The First Quarter

Yusri Kardo -

Table of contents:

As we approach the culminating chapter of the year, it is imperative to pause and reflect on our progress, set forth our priorities, and strategically navigate the pivotal months that await us to set new goals for next year. In this edition, specific topics have been for essential insights and guidance to empower you to conclude the year on a strong and purposeful note.

Within the pages of this newsletter, we will delve into a comprehensive array of crucial topics to guide you through the conclusive quarter of the year. We will explore strategies for MONTHLY IMPROVEMENTS, providing you with the tools necessary to refine your goals and further your personal development. We will outline PRIORITIES FOR THE MONTH to help maintain laser-sharp focus and direction. Our examination of SCHEDULES will be instrumental in optimizing your time management and productivity.

The wise management of financial resources is the bedrock of success. Our FINANCES section will offer in-depth insights to ensure you are equipped to make prudent financial decisions. Moreover, our HEALTH segment will provide valuable tips and practices to safeguard your well-being and ensure your peak performance.

Entrepreneurship, an endeavor that many embark upon, will be explored in depth, offering entrepreneurial insights and inspiration. And, recognizing the importance of maintaining a harmonious work-life balance, we will address the dynamics of FAMILY & FRIENDSHIPS, emphasizing the cultivation of meaningful connections that enrich our lives.

Lastly, our CHESS MOVES section will draw parallels between strategic chess moves and the complexities of decision-making in life, allowing for a deeper understanding of strategic thinking and planning.

Please take a moment to immerse yourself in the wealth of knowledge and insights we have assembled to assist you in successfully navigating "The Final Quarter of the Year." We are dedicated to supporting your journey toward a prosperous and fulfilling conclusion to the year. Enjoy the content, and may it guide you to achieve your goals with clarity and purpose.

MONTHLY IMPROVEMENTS

Self-Reflection - Progress Assessment for areas to improve:

  • Comparison: Evaluate your current status against last month.
  • Observation: Recognize that there have been no substantial improvements for myself.
  • Response: Instead of becoming disheartened, view this as a starting point. Acknowledge the areas that need growth and use this awareness as motivation to implement the action plans below.

1. Social Media Use:

  • Challenge: Spending excessive time on social media.
  • Goal: Restructure and monitor social media usage for increased productivity.
  • Action Plan: Implement time management techniques, such as setting specific time limits for social media engagement. Replace mindless scrolling with more purposeful online interactions.

2. Bad Habits - Fast Food vs. Healthy Alternatives:

  • Challenge: Succumbing to the convenience of fast food.
  • Goal: Prioritize healthier eating habits.
  • Action Plan: Plan meals ahead, incorporating nutritious alternatives to fast food. Explore easy-to-make, wholesome recipes that align with your dietary goals.

3. Sleep Pattern:

  • Challenge: Inconsistent sleep schedule.
  • Goal: Establish a consistent and restful sleep routine.
  • Action Plan: Set a fixed bedtime and wake-up time. Create a calming bedtime ritual, such as reading or meditation, to signal your body that it's time to unwind.

4. Prayer and Meditation:

  • Challenge: Neglecting spiritual and mental well-being practices.
  • Goal: Dedicate more time to prayer and meditation.
  • Action Plan: Allocate specific slots in your daily schedule for these activities. Consider integrating them into your morning or evening routine to foster a sense of tranquility and spiritual connection.

PRIORITIES FOR THE FINAL QUARTER

Priorities for the Final Quarter: Navigating Towards Success

As we approach the final quarter of the year, it's imperative to hone in on our key priorities, ensuring that our efforts are channeled towards meaningful objectives. For many, this period represents a critical juncture where we can make significant strides toward our goals. Here are some essential priorities for the final quarter:

1. Meeting/Interview Preparation:

  • Importance: If interviews are on your horizon, whether for a job, internship, or educational program, diligent preparation is paramount.
  • Action Plan: Dedicate focused time to research, practice, and refine your interview skills. Utilize mock interviews, gather feedback, and ensure you're well-versed in presenting your qualifications confidently.

2. Study:

  • Importance: If your aspiration is further career development, study is a pivotal hurdle. Rigorous preparation is the key to success.
  • Action Plan: Create a study schedule that incorporates regular practice tests, revision, and targeted subject review. Seek out resources, study groups, or tutors to enhance your understanding and performance.

3. Residency Pursuit:

  • Importance: Completing a residency is a crucial step for health professionals, shaping their career trajectory.
  • Action Plan: I am pursuing to work on my residency program meticulously, ensuring alignment with my aspirations.

4. Entrepreneurship Endeavors:

  • Importance: Entrepreneurship is a dynamic journey that demands consistent effort and innovation.
  • Action Plan: I must allocate time and resources to further develop my entrepreneurial projects. Focusing on strategy, market research, and networking to propel endeavors to the next level.

To effectively manage your priorities during the final quarter, consider the following strategies:

- Time Management: Create a detailed schedule that allocates sufficient time to each priority. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance.

- Balance: While it's crucial to dedicate time to your priorities, remember to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Allocate time for relaxation, exercise, and social connections to prevent burnout.

- Adaptability: Be prepared to adapt your plans if circumstances change or unforeseen opportunities arise. Flexibility can be a powerful asset.

- Accountability: Track your progress and hold yourself accountable for meeting your goals. Consider seeking mentorship or support from peers to stay motivated and on track.

As you embark on this journey through the final quarter, stay resolute in your commitment to these priorities. Each step you take brings you closer to your aspirations, and by focusing your efforts wisely, you'll be better positioned to achieve the success you seek. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and let this quarter be a testament to your dedication and determination.

SCHEDULE

Organizing for success through scheduling:

Creating a structured schedule is crucial to effectively manage your priorities. My schedule includes:

  • Morning Routine: Use this time for personal care, exercise, and a healthy breakfast to start the day right.
  • Work Tasks: Allocate time for your work commitments during your working hours.
  • Study: Dedicate focused time to prepare for your studies. This includes researching the company or institution, practicing interview questions, and refining your responses. Spend time reviewing essay-writing techniques, practicing essay prompts, and improving your writing skills. Focus on problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Practice questions and work on strategies to tackle this section effectively. Allocate dedicated time for reviewing and consolidating your knowledge for these sections. This should include practice tests, question-solving, and in-depth study.
  • Residency: Understand prioritizations for each rotation and complete these tasks in an efficient manner.
  • Dinner: Ensure you have a balanced and nourishing dinner to maintain your energy levels.
  • Wind-down & Relax: Prioritize winding down before bedtime. This includes relaxation techniques, reading, or any other activities that help you de-stress and prepare for a restful night's sleep.

Remember to customize your schedule according to your specific work hours, energy levels, and other commitments. Regularly assess your progress and make adjustments as needed to optimize your productivity and ensure adequate time for each priority. Consistency and commitment are key to achieving your goals in these crucial areas.

FINANCES

Financial Toolkit and Investment Plan: Building a Secure Future

In the quest for financial stability and growth, having a well-structured financial toolkit and a thoughtful investment plan is paramount. This section delves into the key components of a strong financial foundation and strategies for wise investments to secure your financial future.

1. Emergency Fund:

  • Importance: Before diving into investments, ensure you have an emergency fund. This fund acts as a financial safety net, covering unexpected expenses like medical bills or car repairs.
  • Action: Set a goal to save at least 3-6 months' worth of living expenses in a liquid, easily accessible account like a savings account.

2. Budgeting and Expense Tracking:

  • Importance: A well-structured budget helps you understand your financial inflows and outflows, making it easier to save and invest.
  • Action: Create a detailed monthly budget, categorizing your expenses. Use apps or spreadsheets to track spending, identify areas for savings, and redirect those funds towards your investment plan.

3. Debt Management:

  • Importance: High-interest debts can erode your finances. Prioritize paying off high-interest debts like credit cards to free up more money for investments.
  • Action: Develop a debt repayment strategy and allocate extra funds toward paying off debts. Consider consolidating or refinancing to lower interest rates if feasible.

4. Investment Goals:

  • Importance: Define clear, achievable financial goals that will guide your investment strategy.
  • Action: Establish short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals. Determine your risk tolerance and time horizon for each goal to shape your investment choices.

5. Diversification:

  • Importance: Spreading investments across different asset classes (stocks, bonds, real estate) can reduce risk.
  • Action: Develop an investment portfolio that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. Diversify within each asset class to further mitigate risk.

6. Retirement Planning:

  • Importance: Securing your retirement is a primary financial objective.
  • Action: Contribute to retirement accounts like Super. Maximize employer contributions, if available, and take advantage of tax-advantaged retirement savings.

7. Regular Contributions:

  • Importance: Consistent contributions, even small ones, can grow significantly over time.
  • Action: Commit to regular investments, whether through automated transfers or payroll deductions. This "pay yourself first" approach ensures consistent progress.

8. Financial Education:

  • Importance: Continuously educate yourself about investment opportunities and strategies.
  • Action: Read books, attend seminars, or consult with financial advisors to stay informed and make informed decisions.

9. Risk Management:

  • Importance: Protect your investments and assets with adequate insurance coverage.
  • Action: Review and update your insurance policies (life, health, home, auto) to ensure they align with your financial goals and provide sufficient protection.

10. Periodic Review:

  • Importance: Financial goals and market conditions change over time; regular reviews are essential.
  • Action: Revisit your financial toolkit and investment plan at least annually. Adjust your strategies to stay on track with your goals and adapt to market fluctuations.

By incorporating these financial toolkit essentials and adhering to a well-considered investment plan, you can work towards building a secure financial future. Keep in mind that financial success often requires patience, discipline, and a long-term perspective. Begin your journey today and watch your wealth grow over time.

HEALTH

Holistic Health and Well-Being: Nurturing Mind, Body, and Spirit

In the pursuit of a fulfilling life, the importance of holistic health cannot be overstated. This section explores key aspects of well-being, encompassing mindset, spirituality, physical health, nutrition, and skincare, to help you achieve a harmonious and vibrant state of health.

Mindset:

  • Importance: A positive mindset is the foundation of overall well-being. It shapes your perception of the world and influences your responses to life's challenges.
  • Action: Cultivate mindfulness through meditation or journaling. Practice gratitude daily, focusing on the positive aspects of your life. Surround yourself with uplifting influences and engage in self-affirming activities that promote a healthy outlook.

2. Spirituality:

  • Importance: Spirituality offers a sense of purpose, connection, and inner peace, contributing to emotional and mental well-being.
  • Action: Explore your spiritual beliefs and practices, whether through prayer, meditation, or participation in a community of like-minded individuals. Regularly engage in activities that nurture your spiritual growth and provide solace in times of need.

3. Physical Health:

Gym Membership:

  • Importance: Regular exercise is fundamental for physical health, offering numerous benefits such as improved cardiovascular fitness, increased strength, and stress reduction.
  • Action: Embrace your gym membership as an opportunity to prioritize physical fitness. Create a structured workout routine that suits your goals, whether it's strength training, cardiovascular exercise, or flexibility workouts.

Food:

  • Importance: Nutrition plays a pivotal role in overall health. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients and energy for daily activities.
  • Action: Examine the screenshot of your food choices, focusing on incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Minimize processed foods and sugars, opting for fresh, nutrient-dense options.

4. Skincare:

  • Moisturizer Cream, Sesame Oil, and Hydrating Face Wash:
  • Importance: Skin health is an integral part of self-care, as it affects both physical appearance and self-esteem.
  • Action: Create a daily skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing with a hydrating face wash, moisturizing with a suitable cream, and the occasional use of natural oils like sesame oil for added nourishment. Don't forget to stay hydrated to maintain skin elasticity.

By nurturing these aspects of holistic health, you'll find yourself better equipped to lead a balanced and fulfilling life. Remember that well-being is an ongoing journey that requires consistent attention and self-compassion. Whether through cultivating a positive mindset, embracing spirituality, prioritizing physical health, or maintaining a skincare regimen, each step you take contributes to your overall health and vitality. Your commitment to these areas will help you thrive in mind, body, and spirit.

ENTREPREUNERSHIP

Entrepreneurship is a dynamic journey that calls for a strategic investment of time and effort. This section highlights various facets of entrepreneurial endeavors, including personal and professional development, business structure and setup, content creation through YouTube and podcasting, music ventures, and self-investments.

1. Progression and Development:

  • Importance: Achieving progress in your entrepreneurial journey and career development demands a dedicated investment of time and a commitment to continuous learning.
  • Action: Take proactive steps to build on your existing experiences and knowledge. Consider enrolling in relevant courses or seeking mentorship to enhance your skill set and expand your horizons.

2. Business Structure and Setup:

  • Importance: Establishing a solid foundation for your entrepreneurial endeavors is crucial for long-term success.
  • Action: Assess your business structure—whether it's a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation—and ensure it aligns with your goals. Conduct due diligence in areas like legal compliance, accounting, and tax planning to set up your business for growth.

3. YouTube and Podcasting:

  • Importance: Content creation through platforms like YouTube and podcasting can be a powerful tool for building your brand, connecting with your audience, and expanding your reach.
  • Action: Invest time in crafting high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Consistency is key; create a content calendar to ensure regular uploads and episodes.

4. Music Ventures:

  • Importance: If you're venturing into the music industry, your passion and creativity can drive success.
  • Action: Invest in honing your musical skills, whether through practice, lessons, or collaboration with other musicians. Explore opportunities for performance and promotion to showcase your talent to a wider audience.

5. Self-Investments:

  • Importance: Personal growth is often the catalyst for entrepreneurial success. Investing in yourself can yield exponential returns in your ventures.
  • Action: Set aside time for self-improvement activities such as reading, networking, and attending workshops or seminars. Don't overlook the importance of mental and physical well-being, as a healthy you is better equipped for entrepreneurship.

FAMILY AND FRIENDSHIP

Family and Friends: Strengthening Bonds and Supporting Siblings

Amid the whirlwind of life's challenges and aspirations, the role of family and friends remains invaluable. In this section, we emphasize the importance of nurturing and strengthening these bonds, with a particular focus on supporting siblings.

1. The Power of Family and Friends:

  • Importance: Your family and friends form a bedrock of support, offering understanding, love, and companionship on your journey through life.
  • Action: Take time to appreciate the people in your life who provide unwavering support. Express your gratitude and maintain open lines of communication to strengthen these vital connections.

2. Supporting Siblings:

  • Importance: Siblings share a unique and enduring bond that often lasts a lifetime. Supporting your siblings can be a source of joy, strength, and shared experiences.
  • Action: Actively engage with your siblings, whether through regular conversations, quality time spent together, or helping each other achieve personal and professional goals. Your encouragement and support can be instrumental in their success.

3. Emotional Well-Being:

  • Importance: Emotional well-being is deeply intertwined with the relationships we cultivate. Family and friends play a crucial role in providing emotional support during challenging times.
  • Action: Prioritize open and honest communication with your loved ones. Share your feelings, concerns, and victories, and encourage them to do the same. Be a source of comfort and empathy when needed.

4. Shared Experiences:

  • Importance: Shared experiences create lasting memories and reinforce bonds. These moments strengthen your connections and provide a sense of belonging.
  • Action: Plan and participate in activities that bring you closer together, whether it's family gatherings, travel adventures, or simply spending quality time with friends. These shared moments become treasured memories.

5. Lifelong Learning:

  • Importance: Family and friends are often our greatest teachers, offering valuable lessons and insights through their own experiences.
  • Action: Stay open to learning from the wisdom and experiences of your loved ones. Encourage open discussions, and be willing to share your knowledge and guidance when appropriate.

In the tapestry of life, family and friends are the threads that weave together our stories and provide the emotional, social, and moral support we need. As you navigate your path, remember to cherish these connections, nurture them with love and care, and be a source of strength for your siblings as they pursue their own dreams and ambitions. In doing so, you contribute not only to your own well-being but also to the enriching tapestry of your family's shared history.

CHESS MOVES

Next Moves: Prioritization and Analyzing Your Plan

Balancing career aspirations, personal goals, and financial strategies is a complex yet pivotal aspect of planning for your future. In this section, we'll delve into your next moves, focusing on prioritization and the analysis of your plan, particularly in relation to pursuing career and entrepreneurship goals.

  1. Prioritization:
  • Importance: Prioritization is the cornerstone of effective planning. It enables you to allocate your time, resources, and energy wisely to meet your most pressing goals.
  • Action: Review your short-term and long-term objectives, considering their significance and timelines. Identify which goals require immediate attention and which can be pursued over a longer horizon. This assessment will help you allocate your efforts efficiently.

The below is my personal chess moves:

2. Further Study:

  • Importance: Pursuing further study is a significant undertaking that requires thorough planning and dedication. It's crucial to analyze the potential impact on your personal and financial life.
  • Action: Assess your readiness for studies, including the academic and financial aspects. Consider the time and resources required, potential return on investment, and the alignment of this goal with your long-term aspirations.

3. Property Investment:

  • Importance: Property investment is a powerful wealth-building strategy, but it also necessitates careful planning and execution. Acquiring a property for short-term residence before converting it into an investment property can be a sound strategy.
  • Action: Evaluate your property investment plan in detail. Determine whether it's more advantageous to invest in multi-family property, and if so, conduct a thorough market analysis. Additionally, assess your short-term property purchase plan, including financing options and expected returns when it becomes an investment property. Research the real estate market in your target area for this short-term property. Calculate potential costs, including down payment, mortgage, and maintenance. Project the expected rental income and appreciation in value to gauge its feasibility as an investment. Work with financial experts or use reputable online tools to calculate potential cash flow, return on investment (ROI), and break-even points for your property investment. Ensure your calculations consider all costs, including property taxes, maintenance, and potential vacancies.

In navigating your next moves, meticulous planning and thoughtful prioritization are your allies. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of pursuing medicine, multi-family property investment, and short-term property purchase, you can make informed decisions that align with your overarching goals. Remember to continuously review and adjust your plans as needed, staying adaptable in the face of changing circumstances and opportunities. Your commitment to strategic thinking and wise prioritization will set you on a path to a prosperous future.

Quote of the Month

As this these final months are focused on strategic planning for the upcoming year, I think this is the best quote that relates to the final quarter of the year:

"Playing chess not checkers" - Nipsey Hussle
"Opportunity meets preparation" - Nipsey Hussle

Comments Section

Please leave a comment on your last quarter of the year to complete your year on a win!