Eric's Personal User Manual • Ebttran

Context

This concept is modeled on Urs Hölzle’s Personal User Manual, a document written by Urs himself where he explains to others how to best work with & interact with him. Unfortunately the original document is not public. This document is meant to give you a head start on understanding how I work, what I value, and how to best collaborate with me. It’s a living document — I’m always learning and evolving.

Manual

1. Human first

There’s a non-stop wheel in my head considering personality, personal situations, emotions, feelings, spirituality, and more when I connect with someone. I know we’re all flawed, and I try to lead with vulnerability to empower connection and mutual understanding.

2. I believe in growth

I deeply believe people can change and improve. I believe I am in a constant state of growth, and I welcome feedback, reflect, and evolve. I know that grit, commitment, and resilience are my special ingredients to follow my curiosity and keep learning.

3. I strive for non-violent communication

I do my best to practice NVC: honest expression, active listening, and empathy. I care how things are said, not just what’s being said.

4. I start with trust

I give trust by default rather than expecting it to be “earned” — I assume good intent and that you’re doing your best. I value transparent, open communication above all. If I don’t believe you’re being honest, it becomes harder for me to engage — especially when nuance or misalignment needs to be worked through.

5. I focus on the work, not the person

When I share feedback or ask questions, it’s not a personal attack. I care deeply about the quality of the work and want to discuss what can be improved. I repeat: I question things — not people. My curiosity can come off as challenging or skeptical, but it comes from a place of wanting to understand deeply so I can do meaningful work based on real context.

6. I’ll say no

Time is my most valuable resource. I’ll say no (kindly) when I don’t think something is a good use of it. If you want a yes, help me understand the impact and why it matters.

7. I work with intensity

When I commit to something, I go all in. That can sometimes come across as obsessive or impatient. I’m not trying to overwhelm — I’m just deeply invested in getting things done, and done well.

8. I work in iterations

I like to have clear objectives so I can weigh opportunity costs. I believe in progress over perfection — ship something that makes an impact, collect feedback, learn, and improve.

9. I don’t do excuses

I don’t relate to fixed mindsets or excuse-driven narratives. It’s normal for things to go wrong — just include what you learned, where you take responsibility, and how you’ll move forward.

10. Communication methods matter

I’m mindful of communication styles, and I get annoyed when the wrong format is used. Match the message to the moment — async vs. sync, low vs. high urgency. Don’t use a meeting to deliver something that could’ve been a Loom.

What you can expect from me

A deep commitment to the work and the people involved
A bias toward action and momentum
An iterative mindset grounded in curiosity and growth
Honest and direct communication, always with respect