Change will always come, continue to be a work in progress.

The best way to distract your bum life is when you get an invite from PICPA Cebu's VP for Membership, Sir Domingo Dennis A. Mendoza, to share your journey and provide insights to neophytes in the CPA profession. This was very flattering to say the least, especially when for this batch, Cebu is able to produce 10 topnotchers (6 from the University of San Carlos, 4 from the University of San Jose-Recoletos, my alma mater).

I initially had second thoughts accepting the opportunity because normally the ones who represent the Public Practice are those who made Partner in top accounting firms in the country. But then I said to myself since Digong's "Change is Coming" is the buzzword these days, maybe it's time to provide them a different perspective in the public practice. After all, Consulting is a public practice.

Enterprise Applications Consulting is one path where accountants can do very well. You just have to keep abreast with the latest trends in relevant technologies for business. Once you are at it, you have to expand your horizon to cater not just the Philippines. At the very least, be ready to conquer Southeast Asia, because to say it bluntly, it is where the money is.

Speaking in front of the cream of the crop was nerve-wracking. After all the blah blahs about the consulting practice, below are excerpts on my advice to the neophytes as they embark in their respective careers, regardless of the path they take:

1. Know your character in the Game of Thrones. Politics is everywhere. You must know how to deal with it. Are you a John Snow or a Khaleesi?

2. Never burn bridges. The Accountancy profession is a small world. Reputation and connection is key to success.

3. Think out of the box. Defy the norms. Unconventional ideas could be the best solution to resolve a problem, personal or at work. 

4. Induce creativity when you can. An accountant’s job can be very structured and can become boring. Find outlets for your creativity to flow.

5. Growth is not always about position or money. The more knowledge you acquire, the more secure you are with your future. 

6. Take risks. You only live once. Accept challenges beyond your comfort zone.

7. Fall in love. Inspire and be inspired. If things don’t work out, learn the art of “hugot” and then move on. Don’t get slaved by it.

8. Explore. Travel. Take a break. If you can afford it, take a very loooonggg break. Explore and learn different cultures. 

9. Dive. There is no politics underwater. 

10. Be your own CPA. Live within your means. Do not max out your credit card. Ensure your personal cash flow is liquid. Invest.

Change will always come. Continue to be a work in progress. It will make you relevant at all times.