Find your Life Calling and What Success Means to You

As I reflect on the journey that led to receiving my degree certificate in December 2016, I am filled with gratitude. My family, especially my dearest love, stood by me, understanding the stress and pressure I faced while juggling both studies and a growing career in financial services. Their support, particularly during moments when I was overwhelmed and unable to contribute to household chores, was invaluable.

I am also deeply grateful to my supervisors and professors, who instilled in me important life values, especially during my Final Year Project. Their guidance was instrumental in shaping my approach to both life and my career in holistic portfolio and investment management. Additionally, I owe much to the seniors and mentors in my career who provided me with the advice needed to manage time effectively and pace myself in the demanding world of financial advisory.

This reflection is not just about academic achievements but also about the life lessons gained through work experience. No matter what academic results we achieve, it’s crucial to find our true calling and define what success really means to us. Success isn’t solely about academic strength; it's about pursuing your passion and turning your vision into reality.

Throughout my career, I've met many individuals who weren't necessarily academically strong but have achieved significant success in their respective fields. Some struggled initially, facing low pay and repeated failures in their businesses. Yet, their determination to fulfill their passion and their vision of success—whether in their career, family life, or entrepreneurial endeavors—drove them to keep going. I deeply admire their courage and commitment to their life goals, which they have determined as their "life calling." This, to them, is true success.

For many, success might mean achieving the ideal work-life balance, watching their children grow up with the values they wish to instill, or running a successful startup after numerous setbacks. The journey to finding this success may not be immediate; it could take months or even years. But with perseverance, it will come.

For me, success is about maintaining a strong work-life balance where I can manage my time effectively, spend quality moments with loved ones, and still thrive in my career. In the financial services industry, success also means helping my clients achieve their financial goals—whether it’s through retirement planning, investment strategies, or ensuring they have a trusted financial advisor who guides them towards financial security. Seeing my clients benefit from my advice and knowing that I can positively impact more lives is the true measure of my success. While I may not consider myself very successful yet, I’m above average and working towards the vision of success I’ve set for myself.

Interestingly, this reflection reminds me of the song "Sk8er Boi" by Avril Lavigne. The story of the boy who was once an unpopular "punk" eventually becoming a superstar resonates with the idea that success is not about where you start but where you end up—achieving what is right for you, ethically.

Winifred Tan (Wini)
B.Sc (First Class Honours)
ChFC (Singapore) | AEPP | IBF Advanced Level 2CFA (Singapore) - L1 | CIPM (Int’l) Level 1
Court of the Table | Int’l Dragon Awards (Bronze) | APAC Financial Services Star Award
Top 20 GE Executive Financial Consultants | Entre-Planner