If you’re praying for rain, make sure that you prepare your fields to receive it.  This statement is what I feel got me through the last leg of the CA (SA) gauntlet and to where I am today.  I feel very privileged to be standing here at the finish line with more gained than I could ever have imagined, and certainly not worse for wear.

I know that it’s an easy thing to say after the fact, but passion, persistent perseverance and psychological preparation are the keys to making this journey a success.  I’ve found that the reward attached to an achievement of this high calibre has had a massive impact on me emotionally and psychologically.  It’s as if I’ve found an extra gear to shift into for better performance.  Like a secret 6th gear that I never knew was there, if you will.

Becoming a CA (SA) has brought with it a high expectation of myself, an increased awareness of the needs of others, and greater respect for all people.  The value of human relationships is immeasurable. 

As many reading this article will know, the road to becoming a CA (SA) is by no means an easy feat.  Having said that, it’s difficult to imagine my journey to this point without some kind of struggle.  The ultimate reward simply wouldn’t be worth anything without a memorable amount of effort required to achieve it.

While this achievement may seem like an end goal to many, I’ve realised that it is just the beginning.  Not only have we signed up for lifelong learning, but there is a greater expectation on us to always be prepared to deliver useful and accurate advice to our clients and colleagues.  Personally, my brain has never resembled a 24 hour subway station more than it has in these past few months, for no reason other than the fact that there is suddenly so much to think about.  It’s truly exhilarating.  So no, it doesn’t stop here.  There’s a world of knowledge to be gained and this is just the first platform.  All aboard!

For those of you still climbing this mountain, my only wish is that you never give up.  Once you reach the top, the view is quite extraordinary.  There is so much to be gained through your persistent effort and the journey is life altering in its own right.  Embrace the challenge and commit to it with everything in you.  Prepare your mind adequately and believe in yourself enough to achieve your goal.

Most importantly, when you’re praying for rain, be sure that you prepare your fields to receive it.

Nicci Weymouth

Senior accountant, Durban