25 Years at SAP

I’ve always been fascinated by the nuances of language. Particularly the way a word can encapsulate a specific emotion or sentiment. Being a native Dutch speaker and working daily with global colleagues, I occasionally find it challenging to translate certain words into English. These words often describe feelings or situations that might be succinctly captured in another language. Through this fascination I discovered John Koenig’s Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows. One of these words stood out to me as I started to draft this post...

Daguerreologue (duh-gair-uh-lawg) is an imaginary conversation with an old photo of yourself, in which you might offer them a word of advice – to banish your worries, soak it all in [or] ask them if they thought you had done justice to the life they built for you.

Reflecting on this old yearbook photo in the banner, here's what I would say to Dairy Queen Eric in a daguerreologue:

1. Focus on things within your control ?

I believe in steering my own path and that good work brings success. The Asterix is that there will be plenty outside of your control, affecting the outcome of your future. It is so often we focus on these things, causing unnecessary stress and anxiety when you dwell on them. This has been my greatest professional struggle.

Discovering the term "rumination" was ironically comforting, as I realized others shared my experience. Rumination involves a repetitive cycle of overthinking, often focusing on life's negatives. I used to ruminate on everything at work – a new project, a possible reorg, or a perceived opinion. Most of the things I focused on was about future uncertainty, which was beyond my control. This constant rumination resulted in the deterioration of my mental health, heavily affecting my work and family life. When I found my moment of clarity, I knew it was important to step back and recalibrate my approach to work.

Though I've managed to keep the rumination under control, it can resurface if I'm not actively maintaining my mental well-being, which can look different for each person. For me, it's about compartmentalizing work from personal life to prioritize my happiness. I now focus on my values instead of worrying about uncertainties or what others think of me.

This brings to my next point, que sera, sera (thanks Doris Day for the musical break). ??

2. Don’t over plan

?“You can only connect the dots looking back and you have to trust that they’ll connect in the future.” This was advice from Steve Jobs to the Stanford graduating class of 2005. Unless you’ve got psychic superpowers, this unanimously applies to everyone.

When I joined SAP 25 years ago, I didn’t have a strategic career plan. On the contrary, my approach was quite practical. I would search newspaper advertisements (remember those?) for jobs with appealing benefits, such as a company car, which was a significant perk for someone in their 20s. This led me to become an SAP logistics consultant—a position I only qualified for because I overslept, missed class registration, and had to enroll in logistics courses to meet academic requirements. Talk about a silver lining to an amateur mistake!

From there I explored various roles at SAP, from presales to strategy, always saying "yes" to new learning opportunities. In tech, I find long-term plans are less important. Focus on job satisfaction, making an impact, and stay curious to continually upskill. This approach helped refine my skills, enabling me to continuously take on bigger business challenges.

?

3. Take a customer-first approach

Though this may seem overused in the corporate world, it’s remained relevant all these years. To be customer-first, we need to challenge internal boundaries and question antiquated processes, especially in a matrix organization. While RACIs offer structure, they shouldn’t hinder collaboration or a strong sense of ownership.

Early in my career, my manager Janet Wood taught me to prioritize by focusing on the customer first, then SAP, followed by your team, and lastly yourself. By looking after these priorities, you'll also succeed. This advice has stayed with me. Progress happens when you add value in everything you do. Contribute to the team, regardless of titles, and let the customers' interests be your guide.

Along with these wonderful memories and key life lessons, I recognize there are many talented leaders and colleagues who have been integral to my growth along the way. Since I can almost hear the Oscars “wrap it up” music, please allow me to recognise three colleagues who have significantly influenced key phases of my career.

• Janet Wood : You have been the most influential leader during the early days of my time at SAP. Your life lessons and faith in me laid the strong foundation for my achievements.
• Peter Maier : Thank you for the 20+ years of friendship and free advice. I may owe you a beer or two. Be ready to be my “phone-a-friend” should I ever compete in a game show.
• Julia White : Over the past four years, you've taught me creativity, fierce prioritization, and to stand up for what's right. I appreciate your encouragement of diverse opinions within our leadership and to always question the status quo.

Looking back, I feel I've done justice for that old yearbook photo of myself. What began as a temporary job with a great company perk turned out to be the most rewarding and challenging 25 years of my professional life. All the side quests, as my son calls them, have shaped who I am today. However, keep in mind all this advice comes from someone who has only worked at two places– SAP and Dairy Queen . ?

But, we’re not finished. Tomorrow offers another chance to make a difference.

Let’s get to work!!

Bonus assignment for those who read all the way through – what’s in your daguerreologue? Leave them in the comments.

#LifeAtSAP #WorkAnniversary #Career #Advice #JohnKoenig