DIAMOND STREET - how to dodge a punch and win

I'm ready, folks. You reap what you sow. And boy, did I sow, and sow, and sow. My entire career (28 years!!!) I have been giving it my all to learn and grow. I'm better than I have ever been, and so it is time to harvest. DIAMOND STREET LIVE LLC is a reality. We curate and produce live experiences, focussing on brand activations for agencies and brands, and have a passion for culture, art, and sustainability.

I love Holland, especially my hometown Rotterdam. Things were going well, and business was thriving. But at 35, I was bored and had reached my limit. All I could do was dream about New York. Now, Holland is great, but you must understand that the market is small. The market in the USA is limitless. So, I packed two bags, rented out my apartment, and left for New York.

I didn't know anyone. I underestimated the American culture. I should have asked for a day rate that reflected my worth. I got knocked down. Big time. But I got up. I got knocked down again. I got up. I started to realize I needed to approach this differently. I had to become a boxer, and the best skill in boxing is dodging punches. I'll provide you with ways to do this below, but how did I come up with the name Diamond Street?

I moved 18 times in my first five years in New York. To say I hustled is an understatement. I didn't give up. I kept going. A boxing match is over once you're knocked out or when the time is up. I kept producing and building a network. I finally found an apartment where I could catch my breath, train under better circumstances, and prepare for the World Championship – my ground-floor apartment on Diamond Street. My little paradise. It embodies everything the company stands for: a winning mentality for our team, clients, collaborations, creatives, and guests.

How do you dodge a punch and reap what you've sown?

• You should throw the first punch, but be strategic. Don't just swing at thin air. Have a goal.
• It mainly comes down to practice. When they stop, you keep going. I'm writing this on a Friday night at 12:30 am.
• Surround yourself with the best team. Choose people who are better than you. Seek support from the right individuals. You can't defeat Muhammad Ali with a football trainer.
• Stay quiet until you're ready to enter the ring. Observe others, adopt what's right for you, and make it your own.
• Choose your signature outfit and song. For me, it's my collection of Nike Air Max sneakers, and my phone's ringtone is the Rocky theme song: 'Gonna Fly Now' by Bill Conti (not even joking).
• Rest. Sleep. Eat well. Work out. Stay hydrated. Take care of yourself.
• It's a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, and your time will come (note to self, ha). Long-term vision.
• Be sharp, and always be on the lookout for the slightest opportunity.
• Be brave. Sometimes you lose, and sometimes you win. Have fun. Celebrate the victories. Keep going until you're the World Champ.

XO