Hey. I’m Jay
I’m a product owner and aspiring product leader who believes that the best solutions emerge when you create space for them to unfold naturally. My approach to work—and life—is shaped by a simple philosophy: trust first, then guide.
Currently, I focus on integrating data and AI into workflows, not because technology is the answer to everything, but because the right tools can remove friction and let people do their best work. I’m passionate about finding the elegant solution—the one that feels effortless because it aligns with how things naturally want to work.
What Drives Me
I’m drawn to the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern challenges. Taoist philosophy, with its emphasis on wu wei—effortless action—has profoundly influenced how I lead teams and approach problems. Instead of forcing solutions, I’ve learned to create conditions where the right answers can emerge.
This isn’t about being hands-off. It’s about being present in a different way—removing obstacles rather than adding oversight, asking questions before giving answers, and trusting that most people want to do meaningful work when given the space to do it.
My Core Values
These principles guide how I work, lead, and live. They’re not just ideals—they’re daily practices that shape every interaction and decision.
Seek to know yourself
Self-awareness is the foundation of authentic leadership and meaningful growth.
Be sincere
Honesty creates the trust that enables everything else to flourish.
Never stop improving
Growth is a continuous journey, not a destination to reach.
Aim to achieve balance
Harmony between action and reflection, presence and space, leads to sustainable success.
Live your values
Integrity means alignment between what you believe and how you behave.
Empower others
True leadership creates more leaders, not more followers.
Be the change
Transformation starts with personal example, not external pressure.
Move with purpose
Every action should serve a clear intention and contribute to meaningful outcomes.
My Work
As a product owner, I spend my days translating complex technical possibilities into solutions that actually serve people. I’ve found that the most innovative features often come from simply listening—to users, to data, to the quiet signals that reveal what’s really needed.
I’m particularly interested in how AI and data integration can simplify workflows rather than complicate them. The goal isn’t to automate everything, but to automate the right things—the repetitive, the predictable, the friction that gets in the way of creative work.
Beyond Work
When I’m not managing projects or brainstorming features, I’m usually refining my second brain in Obsidian—a practice that mirrors my approach to everything else. It’s about creating systems that support thinking rather than constrain it.
I believe in continuous learning, but not the frantic kind. More like water finding its level—steady, persistent, following the natural path of curiosity.
Why I Write
This blog exists because I’ve learned things that might be useful to others navigating similar paths. I write about leadership, productivity, and the intersection of philosophy and practical work—not because I have all the answers, but because exploring these questions in writing helps me think more clearly.
If something here sparks a thought or helps you see a problem differently, that’s enough. The best ideas spread naturally, without force.
Let’s Connect
I’m always interested in conversations about leadership, product development, and the art of building things that matter. Whether you’re wrestling with a team challenge, exploring AI integration, or just want to discuss the balance between action and allowing—reach out.
- Email: [email protected]
- LinkedIn: Jay Salihov