1. Kindness doesn’t cost a thing

I've been reflecting on some meaningful experiences from this week. I was fortunate enough to cross paths with two individuals who have left a lasting impression on me. The first was Joseph, the owner of a charming deli across the street. The second was music producer Rick Rubin, who I discovered through a friend's shared interview.

Joseph's warm and welcoming energy was apparent from the moment I walked into his deli. He greeted me with a cheerful "Welcome! What a nice morning. How are you?" and his genuine kindness radiated from every word. I felt like I was in the presence of a loving grandpa or dad, despite Joseph being of a younger generation. It's often those who have faced hardship themselves who possess the greatest capacity for love. The deli is filled with fresh treats and the walls are adorned with letters from loyal customers and posters of the Beatles.

I've realized that we often go through life on autopilot, missing the small acts of kindness that can make a big difference. If the world were filled with more people like Joseph, it would be a much better place. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, has an impact because energy is never lost, only transformed. It really does come a long way - the fact that I am writing about my encounter with Joseph proves this. Reminding myself that people like Joseph exist makes me happy to be alive.

On top of this, it's clear that kindness is the best-selling strategy, the ultimate loyalty program. I'd choose a coffee from Joseph's deli over any other coffee in London.

2. Make art for your own fulfilment, not to appease others

Rick Rubin has left a lasting impact on my life after a week of learning from him, starting with an interview that was shared with me by my friend and co-founder Tako. I was in awe of his impact and the way he presents his ideas in a clear and concise manner. I watched two interviews and read his book, and was struck by the life lessons about creativity he shared as a music producer and label boss. His words about creativity and artists still linger in my mind. The following were my favourite points:

1. Everyone is an artist, and how we tackle our daily lives is how we express our creativity.

2. Make art because it makes you feel something. Don’t make art thinking you do it to please others. The rest will follow. If someone likes what you’re doing, that’s great. If they don’t, that’s OK.

3. Listen to feedback. Detach yourself from the outcome of your work. Instead, aim to learn and stay curious. Don’t dismiss things that are not aligned with your experiences…

4. You think a specific way of doing something is the best way because you have tried it. There are other, potentially better ways out there waiting to be tried. Stay curious and break the rules.

Yes, the goal of recording an album might be to sell records. But the approach we take will determine the target audience and the longevity of our work. If you create an album to please the masses, it is most likely a short-lived album. However, if you produce what appeals to you, it will most likely resonate deeply with a very specific group of people. This is my favourite takeaway.

I can relate to his words as someone who used to be extremely shy and scared of social interaction. Putting my work and viewpoint out there has always been a challenge, but I'm getting more confident as time goes on. I'm sure that the last bit of shyness will eventually pass too.