Edward GatchalianThe long way to the other side.
Your environment is your greatest investment. Closed doors don't open themselves.
Leaving home
After high school I followed my dad into architecture because I liked drawing. I moved to Vancouver as an international student to study Architectural and Building Technology at BCIT.
The switch
A year in, I saw it takes 10+ years to become a credible architect. My timeline is short, so I switched to construction management and graduated with distinction. The job board only led to big firms, so I cold called and cold emailed until someone said yes. Site laborer in July 2024, Project Coordinator by September.
The hardest stretch
I started posting every day while the job turned repetitive. I nearly quit three times in six months. My mind gave up, but routine kept me picking up the camera.
Changing my environment
I joined Creator College, defined who I'm talking to, and switched to simple formats. 1.3K to 6K+ followers in about 16 weeks.
Now
I left my job on October 19 to pursue my own career. 600+ videos posted, and I'm talking to strangers every day to sharpen how I speak.
Routine is the system.
Half marathon on the Vancouver seawall, July 1, at 6:22/km. I started running in May.
Weightlifting, plus boxing once a week and journaling every day.
Reading The Creative Act aloud with a pen in my mouth.
Principles by Ray Dalio.
Stuck at month three? Let's talk.
Pick a time on my calendar. Bring one thing you're stuck on and we'll work through it together.