Career transition: Life is about trying new things, isn’t it?

It's been a while. I will definitely try to write at least an article or two for each month (also a promise to myself). I'm aware that starting something could be easy, whereas having the discipline to consistently working on it could be the biggest hurdle. 

Having said that, let me share some of my personal monthly routine with you. Every month end, I will always spend some time to assess my financial portfolio by updating my personal balance sheet, profit & loss; and also evaluating my stocks' performance by keeping up-to-date on any latest announcements or quarterly reports posted by these companies. With timely monitoring of my portfolio, it provides me with a clear picture of where I stand and allows me to take corrective measures when any company fundamental goes off track.

It turns out that there is an approximate return of 20% under My Portfolio as at Nov'20. Many people might think that making money through stocks is extremely easy nowadays because share price plummeted during the pandemic, and they will definitely increase when the markets recover (this is in fact supported by the increasing new Robinhood traders in US). But I disagree. If you are not willing to invest time in researching your stocks, you are probably just playing with luck. You may be lucky for several times, but I am uncertain whether you can be lucky every single time.

To me, when my hard work pay off, it certainly gives me some sense of satisfaction. And I am sure that's the case when you achieve on any accomplishment too. 

I am currently trying to diversify my portfolio by exploring into other sectors, i.e. researching on potential REITs investment. It is really interesting to know that COVID-19 has created a radically different investment environment, especially in the real estate sector. I will share more on this topic in my next post.

Today I am also excited to share with you guys on my latest career transition. If you have been following me, you might have seen my story on "How COVID-19 changed Ms. Hotcup life". For my next career, I was hoping to explore something different from my previous audit experience. Fortunately, I have been given the opportunity to venture into advisory line.

From a wholly rigid and "rule-based" assurance career, I have learnt to adapt and transform my mindset to become a professional personnel who is able to provide tailor-made advice to respective client from a bigger business perspective. Meanwhile with my transferable skillset from audit, I have to ensure the companies follow applicable laws and regulations as my key role is to prepare my clients for their initial public offering (IPO).

This new experience totally opens one's eyes, from the understanding of a sponsor's role (aka principal advisor), analyzing of key financial information, assessing of risk management & internal control to corporate restructuring. As an advisor, you have to be a big picture thinker and detail-oriented at the same time which is definitely a huge challenge for myself. The practical experience I gained makes me realize that business is not just about debit and credit, it is much more than that. I’ve been given opportunity to meet the principal advisor, lawyers, investors, external auditors and various different stakeholders; as well as being actively involved in every meeting session to analyze and handle various issues before the due diligence come in place.

Starting a new career can be thrilling and scary at the same time, especially during uncertain times like now. There are a lot factors to consider such as job stability, learning curve, personal commitment, finances etc. If you have been considering to make a career change, the driving force behind this decision should be both rational and logical, instead of allowing your emotions to cloud your judgment and causing any instantaneous irrational decision. 

Finding a suitable career can be extremely difficult with limited opportunity. You should always be on the look out for any potential job opportunities from time to time as this is the chance to keep yourself posted on what's in demand in this competitive market. I realized throughout this process, it helps me to further understand my own worthiness and what employers are seeking for; and it is extremely important to understand your own value because if you don't, you won't be able to sell yourself in a job interview.

From moving to Singapore, planning to relocate to Australia and finally now working back in Malaysia, this journey in 2020 hasn't been easy on me. Many friends have frequently asked whether I am still heading to Australia after the pandemic is over. Honestly, I don't have an answer. What I know is that I have to let go of the past and move forward with my life. Be with the people I cherish, continue pursuing things that I love doing and appreciate what I have; these are things that I would love to do now. Pandemic has made me realize how many things we took for granted in our daily routine. A meal with family, a hug from mum or a bowl of warm home-cooked soup; these are little things which might not be easily achievable now since stringent restriction is in place on travelling (CMCO); simple commuting around the country would consider as a blessing now.

I've lost the opportunity to live in my dream land, but I've learnt things and appreciate simple moments in life now, hopefully, we all do.

Being grateful for what you have will change your outlook but also enable you to manifest better things in your life. - Oprah Winfrey

#newcareer #grateful #trying