Learning from the Best: How My Mother’s Advice Shaped My Career at Amazon

When my mother chose a high school for me, she faced a dilemma: should I go to the regular government school or a new one opening in place of the old school, now requiring an entry exam? The teachers, textbooks, and principal would remain the same, but the new school would now charge fees. Was it worth the cost to our family and the stress of test prep? She asked a close friend, "Why should I put my kid through extra stress if everything else stays the same?" Her friend replied, "The difference will be the other students. They’ll be there because they, and their families, worked hard to get there". That was all my mother needed to hear.

We learn best from others. When we see someone achieving what we thought was impossible, it opens our minds to what’s possible for us. Throughout my career, I’ve sought out rooms where I’m not the smartest person, even if it challenges my ego.

I’ve been at Amazon for the last 13 years, and one of the biggest reasons I stay is that I keep learning from those around me - my leaders, peers, and teams. And now I want to share these lessons to help, inspire, support, and uplift others. Let’s begin!