Why Project Management?

I always thought of myself as a trader.

Ever since I first went to Manhattan in 1992.  I was fascinated with how the people were always looking busy in their suits and their fancy watches.  I am fascinated by derivatives, and credit swaps and moving markets.  I watched Asia Business News as a kid.  I often scan the business section to see the 15 day market trend on the stocks along with keeping up with the current events.

In our career day when I was about to graduate, our facilitator asked us where we saw ourselves 5 years into the future.  I wrote that I will be a successful commodities trader.

Why the hell am I in Project Management?

After my year long hiatus, I went back and started looking for a job.  I never really had good advice from my folks on how to get there.  My dad used to import tools before he retired and my mom works for an Airline.  I never really had the pep talk given by parents in choosing the right path.

I first started my career as a Teller in a multi-national bank.  The pay was good considering the task that needs to be done.  You don't get to take home problems when you go home but for some reason, I just felt I did not belong in that world.  After a year off, most of my peers got a headstart and I was playing catch up.

After four months, I left the work to pursue other interest.  Taking along with me valuable insights on myself.

1st insight:  I am good with people.  Specially older people
2nd insight: I do not like to do the same shit every single day
3rd insight: I would like to be in a position where I can make a difference

After several months of searching, I found my second job.  It is as a research analyst for a information provider.  Its is not exactly what I had in mind but I did gave it a shot.  I was dismayed by the fact the tool you use everyday is only google, and all you need to do is update the corporate information of a company they will provide you in the database.

It did not help that the boss is a slacker.  For the brief period I was with them, I only saw her for a week.

I was fortunate enough that after two months, I was given the opportunity to join a European bank as a management trainee.  During the training period, I learned more about myself.

Things I learned:

1. I did not like numbers all day
2. I still did not want to do the same thing over and over again
3. I can be the antagonist if the right situation calls for it

I was fortunate enough that after the program I was assigned in the Project Management department where we handle small projects for the bank.

How fortunate it was for me.