Originally published on LinkedIn (reformatted for zahradnik.io / Medium)
Most companies pay strictly for output.
They track every hour and optimize every minute around KPIs.
I decided to take a different approach.
A friend and part-time collaborator recently started exploring automation tools. Instead of limiting him to assigned tasks, I funded his learning time — even during periods when I didn’t have enough concrete work for him.
I pay him to study.
To experiment.
To build skills.
Could he leave one day? Yes.
We don’t have a contract that binds him to me.
But investing in people is still the right strategy.
If I secure additional funding, I’ll continue allocating a portion toward self-study and skill development, no strings attached.
Because long-term growth doesn’t start with control.
It starts with trust.
