In the realm of entrepreneurship, dreams frequently serve as the initial catalyst for a long and challenging journey. Ruli Wahyudi, the Founder and Owner of Asa’an Kopi and a Top Leader (Director Rank) at Tiens International, highlighted this idea during his guest lecture at the Integrated Business Experience 2 (IBE 2) on entrepreneurship and motivation. The event took place at the School of Business and Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung (SBM ITB) on April 22.
Opening the session, Ruli quoted Eleanor Roosevelt (First Lady of the United States, 1933-1945), saying, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” He emphasized that everything created by humans begins with a dream. This idea lives in the mind before being realized.
Ruli shared his life’s non-linear journey. He is currently pursuing an MBA at ITB. However, his undergraduate degree is in Geological Engineering, a field far removed from the world of sales and marketing he now pursues. According to him, success is not determined solely by background but by the willingness to learn and adapt. He emphasized the importance of balancing theory and practice.
“People who only learn theory without practice tend not to be able to apply it. Conversely, those who practice directly without a theoretical foundation usually only remain at the beginner level. To become an expert, both must go hand in hand,” he explained.
Furthermore, Ruli described dreams as something that drives them. He encouraged students to think about their three biggest dreams and dig deeper into the reasons behind them, emphasizing the importance of discovering each individual’s how, why, and burning desire.
For Ruli, success does not mean changing goals; rather, it means adjusting strategies. He defined entrepreneurs as those who dare to take the initiative and take the first step when others are still just talking. Along the way, he also highlighted five aspects of success in life: wealth, health, spirituality, social life, and family.
However, he reminded them that balance does not come without a process.
“To achieve balance, we must go through a phase of imbalance,” he said.
He also divided life’s challenges into three main categories: relationships, health, and finances. According to him, facing one, two, or even all three is a normal part of the journey to success.
Before closing, Ruli shared a profound reflection, encouraging students to reconnect with the main reason they pursue their dreams: the memories of their parents, the hopes they carry, and the prayers that support them on their journey. He emphasized that their struggle is not just for themselves, but also for their loved ones and the broader community. In his view, the best individuals are those who can bring benefit to others. This spirit is encapsulated in a singular mission that aligns with ITB’s values: for God, the nation, and the alma mater.
