LAUNCHING FOR SUCCESS

Checking the Foundations of Success: Launching for Success

Are you truly set up for success this year?

Think of yourself as a car. Just like your car needs regular maintenance to perform at its best, your personal and professional life also needs periodic “service checks.” But here’s the thing—how intentional are you about your “life service”?

Success isn’t accidental; it’s intentional. Just as you wouldn’t neglect your car, don’t neglect yourself. Schedule your “service station” moments regularly. Reflect, reset, and refocus to ensure you’re operating at your full potential.

1. Choosing the Right Service Station

When your car needs servicing, you don’t take it to just any mechanic—you take it to someone you trust, someone with a proven track record of doing a great job. Now ask yourself:

• Who do you trust to guide and support you in your personal growth?
• Are you seeking advice, mentorship, or coaching from the right people who truly understand your value and goals?

For example, imagine Mary, a Finance Manager with big career aspirations. She doesn’t just rely on casual advice from friends; she seeks a certified career coach or mentor to help her strategize.

2. What Needs Replacing, and What Needs Checking?

At the service station, some parts of the car are replaced entirely, whether they’ve been overused or just worn out by time. For example, the oil and filters are replaced because they’ve reached the end of their season. Similarly, in your life:

• What habits, routines, or mindsets need to be completely replaced because they’re no longer serving you?
• What areas of your life or skills need a thorough check-up, adjustment, or refresh?

For instance, John, a Marketing Manager, realized that his networking habits had grown stale. He replaced them by joining professional events and actively engaging on LinkedIn. At the same time, he reviewed his time management skills to ensure he was maximizing his productivity.

3. Your Value Determines the Service You Need

Not all cars are the same. A high-performance sports car requires specialized service, which naturally costs more. You can’t expect to drive like a Ferrari if you insist on maintenance meant for an economy car. Likewise, in your life and career:

• What type of “car” are you? Are you a high-performing professional with big goals? Then you must invest in yourself accordingly—be it through professional development courses, mentorship, or wellness programs.

For example, Sarah, an aspiring CFO, recognized her worth and invested in a leadership program that sharpened her decision-making skills, even though it stretched her budget.

4. The Annual Service Moment

Taking your car for regular service ensures it runs smoothly and avoids costly breakdowns. Similarly, scheduling a moment to recalibrate your life is critical. For me, annual goal setting/Personal Effectiveness retreat is my personal “service station” moment.

This is a time to:

• Re-center on your purpose.
• Energize yourself for the journey ahead.
• Replace what’s outdated and check what needs fine-tuning.

Think of it this way: even if you’re facing challenges—whether financial struggles, health issues, or a packed schedule—you don’t skip car maintenance because you know it’s necessary for safety and performance. Your life deserves the same level of care and priority.

CPA Hillary Oonge:

Personal Effectiveness and Career coach &

Community Manager FPKE (Finance ProfessionalsKe)&

COO and Partner -SKM Africa LLP &

Board Member at KCDF.