Erik Laurijssen
Datylon
Erik Laurijssen, co-founder of Datylon, helps people visually understand what data means. Datylon is a platform for data visualization and presentation. Users can easily create charts, reports or data stories that can clearly communicate data insights. With clients in 45 different countries today, Erik Laurijssen is successfully managing the many facets of the scale-up life.
What do you value most in a friendship?
What I value most in friendships is that you are allowed to be yourself. When those people really know what kind of person you are, know your strengths and weaknesses and still accept you for who you are. Good friends should also be able to sympathize. Everyone meets challenges in their lives, the people who understand stressful moments and who you can turn to in those moments are amazing friends.
What is your most remarkable sensory memory? Like a food memory, music memory?
I think about scents, fragrances and smells immediately. Scents are very connected to the reptilian brain apparently, ... When I smell resin and pine trees, I get holiday memories of The Landes in France. The scent of thyme always takes me back to Greece. For me, food memories are important, and cooking for people is a way of showing love. I adore throwing barbecues for family and friends, making it cozy. I truly cherish those moments.
Imagine your house catching fire. Apart from loved ones and pets, what else would you want to save and why?
Fire? After my loved ones, I would save my laptop first. Of course I have a backup, but it would be a hassle. Borrowing someone else’s laptop for a short time, getting a new laptop, setting up that new laptop… It’s just an annoyance.
When was the last time you couldn’t stop laughing?
We often burst out laughing at home. Our cheerful daughter often makes me laugh out loud. Without realizing it, she is responsible for a lot of laughter with her talent for spreading happiness.
What gives you energy?
I love to unwind by hiking, biking or running. Going into nature immediately clears your head. So does visiting my friends and family.
If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living? Why?
Would I change my life a lot? I don't think so, I’d only make more time for family and my closest friends.
What gives you satisfaction as an entrepreneur?
The excitement and freedom as a start-up is fantastic. Each day you have to make a zillion decisions and you’re always moving quickly.