Interview

How to be a better man Learning the secret to success with Vikrom Kromadit

by Kathleen Pokrud

Is there a secret to success…

This question is asked by many and on a daily basis. For a successful businessman like Vikrom Kromadit, he genuinely believes that there is. More importantly, it is not just one secret, but a philosophy of thoughts and ideas on how one can succeed in both work and personal life. Khun Vikrom is a Thai businessman and writer. A well known author who shares his personal experience on life success, his books have reached 11.6 millions copies and have been translated into 10 languages.

He is the founder and Chairman of Amata Corporation PCL.

After reaching the pinnacle of success in the business field, he has embarked on the journey of a writer to impart his knowledge to others by penning many books on business philosophy. Expat Life was honoured to sit down with the author on how to become a successful business person like Vikrom Kromadit. 

Your first book was “Be a Better Man” in 2003, since then you have written more than 20 books. What are you aiming to achieve?

I first started to write to share the mistakes I have made in my business life. I strongly believe that a lot of problems that happen in Thailand come from families. A healthy family is the foundation of solid society. 

My goal is to tell the story of how my family has learned and evolved from a corrupt and broken environment over 30 years ago, into a harmonious unit of over 50 members. We are now one family, with everyone working towards one goal, together. If everyone has a proper roadmap in life, the future of society is secured without problems or discourse. I hope my books can touch my readers to build a better future for themselves. 

Your philosophy on “Change must be of sustainable benefit to the world”, can you elaborate on this?

I grew up in temples so I learned to abide by the truth to find peace within oneself. One of my philosophies is “given without return”. Amata Foundation was established 20 years ago to give back to the society. 

What do you think is the most important secret to one’s success?

“To be a better man”, by which I mean, to have a good mind. The first foundation to be successful is to be yourself by doing good, without immoral or illegal thoughts. 

Secondly, you need to have a goal. If you have a direction, no matter how long it takes you to reach your destination, you will get there. 

Then, you need a proper condition to build your success. This means the right knowledge that you have to learn, and be patient, and to understand that no one always wins. 

Lastly, it is important to be reasonable and fair with people. Success should be shared. 

Can I learn to be a better man? What do you say to families and friends who see their loved ones on self-destructive paths?
Taking a metaphor, we treat our pets with love and it is the same with our family. Ask your loved one, “Do you love yourself? Who loves you more than yourself? What do you expect in the future?” What I tell them is, that they have to be responsible, and take care of themselves. 
How do you allocate your precious time in working on the commercial property business, running a charity, writing books, hosting radio and TV shows?
I work during the workdays. Mostly, I spend Friday to Sunday with no meetings and or guests. I spend my weekends writing. 
I lead a simple life. My philosophy is “one system”, listen to my body clock. I rest when I am tired, eat when I am hungry, so I follow the rhythm of my body. 
Can you tell us about your charity work like Amata Foundation?
AMATA foundation was established in 1996, I personally own and fund the non-profit organisation as Chairman. As I said before, “Giving without expecting a return.” The areas of focus are books, The Amata writer’s award, art in paintings and sculptures, nature conservation, student scholarships and Amata Castle. 
One good example of what our foundation is involved in is the management of the Khao Yai National Park. The park is a World Heritage Park with great biodiversity. Through The Sister Parks Arrangement for Resources and Knowledge Sharing (SPARK) programme. Khao Yai National Park is upgraded to international standards, to be ‘A Model’ and ‘A Learning Centre’ for the management of other National Parks in Thailand, and the SE Asia region. 
What’s your next expedition?
I consider myself a dreamer. Tomorrow should be a better day than today. I hope to continue to do a better job than what I accomplished today. 
Any last thoughts to our readers?
Thailand is a favoured destination for many visitors from around the world. I believe that our country’s popularity comes from our Thai hospitality. Thais are not jealous, always kind and supportive with our overseas friends, and we welcome everyone with our famous Thai smiles!
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Kathleen Pokrud
Kathleen Pokrud was born in Hong Kong. After graduating with the Master Degree in the U.K., she worked for Hong Kong Trade Development Council, before moving to Thailand in 1991. She has over 20 years experience in project management. For the past decade, she volunteered in education and women empowerment programs. She is Past President of the International Women’s Club of Thailand and Hong Kong Ladies’ Group. She chartered the new Rotary Club of Wang Mai as Charter President in 2020. Director & ex-Vice Chairperson of Baat Woh Cantonese Opera Association of Thailand and a life member of YWCA Bangkok. In the business community, she serves on the Board of Directors with the Thai-Hong Kong Trade Association. Kathy is on the Thailand Tatler Magazine Expat Society The 200 List. She is the Honorary Columnist and contributing writer to a few leading English magazines. She and her husband, RADM Dr Boonyarit Pokrud have one son who is currently based in Boston, USA.
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