Catch a Dragon

Dear Berry (7) and Vita (8),

When you were both very little I left for work in the morning and blurted out to both of you: “Catch a Dragon!” It just came out. You both looked at me quizzically, but soon the phrase became part of our goodbye ritual and every day you learn a little bit more about the art and science of catching your dragon. Here is where we are:

• Firstly, you find out what a Dragon actually looks like. Not everyone knows! Not everyone believes!
• Once you know, you become an apprentice. You watch, listen, learn and practice.
• Then, every Dragon Catcher develops her own way of doing things.
• Dragon Catchers trust their instincts.
• They believe in their ability.
• They are brave – and they know that being scared is part of being brave.
• They never stop learning and are generous with their knowledge and help others learn.
• They are creative and imaginative – it’s not easy to catch one!
• They don’t give up easily. They prepare.
• Sometimes they go on a hunt and don’t catch a dragon. Or the wrong one. That’s ok, too.
• They exercise! It can be hard work.
• They keep their parents updated on how the hunt is going and come back home to tell their stories!

I love you,

Dada (Senior Vice President Dragon Catcher)

Sven Petersen is a Partner at Egon Zehnder and leads the Technology Practice of the London Office.