There’s one lesson that I think is important in the working world.
Not all big contributions will be rewarded with appreciation that’s truly equal.
I’ve seen someone build a simple system with an extraordinary impact. Workflows became much faster. Operational costs were reduced by hundreds of millions — maybe even billions of rupiah in the long run.
Everyone enjoyed the results.
The company benefited. Processes became more efficient. Many people’s jobs became easier.
So what did the creator get?
No promotion. No award. No certificate. No opportunity to grow.
Just a thank you, a shared meal, and then one day — access to the system they built was revoked because everything was already running smoothly.
Ironic? Maybe.
But this is the reality that still happens far too often.
Many people think that working harder will definitely be rewarded. The truth is, hard work will only be valued if the organization has a culture that truly appreciates contributions.
If not, no matter how big your impact, it can all be treated as something that was “just expected.”
That’s why you shouldn’t stay too long just because you’re hoping that one day someone will notice.
If there’s a place that values your skills more, gives you room to grow, and acknowledges your work — don’t be afraid to take that step.
Loyalty is a good thing.
But loyalty that’s never appreciated often just turns into regret.
Remember: we’re not looking for a perfect company.
We’re just looking for a place that understands that behind every system, application, innovation, or efficiency they enjoy, there’s always someone who gave their time, energy, ideas, and even moments with their family to make it all possible.
And people like that deserve more than just a “thank you.”