacrifices, but I am grateful to be where I am today and I vow to make the most of it. Thing won't magically happen, opportunities don't just fall on your lap. </p> <p class="p2">So do something, and make it worthwhile.</p> <p class="p2"><strong>Shameless plug</strong></p> <p class="p2">Last but not least - we're hiring! Check out available openings at <a href="http://www.oxygencloud.com/careers" target="_blank">www.oxygencloud.com/careers</a> or ping me here or through email/gchat/twitter/linkedin/facebook if you have any questions ;) </p> <p class="p2">Cheers,</p> <p class="p2">Julia :)</p> <p class="p1"> </p> <p class="p2">*This blog post reflects my personal perspective and opinions only*</p> <p class="p2">**Yes, I'm an NBA fan. Hence the We Believe reference**</p> <p class="p2">***If any Oxygen-ers are reading this, thank you =)***</p> <p> </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/why-i-love-my-job">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-60699389837072218302011-06-11T19:27:00.001-07:002011-06-11T19:27:11.305-07:00Can't say no to Tofu<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/FkzlW/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/pGoBbgjGkBeCflcFijraBymvjEAuwdGoaytuCmymJeqraecmzGhdjpIxECjC/media_httpimagesinsta_szzff.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_szzff" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/pGoBbgjGkBeCflcFijraBymvjEAuwdGoaytuCmymJeqraecmzGhdjpIxECjC/media_httpimagesinsta_szzff.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/cant-say-no-to-tofu">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-6886577247728868062011-05-23T20:38:00.001-07:002011-05-23T20:38:00.303-07:00Cuddling doggies :)<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/EpX5a/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/eJbvIzpexHGttmnzCgGHxInJbgngmHFckjmkoznEdHCtvHCkGEJhrpatAymq/media_httpimagesinsta_nECzb.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_neczb" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/eJbvIzpexHGttmnzCgGHxInJbgngmHFckjmkoznEdHCtvHCkGEJhrpatAymq/media_httpimagesinsta_nECzb.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/cuddling-doggies">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-47542734905936768232011-05-21T14:25:00.001-07:002011-05-21T14:25:08.643-07:00My life - in a pile of boxes.<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Eil78/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/eFJissrIFCmjoerHHobqwvCbFyhpqxHHfIjraftdkByvcqwuzgjFIEreCGxv/media_httpimagesinsta_vzkCE.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_vzkce" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/eFJissrIFCmjoerHHobqwvCbFyhpqxHHfIjraftdkByvcqwuzgjFIEreCGxv/media_httpimagesinsta_vzkCE.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/my-life-in-a-pile-of-boxes">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-43294916423256656592011-05-13T10:46:00.001-07:002011-05-13T10:46:18.351-07:00Best friends :)<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/EMSMz/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/kDIderbdtnxkqasbvGAjrJAepCIdlpIChDEnajxoqksjqyxBJkdafochokop/media_httpimagesinsta_EIcIp.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_eicip" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/kDIderbdtnxkqasbvGAjrJAepCIdlpIChDEnajxoqksjqyxBJkdafochokop/media_httpimagesinsta_EIcIp.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/best-friends">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-83038539043722470732011-05-09T19:22:00.001-07:002011-05-09T19:22:58.060-07:00Think outside the box. At EMCWorld 2011.<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/EElMX/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/GzDrqmiymjBzrdjyxwdmyHpGoDegEtopmDpvfDgrkeFJJnlpkkpvbxnuHAyq/media_httpimagesinsta_lupIg.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_lupig" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/GzDrqmiymjBzrdjyxwdmyHpGoDegEtopmDpvfDgrkeFJJnlpkkpvbxnuHAyq/media_httpimagesinsta_lupIg.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/think-outside-the-box-at-emcworld-2011">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-87558187717313384632011-05-01T16:30:00.001-07:002011-05-01T16:30:39.399-07:00Chocolate hearts at Chocolatier Bleu.<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/DxCmD/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/BmyFkeurlsncyjIetplpqFJxyIvcGnbtqzCnGlcmGyBmicacFylIBzeCHmGD/media_httpimagesinsta_flgGr.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_flggr" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/BmyFkeurlsncyjIetplpqFJxyIvcGnbtqzCnGlcmGyBmicacFylIBzeCHmGD/media_httpimagesinsta_flgGr.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/chocolate-hearts-at-chocolatier-bleu">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-67396145887677928332011-04-22T15:32:00.001-07:002011-04-22T15:32:10.174-07:00My New Home<div class='posterous_autopost'>Finally closed escrow and now forever in debt. Its weird to think that I'm officially a homeowner now! <p /><div>This is going to be my new home with the doggies =) <p><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/42dbVkYsjodBSRPbLgQNJNB9eKcTJwU6mi5sjJxX6BLW4y0xjOP3eOlqL8kz/IMG_0145.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Img_0145" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/IOMQKNFbdSK1Jnb52Ee9Y7cx0aWjQhyUpRCNQzpvfPM0Hyirm5NCkzgjQZet/IMG_0145.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/T3i0hkKgxYaJCbManA3mZ9XJ5VRVdfM5C89m3TXnDi5Rg5hJik2819rd5TC7/IMG_0150.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Img_0150" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/basEQwviRDx31W1uGOcZz3j2EuPivaGlKP6p6Xg7aCiXbsT0UC3s48Z7qCQi/IMG_0150.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/3d0X6DZlckpswiZC9OcEl0yCCqQK5DlfGxP1OQCjyu2V28AfYcvatynHS8th/IMG_0154.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Img_0154" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/VYQcdGt76eQf5LnMy2TdYRNLmpX46t0H2IT3GV35ezGmTrXrVSiGDNKcrnbp/IMG_0154.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/r7agvlv5ToXe71v4MaWWue0D4e4QeFSfTBULSiCdF2kdPALSkFn3615Ek524/IMG_0155.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Img_0155" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/pQ4tDRTPts2SfmDK58PaSiCKsaK0CUlzvDxPfkCORyvYqbtJd2N3AD7CRN0Z/IMG_0155.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/HidOuUVCUbVnSu5nd9q9jAkTtImmpbsFkhe6isrw3rI7XjmSQgm7xbpNR6xN/IMG_0159.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Img_0159" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/4jhVdFksXKfaLyLqS68Y6K7LIm2stisR4mDlR3HaMjmix0ew2Qv1JveAnLDH/IMG_0159.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/YAyjLEC6usMg1hqj8gpizaUAz9XeLIB8YqBSui200uiEkpgPAN0922AQBQ0j/IMG_0162.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Img_0162" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/NrPuLhrCAT3qVae07xyDj0mI6gnzCj49tjBYTpjWTf4DhfGrBYVtwXSlZN2I/IMG_0162.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/zZoNay9GoyX0mwg3CaZ9UU11ep8762eQpquGhPH7zEzW9tJokskIpAtSlb3o/IMG_0170.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg"><img alt="Img_0170" height="375" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/9xR9GYBjJ3DLG4v69YbaEgqZvclTvIFj2rC1iKuD7eVevm5mS1MP6lbJSG0a/IMG_0170.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> <div class='p_see_full_gallery'><a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/my-new-home">See the full gallery on Posterous</a></div> </div> </p></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/my-new-home">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-37994589922649728882011-04-20T17:28:00.001-07:002011-04-20T17:28:59.529-07:00Mid work day tea break with my happy cup :)<div class='posterous_autopost'><a href="http://instagr.am/p/DXAuA/"><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/aIlHGieDibbFjIpjzmdlrqtedEuDydmhaJfsmfCkJpwwueJcEAGyaChmxvxw/media_httpimagesinsta_bmqzJ.jpg.scaled1000.jpg"><img alt="Media_httpimagesinsta_bmqzj" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/aIlHGieDibbFjIpjzmdlrqtedEuDydmhaJfsmfCkJpwwueJcEAGyaChmxvxw/media_httpimagesinsta_bmqzJ.jpg.scaled500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> </a> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/mid-work-day-tea-break-with-my-happy-cup">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122028019331202685.post-84045187993393610712011-04-17T19:11:00.001-07:002011-04-17T19:11:58.285-07:00Napping with Gummy on a lazy afternoon =)<div class='posterous_autopost'><div class='p_embed p_image_embed'> <a href="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/bU21qNFysYosKe3DCv505DoMU7RGgZL7CKeWlbWr8KkKWa0J7DBpAlrNGNGQ/NapwithGummy.jpg"><img alt="Napwithgummy" height="500" src="http://posterous.com/getfile/files.posterous.com/missjulze/agYTQqPoAAKuwhcszWhlOjhUKy4njk4iSQpm0dS1WgZVqJlYRK57w7fR0grb/NapwithGummy.jpg.scaled.500.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div> <p>I love my baby =) </p><p /><div>Cuddling - best way to spend a lazy afternoon. </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://missjulze.posterous.com/napping-with-gummy-on-a-lazy-afternoon">Julia's musings</a> </p> </div>Miss Julzehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06593676191203417038noreply@blogger.com0