My name is Fabricio Brebión, and my first great mentor was my father. This book was born from the simple need to share tips, resources, habits, mistakes that shaped me, and experiences that transformed me. All from practice and what I experience in my day-to-day work.

I was nine years old when my dad asked me if I wanted to work in a mechanic’s shop. He saw me spending hours taking things apart at home and thought it would be a good idea for me to help out in the shop during vacations and in my free time after school. Without hesitation, I said yes.

Most of the time, I made mate and helped out however I could. I loved being there, surrounded by adults, learning, listening, feeling useful. That’s how I unwittingly entered the world of work. From the age of 11, I started working for money. Years later, as a teenager, I decided to drop out of school to dedicate myself fully to work. I didn’t listen to my parents’ warnings; I was convinced of the decision I had made. I’ve held many jobs: baker, street vendor, waiter, carpenter, craftsman, kitchen assistant, newspaper and magazine delivery man… and more. For more than twenty years, I worked a lot and also traveled, which forced me to adapt to different work dynamics and understand new codes, customs, and rhythms. After having worked in different trades, I learned to observe and came to understand that no matter where you work, what field you’re in, or what your position is, there’s one thing that always matters: the way you do your job.

Attitude, commitment, respect. Even if no one says it, it shows. And when it shows, it opens doors for you. It makes you trustworthy. It makes you someone worth hiring, recommending, and paying well.