General Manger, Composite Developments, Tom Johanson Talks Best Advice
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Don’t take life too seriously, learn, learn, learn and perhaps look for some guidance around time management for exam or assignment time (you seem to only nail this in your last year of studying)!
How do you stay motivated?
By constantly searching for new things to learn about and by not letting myself get comfortable. This applies to the product we sell. I constantly hunt the world for new ideas and inspiration and the TRYCD range is a product of that journey.
It’s easy to stick to what you are good at or by staying close to people with similar views, but the world is a pretty big place and there are some awesome people and ideas out there.
If you didn’t need money, what would you do?
Focus my efforts on engineering solutions to maintain our awesome planet while travelling the world skiing, fishing and racing cars (maybe electric ones).
What is the worst mistake you’ve made and how did you fix it?
Oh boy… There have been a few. I believe it’s always best to put your hand up straight away, own it and if you cannot sort it yourself, ask for help (cap in hand) and the right people will help you set it right. Oh, and obviously learn from it!
What is your advice for people to fund their dream?
If it’s something you are passionate about and it solves a problem, you will always find the money and support you need. Develop and prove your idea first and do it on the side while you pack groceries if you have to. Don’t look to social media for inspiration. Talk to or listen or read about people who have done it (not look at how they have done it on Instagram)!
What is the best bit of advice, or quote, that resonates with you?
Never stop learning. If you stop learning, you stop growing. If you stop growing, you die (I’m not sure where I got the last bit from, but it really sends it home!).
What’s your favourite restaurant?
There are so many good restaurants close to home but nothing for me beats a cook up at home with something you have caught or hunted yourself.
What makes you feel alive?
Pushing the boundaries a little. I enjoy hobbies and challenges that allow you to test yourself and see what you are capable of. It’s pretty satisfying when you pull off something you haven’t been able to do or can go a little faster. It’s fun too!