After the U-Turn, here comes the traffic light

Due to insistent demand by some of my staff and co-seniors at work, they've been asking me to write about what happened next after I traversed the U-Turn (http://dabluejay.blogspot.com/2011/06/traversing-u-turn.html). My first busy season as an audit returnee is officially over (except for some archiving tasks) and they (especially those who are considering going out of the audit pool and jumping in the private practice) are eager to seek my thoughts on their decision. Well, I've been very hesitant at first considering the good or bad repercussions I may cause or inflict upon them and upon the firm where I work now. I am very much cautious also since I know that some of the firm partners and managers are reading this blog. I am bound by professional ethics especially on areas of confidentiality and upholding the image of the profession.

So, first and foremost, all of the views and insights in this blog entry are personal views and insights of this author and not of any entity or organization where this author is associated.

Back to the topic, where should I start? Hmmm... I am writing this article while sipping brewed Starbucks coffee at Makati Stock Exchange (in front of Allied Bank). Two hours ago, I went to my favorite sanctuary in the middle of the business district - the Chapel at Greenbelt where I solemnly prayed and asked for HIS guidance (and motivation). I also went inside the confession room for a little "chit chat" with the priest there. I asked him "Father, why did you become a priest? And how come I am not a priest?". He said "Because this is my calling. I heard HIS call and I obeyed it. My interest, skills and knowledge are all about HIM from the moment I heard that calling". He may have already guessed what my problem is all about so he continued "God gave each one of us unique skills and talents. Look for it inside you. Develop and nurture it. Those are treasures God have given you since you were born and He wants you to use it not just for your own good but for the good of your brothers and sisters as well".

I became more puzzled. I recalled my aptitude tests way back in high school (results: "Diversified" just like San Miguel Corp) as well as my points of interests way back from my college days (I enjoyed minor subjects more than the major ones) up to my current professional life (I have only one interest - lunch break). I have developed lots of skills and knowledge resulting from my previous three employers. How come I can't still choose one to specialize into? Blame it on my curiosity at the very early age. I studied everything from astrology to soccer. Now, I know a little something of everything yet I am not really a master of any thing. I  am thinking of applying for a new name like my first name is "Jack" my middle name is "of all trades" and my surname, "master of none".


At this point, the question everyone is asking is to go or not to go. Shall I pursue my teenage dream of becoming an auditor and trusted business advisor as discussed on blog link above? Or shall I go where the market is currently trending (join PBB teens maybe)? Chase the cheese or be contented with the bread in front of me? Fundamental analysis or technical analysis?

Lots of questions. Unverified answers.

I can see the traffic lights along Ayala Avenue as I sit on the corner table. I watched how each vehicle stops each time the lights turn red. Some drivers step on their brakes hurriedly while some were gentle and slow. Some maintains the "distancia amigo" on the car in front of them while some are like kissing bumper-to-bumper. Some drivers were listening to music while some were chatting on their phones. Some have passengers, some were all alone.

The light turned green and engines started to rev again. Each driver stepped on the gas pedal and headed where they are going to. Some went straight ahead while others turned left and right. Some vehicles are shiny and brand new while others were apparently needed a carwash and perhaps a makeover.

Indeed, I'm stuck on a heavy traffic right on a rush hour of a Tuesday afternoon. In just a matter of seconds, the lights will turn green and I need to step on the gas and go to a certain direction. Shall I go straight? Shall I turn left/right? Honestly, I don't know.

But I am enjoying the ride. I enjoy the cool breeze gushing through my mojacko cheeks and my eyes are feasting over the shimmering glow of citylights. I can't help but to admire the modern architecture of the tall buildings around me. I marvel on untold stories of each nameless passerby and fellow travellers I am encountering. However, each time I encounter familiar faces (friends, colleagues and former co-workers) during my ride along the highway of career success, I can't stop myself from gazing at what "car" they are driving. Some were driving top of the line cars. Some even ride on a lamborghini or a ferrari. While I am still commuting o a 50-peso shuttle ride on my way home. I am hoping that one day, I can own my dream volvo too!

One my favorite business books is Winning by Former GE CEO Jack Welch. His advise on choosing a career goes like this "Find a work that has meaning to you. That touches you. Let fate decide for your career planning. Just do your best and hold on as opportunities will chase you rather than you chasing them". I am holding on to this advice up to now as I give my best each working day (except this day. I am really "nauumay" to coaching notes lol).

Back to the million dollar question - where to go when the lights turn green? My answer: "I will be heading straight to my heart". My heart will always be the center of my being. Why? Because it's where I keep the most treasured in my life - God, my family, my future wife, my friends, my mentors and even YOU.

The world may offer me lots and lots of money and recognition but not the happiness that can be found as I come at peace with my heart.





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