If you ever get the chance to work overseas… take it.

It might not come at the perfect moment. Life might feel too full, too busy, too uncertain. But if you're lucky enough to be offered the opportunity - grab it. It’s worth the risk.

For me, that moment came in 2001.

At the time, I had just resigned from Dyson and was serving my notice period. One of the Dyson execs asked for a ‘chat’ - he offered me the chance to set up the company’s first Design & Development department in Asia. It was a bold, exciting opportunity… but I also had a great new role lined up at one of the UK’s leading product development consultancies.

So I initially said “no thank you.”
It felt safer to go with the option I already knew.

“What would convince you?” he asked.
“A more formal commitment,” I replied.

Ten minutes later, I was in JD’s office. He personally endorsed the role and encouraged me to take the leap.

After a weekend to think it through, I said “yes.”
And the rest, as they say, is history.

In mid-2001, I flew to Malaysia with a single suitcase.
Seventeen years later, I returned with a wife, two kids, and a 40-foot container of memories.

Living and working in Malaysia and Singapore was one of the most pivotal experiences of my life. You don’t just visit a country - you live it. You absorb the culture, the people, the food, the way of life. It’s nothing like a holiday. It changes your perspective forever.

So, if the opportunity ever comes your way -
Say yes.
Take the risk.
Embrace it. Love it.

You won’t regret it.

#workoverseas #Malaysia #Singapore #productddevelopment #consumerproduct

James@Holo