In an emergency where the community disagrees, I begin by carefully listening to their views, as their input is always part of the solution. I then communicate my proposed approach clearly, explaining why it’s effective for the situation at hand. Open dialogue is key, and I encourage it since it can refine the solution or bring new insights. However, if time is critical and the issue isn’t resolved through discussion, I’ll act decisively, making sure the situation is addressed swiftly while ensuring that their perspectives remain integrated into the overall resolution.

In security, “near-misses” happen often when potential vulnerabilities are identified or prevented just before they become major issues. These incidents serve as reminders that no system is fully immune and that proactive monitoring and quick responses are key to avoiding bigger problems.

The concept of “nothing ventured, nothing gained” is especially relevant when it comes to innovation and exploration in security. By pushing boundariesv - whether through testing new technologies, exploring unconventional solutions, or actively seeking out vulnerabilities - we naturally increase the chances of encountering “near-misses.” These close calls, however, offer valuable learning opportunities. Venturing into uncharted territory brings risks, but those risks are essential for growth and ongoing improvement, helping us stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of security.

This aligns perfectly with our internal initiative, Hack This, which functions like a Bug Bounty program. It encourages teams to proactively find vulnerabilities in our internal products/projects before they can be exploited externally. By pushing our boundaries and inviting the community to engage in ethical hacking, Hack This not only improves our security posture but also fosters team building and strengthens community cohesion. It’s a great way for different teams to collaborate, share knowledge, and develop a culture of continuous learning and improvement while addressing real security challenges.

“There are two types of companies: those that have been attacked and those that don’t know they’ve been attacked.” This quote highlights the importance of accepting that threats are inevitable, which is why learning to handle crises requires strong preparation. Prevention is key; having robust security protocols and regularly rehearsing emergency responses can significantly reduce the impact of crises. Also, a mindset of continuous learning helps teams stay ahead of evolving threats. Remaining calm under pressure is essential to make effective decisions, while communication and collaboration ensure all team members work together seamlessly. Innovation, though necessary, must always be balanced with managing risks responsibly. Finally, after every incident, conducting a thorough review allows for continuous improvement. Adjusting strategies based on what was learned helps minimize the chances of repeating the same issues and strengthens overall resilience. Success is as much about preparation as it is about learning and adapting in the face of challenges.

To keep an “expertise community” like our Security Champions group active and thriving, several key elements are essential. First, having a clear purpose and defined goals ensures that every member understands their role and how their contributions fit into the broader objectives. Regular engagement is crucial for maintaining momentum (our monthly Security Gatherings) - consistent events, workshops, or discussions allow members to exchange ideas, share their experiences, and collaborate on real-world challenges. Leadership plays an important role in guiding the community, but empowering individuals to take ownership of specific topics also fosters a deeper sense of commitment (like presentations during our gatherings). Continuous learning (more than 15 fun security training courses) is another important factor, as it keeps the community growing and adapting to new trends and developments, whether through formal training or peer mentoring. Recognition of contributions, whether through small acknowledgments or awards, helps reinforce a culture of appreciation and motivates continued participation. Finally, encouraging diverse perspectives brings fresh ideas and innovative solutions, keeping discussions vibrant and ensuring that the community continues to evolve. These elements together help me keep the community alive, active, and impactful.

When working with an optimistic colleague, embrace their enthusiasm and validate their ideas. Use their excitement to build momentum and guide their vision towards practical execution. Show how adding a layer of planning and risk assessment will help their ideas to thrive. By framing caution as part of ensuring success, we will balance creativity with sustainability.

With clients, a similar strategy applies. Show them how excitement for new ventures is essential but needs to be paired with thoughtful planning to avoid pitfalls. By presenting caution as a way to secure the success they envision, you create a win-win situation that encourages them to stay optimistic while embracing preventive measures.

For me, luck in a professional context isn’t just a random occurrence; it’s the moment when careful preparation, critical thinking, and opportunity intersect. It often feels like luck when things go smoothly, but it’s usually the result of thorough planning and being ready to act when the right moment arises. Essentially, it’s where preparation meets opportunity, and recognizing that “luck” often reflects the groundwork we’ve laid beforehand.

Misfortune, on the other hand, happens when unexpected events occur despite our best efforts. In security, for example, this could be an unforeseen vulnerability that slips through even after meticulous planning. But misfortune, while frustrating, is also an opportunity to adapt, learn, and strengthen our systems moving forward.

Luck and misfortune both rely on preparation. Being ready helps us seize lucky moments, while resilience turns setbacks into lessons. Success comes from our ability to adapt to any situation.