The Finale

It was a Friday as usual.

I was riding routinely to the company from the Metro Line 10. The clock was winding down as I carelessly peeked the passengers. 

Along the way, I somehow missed the scenery where every road was rejuvenating with teeming crowds.

The street leading to Fudan University was always enticing, with oak trees shunning away the scorching sunlight and the newly renovated pavements radiating atinkle of humanitarian efforts.

Dancing through the renowned street adjacent to universities, the neighborhood has taken on a new look as increasing restaurants popped up and attracted those passers-by near the hospital.

For a while, it was hard to recollect the nostalgic pictures in mind. Three years ago, everything was so tranquil and accustomed.

Accelerating to Wudong Rd., I turned my head to the right and caught a glimpse of my Alma Mater once again. She is still illuminating and gently welcoming every newcomer as well as alumni.

I hesitated for a while, breathing as long as I could, and finally waved goodbye.

How could anybody ever predict our reunion after two years of relentless efforts ina startup? Everything is so familiar as if I became the graduate student and sank into the uncertainties about the future one more time.

To my regret, since graduation in 2015, I hardly had the chance to revisit her.

As for me, I could not exaggerate enough how climbing up to a  top university meant during my five-year Odyssey in Shanghai. However, what she had impinged on me was more than elevated horizon. The habit of craving for a cause becamemy ingrained motive. Leaving everything aside, I was still proud of having embarked on the long-term relationships with my roommates as well as a few unfinished ambitions. Mesmerizing as it is, we have to part ways as life goes by.

The crossroad was unfrequented by both students and vehicles. Although I dubbedmyself as Map Master, I could not locate the Tech Park without guidance.

The U-shaped street is dotted with shared bikes, which give remarkable convenience to those nearby employees.

I still remember our first arrival.

Everyone was quite excited to start from scratch, whether they are work booths or applications, we had our race and soon settled down.

As I locked my bike with a clash, I then reported in another app.

Today was my last day in a 16-month marathon.

So staged my finale.

You must be so curious about how a product manager in an Internet startup ought to accomplish. 

Today was no different. Preparingfor the tasks were my top priority.

As PM, I had to lead the product roadmap and stay close with the development. Our preparedness paid off when we delved into intense discussions on the product design and interfaces. This is my last hope that our product failed to deliver value to our users in a not-so-competitive market. 

But there was turmoil. Even though I spared no efforts to changing the process, all I could do was to reconcile from time to time and let the feedbacks speak louder. We could rejoice at our solutions as long as we always think in users' shoes.

Apart from the informants, I never had the courage to tell the truth. CEO wrapped everything up in the final meeting where all collegues were at present. I could sense their unsettling emotions. I took a deep breathe, and talked to myself, 

That's the end of it.

Afternoons seemed to be demotivating for employees while I still organized a couple of arrangements with the marketing and operation department.

Everyone should come to the fore. It was my best advice and practice.

I had whispered to myself a few times that work is earned and unless you treat itas your own cause, you will never elevate.

They listened, or so it seemed.

Hours had passed when the clock reminded me at 4:00 pm.

To everyone's surprise, I summoned them one by one and had an in-depth communication with each other.

I was much indebted to their support in creating the best product I had everseen. It was always a masterpiece in my mind.

I then highlighted some advice respectively. I was genuinely touched by one of them when he whole heartedly expressed his feelings and doubts.

Life is never to be manipulated and dreams are ours to pursue. However, it took along time to understand and appreciate the meaning behind every story.

When the dust had settled, we soon rushed into the reservation room thanks to the boss'  treat.

After rounds of drink and laughter, I recommended saluting to the future.

I did my best and I really did. I am so fortunate to witness the evolving product and company.

To the future~

Three years is more or less a souvenir.

Whatever the future will be in store, I will charge again as always.

If you are interested in more stories, pls check the original links.

Good Luck~