Today, Jacob Krejcik, the founder of Mana, is celebrating his birthday. Most of the day has been devoted to work, but he has also made sure to find time for a little fun. It wouldn't be a birthday without it! This year is also the 5th birthday of Mana, so it seemed doubly appropriate to sit down with him for a chat.
Jacob, happy birthday! How do you feel?
Great! Very busy, but great. We are finally at that stage where we are doing what we originally set out to do. Time is flying, but I absolutely love it.
How old are you?
Sometimes I lose track (he laughs). Every year I feel a little bit younger, but then I realize I'm actually a little bit older. Today I turn 35.
What was the best gift you received today?
Well, I got over material gifts a long time ago. Now, I most enjoy gifts that are opportunities. Opportunities that begin with an idea, which turns into a thought process, which turns into implementation, which turns into the real thing. That's what's happening with our company and that's the best gift I received today.
People often wish happiness and health on birthdays, but what should I wish you? What do you want to come true for you this year?
You could wish me a better balance between work, family, and hobbies. And a better ability to see things from a long-term perspective. Things are happening so fast at Mana that the only constant is change, and the ability to adapt is crucial for our success.
Mana Dream Team (not everybody)
Mana also turns 5 this year.
Yes indeed. I started when I was 30. My wife and I had just gotten married and we had a kid on the way. That was a major turn of events, and I can't believe it's been 5 years since then.
So, how will you celebrate?
We are going to give celebration an entirely new format this summer. The Mana team is organizing a big event to tell the world what we've been working so hard on; namely, an exclusive, global product that we believe will make the world a better place. We want to share what we're good at, what we've done...in a major way.
Your 5-year anniversary is a good time to step back and take a look at what you've achieved; to examine the foundations you've laid.
Exactly. During the summer event, we want to show how we've accomplished our mission to date and what our vision is for the next 5 years, 10 years, and beyond.
So, what can we expect at this "summer event"? I imagine it will be something bigger than just a birthday party?
We'll reveal all the details when the time is right. But for now, I'll say it's going to be in a great spot and a ton of fun, Mana-style.
Photos by For Men magazine