Well this is going to be a different kind of blog today, a real – raw – and vulnerable one.

A reminder that we are all human

And taking opportunities is always absolutely worth it!

 

The opportunities I’ve taken this year have reminded me that I am a strong lady.

If I had children of my own I would want them to see this, I don’t – so I’ll hope my two amazing nephews see that being yourself and saying yes to opportunities is empowering and courageous – and worth it!

 

However – the opportunity I took has not gone the way I wanted.

In some moments of reflection in the last week I’ve told myself I have failed!

 

I’ve cringed and gotten embarrassed and shed a few tears because of the outcome.

It’s not what I hoped would happen or what I planned for.

 

I’ll tell you the details in this blog, but I want to …. No I need to write about it – reflect – get out my emotions and then I believe this will help me move on.

 

But right now – ouch 😮

It feels like I’ve just sat and failed my SCS with 79 marks.

 

I say SCS specifically because that’s the cause of this ‘problem’

 

Let’s go back to December when I thought “What do I want to do with my business next year?”

My favourite exam is the Strategic Case Study and I’ve coached many students through this exam – I love coaching this one!

 

So I decided to niche my coaching and coach just Strategic level CIMA students.

I started with creating a new SCS revision course and in January I ran my masterclass and got 6 amazing SCS students in my inner revision world and on my SCS Revision Course.

As always I made sure they had all the resources they needed plus lots of support with confidence and motivational boosts.

I enjoyed the coaching so much – I knew I was going to do it again!

 

I have always coached SCS students – but this time I made a brand new revision course!

 

Over the last few months I have been working hard supporting CIMA students and promoting my next Masterclass for SCS students sitting their May case study.

I ran the masterclass last week and it was so fun!

I got to coach 63 students in a room – that’s so amazing! And I loved it.

 

Not sure how you feel about this business model – but I run masterclasses for two reasons.

👉🏻 Firstly to give value to my students

👉🏻 Secondly to promote and launch my coaching offers – in this case my Revision Course.

 

You might think “Oh that’s rude or salesly or I can’t believe she tried to sell me something just cos I came to her masterclass”

BUT I stand by this sales model because I know it works to help my students.

And helps me – I am running a business, not a charity.

 

But this is the ‘problem’

On this occasion, the signup numbers didn’t come.

 

I’ve put all of my effort into coaching and supporting CIMA students this year and in order to run my business full time I need money in (what a surprise!)

 

With my masterclass and revision course I had targeted numbers and income … and unfortunately I didn’t meet the targets (I was miles away by the way!)

 

Erm… this is hard for me to write … but I will…

I ‘needed’ 22 students to signup to my revision course in order to keep running my business fulltime.

 

And I got ….

1

One amazing SCS student from the masterclass signed up.

 

62 students didn’t take the opportunity to learn how to pass their SCS from me.

 

Which is honestly absolutely fine and I know they have their reasons.

No-one has to revise with me and I would never want to force anyone!

{I’m not being precious or arrogant – maybe too honest, but I take that risk}

 

However, because I didn’t get the revenue I need, I can’t continue to run my business fulltime.

 

And yes I am gutted!

And YES I feel like I’ve failed!

 

If only it had worked … if only I got more students

If only they could see how amazing my course is and how much it would help them

 

So many emotions and thoughts have been going through my brain!

 

It’s embarrassing for me to ask, but if you did attend the masterclass, would you let me know your reasons for not investing in my revision course?

 

I want to change it so I can make it a course you want and need.

{It’s not about me – it’s about you – I would love the opportunity to change the course to make it better for you}

 

Plan B

So, onto plan B – get a new day job.

Yes I’m gutted 🙃

 

Gutted that this happened so soon, but I have got to the end of my money pot and there is no magic fairy at the end with unlimited £50 notes!

But I have bills to pay and money in to do that.

 

And if I’m honest I can’t put 200% effort into my business if it only makes 1% return.

 

Yes, I will continue to run my coaching business – like I have done for 6 years.

And I’m here to coach and support CIMA students.

 

I will absolutely focus on achieving my Mission:24in24

🤓 I want to help 24 CIMA students get fully qualified in 2024! 🤓

 

You’ll see me on Linkedin every day.

I’m determined to keep writing a weekly blog for you.

 

I will be running a masterclass in July for the August case study sittings (For management and Strategic case studies)

Yes I have both MCS and SCS Revision Courses that you can signup to for August sittings.

 

But for me it won’t be the same.

I am sad … and gutted.

 

I didn’t talk about it much, but I got made redundant from my last role and I left in January. It was a stressful one and took lots of my energy and brain space…. Which I don’t care to repeat ever again.

So finding a new job is slightly daunting, especially when interviewers will say ‘what did you do in your last role’

I’m trying not to be picky, but I would like to find a job and employer that I actually like this time!

 

But I have to put my Finance Manager dress back on and rock up to the Finance world again.

{Reluctantly hanging up my hoodie and lounge wear!}

 

 

Have I failed?!

Yes to some people probably … but I don’t think so

{After I’ve dusted myself off I’ll see this as a win and a gain – not a fail or loss}

 

And when I see £££ in my bank account I will smile.

The fact I can get a Finance Manager job for £50k is a privilege – and it’s because I have my CIMA qualification – but I’ll talk about that as a separate blog – that’s how important and powerful it is!

 

I always tell my students to have a plan A and plan B.

Cos it’s the smart thing to do and I believe it reduces the emotional pain that happens when plan A doesn’t happen.

 

But .. I truly believe everything happens for a reason (even if you don’t see or feel it at the time)

 

So onto plan B!

 

I want to document this cos it’s a moment in time.

A moment in my life.

It’s not the end of the world and I want to be real and honest and look back in a year or 10 years and think wow ~ I did that!

 

I took another opportunity to run my business full time and I bloody loved it!

I ran my business and I loved it and didn’t put on a face to pretend everything is okay.

 

I wish everyone posted their exam results on exam day – aaallll of the fail marks! I want to see them and it would be epic.

👉🏻 To support

👉🏻 To see the reality of studying

👉🏻 To be motivated to keep going

 

It frustrates me when all I see is the public posts of “I passed!” .. knowing the reality that others failed.

 

You guys know I totally congratulate you and I’m super proud when you pass.

But hopefully you know what I’m saying – it’s not “just” about passing.

Sitting the exam is an achievement!

 

The recent Manchester and London marathons have showed the last finisher and there was so much applause – this is what we need to see more of

Real life and real achievements

Well I need to see more of them!

 

🙃🤦🏻‍♀️I put in 200% effort and in return got … 1%?! Return?! 🙃🤦🏻‍♀️

 

I TRIED

And I’m so grateful I got the opportunity to try!

 

I’m still coaching and I’m still absolutely determined to achieve my Mission: 24in24

And if you’re sitting your MCS or SCS in August – I have an amazing Revision course for you! 😜

 

Thanks for reading.

See you next week for a motivational revision blog 🤓❤️

Please do not make these common SCS mistakes

(cos you’ll probably fail)

 

If you are searching around for Strategic Case Study tips and advice, especially because the new pre-seen has come out.

📝 I wanted to write a useful SCS resource for you.

 

I’ve coached hundreds of CIMA students over the past 11 years (since I qualified myself)

and

I failed loads of my CIMA exams along my 6 year journey,

but

I passed my SCS 1^st time! 🤓 😇

 

I coach SCS students and my average pass mark is 92.8 marks

 

I confidently know what I’m teaching when it comes to Strategic Case Study (SCS)

{I say that confidently, not arrogantly}

 

There are loads of techniques I can teach you – so come to my SCS Masterclass for that.

 

Today’s blog is teaching you what NOT to do.

 

My style of coaching is about being specific and structured.

So, I’m not going to ‘just’ tell you the common SCS Mistake.

 

🤓 I want you to know how not to make the mistake, why it’s a bad idea and what to do instead to feel smarter, more prepared and more confident.🤓

 

Do not under-estimate the power of confidence in yourself

 

Here is my list of students common SCS Mistakes – but more importantly specific coaching advice around each one.

 

Avoid these common SCS mistakes {please!}

 

1. Practicing with old questions

The common SCS mistake with using past papers questions is thinking you can easily apply the same question to your new pre-seen.

It’s not as easy as that – and you waste time trying to think of a theme or unseen style question to make it fit, which wastes your time.

 

What I want you to do instead is get pre-seen specific questions for your pre-seen.

 

Because tutors and coaches (aka me – yes I have pre-seen specific questions in my revision courses) have picked the relevant core activities for the new pre-seen (not tried to shoe horn old businesses into this one)

 

👉🏻 Working smarter not harder comes to mind! 💪🏻

 

2. Re-reading

Reading the text book is useful but re-reading and going around in circles is boring and your brain is not engaged anymore.

Yes I get that you need to refresh your learning and you need to remember ‘the balanced scorecard’ and ‘gametheory’ and ‘what NPV is’

 

BUT Re- reading is a common SCS mistake because you think you have to recall aaaallll of the E3 ~ P3 and F3 technical models. Which isn’t true.

 

You need to have a smart understanding of the core activities and then you need to demonstrate your strategic understanding to how the model impacts us – come along to my Masterclass (here) to find out HOW to do that!

 

But please stop reading and re-reading – okay!

 

3. 2 weeks of cramming

Oh gosh – I’ve put my least favourite revision word into my blog!

 

Cramming is a big fat ugly NO – It’s not a technique you need and it does NOT work (especially for SCS)

 

I know that you don’t want to cram, but the idea of sitting a 3 hour exam is scary and the pre-seen is 27 pages and there is so much to learn, remember, practice and get right!

 

Plus work is busy, you have a family and trying to have a life in between revising and you’ve left it to the last minute cos your exam is in 2 weeks and *?!*$* argh!

 

Right – breathe – and trust me – what you need to do is write and use a revision plan.

 

{If you come live to my Masterclass – I will give you my 5 week SCS revision plan – all completely filled out and ready for you}

 

Yes – that’s how important NOT CRAMMING is!

 

To avoid making this common SCS mistake – I need you to start your revision earlier and plan your revision tasks.

The pre-seen has been released, you need to start revising – pretty please.

 

 

4. Not reading the questions

Once you have pre-seen questions and are in practice mode (well done) – if you do not read the question properly – you are sabotaging your exam success!

 

Firstly do not skim read the question.

 

Secondly do not go off on a tangent thinking the question is about project managers – without reading the question is actually about project management and reducing the costs of the project.

 

The common SCS mistake (which I hear and see so much) is panic reading and not reading the question properly.

 

You have worked too hard to do this!

You have 59 minutes to read, plan and answer the question. Please use your first 10 minutes wisely.

 

 

5. Not writing enough

You have 3 hours to answer 3 questions. Well technically you have 59 ½ minutes to answer 1 question (cos the screen disappears and you can’t go back)

And in that 59 minutes (times by 3) you have to gain 80 marks.

 

The common SCS mistake is to not write enough to demonstrate your strategic understanding.

If you are guilty of this please focus on firstly quantity and then secondly quality.

 

In my masterclass I’m going to teach you how much to write (quantity) and how to demonstrate relevantly (quality) – yes I keep wanging on about my masterclass – cos I want you to pass – here’s the link to register.

 

6. Being a Rabbit in headlights with technical question

Oh this is a classic and very common SCS mistake.

 

Many of my students come to me and say this has happened to them.

 

Reminder – this is a CIMA finance exam (not a business studies exam and not a marketing exam) – YES you need to demonstrate your technical understanding strategically.

 

But there are so many technical areas that could be tested… so what happens when you don’t know the theory!?

 

If you are being a rabbit in headlights – then you either need to focus on your technical recall (you have the knowledge base I know you do)

 

AND … more importantly … you need to focus on your self belief and the non-technical exam techniques that point in the positively strong position of writing something on your script!

 

Again, you haven’t worked this hard to be a rabbit  – you need to write something in order to get some marks.

 

Summary of common SCS mistakes

There you have it, my 6 most common SCS mistakes explained so that you can avoid doing them please.

 

To know exactly what to do – the Masterclass is live and free for you – yes really – register and grab your space here.

 

It’s easy for me to say don’t do these things ….

Which I kindof have done above, but hopefully I’ve guided you away from doing them (cos they don’t work) and steered you away from getting pre-seen specific resources and coaching support to teach you what to do.

 

This is your last CIMA exam

You deserve to pass and qualify and finally get your life back!

 

You have to practice smartly – read the specific exam question and write sentences which demonstrate your strategic understanding.

 

Deal! 🤓 ❤️

 

Good Luck and I’m here to coach you when you’re ready to PASS with 100 marks!

P.S – If you have 8 minutes – feel free to read a few of my other very useful (if I do say so myself) Strategically focused Revision blogs!

Why model answers are crap!

 

Now I’m aware this is a controversial conversation.

You might not be on the same page as me about model answers … and why model answers are crap.

 

I know you rely on them.

However, I want to expand your thinking (and learning)

 

And I’m really passionate about this topic!

Plus helping you see a different perspective is great, so that you improve your written answers.

 

When I say model answers – I’m talking directly about the CIMA case study exams.

 

If you’re new to my World – Hi 👋🏻 – I’m Helen. I’m a CIMA Revision Coach and I’m here to give students structure, support and a strong exam day strategy.

I talk about revision, non-technical exam techniques and confidence!

 

When you realise that model answers are crap – then this opens you up to making your answer as strong as possible – yourself!

 

I coach differently and here’s why:

I’m not a tutor by the way – I’m a coach (You can read last week’s blog to find out what the difference is)

 

💪🏻 I want to coach you to know how YOU can write a strong script 💪🏻

🧠 And believe in your SCRIPT so that you feel empowered with your answer 🧠

 

My style of coaching focuses on teaching you the exam techniques and strategy – combined with your specific pre-seen – which gives you a simple structure to think, write and analyse on your exam day.

 

You don’t have to read a model answer to be able to do that!

I will always encourage you to learn and revise in ways that suit you and your skills.

The majority of my students are re-sitters and that takes a different kind of revision approach.

 

Not an approach that you need to copy from a model answer!

 

The bonus of being a re-sitter is that you’ve done loads of hard work revising already – you just need a few tweaks.

Feel free to read my other revision blogs to find out what the right re-sitter approach is for your MCS or SCS exam.

 

 

I haven’t always thought model answers are crap by the way …

But something opened my eyes!

 

A few years ago, I was working with a tuition provider about writing some mock SCS questions and answers.

 

I really love coaching on the case study exams (especially MCS and SCS) so I investigated being a writer for them.

{Caveat: Nothing wrong with this tuition provider by the way, I’m sure they’re all the same}

 

The conversations were going well and I was planning my questions.

I was actually getting quite excited thinking about how many students would see my SCS style!

 

But then … I asked “How long do I get to write an answer?”

And the response shocked me … actually it really pissed me off!

 

The answer was “Give it a go for a couple of weeks and we can review it”

 

Erm ….. literally my response was – 2 weeks?!

 

My SCS students only get 60 minutes to read and answer the question (45 minutes if you’re a MCS student)

Why would you give me 2 weeks?!

 

That’s not fair!

 

I was literally shocked and politely declined the paid work!

 

Do you think I was over reacting?!

 

I couldn’t get my head around this and thought it was so unfair!

 

I pride myself on coaching my SCS students on structuring a great answer in 59 minutes, and believing they can produce a great answer in 59 minutes!

 

Listen, I know when you do the traditional tuition questions you get a model answer.

And you think that’s the answer “I need to learn and copy and re-create – for me to be able to pass!”

 

BUT: That model answer probably took the tutor a week to write, perfect, re-read, make perfect!

 

You can’t learn from it!

 

No offence guys, but learning from a case study model answer is not realistic – or helpful – or confidence boosting!

 

This experience has massively impacted how I coach my MCS and SCS students.

And yes, I steer them away from model answers!

 

There is a much better way to practice how to create a stronger case study answer – yourself!

{Keep reading to find out!}

 

Let me spell out my opinions about model answers which I want to help reframe your reliance on them:

🙃 The tutor had weeks to write the answer!

🙃 They would never been able to re-create their own answer within 59 minutes!

🙃 It’s so subjective – it is only the tutor’s opinion (at that point of time!)

 

If you try and copy or learn from a model answer – you are learning a rubbish exam technique!

 

Yes – I am passionate about this one (I did warn you!)

 

Strategic Case Study Specifically:

With the SCS exam specifically – it’s about demonstrating your strategic understanding.

 

There are 4 very important words there:

Demonstrate

YOUR

Strategic

UNDERSTANDING

 

The only way YOU will get mark on your SCS script on YOUR exam day is when YOU make YOUR script YOUR own!

 

See where I’m going with this (and the shouting capitals!)

 

Yes, I know you think the model answers give you the perfectly – right – amazing answer and technical answer.

But it’s not the only answer!

 

Imagine this …

You read your answer back and see how you have demonstrated your strategic understanding.

👉🏻 See the relevant points you have made

👉🏻 See how you could add a few more relevant points

👉🏻 Critique your answer (as a stand alone answer) and highlight any gaps of relevance or knowledge or strategic understanding.

 

Caveat: When I say critique I mean this in the softest kindness way!

 

Of course your answer isn’t going to be perfect!

 

Firstly, you had 59 minutes to read and answer the question!

Secondly you are just practising! It doesn’t need to be perfect, if anything, this is the time and opportunity for you to make mistakes and then read it back and identify where you could make it better!

Thirdly,  it’s immediately a better answer than the model answer – because it’s from your brain and you are showing your strategic understanding – as a current CIMA student.

 

 

I don’t want you relying on model answers anymore.

 

Hopefully I’ve opened up your eyes (and brain) to help you see that YOUR answer is the only thing to focus and learn from.

 

How do you do that?!

You learn the non-technical exam techniques on how to write SCS scripts (sentences and paragraphs) to write about your understanding of the question in relation to your pre-seen case.

 

If you are sitting your SCS in the next sitting (May 24) then come and join my free Masterclass: How to pass your SCS with 100 marks (without cramming or crying)

 

I promise I will teach you the strategy YOU can use to learn how YOU can pass YOUR case study and build a great SCS script full of relevant points (with loads of pre-seen links!)

 

With no model answers in sight!

 

Actually I will be honest – Inside my SCS Mountain Climb revision course – I have written 25 practice questions and 5 full mocks for my students to use!

That’s 4 weeks full of pre-seen specific practice questions.

With no model answers!

 

Whoa there I know you’re thinking: “Yeah, but how will I know if I’ve got the right answers?!”

Firstly, I teach you how to read your script back to (kindly) highlight your gaps.

Secondly, I teach you a framework to follow to write your script (so you will learn this and just practice it)

And if you have the VIP upgrade – I will review your answer and give you some coaching feedback (based on my SCS strategy and framework)

 

It’s about YOU!

You trusting yourself

And YOU knowing what exam strategy and exam techniques you want to practice (in your revision phase) and highlight (on your exam day)

 

I would put a £1000 bet on with the tutors – to say that they could not replicate their answer if they had 59 minutes!

 

So – take this blog as your sign to learn how YOU can create your own great (not perfect) model answer!

Use the practice questions – absolutely – please do these! A LOT!

 

But throw the model answers in the bin and smartly spend your review and refresh time!

 

If you’re coming to the masterclass – I look forward to coaching you!

Here’s the link if you need it!

 

And if you want to use my pre-seen specific SCS Practice questions

That’s 25 practice questions AND 5 full mocks!

Here’s the link you need for those!

 

 

Thanks for reading – and as always I hope my blogs help inspire, motivate and improve your CIMA revision journey! 🤓❤️

You don’t need a tutor to pass your SCS exam.

 

Why…

 

In today’s revision blog I’m going to tell ya!

 

Caveat – of course the tutors are important – I’m not saying you never need them!

But hear me out.

 

 

It took me 6 years to finally pass my CIMA … and I failed loads of my exams along the way 🙃

But I passed my SCS first time!

 

After qualifying in 2013, I started coaching CIMA students.

 

I soon realised the Strategic Case Study exam was my favourite exam to coach, so I created SCS specific resources and pre-seen materials which have helped my students generate a 92.8 average pass mark!

 

As a CIMA Revision Coach, I’m on a mission to get you qualified!

 

I know exactly how to teach SCS students, so they pass!

Both re-sitters and 1^st time sitters.

 

Like I said I’m not bashing the tuition providers, you can read about the difference between me and a tutor in last weeks blog > here <

We need the tutors to teach the syllabus – but for Strategic Case Study there is no syllabus!

 

But that doesn’t mean I recommend you self study alone!

Honestly guys, you can revise however you choose, I used BPP for most of my exam and self-studied a few so I know we have different needs (and budgets) during our CIMA journey.

 

But studying alone becomes isolating and un-motivational.

You get stuck in a revision rut or you procrastinate so much and tell yourself “I’ll revise tomorrow!”

I know cos that was me!

 

And I don’t want you feeling low or unmotivated and revising this exam alone!

 

 

It’s your final CIMA exam … ever! 🤓

How fricking exciting is that! 😜

 

You deserve to pass and get your ACMA letters after your name!

 

I want you to PASS you last exam!

 

 

And I want to show you why you don’t need a tutor to pass your SCS exam 🤓🤓

 

Remember the SCS exam is all about demonstrating your strategic understanding.

 

These are my 3 main reasons why you don’t need a tutor to pass your SCS exam:

 

Number 1: You need specific exam techniques.

To be able to demonstrate your strategic understanding you need to write about it over and over in a 3 hour window.

Actually a 59 minute window (three times!)

And that takes skill.

The tutors focus too much on the technical refresh elements and not the exam skills you need.

 

Imagine if you had exam techniques which helped you pick the key parts of the question, make relevant points, expand your relevant points for more marks and/or made great pre-seen links.

 

Or if you’re a bag of nerves on exam day – you need techniques which help you focus (like a robot) – calm your exam day nerves, trust your accounting common sense and have self-belief that you can actually pass this (without your notes or reading the study text)

 

What I call the non-technical exam techniques are ridiculously important in the SCS exam – more so than any other CIMA exam.

The tutors don’t teach you enough of these or focus on them enough – it frustrates me (can you tell!)

 

 

Number 2: It’s not a technical exam.

It’s really not a technical exam.

In my opinion it’s 80% non-technical and 20% technical (these are my numbers not CIMA’s)

 

To PASS your SCS you need to have the exam techniques which demonstrate your Strategic understanding!

🙃 NOT just the technical knowledge! 🙃

 

You get 1 mark if you define WACC (or gearing or NPV) but you get 3-5 marks when you explain how WACC impacts *this* business case, why *your board* care and how you can increase *our* profits with {insert unseen question}

🤓 That’s what I teach you! 🤓

 

Your tutor is too busy teaching you a perfect model answer (which took them two weeks to write) – you don’t need that!

 

{Don’t get me started on model answers and how crap they are!!! I might have to write a blog on this next week!}

 

Back to my point… SCS is not a technical exam!

I want you to learn HOW you can understand the unseen question ~ brainstorm your relevant points ~ and answer the question smartly and demonstrate YOUR Strategic understanding ~ within 59 minutes!

 

You don’t need to regurgitate all of the technical frameworks and models again (you’ve already done that in your objective tests or FLP route)

I want you to learn and focus on the SCS non-technical exam techniques – deal!

 

Number 3: It’s about what you think.

The tutors don’t teach you how to think!

They focus too much on the pre-seen and the models & frameworks … and what they think!

 

🤓 I want to know what you think! (Because you get marks for this!)

 

I can’t stand trying to learn someone else’s opinion – it’s so hard!

And remember the tutors sat their exam years ago and have a lot of technical knowledge to be able to create their opinions on.

It’s just not realistic for you to copy their opinion!

 

🤓 You need to learn your SCS opinion!

 

A key part of getting ready for your SCS exam day is to brainstorm and think (a lot) about what you’re going to write – why – and how.

 

Of course, the questions might ask you about a technical model: How can gametheory impact this decision?

I know if a tutor was in front of you, they would spend 22 minutes talking to you about gametheory (which is boring and overwhelming cos you know you’ll never remember it!)

and then 8 minutes giving you a few links to the pre-seen and a few ‘I can’ statements! 🙃🤦🏻‍♀️

 

Instead I want you to focus on what you think of gamethoery and how you think it will impact the *our* business (insert pre-seen)

 

Reminder: YES! You get marks for saying what you think!

 

Hopefully you get what I mean!

{And if you’re resitting your SCS you know exactly what I mean!}

 

They are my 3 main reasons why you don’t need a tutor to pass your SCS exam!

I should have warned you how passionate I am about this exam!

 

🤓 Yes of course I’m biased – because I have an amazing SCS Course which teaches you the exam techniques that actually work.

🤓 Yes – I know I can talk to you about my SCS Mountain Climb course and how my students get an average of 92.8 marks when they revise using this course (have a look here if you want!)

 

No – I’m not a tutor – I won’t refresh your E3 ~ P3 or F3 knowledge base

And you might need a little refresh if it’s been years since you sat those exams (But I have a bonus treat for you to help with that – when you join my SCS Course)

 

I coach differently and it works.

 

🤓I love the SCS Exam and I coach with passion ❤️💪🏻

 

💪🏻 Passion so that YOU pass your last CIMA exam!

💪🏻 Focused coaching so that you pass and get your life back

💪🏻 Specific SCS exam techniques so that you learn a new way (that works)

 

And most of all – we have revision fun!

 

Lucy is one of my previous SCS students (who got 102 on her 1^st sitting by the way!) said:

“Helen was so enthusiastic about the case, it was infectious, She made sure I knew the case inside and out, without me even realising I was taking it!”

 

I want YOU sending me whatsapp messages like this on SCS results day:

Or … 😜😜🤓🤓

 

Okay – you get it – and I’ve gone off track from my blog (opps!)

 

There are lots of reasons why you don’t need a tutor to pass your SCS exam.

I wanted to write today to educate you, open your eyes even, and help you explore other options

(especially if you are a re-sitter)

 

If you want to see how I coach SCS students – you’re very welcome to join my next free Masterclass:

🤓 How to pass your SCS with 100 marks (without cramming or crying) > click here to join <

 

Thanks for reading and I’ll catch you over on Linkedin for more daily revision support 🤓❤️

What’s the difference between a tutor and a coach? I hear you say! 

 

No it’s not the start of a hilarious joke!

Knock knock…. 😜

 

I’m a coach (just in case that wasn’t clear… I’m not a tutor!)

 

By the look of some of my DM’s… you guys still think I’m a tutor.

Sorry to disappoint you, no I can’t give you a cheat sheet for F2 … and no I can’t teach you the difference between ARR and IRR

 

Well, I could, I am qualified… but I won’t!

 

I can coach you though!

Coach: Someone whose job is to teach people to improve at a skills (Ref: Cambridge dictionary)

 

👉🏻 Your skill is your CIMA exam

👉🏻 My skill is coaching you to pass your CIMA exams!

 

 

What’s the difference between a tutor and a coach!?

 

When I get on a call with a student to discuss my coaching options, I easily explain the difference between what I do and what tutors do.

But with 21875 Linkedin followers – I can’t talk to you all individually!

 

I’m talking to you in my blog, so that you can see what I do, hear about the differences and decide if you would like some coaching in your revision life!

 

Now I know that you’re not googling “What’s the difference between Helen and a tutor?!”

But I have a feeling that you’ve read a few of my posts, hopefully one of my new weekly blogs and followed me for a reason.

 

We want you to get CIMA qualified!

 

But you might not understand what I can do for you!

Well don’t you worry anymore, I’m gonna tell ya! 😜🤓

 

Firstly, this is not me saying you don’t need a tutor – cos you do!

A tutor teaches you the syllabus – and you won’t pass your CIMA exams without the right knowledge base.

 

If you are a re-sitter then you need a coach more than you need a tutor!

 

Hands up🙋🏻‍♀️ That’s where I pop up and say “A tutor teaches you the syllabus but I teach you how to actually pass the exam!”

 

I’m CIMA qualified – so yes I could teach you the technicals but that’s not my area of expertise anymore (I qualified 11 years ago)

I’m going to teach you what I call the non-technical exam techniques!

 

Aka – the way to structure your revision practice and create an exam day strategy that focuses you on actually passing the exam!

 

For example:

👉🏻 Time Management: How to stick to time in the exam (cos we know it goes so quickly!)

🤓 Reading the question: The one that is on the screen, not the one you wish was there!

👉🏻 Feeling confident: Do not underestimate the power of this one!

{Plus loads more, but these are 3 key ones}

 

 

Like I said, we need the tutors – but only at the start of our exam – they teach you the knowledge base and yes that’s vital for these CIMA exams.

 

But if you are sitting your objective test RE-SIT then you know the technical (or have access to the learning material the tutors just gave you)

So enter Helen and her coaching cap 🦸🏻‍♀️ to use those learning materials (and practice questions) so that I can coach you through your revision phase!

 

If you are sitting your Case Study then it’s a different story completely!

 

You have just sat your technical objective tests – so you know the knowledge base.

{Even if you’re on the FLP route, you’ve learnt everything you need to know}

 

So enter Helen and her coaching cap – 📢 with a megaphone this time 📢– cos I’m here shouting that you don’t need a tutor for your case study exams!

 

As your coach I will coach you (with the learning materials you used for your objective tests) and give you alllll of the techniques and exam day strategy to pass your case study (with 100 marks!)

 

Yes I’m that confident!

 

The case study exams are about demonstrating your understanding, analysing the business and getting into the Finance role {depending on MCS or SCS level}

 

The tutors lean towards the technical elements when they teach the case study – of course they do – but that won’t get you 100 marks!

For SCS – That won’t even give you an exam pass – fact!

 

Honestly, I know how different the case study exams are and there is a unique way I coach my students through this … and it’s not about teaching/reminding you on the technical knowledge base.

 

If you’re sitting your E3 – F3 or P3 for the first time I would say use a tutor (and then if you’re re-sitting – come to me for some coaching)

🤓 But if you’re sitting your MCS or SCS first time – then come straight to me and let me coach you! 🤓

 

You will love the enthusiasm, revision fun and focused strategy I can bring you for your case study phase!

 

It’s about you having a strong, structured, exam day strategy!

 

 

Think about it this way – how do you want to feel on exam day?

 

💪🏻 I want you to feel smart, prepared and self confident. 💪🏻

Walking into your exam believing you can pass (not hoping or wishing! … and not worrying about alll of the frameworks, models, calcs that you think you need to regurgitate)

 

💪🏻Having a strategy that works, cos you’ve practiced it and it’s aligned to you and your brain. 💪🏻

And using non-technical exam techniques to make sure you understand the question and you can answer it!

 

The tutors are great – we need them – but they don’t teach you these things!

I went to many BPP classroom sessions (and I self studied some of my exams too) – I was lost in a class of 30 students all staring at the whiteboard and listening to the tutor talk at them!

 

When I decided to mentor and coach CIMA students I wanted to make sure they had a different, better experience.

 

It’s all about YOU!

 

That’s why I coach!

I coach to support YOU through YOUR journey (which is not a cookie cutter approach)

 

I coach because it’s fun!

Plus I get to motivate – inspire – and boost your confidence!

 

If you’ve ever come to a masterclass or watched me on video you can see I’m enthusiastic (and maybe a little too keen!)

But I really want you to qualify!

 

I want you to finish what you’ve started and get your CIMA Plaque up on the wall. So I focus & coach you to pass your exams – to exactly do that!

 

 

Yeah, but what do you do Helen!?

 

Well firstly I only coach CIMA students – because that was me! I’m a CIMA qualified Accountant so when I say I know how you’re feeling – I actually do!

 

Twelve years ago I was struggling to finish my CIMA – after 5 years I couldn’t believe I was failing and not where I wanted to be in my career!

 

I don’t want that for you – so I’m only here to coach you.

 

Yeah, I could be a confidence or life coach – but I’ve chosen to be a revision coach.

I feel passionate about Accounting and I’m a proud CIMA member – I want that for you too.

 

Secondly like I said I give you the non-technical exam techniques for your exam (especially if it’s a re-sit)

💪🏻 Structure – Revision focused structured (daily) tasks so that you can revise in smart ways

🤓 Strategy – Both a revision and an exam day strategy – using a plan – to focus you on your end result – aka an exam pass!

💪🏻 Support – Actual support and accountability so that you’re not revising alone, you feel motivated to get your revision done and I boost your confidence every step of the way!

 

Here are the ways I can coach you!

🏔️ Strategic Case Study! 🏔️

I can coach you to pass your Strategic Case Study because you don’t need to know all the technical frameworks to pass – you need to know how to demonstrate your Strategic understanding – now that I can and will teach you!

 

Inside my SCS Revision World – you can come to my next Masterclass: How to pass your SCS with 100 marks (without cramming or crying) > link <

Or grab your seat on my SCS Mountain Climb Course (cos the SCS is a tough mountain climb and I want to lead you up it properly!) > link <

 

🤓 Management Case Study 🤓

I want to coach you to pass your Management Case Study too because it’s my 2^nd favourite exam (Yes I really am obsessed with the case studies!)

I’ve been a Finance Manager for 10 years of my career and to pass this exam you need to know how to get into Finance Manager mode!

 

You can get into Finance Manager mode with me on my MCS coaching course. Borrow my energy, learn my techniques and get the MCS Strategy that shows off your Management thinking! > link <

 

 

🏃🏻‍♀️Strategic Objective Tests (E3 – F3 – P3) 🏃🏻‍♀️

If you’re resitting your E3 – F3 or P3 you would benefit from my coaching because you know the technicals, but you don’t know how to pass.

As a resitter I coach and focus you on the non-technicals on purpose because they make a huge difference to your revision practice and exam day confidence.

 

I failed loads of my exams, I know exactly how it feels to be a re-sitter, I had to pick myself up alone and learn myself how to actually pass – you don’t need to struggle alone or fail your next re-sit again…and again.

 

Grab some 1:1 coaching so you can have some bespoke support in order to actually pass your re-sit! > link <

 

And I really want you to sit your case study with me – so you need to pass your Objective tests in order to do this! 😜🤓

 

🎓Submit your PER! 🎓

And I’m on a Mission in 2024 to get 24 CIMA Students fully qualified, this means getting your PER submitted so no way am I letting you be exam qualified but leave out your PER!

 

You deserve the letters after your name and your plaque up on the wall, which means get your PER written, submitted and approved.

I’m working on a on-demand course so that you can get your PER done within 2 weeks (yes really!) but before that’s launched we can have some 1:1 coaching together to write it. > link for PER coaching <

 

 

That’s the difference between a tutor and a coach.

 

Yes I love the tutors … but I know loads of you need and will benefit from a coach!

🤓😜 A CIMA Revision Coach! 🤓😜

 

I have coaching opportunities available to you now – so don’t miss them.

Instead of thinking “Oh, I’ll try one more time to pass myself … and then I’ll get in touch with Helen!”

ERM – NO – Not because I’m arrogant – it’s because I don’t want you to FAIL

 

You deserve to PASS … and pass with confidence!

Learn the smart way to PASS and grab some Helen coaching!

 

Any questions of course, leave a comment or email me…. But don’t struggle alone!

Plus if you’re reading to the end of this blog – I really appreciate you and I’m here to support you.

 

Let’s get YOUR plaque up on YOUR wall – together! 🤓❤️

Preparing for your SCS exam the smart way is what I want to focus on this week!

 

Do you find yourself procrastinating when you know there is something upcoming that you want to do but don’t know where to start?!

 

You might be telling yourself  “Oh I have load of time” or “I’ll start tomorrow”

 

A common problem my Case study audience have is they don’t know where to start.

Because the CIMA objective tests and the case studies are completely different exams, you have to revise differently.

 

When you’re ready to sit your case study, you would have just completed up to 3 multiple choice objective tests and now you’re about to be tested in a completely different way – a 3 hour written exam!

 

So where do you start?!

How do you prepare for your case study?!

What do you have to do first?!

 

I know this problem will keep you stuck, which in turn will lead to cramming closer to exam in panic mode (cos you haven’t started ‘early enough’)

 

In today’s blog I’m going to talk about preparing for your SCS exam

If you want my preparation checklist for SCS – Grab your free copy here!

 

Is there a right way to prepare for your SCS?

Kindof yes but kindof no.

As long as you start!

 

I’m not the kind of person who is going to tell you to wing it and don’t worry about it!

That’s because doing any kind of revision doesn’t work and because specific is my middle name!

 

And I’m not a tutor so I’m not going to ask to you re-read your study texts (cos that’s not the way to a SCS pass result by the way! More on this later)

 

My style of coaching is with structure.

Giving simple structured techniques aligned within an exam day strategy.

 

If you wanna see what my coaching is like – have a peak here!

 

So, if you are preparing for your SCS exam let’s talk about the specific preparation I’d like you to implement.

Implement is a great word for you to take action!

 

What’s the point!?

 

Starting with the point of the Strategic Case Study exam.

I like to start with preparing my students for the end result.

 

Of course, your end result is getting 80marks (or 100 marks if you’re one of my students, that’s what we focus on!)

 

📝 But the part just before that is writing your script. 📝

That’s the part I want you to focus your preparation on.

 

Writing a script that will get you 100 marks!

Because the end result is: YOU writing a script that demonstrates your strategic understanding.

 

Easier said than done – but that’s the point Mr CIMA wants you to show!

 

So I want you to prepare smartly to enable you to be able (in a few weeks) to be able to write and demonstrate that!

 

No of course you’re not ready to do that yet!

{Cos you haven’t join my SCS Mountain Climb course 😉  – where I teach you HOW}

 

 

But also you’re not ready because we are getting prepared!

💪🏻 I call it the warm up phase! 💪🏻

 

Yes – I use the mountain climb analogy a lot when I coach Strategic Case Study.

🏔️The mountain climb is real – and this exam is tough! 🏔️

 

I want you to be able to climb the mountain, get to the top, not be exhausted but feel strong and happy (aka revise strongly, sit your exam and write excellent paragraphs with a smile and a pass mark!)

 

So let’s not rush off onto the mountain path with no map, flip-flops and a half filled water bottle!

 

 

Preparation is a warm up and stretch.

 

When you prepare for your case study exam I want you to focus on what you need to think about in order to actually climb that mountain in front of you!

 

Grab my preparation checklist if you are a SCS student – I’ve put together exactly what you need to prepare with here!

Especially if you are a re-sitter!

 

Actually – definitely if you are a re-sitter!

Because the last time you tried to climb your SCS Mountain you didn’t make it to the top and I don’t want that to happen again!

 

💪🏻 Be smart!

💪🏻 Set yourself up for SCS success!

💪🏻 Let me guide you UP the right SCS route and give you the right tools in your rucksack

 

{I did warn you, I love the mountain climb analogy!}

 

 

So: What do you have to do if you’re a re-sitter preparing for your SCS

 

I’m going to be real with you and say I want you to get some support.

I don’t want you to fail again and you don’t have to do this journey alone.

 

I struggled through my CIMA alone and it was much tougher than it needed to be! I had no idea how to revise and I walked up many imaginary CIMA mountains in the dark with no torch!

 

But I passed my SCS first time and it’s because I know exactly what route you need to follow, how to climb this mountain and I’m ridiculously motivated cos it’s our last exam (ever!)

 

Please get some support 👉🏻

You can download my free SCS Preparation checklist 👉🏻 here

Or you can join my next free SCS Masterclass (for free) – 👉🏻 here

You can become a SCS Mountaineer and learn exactly HOW to pass your SCS with 100 marks – 👉🏻 here

 

The support is here for you, please don’t try and climb this mountain alone.

 

I’ve coached hundreds of students over the past 6 years (you are welcome to see their success stores here) and I want you to feel how they have .. and get your CIMA plaque UP on the wall!

 

In summary to today’s blog preparing for your SCS exam is about warming up the smart way, focusing on what end result you need to get and remembering there is support out there for you.

 

Of course you can do it on your own – I believe in you!

But imagine having a SCS Leader climbing with you, supporting you every step of the way and keeping you motivated on the evenings when you just wanna give up and can’t see the top of the mountain.

 

I’m here every day on Linkedin and every week with a new blog so that YOU qualify in 2024!

So that you climb UP to the top of the SCS Mountain and fly that PASS flag!

 

Good Luck with your preparation – start now, start with your warm up and you will be able to have a stronger climb!

Your Number 1 revision tool

 

Yes If you’ve seen me on Linkedin you know the answer…

 

But I’m gonna repeat it again for you.

Your number 1 revision tool is …. Drumroll….

 

📝 A revision Plan! 📝

 

An actual plan to how you are going to revise!

Putting together a structure to help yourself get that exam pass (that you’re working so hard for)

 

What are you doing if you’re not using a Revision plan?!

 

I know that students who have a revision plan feel calmer, which means they can revise more…not only revise with more revision slots – but within each revision slot they take in more knowledge.

Not only that – their revision slots are stronger with better recall and understanding.

 

Are you reading that thinking “Oh I wish that would happen to me!”

Well… it will when you use a revision plan!

{Trust me, I’m not being bossy … I have been coaching CIMA students for 11 years – and I was one – I know a thing or two about feeling smart during your revision!}

 

You need a revision plan to have structure. 

👉🏻 Which in turns focuses you each day to actually revise.

👉🏻 Which in turn improves your focus so that you can revise more.

 

I see and hear students procrastinating and not feeling motivated every week on Linkedin and it’s because they don’t have a revision plan!

 

How many times can I say revision plan in this blog?! 🤣

 

 

I could spend an hour writing about all the amazing reasons why you need a revision plan.

But I want to give you a different perspective today.

 

I talk all the time about having a revision plan.

But let’s focus instead of Why not having a revision plan is sabotaging your exam success.

 

Reason number 1: You are less motivated

Admit it – Having a blank piece of paper is the least motivating thing ever!

If you have no dreams or adventures to go on, then maybe you don’t need to plan

 

But … erm … you’re completing your CIMA – that’s your dream and I know it!

You started this qualification for a reason, so if you’re less than motivated right now I have a strong feeling it’s cos you’re staring at a blank piece of paper (or avoiding even finding paper to write on)

 

Motivation is important to action!

If you’re not revising then you’re not taking action!

I believe the more motivated you are, the more likely you will complete the task – with quality!

 

No way do you need to pretend you’re revision and ticking a box – oh look at me I just spent 2 hours reading 1 chapter of the book (but I can’t remember any of it!)

 

If you have a revision plan you could plan smarter revision slots so that you plan around when you feel motivated (for example first thing before work)

 

When you have a revision plan you will be more motivated! I can guarantee this!

 

Reason number 2: You’re spending too long on the wrong revision tasks

Re-reading the study text is what 90% of my new students say that want to do!

They think they need to start their revision phase by dusting off the study texts and going into reading mode!

{I call this the comfort blanket!}

 

When students revise alone, I see them going around in circles with their revision – reading – regurgitating – reading – panicking – crying {Oh so many tears} – writing pretty revision notes {Oh that was me!}

 

I get it – no-one really teaches you what are the smartest revision tasks.

The tutors tell you what you need to learn and revise … but breaking that down into a plan with tasks to make that happen is not taught!

 

Hello 👋🏻 – I do – but you haven’t experienced the joys of my smart coaching yet!

{Keep reading if you want to make that a reality!}

 

I label revision tasks by their smartness, because we can all get lost in the busy fool/busy mode rabbit hole.

Just because you are revising for 2 hours every night – doesn’t mean you are revising smartly.

 

Yes – that’s where a plan can help you! You plan what you’re doing – which magically makes it smarter.

Secondly the plan will give you focus for exam day – for what you actually really need to practice!

 

Don’t be a fool and revise the wrong tasks!

 

Reason number 3: The winging it approach!

Hello – news alert – these are CIMA exams!

Your winging it approach isn’t welcome here … and it won’t work!

 

I coach Strategic level CIMA students (E3 – F3- P3 & SCS) – the syllabuses are huge! The focus is on analysis and understanding.

You can’t wing your revision with Strategic level!

 

You need to understand the topic, have a depth of understanding and pick the right answer from different scenarios.

 

I get so frustrated when I see students winging it!

Not just because I can’t do it that way – even if I wanted to

But honestly – it’s because it doesn’t work.

 

🙃 Why would you even want to wing it and take the risk (I have no idea) 🙃

 

I know it’s hard and tougher than you thought it would be

And I know you want your life back so that you’re not chained to your study desk revising.

 

But winging it with your revision will trip you up on exam day and I don’t want you to do that!

 

Have I convinced you that a Revision plan is the only option to revise with?!

 

 

But Helen … Is the solution to “just write a revision plan?!”

Yeah – kindof!

If you’ve never written a revision plan before I would recommend writing a 3 day plan.

But a 7 day plan is the way to go from my experience.

 

Plan what you are going to do!

 

Now I’ve explained how important a revision plan is, if you want to have a 10/10 gold star – structured simple specific plan that works around you specifically.

Jump on a power hour with me so I can write yours for you! > click here <

 

I will get on the right revision track and I promise you’ll feel instantly relieved.

 

The reason students get coaching and come to my Inner Revision World is because they want a structured, proven (tried & tested) plan – that works!

I’ve coached hundreds of re-sitters – with an 81% pass rate – Trust me – I know what plan you need for revision success.

 

A lot of my past students are busy parents with a good job, children under 10 and desperately want to finish their CIMA qualification to get on with their life and focus on amazing family time (with a promotion and pay rise they deserve)

 

If you are nodding – thinking  – Yes Helen – that is me!

Then let’s have a power hour together – and then you will have your amazing bespoke Revision Plan!

 

I want to give you your life back and get your CIMA qualified!

 

Okay … Yes I admit, I have written ‘Revision Plan’ 32 times!

📝 Because I know it will make a huge transformation to your revision success! 💪🏻

 

Thanks for reading – have a great week! 🤓❤️

P.S – Check out my other revision blogs here!

🤓How my experience can help with your exam success!

 

In today’s blog I’m being vulnerable and explaining how my experiences have not only made me a better coach, but directly support my CIMA Students.

 

Let me start with a power statement!

👇🏻 THIS 👇🏻

I want to help you feel: empowered , self confident, prepared and actually ready for exam day.

 

I want you to feel supported and I need you to trust your strategy.

 

I can’t legally promise my CIMA Students that they will pass their exam with my coaching (I wish I could, but I can’t)

💪🏻 But I can absolutely PROMISE and I guarantee I will try! 💪🏻

 

With my style of coaching- I enthusiastically coach CIMA Students (Specifically on the Strategic Level) to pass … with confidence 💪🏻

 

With Support – Structure and Strategy – they are my superpowers.

 

I have developed these over the last 11 years (since I qualified and started mentoring)

Based on my experiences let me tell you why these will directly help you guys pass your CIMA exams.

 

Support

Firstly I’m ridiculously passionate about this one!

I go above and beyond to support my students (many people often say I give too much support for free)

 

The reason why support is such a passion of mine is because I didn’t feel like I had any support whilst I was studying.

On paper I looked like I had everything – a husband, two beautiful dogs, an amazing growing finance career, a nice car, a foreign holiday every year … but I was struggling because I felt so alone.

 

My now ex-husband didn’t support me (obviously ex for a reason) – I remember during our marriage counselling sessions at the end, he said “I find it easy, it’s just an exam, I don’t now how to help her!” 😝🙃

 

A vulnerable Helen moment for sure, but I know that’s a pivotal reason why I over give support.

I desperately needed it

Now I have time & expertise to give it to my students – I make sure they feel as supported as possible.

 

Feeling alone in this journey is not cool and doesn’t need to be that way.

{I used BPP for most of my study by the way, so I wasn’t completely alone, but oh wow, I wished for so much more support!}

 

 

Structure

Secondly this is whole-heartedly part of my personality.

Being organised – planning – and finding specific structured ways to get the task done (as quick as possible!)

All of my school reports said “Helen is a race horse. She rushed to get things finished and is impatient!”

 

Yes! Absolutely that is true!

 

Luckily I have used this to my advantage and over the last twenty years I have grown up and got smarter!

I work hard – I pride myself on my work ethic. And I value hard work.

 

Plus I love being busy… but let’s be real for a minute!

I don’t want to work this hard!

The phrase: work smarter not harder rings alarm bells at me all the time!

 

So that’s what I’ve done – especially with my coaching.

I coach CIMA Students to have a SMART Structured Revision Phase.

 

In 2024 I’ve gone full on!

I give my students structured coaching: With a revision plan, task, tactics, and techniques so they can stay on the right track (for them)

No cookie cutter plans here!

Specific (which you now is now my new middle name) and Structured: so that you don’t rush past the important parts (but also don’t procrastinate or panic)

 

So far in 2024

I have created a new Structured Strategic Case Study Course <link>

To not only share all of my SCS exam techniques but to get you to know HOW to get 100 marks within 5 weeks!

 

I’m working on my Strategic Objective Test Course next (have a peak here)

 

And I have a PER course coming in the summer … and if you’re lucky I can do MCS Coaching!

 

I’m putting in the hard work for you in 2024 so that YOU can get your CIMA plaque up on the wall!

 

I structure my coaching, my courses (and yes my life) very specifically now!

I’m leaning on my personality and my strengths to empower myself and produce strong happy actions!

You get the benefit of my structure #whoop whoop

 

Strategy

Lastly and by no means leastly, the core of my being and my ultimate life love!

Strategy!

Using strategies, implementing strategies, having a journey and seeing the end result because the strategy (and plan) worked!

 

💡 Oh It lights me up! 💡

 

I have a 1^st Class Business Studies Degree (from UWE) which I’m very proud of and I have always said I want to do a Masters in Strategic Management {Extra academics… wow I must be a geek!}

 

I’m a huge fan of board games – I always pick ones with a strategy!

I’ve been learning backgammon with my dad and last month I won 3 out of 4 games! Because I used my strategy! Don’t get me started on monopoly cos I’ll get super competitive {but that’s a separate blog!}

 

Strategy means adventure.

Thinking about, planning and taking action towards something in a way that makes me feel smart, happy and creates memories.

 

I don’t plod through life … and the thought of ‘winging it’ makes me feel like a rabbit in headlights! 🐰😬

 

I form strategies in order to manage and control situations (yes hands up I’m a control freak)

 

The strategy I bring to my coaching is focus on YOU!

How I can coach you to revise round your work week. With a plan and tactics that not only help you feel less overwhelmed but also happy and so you can have revision fun (yes really!)

 

Bringing you a revision strategy gives you revision confidence (read all about that in last weeks blog here) and when you feel more confident I know you revise more, the information goes in and you can recall better!

 

The experiences I’ve had so far in my 41 years of life have shaped me to the coach I am today.

The CIMA journey I have had was challenging!

Don’t get me wrong, it was worth it – I got my plaque.

 

But it still erks me that it took me 6 bloody years to pass and figure it out!

 

I find it embarrassing that I had to work so hard for me to find the strategy and structure that worked for me!

Whilst I was balance my amazing finance career with the fact I was failing exams and not making progress!

 

Finding the strategy and structure that I needed specifically for my revision phase was transformational!

 

But I had to do it allll myself – and that made it ten times harder!

 

If you’re reading this thinking “Yes Helen, that sounds like me!”

📧 Then I need you to get in touch! 📧

 

Use this blog: How my experience can help with your exam success to make a difference to your revision!

 

If you’ve failed your *F3* resit (again) and you feel embarrassed, exhausted and frustrated.

 

🤓 Then get my help! 🤓😝

My new (free) revision resource I available! My 5 best CIMA Exam Techniques

 

You do not need to revise alone.

I’m here so that you know what to do, when and how!

PHEW!

 

 

As a Revision Coach I use my superpowers for good {not evil}

 

You’re reading this for a reason! I want you to take action.

 

Last weekend I coached Lyndsey – she had a power hour with me ( Here is the link if you want one too!)

I want to share what she said during our call because it’s really important for you to hear.

 

“I’ve followed you on Linkedin for ages, I saw your feedback post from your students saying they’ve passed and I want that to be me!

I don’t wanna waste my time re-sitting! My times so precious, I don’t wanna be doing that. I want to get it done now.”

 

🤓 Take this as a sign to be more like her! 🤓

 

My experience in one was a rollercoaster!

An emotional rollercoaster of highs and lows.

 

You can read about my full CIMA journey in my blogs: Diaries of an Oddball Accountant

 

I’ll end today’s blog here with these 2 final thoughts:

1 – My most common phrase is ‘Don’t make the mistakes I did!’

2- Actions Speak Louder than Words!

 

Thank you for reading and being in my Revision corner of the Internet! 🤓❤️

The Importance of Revision Confidence.

 

The majority of students that work with me are re-sitters.

Having failed their exams (normally more than once) and either don’t know where to start or need to try a new strategy.

Do you know what they all have in common? – A lack of revision confidence.

 

The re-sit and their revision approach has brought them down – the hard work, the tears, the stress, spending loads of time revising … for another fail!

 

That’s not what you work so hard for – is it?!

 

You wanna actually pass your re-sit don’t you?!

 

And I really want you to feel confident that you can do that!

 

I know the knowledge is important and of course you need to be able to recall the knowledge correctly for each question.

 

However please do not underestimate the power of your confidence!

 

💪🏻 Revising with confidence!

💪🏻 Having self confidence!

💪🏻 Focusing and improving the confidence in your knowledge recall!

 

 

What does confidence mean to you?

Leave a comment – let me know!

 

Confidence to me is feeling proud of myself – strong, empowered and happy.

 

I’m a super competitive lady, but rarely care about what most other people do or think. I judge myself against myself.

 

I work hard on myself and my goals so that I feel 12 out of 10!

 

Does that make me arrogant?

Does that look like I’m showing off?!

 

I don’t think so!

 

Am I confident – heck YES!

 

Am I a proud CIMA member – absolutely!

 

Have I worked bloody hard to have my academics and career achievements – oh my gosh – YES!

 

Do I bring out the confidence of my students – yes. Every single day and I fricking LOVE it!

 

 

So let’s talk about you and the revision confidence you need!

 

I’m going to break this blog down into 2 areas:

1 – Revision confidence during your 4 week revision phase

2 – Revision tools for revision confidence

 

Revision Phase

Yes, I recommend a 4 week revision phase, so that you can practice in smart ways and repeat that practice so that you master your exam day strategy & techniques

(I love the word & tone of master and mastering something – makes me feel so empowered and strong!)

 

If you don’t believe you can pass your exam … then you probably won’t pass = there I said it!

 

So – for 30 days in a row I encourage you to have a positive mindset. Keep improving it and working on it every day – just like you’re working on your knowledge base.

 

There is no point having a strong knowledge base if you cannot recall the answers confidently.

 

I want you to feel confident and grow in confidence during your revision phase.

 

Can I be real with you – my students come to me for exam coaching and exam techniques, but they leave with their confidence positively transformed.

 

Just this week, my previous student R came back for some revision coaching.

Last year I coached him through his P1 and OCS exams – which he passed 1^st time and his confidence grew so much!

Now he has tried F2 and P2 himself but failed a few times … no that doesn’t mean I’m a rubbish coach – it goes to show that firstly the exams are hard! And secondly having on going coaching support makes a big difference!

 

I’m really looking forward to supporting R to pass his F2 in March and F2 later – of course I will give him a revision plan, exam techniques and an exam day strategy … but this will be underpinned with self confidence and coaching him on confidently recalling and practicing the right ways to specifically pass.

 

The 3 key things I promise with my coaching are Specific – Structured – Support.

 

If you’re reading this thinking – Oh I would love some Helen support and confidence boosts – click here to find out how we can work together.

 

Most importantly in your revision phase is to stay focused on how great you feel and completing revision tasks that make you feel confident.

 

Imagine walking into your re-sit feeling confident and knowing you can pass!

 

Revision Tools

Having coached hundred of CIMA students over the past 11 years since I qualified, I have created many revision resources.

 

I have a new one for you!

If you’re a Strategic Level CIMA Student – this one is just for you! > CLICK HERE <

 

This must have revision tool is for you to not only boost your revision confidence but also learn which techniques you need to have to pass your E3 ~ F3 or P3 Objective Tests

 

My 5 best CIMA Exam techniques

 

The point of Revision tools are to directly support you with your revision.

Practice what you need to in order to put in place and pass on exam day!

 

I talk about this next revision tool a lot … I think it’s time to write a blog just on this one … because without it you just have a blank piece of paper – and that is the least motivating thing ever!

📝 Of course it’s a revision plan! 📝

 

YES I ask you to write a revision plan aaallllll of the time!

 

But do you know why?! … Because it transforms your revision confidence!

By having clear structured tasks in place allows you to feel calmer, which gives you more brain power to revise, which in turns increases your exam confidence.

 

If you haven’t written your revision plan – what are you waiting for?!

 

If you would like my Revision Plan Masterclass – where I share my 5 steps to create a smart revision plan – click here.

 

Tool number 3 is very special.

It’s something that only you have … and I want you to use it!

 

I would like you to engage your brain and switch on your positive mindset.

🧠 Every single day 🧠

Actually – every second of every minute!

 

Yes really!

 

Let’s use your brain to bring out your revision confidence!

 

This week over on Linkedin I am coaching and talking about confidence.

My SCS Students are sitting their exams this week eeekkk – and I’m on full on cheerleading mode to keep their confidence high when it matters the most!

 

I implore you to focus on your confidence this week.

 

Reach out to me if you want any help and support – that’s my job – to support you in your revision phase … to pass your exam with confidence! 🤓❤️

Let’s rebalance your work study tasks 😎

The biggest struggle I see students make is procrastinating for weeks and then panic mode cramming just before exam day!

And when new students come into my Inner Revision World I hear them say “I don’t know where to start Helen!”

 

I get it!

 

No-one warned me how tough CIMA actually was … or how long it would actually take!

But I knew it would be worth it (I kindof always had that in the back of my head, that’s why I kept going)

 

One of my biggest shocks was the balance I needed between study and work…. Oh yeah and a social life!

 

I started my CIMA when I was 24 and was working as an Assistant Accountant in a building distribution company. I absolutely loved that job and worked my way up the finance ladder during my 3 years.

I took on more work, went from junior to senior, lead projects, grew in finance confidence and became known as ‘the price support lady’

 

There were 6 Assistant Accountants like me, and we were all doing our CIMA qualification. Whilst we all sat exams we balanced monthly management accounts, budgeting and a July year end (luckily that fitted within the May and November sittings!)

My months were planned & co-ordinated around BPP lessons, revision days and month end close. Both became the lead focuses in my life!

 

And wow that needed balance!

Which I got wrong on many occasions by the way!

 

We all have our own things to balance and manage so we don’t feel like we are spinning a hundred plates or juggling everything.

Because let’s be real – you’ll drop some of them and it will make a mess (emotional messes probably!)

 

 

So, in today’s blog I want to help your balance.

 

Let’s rebalance your work study tasks!

 

Take what you need from my coaching words to either spin less plates (yes, put some down!) or feel better about if any of them drop (but I would still recommend letting go of some plates)

 

Why: because you started your CIMA qualification for a reason …. And you want to finish it!

{I know it’s tough, but I also know you do want to keep going and finish!}

 

And also because the work–study balance is tough!

You’re only human, you won’t get it right all of the time, but hopefully my revision help and support will make it simple, structured and a whole lot more balanced!

 

Tip number 1: A revision Plan!

Of course, it’s always one of my tips … write and stick to a revision plan!

📝 A smart revision plan will help you to balance the tasks in your week. 📝

 

The problem with having no plan is that you’re firefighting and can’t see or prioritise what you actually need or want to achieve!

 

To create your smart revision plan, start with 1 piece of paper (or excel document) and your diary!

Plot in your non-negotiables (the tasks which are fixed or you really won’t move)

Then pick 1 time of day where you’ll prioritise your CIMA revision.

I recommend one 45 minute slot per day (and if you have more time you can do two or three 45 minute slots – but ALWAYS with a break in between!)

 

Fill in the slots with a specific task and put the plan up somewhere you’ll see it.

You need to stick to the task and then you can tick it off (I love ticking off – makes me feel amazing – use this as a boost of motivation and smile!)

 

 

Tip number 2: Grab some accountability!

We know what we want to get done most days right – of course your revision plan will help – but let’s be real, you don’t **have** to do it just cos it’s written on a piece of paper!

 

So what extra accountability do you need to get yourself to actually do the thing!?!

{I’m biased and focusing you on your CIMA qualification – so I want you to ensure you do your revision slot as the thing!}

 

Of course, family emergencies and being a great parent is very important, but I would like to politely support parents reading this to think about the commitment they can and will give their CIMA slots.

 

But like I’ve said and I know you know, you started your CIMA for a reason … and we want you to finish it!

So keep accountable to your plan.

 

That could be telling someone your plan, re-prioritising your life to put your planned tasks first, and getting support from someone to keep you accountable.

Of course, we can have some coaching so that I keep you accountable!

 

Inside my Inner Revision World 🌍 my students get lots of accountability from me … I make sure they don’t feel alone and keep them focused on the strategy and specific tasks needed each week to at the end of that week they feel stronger, more prepared and confidence!

 

Do not under estimate the power of confidence in your revision phase!

{Maybe that should be my blog for next week!}

 

Lets take last week for instance, I’ve got 6 students sitting their SCS exam in a few weeks. I check in with my regular students every week and they have email support available to check in and keep accountable together.

For my VIP students they have my whatsapp, so get an extra level of support and accountability. I sent all of my VIP students a Saturday check-in and a Sunday motivational boost whatsapp.

 

All of my students have access to a revision plan and sending me that plan so I keep them as accountable as possible!

🤓 It makes a huge difference having me as your coach – especially through your revision phase 🤓

 

You can have a peak at the Linkedin post I wrote about them too – because a few of them are struggling and in panic mode >> have a read about how I calmed them down and got them back on track.

 

There is power in accountability!

 

Tip number 3: Set a mini goal

When work is stressful and the days are ticking down to your exam date … the pressure gets higher and higher.

You’re thinking about allll the things, worrying yourself, going into panic mode (but trying to pretend everything is fine) and feeling guiltier and guiltier than you still haven’t done any CIMA revision!

 

Am I right?!

 

Please can we break it down and take one step/week at a time!

 

When we talk about goals – I know you’re only thinking of passing your exam.

But that’s not the only goal that can motivate you.

 

Getting started and back on track is one of the biggest challenges for my students

Step one of always write a revision plan, but we’ve covered that!

 

💪🏻 Then step two is to pick a goal and a reward 💪🏻

I normally recommend a food, drink or exercise reward. 😋🏋🏻🏃🏻‍♀️

 

Pick something that will actually motivate you to do the task (or tasks) and when you’re genuinely completed the goal – give yourself the reward!

 

Please have mini wins during your revision phase, because they make a huge difference to your confidence and action taking ability!

 

So now it’s time for you to take some action!

 

👉🏻 Plan your week so that what YOU want to do is prioritised

👉🏻 Write it down and tell someone, to increase the chance of you doing it!

👉🏻 Set a reward for yourself that makes you smile

 

If you want to get a balance to your revision and have some direct support from me – then let’s make that happen this week!

I will write your revision plan with you, give you specific – smart revision tasks and keep you accountable every week!

 

Do not underestimate the power of accountability and support – that’s what I’m here for!

 

I coach Strategic Level CIMA students to pass their resits … with a simple, structured strategy.

>> click here to find what coaching opportunity works for you <<

 

Thanks for reading this week’s blog – feel free to read all of the blogs here!

 

I’m here to give you structured revision support so that YOU can PASS your resit … with confidence!

Have a great – balanced – week! Helen x

On last week’s blog I wrote about 3 of my amazing students (who’s name’s all begin with an L!😜😇)

And this week I wanted to share some things about me!

Get to know me: Loves & dislikes!

 

I love blogs like this (is it nosey – nah!!)

and as well as me getting to know you, this is your opportunity to get to know more about me!

Feel free to comment if you ❤️ love and 😬 hate the things I do!

 

I’m going to share 3 of my loves and 3 of the things I dislike (I rarely use the word hate – just not my vibe!)

 

WHY?!

The feeling of loving something is very special to me!

I’ve recently been introduced to the human design (I ridiculously love focusing on personal development and bettering myself) and I came out as a specific (I’ll talk more about specifically in another blog – haha isn’t that ironic!)

But I am a really specific person – and I love it!

 

So in today’s blog I’ve picked 3 specific loves!

Firstly ❤️ Travel 🌍

Oh gosh… I could literally talk about travel for days and days!

 

Travel lights up my soul!

My first big holiday was when I was 12, my parents took me and my sister to Orlando for 3 weeks – DisneyLand, America vibes and my 1^st cruise, such a special holiday!

 

Since then (gosh that’s 30 years!) I have travelled a lot!

The furthest West I’ve been is LA and the furthest East is Cappadocia (in Turkey)

 

When I was 21, after I graduated from Uni, I went on a Trek America tour for 2 months across America – we started at Washington (my random group in a minibus) and camped every night for 2 months as we travelled West across every Northern state until we reached Los Angeles (I think we saw 52 places in total)

I remember that trip like it was yesterday!

🌍Should I find a photo??! 😇

 

Since my divorce, 12 years ago I have travelled alone – a lot! No way was I letting the fact I was single stop me seeing the world!

My CIMA stopped me for a while because I had to use all of my annual leave for extra study and revision days (but it was worth it in the long run!)

I can afford to travel more now because of the pay rises and senior Finance roles I’ve been able to get! 🤓

 

In between my 39^th and 40^th birthday I decided to have some adventures! So I travelled to 40 brand new places in the World (brand new to me… and that was tough cos I’d been to so many already!)

Can you guess where I am?! 

 

I went to 22 in England ~ including walking up the O2 and seeing Greenwich Observatory, going to St Davids in Wales (the smallest City in the UK) and Lowestoft in Suffolk (the most easterly place in England)

As well as some foreign adventures – Iceland, Marrakesh, Sweden, Copenhagen (loved it!) and ended up in Porto on my 40^th birthday!

 

 ❤️Can you tell I love travel! 🌍

 

My second love though is walking

Maybe that’s why I travel so much, because walking around places really helps me soak up the experience and seeing what’s out there in the world!

 

I’ve walked up Mount Snowdon (ouch – my boots broke and it took my 8 hours – but I did it!)

 

For the past 5 months I have been on a personal mission to walk 10k steps a day.

The inspiration came from this photo:

 

Last year was a very challenging year for me personally, and I needed to get back to my usual determined 12/10 confidence self.

 

So when I saw this photo, I knew I needed to get out of my house, get off my bum and stop feeling so low… and walking was the perfect solution for me and my body.

 

The creativity I have when I walk is beautiful!

I always take a notebook and pen… and I must look like a weirdo cos when I have an idea – I jot it down (as I’m walking!)

 

One of the main reasons why after 150ish days I am still walking 6k steps a day! Is because of my pedometer.

 

I track my steps and write them in my diary!

I plan where I’m waling to maximise the time and number of steps!

 

 

That leads me perfectly on to my third love: Numbers!

Yes, Hi, my name is Helen and I am obsessed with numbers!

 

I walk to do 10k steps (that’s my first aim – the creativity is an added bonus)

I travelled to 40 brand new places for my 40^th birthday because it was a challenge

I am an Accountant because my brain is wired to numbers!

 

Okay… stop smirking at me know, if you’re an accountant – you know what I mean!

 

How numbers can motivate you to stay focused.

The way numbers spark my brain and help me understand, remember and explain.

 

I don’t know how to recall the business valuation methods but I know my family’s phone numbers without looking!

 

I hope you are enjoying getting to know me … I really love to write and share my adventures and my blog is such a lovely creative outlet for me to do this in (as well as support you with some revision coaching!)

 

 

Let’s get on to the bit you’re most intrigued with!

 

Things I dislike.

I say dislike, because ‘hate’ is just a bit dramatic and negative!

 

There are obviously lots of things people dislike in life and the world we live in … but I’ve highlighted these 3 (because we all now know I’m obsessed with numbers so I had to pick 3 – and I’m a libra – so I had to have a balance!)

 

I haven’t picked 3 that I kind of don’t like .. I’ve gone full on passion here!

These 3 are passion dislikes of mine – actually gross me out – get me on my soap box kind of bleurgh!!

 

Firstly – and maybe controversially:

TUNA!

OH GOSH … I really, really, really, dislike tuna (especially from a tin!)

 

I love food – I’m defo a foodie – but no way will I ever eat tuna! 🤢

Not even if I was on a desert island #castaway vibes (which happens to be one of my fav films ever!)

 

I even love sushi .. but no way will I ever buy sushi with tuna – or if I had to, I’d pick the tuna out!

 

Please be on the same page as me…. No to tuna! Blurgh!

{Same goes for avocados as well… absolutely not my thing!}

 

Enough about food though – this is making me hungry!

---

 

Secondly… and I know some of you feel me with this one … I dislike:

CRAMMING!

 

👎🏻No to cramming! 👎🏻

👎🏻👎🏻 I have no time for it! 👎🏻👎🏻

 

It stresses you out! … which stresses me out

And IT . DOES . NOT . WORK!

 

Tough love Helen coaching vibes coming out now!

I hang out on Linkedin every day… and give you revision advice, support and motivation.

 

🤓 I see you guys 🤓

I’m in my DM’s listening to you

👀 I watch how you revise 👀

 

I have had enough of students cramming! And I don’t like it.

Please can you stop!

 

One of the key structures of my revision and revision courses are a 4 to 6 week revision phase.

I do not coach students if they have less than 4 weeks to their exam.

 

Yes I offer power hours for students with 2 weeks to go – but that is so they really try to avoid the last minute cramming faff! {If you ever want a power hour: use this link}

 

But for all of my other Courses – E3_P3_F3 or SCS or my 1:1 coaching – you can only work with me if you have a smart revision phase – which means NO CRAMMING!

 

If you are currently using cramming as a revision technique please can you stop – write a revision plan – and focus on repeat practice to recall the knowledge. Take this blog as your sign to stop cramming!

 

📧 Sign up (here) for my weekly revision emails to find out what to do instead 📧

---

 

Thirdly and my no means lastly… I dislike mumbling!

Erm… what did you say??!

 

For godness sake… please you need to stop mumbling and speak clearly!!

 

I think this is a pet hate of mine because of my specific personality!! Attention to detail is my thing!

I need to know what you mean exactly!!! So if you’re talking to me and I can’t understand the words – I’m unable to not just hear you but process what you’re saying!!

 

(How many exclamation marks can I write within 100 words!!)

 

Asking someone to repeat what they’ve just said I find embarrassing – but if you mumble I have to ask – which embarrasses you and me!

It’s a loose – loose situation!

 

And for a competitive female I can’t stand not winning or understanding what to do! {But I’m absolutely writing another blog about being competitive, so watch out for that!}

 

And breathe… oh that last dislike wound me up a bit! Opps!

 

I hope you have loved the insight into my crazy Helen personality! {That’s my nickname with my nephews “Crazy pants Auntie Helen!” – I take it as a compliment!}

 

I love writing for you

And I love coaching you through your CIMA exams!

Have a great day and watch out for next weeks blog!

 

What do you LOVE and DISLIKE? – leave a comment – I’d love to know and get to know you. ❤️🤓

Why my CIMA Students work with me!

One of my favourite things about coaching I getting to know my students.

Because I’m not a tutor, with a class of 30 students all staring at me trying to learn the syllabus (aka the boring part) – I can bring out the revision fun!

Yes Revision can be fun – well with me it’s always fun!

 

To build a strong coaching relationship I get to know my students so that they see I’m writing a specific revision plan around them, which in turn keeps them much more motivated and focused at the task in hand: revision!

Accountability is a big part of motivation.

 

When my students invest in themselves and their CIMA exams, they level up their commitment.

They keep themselves accountable and I’m always focusing on check-in’s and conversations to keep them on the right positive track!

CIMA is much tougher than we realised! … No-one told me It would take me 6 years!

And no-one prepared me for the juggle between growing a successful finance career and failing exams!

 

I coach differently so that my students have full support (I didn’t have the support I craved when I was revising so I make sure my audience have this option!)

 

The way I coach is specific to my students.

I coach CIMA students at the Strategic Level – only a few exams away from qualifying!

 

I coach and support because I know how tough these exams are … but I also know after being qualified for 11 years – how amazing the rewards and opportunities are when you qualify and show of those letters after your name!

 

Have you come to my website to find out more about me?!

Hi – 👋🏻 Welcome to my Revision corner of the internet!

You’re welcome to read about what coaching opportunities you can grab hold of here!

 

I show up every day on Linkedin but I love writing!

So, I use my blogs to write about revision and give you some extra revision support!

 

But today I want to share my amazing students!

You can see why they’ve invested in themselves and how my coaching has actually supported them (you don’t need to take my word for it!)

 

 

You can see from my testimonials that they students inside my Inner Revision World get some amazing results!

 

I pride myself on the coaching relationships I’ve formed over the years.

 

Lianne is a mum to her now 2 year old. She came to me a year before her wedding to finally finish her CIMA qualification.

These are her words when she booked a discovery call with me:

Lianne and I worked on the revision focus the step up to Strategic Level entails (I’ll tell you what I mean about the CIMA Police in another blog!)

 

I guess I should say quite a lot of my students come to me and stay with me for Revision coaching for more than just one exam – I take that as a great sign the coaching works and the relationship we’ve built is strong too!

 

Lianne worked hard around her family and work commitments, she went back to work and was planning her wedding as we were revising!

To make revision work for Lianne we created a revision plan bespoke to her, so that she felt strong and motivated to achieve it (and that I knew it was the right revision for what she needed)

 

Lianne passed her Strategic Case Study exam last year with 93 marks!

This is what she wrote to me on results day:

Coaching you guys to get your CIMA qualification lights up my soul!

 

Leona is one of my longest students.

We started with her hardest exam (F2) – which she failed 4 times herself, before reaching out for some Helen coaching.

Having failed 4 times, Leona lacked confidence and motivation.

 

Like me she works super hard, but the hard work se was putting into F2 just wasn’t working for her and I taught her a new way!

A new way to revise, new words to tell herself (to boost her confidence) and a new revision plan full of motivational ways to revise (not just re-reading the study text!)

 

After her F2 pass … we cracked on with her Management Case Study exam – which she passed 1^st time!

She was in shock she passed it 1^st time because she sat OCS a few times so she had convinced herself she was rubbish at exam (which she was not by the way!)

 

Then comes the jump to Strategic Level, which with a new job caused some emotions to rear their head. But I was not going to let her give up (or procrastinate!)

If you ask her, she’ll tell you how politely tough I was on her and I messaged her to perk her up and give her a short revision task to get on with!

 

Leona has a little daughter and as a single parent had life and work juggles of her own.

Which with the support and focus of coaching enabled her to have a revision journey that fitted in with her needs.

Having coached her for so long I knew what worked and what didn’t! So I made it my job to keep her focused and emotionally supported (yes there were tears during our calls)

But those tears made her stronger and stronger!

 

Leona qualified with her CIMA letters a few months ago and is now thriving with her job and free of the black cloud she often referred to her CIMA qualification holding over her.

 

I could share so many of Leona’s wins – but I’ll leave my favourite one here – on her SCS Results day!

 

I don’t just coach mums by the way!

 

Lucy was in her 20’s, on a graduate scheme and just moved in with her boyfriend.

I remember the pink 70’s wall paper in the background of our zoom calls! (It’s funny what you remember isn’t it)

 

Lucy was a joy to work with – so determined, and hardworking. Her knowledge base and knowledge recall was excellent!

I knew I wasn’t in her life to teach her (and she had a tuition provider as part of her level 7 apprenticeship for that) … my job was to boost her confidence and give her coaching support!

Like a cheerleader and sports coach vibe!

 

Again, we worked on a few exams together – P3, F3 and SCS (Can you see a theme with my Strategic style coaching!)

She was a sponge – she loved to learn and develop and soaked up the techniques – each time getting more and more confident.

 

Without being arrogant (because so many of my students say this) – Lucy got a lot of energy and confidence during our coaching calls. Because I got to know her, focused on what she needed that week and never let her be negative!

 

My proudest moment was coaching Lucy through her Strategic Case Study (yes I’m biased cos it’s my fav exam ever!)  but also because she got 102 marks!

Wowser!

 

Is it a coincidence that the 3 students in this week’s blog, names all start with an L?!

 

I’ve coached hundreds of CIMA students over the past 11 years by the way!

 

I’m going to write more about them, for you to read, to highlight what my coaching is about – so when you’re ready to chat – you know what you can feel and get when you join my Inner Revision World!

Any questions please leave a comment (or DM me on Linkedin on Instagram)

 

Trust me when I say – YOU can pass your CIMA exams – I absolutely believe in you!

Have a great week! ❤️🤓

 

Revision coaching: how to revise your way

I wrote a post last week about courses I’ve bought in the past and how frustrated I’ve gotten when they don’t teach me HOW.

The post has gone around and around in my brain quite a lot so I knew it was a topic I had to write a blog about!

 

Yes, I’m back writing blogs (and Linkedin articles too!)

Oh and I’m actually back doing my weekly Linkedin Lives on Thursday’s at 12:15

 

But I digress! …

 

Welcome to 2024 and this is the year YOU learn HOW!

🤓Learn how to revise your way 🤓

 

I’m back in Revision Coaching mode and I am on a mission to get YOU qualified in 2024!

So there will be a lot more writing – coaching – listening and hearing about HOW you can PASS!

 

💪🏻 I hope you’re ready … cos I am in full-on sport coach kind of mode! 🤓

 

Over the last 6 years I have been building my coaching business – I’ve done nearly everything myself – built my websites, created membership platforms, created daily social media content, created and sold coaching course and resources…. All the entrepreneur things!

 

You might have seen I launched my brand new Strategic Case Study Course last month (check it out here if you’re sitting your SCS next!)

 

And I’m in the process of creating 3 new Strategic CIMA Courses – for E3 – F3 and P3 (Signup to the waitlist if this is your next exam)

 

I’ve been looking back at a few of the courses I’ve brought to try and create & market amazing things for my audience … and I was getting frustrated!

 

I kept being reminded that they didn’t quite solve my problem:

“AArrgghh – I wish you’d tell me HOW!”

 

That was my over-riding frustration! I like the words of the course … but HOW do I actually do it!

 

Since running my coaching business, I have brought many courses to help me get to where I want to be faster and with less stress. I absolutely do not mind investing in myself (it brings great energy and focus to what I’m doing)

 

 

But I’ve got so frustrated with some of them!

Because they haven’t told me how!

 

How to actually do the thing (be it grow an audience, show off my courses, edit a YouTube video…)

 

So I’ve listened to the course … but then had to go away and find out for myself – which I could have just done in the first place!

Have you experienced this as well?!

 

Learning how to run a business is tough – you don’t get taught this at school!

 

It reminds me that when I was sitting my CIMA exams – I didn’t know HOW to revise – so I kept going round in circles and I did everything myself!

 

🤓 Literally the reason why I’m a Revision Coach now and only focus on the revision phase! 🤓

 

It makes me frustrated even thinking about it… cos I love to learn, I really do, I just wish it was quicker and I got better results!

 

My BPP tutors taught me the syllabus (and of course that’s vital!) but when it came to revision – they didn’t teach me HOW to actually put that knowledge in a way I could answer the exam question.

 

I had to figure that out alone and I found that so hard!

 

And they made it sound so easy: “Oh you just do this, this and this and boom there is the magic answer?!” … literally if you could see my face as they said that you would see a mixture of rabbit in headlights, jaw wide open – completely confused.

And (bit embarrassing to say) tears in my eyes and me trying to hold back the tears… because I really ‘should’ know: I’m in a BPP classroom!

 

Because of these experiences – I am more determined than ever to provide coaching solutions and direct support to teach & coach you HOW.

 

👉🏻 How to actually pass that exam

👉🏻 How to write a strong revision plan .. and stick to it! (not just stare at the wall and hope you do the task tomorrow!)

👉🏻 HOW to actually prepare for exam day success – not just the basic’s – I go full on details!! (Some might even say I give too much support and guidance)

 

But that’s me – I spell it out – I break down the elements and I really focus on teaching the HOW!

I make time to teach the HOW and provide enthusiastic coaching support on top (because I know I needed this when I was studying)

 

💪🏻 Yes I always boost my students confidence and YES I am very enthusiastic! 😁

But that’s kind of a bonus on top (and just my personality)

 

I can’t have my students join my Inner Revision World and not learn exactly HOW to do that thing.

 

One of the ways I love to coach and help you guys understand more about my style and me as a coach is to host free masterclasses (you might have been to one in the past)

The masterclasses are free (my entrepreneur friends can’t believe I don’t charge for them) and they are full of value. But I always focus on implementable revision tactics – and give the HOW.

 

For example, last month I hosted: How to pass your SCS with 100 marks.

I didn’t just talk for 40 minutes, I taught my audience and coached them HOW.

 

That’s just my free masterclasses – my paid courses and coaching are where my students come inside my 🌍 Inner Revision World 🌍 and experience their HOW.

What strategy and tactics they need, to figure out HOW they answer the exam questions!

 

I have a mission this year: 24in24 – Where I will directly support 24 CIMA students to qualify in 2024.

 

👉🏻 You are my priority.

😇 You are what I’m showing up every day for.

👉🏻 So that YOU learn how to revise in your way!

 

If YOU don’t get what you need or solutions to what you’re struggling with … then I’ve failed my mission

 

And trust me – I’m like a dog with a bone – I take my goals very seriously (I’m super competitive but I’ll leave that story for another blog!)

I HAVE to achieve my mission: so that atleast 24 of you QUALIFIY in 2024!

 

My new masterclasses, courses and my daily social media content is for YOU.

 

I pride myself on the specific structure of my coaching. To give YOU Revision support, techniques and specific strategies.

 

Because of the courses I’ve bought over the years – I find myself screaming at the screen – begging for someone to just tell me how! Please!

Like: “that’s a great suggestion – but HOW do I do it?!”

Or: “Wow, yes I want to do that! But HOW would that work for my audience!?”

 

I absolutely do not want you to have this problem – I design my courses so that you clearly know HOW … and if the video isn’t clear – then I encourage you to ask me – that’s what I’m here for. To give you specific understanding and a lot of support!

 

So many of my students say they go to the live classes with their tuition provider and there is no option to ask a question or if there is a chat box, they are too nervous to ask.

I don’t experience that at all!

My students ask me loads of questions! We discuss, we brainstorm, and I answer so many questions with a direct answer!

 

I would love you to come on this 2024 journey with me!

Absolutely please leave a comment and let me know anything you’re struggling with and want some help on (or send me a DM or email if that’s easer for you)

 

I’m here so that YOU get the revision support that YOU need.

To learn HOW to revise in your way!

So that YOU qualify and hang your CIMA plaque up on the wall with pride – you deserve it!

 

Hope you enjoyed the blog ❤️🤓

? #twelvedaysofchristmas ?

On the 2nd day of 2021 my client said to me

“Do you remember why you started your qualification?!”

If you’re anything like me, you might have started for someone.

Little bit of a personal story today, and instead of talking about my clients, I want to share some of my journey with you.

When I was 18 I was half way through my A-Levels at college (I did Accounting, Business Studies and IT).

I am not an A* kind of girl by the way and I had to work hard at school to understand, learn and recall. I loved school but I did find it a challenge to get great grades.

So, when I was faced with my parents separating and divorcing whilst trying to study my 2nd year of A-Levels I found it a massive challenge. {Including crying every day for a year!}

I focused though and came away with B & C grades, which got me into University {I went to UWE in Bristol}

If you have gone to uni I assume you have gone for one of two reasons. Either to enjoy the nightlife/social life or to get the degree.

? My reason was to get a 1st class degree ?

In 2001 I moved to Bristol for Uni and was struggling with my parents divorce. I was fortunate that they paid for my university fees so I could study and not get a part time job during term time.

I worked my arse off {sorry to swear!} at Uni and was the geek in the front row of the lecture theatre!

Every day in my last year I was in the library, researching, learning, swotting, writing, recalling. Doing everything I needed to get that mark.

I wrote 10, 000 words for my dissertation about short term forecasting (I’ve still got it if you fancy a read!?) … and I got a 1st for this ?

I am so proud to shout that I got a first class honours degree in Business Studies

And I absolutely got that degree to make my parents proud of me.

My somebody was my mum and dad.

You might have read ‘My diaries of an oddball Accountant’ blogs – These are my CIMA journey stories – have a read HERE

I got my degree for my parents … but I got my CIMA qualification for me.

{Oh I sound like a Royal Navy advert!}

My second best life qualification is my CIMA plaque.

{You know I show it off all the time, and I know you will do the same too!}

I know my why… I love my why … it helps to drive me, focus me and keep me motivated.

I sat a CIMA exam every sitting for 6 years and I never gave up.

I got divorced halfway through my CIMA studies too, and it made me even more determined, strong, courageous and empowered.

Please can you remember your why and use it as a beautiful, amazing, empowering way to FLY through your CIMA or ACCA journey.

I’ve got your back … I will NOT let you fail if you are in my Revision World!

? ? ? ? ? ??‍? ? ? ? ? ?

Of course, on the 2nd day of Christmas there were

Two Turtle Doves!

This one makes me think about flying.

Flying high – soaring into 2022 with your head held high.

Flying is the perspective I’m bringing out today!

Flying forward and towards your goals

It’s a perfect time of year to reflect on your 2021 and set goals for 2022.

I’ll be chatting to you more about goals and planning tomorrow, but for today I want to give you some revision coaching.

You have remembered WHO you are doing this for.

Now let’s focus on your WHAT & WHY

What revision strategies do you need to

⭐ Give you exam confidence

⭐ Keep you laser focused on exam practice

⭐ Boost your daily revision motivation

Please can you

? Aim high!

? Keep your head up!

? Get some support!

There are 2 ways to work with me right now – in December!

1 – Join The Ultimate Revision Club

2- Grab a 1:1 coaching space {there are only 2 available per month}

I want to inspire you, motivate you, and give you the wings to fly high!

If you want to say #YesHelen to a coaching option – all you need to do is EMAIL me {hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk} and tell me which one.

If it’s the Revision Club … I will send you the secret link to join! ?

Smile! Keep your head up and have a beautiful day.

Helen x

? #twelvedaysofchristmas ?

On the 3rd day of 2021 my client said to me

“I miss read the question! “

Does it ever feel like Mr CIMA or Mr ACCA is talking in a foreign language?!

It might as well be French – cos it’s completely in-understandable!

One of the ways I coach my students is to challenge what they are thinking.

Challenge the way they revise and what they think about revision!

Especially when it comes to reading the question requirement.

And especially if they are resitters!

One of the top three reasons why a student fails is because they don’t read/understand the requirement properly.

Yes, you might read it and think

“I have no idea what this means?!”

“I think it wants *this* answer?!”

“I have no clue” … move on to next question

Reading the question ‘properly’ is a key exam technique that you need in your revision toolkit. I have some magic tricks that I’m going to share with you on this in Jan – read below for how to sign up to this!

My students F and A both sat their AAA (ACCA) exams in 2021.

This exam is unique and obviously it’s focused on Audit specifically.

Audit has it’s own unique language.

There are words and phrases only used when referring or communicating like an auditor or in an audit environment.

So one of my main coaching strategies for them was to learn the ACCA Audit language.

So when they read a requirement, it didn’t look or feel like a foreign language!

I’m so proud to say both F and A passed their AAA exams this year! ?

When it comes to reading the question I know this is often where you guys go wrong.

Cos if you don’t read what is being asked, then how are you ever going to read of mark the right answer?!

Please can you STOP reading what you want the questions to ask – and focus on what it is actually really asking!

Classic exam technique #1 –

? Read the question set (not the question you wish was set!)

L* is sitting F3 (CIMA)

We have been trying to sit and pass F3 for a while ?

I want to talk to you about L’s exam technique because I know she’s not the only one who does this.

L: O I know this question! … reads half and marks her MCQ

L: Finishes question slot

L: Looks at answers and marks … thinking she did ok

L: Oh damn it I got 3/10

L: What the hell?!

L: Analyses question and answer back

L: Oh I read the question wrong!

L: Oh that’s what he asked (not what my brain thought!)

This is classic L!

{Well no, that’s not true!}

This WAS classic L!

She’s worked super hard to transform her exam techniques so that she now consciously read the question and actually pass her F3 question practice.

Now L reads the questions that is on the screen in front of her!

? ? ? ? ? ??‍? ? ? ? ? ?

Of course, on the 3rd day of Christmas there were

Three french hens!

CIMA or ACCA doesn’t need to be a foreign/French language!

And I don’t want you to be pecking away at practice questions with the wrong exam techniques!

I have coached hundreds of CIMA and ACCA qualifying accountants over the last 9 years

I know the exam techniques that work for

? Knowledge recall

? Revision structure

? Exam mindset

{Plus so so so many more}

Exam technique is not one thing.

There are lots of jigsaw pieces that fit together for a strong exam foundation / puzzle.

If you’ve been to one of my live revision events, then you know I coach you on the key jigsaw pieces.

The next revision event is

⏰ Starting Mon 24th Jan at 8pm ⏰

? Master your Revision ?

? Register and grab your seat here ?

{Register before 31st Dec to be in the special revision geek prize draw}

My 3 coaching superpowers are

✔️ Exam technique

✔️ Confidence

✔️ Motivation

The superpowers I will coach you on will give you the structure, clarity and support you need to pass your exam … with confidence!

Register and grab your space in Master Your Revision to get hold of my free and live exam technique magic tricks!

Smile! Keep your head up and have a beautiful day.

Helen x

? #twelvedaysofchristmas ?

On the 6th day of 2021 my client said to me

“If I can’t pass the fundamentals, I must be rubbish!”

I’m throwing out another analogy today.

? All about building a house! ?

If the foundations are not strong ‘enough’ then the house is weaker and likely to fall down- right?!

Well the CIMA & ACCA Fundamental exams are no different.

Obviously instead of bricks and mortar – you guys are building careers and finance skills.

But to build them you need to master and have solid accounting foundations.

This year I have coached P, O, P and J through their CIMA Certificate level exams.

I know lots of you guys have been exempt from these – as I was too – and tryst me this doesn’t always feel like a good thing!

But I know if you have failed a fundamental exam, then you are definitely questioning your Accounting abilities.

I want you to be kinder to yourself please!

Mr CIMA (or MR ACCA) are testing your technical ability and NOT your overall Accounting character.

Yes of course fundamentals is a big part of that, but just one jigsaw piece (or wooden framework)

The only reason why my clients failed their fundamentals exam is because of exam technique.

Well lack of the ‘right’ technique.

They didn’t know HOW to answer the exam questions

Note – they know their knowledge base!

Fundamentals are about knowing the right way to answer that specific question.

And yes Mr CIMA (in their case) was being very specific with this. And there is much more of a black/white – correct/incorrect answer.

Trust me you want to know the right way to treat a debit or credit! And it is super important that you know the difference between an asset and a liability!

Once I coached my students through what exam technique is needed and works for this type of exam ? – Pass, pass pass!

And much needed CIMA confidence for their journey because they heard me and understand they are smart Accountants.

They just didn’t have the exam technique ?

? ? ? ? ? ??‍? ? ? ? ? ?

Of course, on the 6th day of Christmas there were

Six geese a laying!

Just like O, P, P and J – Laying the foundations is super important.

Every piece of the syllabus you learn is an important process in your exam journey.

? Yes some topics are less useful in the real world – but you’re going to be test on them.

These are tested for a reason – to strengthen your accounting foundation.

Your Revision coaching today is about laying the right foundations, but these are for all of you to remember! {But especially if you’re at the start of your CIMA or ACCA Journey}

? One step at a time

? One day at a time

? Lay foundations to support yourself

And

? Don’t forget the basics! ?

That’s what will get you the marks (in all of your exams – fundamentals, advanced, management, strategic) *But I’ll tell you how another day!

Today I’ve coached you on laying your foundations {like a geese!}

? Set your self up for success and let’s starting building a really strong house for your amazing future accounting career! ?

? #twelvedaysofchristmas ?

On the 7th day of 2021 my client said to me

“I’m so stuck, I don’t know what to do! Feel like I’m going backwards!”

One of my clients L is struggling and I know she’s not the only one.

One the surface she (and her life) looks great. New house, new job, beautiful daughter.

But she is struggling.

L hasn’t passed an exam this year.

She has sat her F3 exam twice and not quite passed.

She tried on her own and then came to me for some F3 coaching and yes she failed again {yes guys, some of my clients do fail resits before they pass}

It’s because these amazing Accounting qualification are challenging, tough, hard work … but NOT impossible!

L gets stuck.

Stuck in her head with her mindset – especially with the F pillar (CIMA)

Because she took 5 attempts to pass F2 last year, she has a little demon on her shoulder.

We have worked hard to flick him off her shoulder, but after her last F3 fail, he is back – with an annoying little smirk!

Feeling stuck or feeling like you’re going backwards is something I hear all the time from you guys, especially if you’re a resitter.

I talk about mindset quite a lot, especially during my revision events and I really feel like more people need to talk about it.

I failed loads of my exams.

But I kept going and I qualified … 6 years later!

Yes of course it takes a strong mindset to pick yourself up and keep going.

That is exactly why I am here to shout about the right revision mindset.

I will keep shouting about it because I have got your back!

I am here so that YOU pass your exam … with confidence!

By the ‘right’ mindset I focus on your self-confidence, for you to ride and enjoy your revision journey with ease, fun and a happy mind.

Let’s reframe the struggle TO the journey!

Instead of thinking ‘you’re stuck’ HOW ABOUT ‘take one step forward today’

And REPEAT after me “I’m a smart Accountant and I can pass my resit!”

? ? ? ? ? ??‍? ? ? ? ? ?

Of course, on the 7th day of Christmas there were

Seven swans a swimming!

Today I am here to remind you to keep swimming!

Keep going, keep your head up and keep focused!

Caveat (As always!) please swim forwards!

You might also look like and feel like a swan (you know I love an analogy by now) ?

Looking okay on the surface to everyone – even smiling and nodding and saying “Yeah, I’m fine, revision is good”

And your feet (or mind) is racing under the water thinking all the things you need to do, learn, think, believe, say, practice.

Trust me you’re not the only one who is going through the swan motions.

On the hard days when you feel like a swan, I want you to focus on how smooth and pretty a swan looks and how SLOW and STEADY there feet are actually going so they GLIDE through the water.

Instead of your default to – they are panic swimming, with feet flapping away where no one can see them.

People do see them! And I want you to know and remember that they are swimming like a cool, calm, collected, confident swan.

You can be a revision swan who has a smooth calm revision journey.

I hope you’re enjoing my #twelvedaysofchristmas Helen style revision support as much as I am writing them for you!

Happy Saturday! Have a great weekend.

Helen x

P.S – Send me an email if you are feeling stuck – I’m here to help you – so tell me what you’re stuck with, and I’ll reply with some helpful advice. {hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk}

? #twelvedaysofchristmas ?

On the 10th day of 2021 my client said to me

“Helen, you have repeated that already!”

Well, I’m not going to lie guys, when I read J* email I was a little bit upset.

I’ll be super real with you (as always) so don’t judge me without reading the whole story please.

I had a complaint!

J* had complained about my coaching and wrote me a nice long email with his reasons why.

One of his concerns was that I repeated somethings in my How2Revise in 30 days course again to him on his extra 1:1 coaching call.

I always take on board feedback (I actually welcome it so I can improve my coaching and services!)

but this reason was funny to me… really made me think ‘oh!’

After I got over the anger, frustration and rejection feelings (Yes I have those too!) I laughed.

I was laughing at myself because it’s 100% true! ?

I know I repeat things!

But I realised that I do it on purpose! I repeat things on purpose {see what I did there! ?}

It’s one of my coaching techniques.

My key, conscious, focused, real coaching styles.

? I repeat on purpose! ?

There are loads of smart and important reasons why I do this by the way (I’m not that crazy!) and I know you’re not dumb!

Because sometimes once isn’t enough for you to take in the right revision action, voice, task, words, feeling.

Sometimes my clients are not listening (Shock I know, but I say so much in 60 minutes there is lots to take in!)

The main reason why I repeat is so that you take action!

Instead of smiling, nodding and saying “Yeah”, I repeat the words/taks/action so that you do it and say “Yes!”

I’m not here to pay lip service to you guys or just chat and waste my clients precious time (and money).

I coach (and repeat) so that YOU take the right revision action at the right time.

Sometimes that means I tell you twice!

Unfortunately J didn’t see it like this, which is honestly fine (no judgement) but I felt it was important for me to talk more about how I coach, so you can see and learn my Helen style of coaching.

You know my clients are passing, so let’s be honest, my coaching works.

As well as coaching you on my three superpowers (exam techniques, confidence and motivation just in case you forgot)

I also go ON and ON and ON about all things #revisiongeek vibes!

I love you J, but it’s working for my other clients .. so I am going to be repeating a lot more in 2022 ? ❤️

? ? ? ? ? ??‍? ? ? ? ? ?

Of course, on the 10th day of Christmas there were

Ten Piper Piping!

And as your self confessed #revisiongeek I am completely and utterly that lady who plays music over and over and over and over whilst piping up about making revision fun!

And YES people follow me!

I’m super grateful to say I hit 18,000 followers on Linkedin this year! ? ?

Bring on next year’s pipping cos I will warn you now, I’m going to get louder, BIGGER and geekier about

? Revision

? You getting your plaque up on the wall

? Mastering your exam journey!

#Putthatinyourpipeandsmokeit!

Happy Wednesday! Have a great day!

#twelvedaysofchristmas

On the 12th day of 2021 my client said to me

“I’m dyslexic, can you still help me?!”

J* came to me in the Summer, whilst he was finishing his Masters and wanted help to start his CIMA journey. His 1st exam was Management Case Study (MCS), and as well as being a case study this was his 1st ever CIMA exam.

J has dyslexia.

Whilst I don’t pretend to be an expert in this area, I know this affects someone’s attention span and logical understanding. I also know numbers and repetition are big strengths.

I also believe that nothing should stop any individual pushing their skill levels and becoming whatever they want.

I’m here to support anyone of any ability to become a qualified Accountant.

J and I have worked together with 1:1 Coaching because he knew he needed bespoke laser focused CIMA support.

The support, enthusiasm and expert CIMA knowledge I can and have provided J has helped him sit his MCS exam.

J has a short attention span ? so instead of my normal 60 minute calls, we have created a smarter 30 minute coaching package that helps keep him laser focused and on the ball.

As well as laser focused bespoke exam techniques which work well with his style of learning and recalling. We reduce the amount of reading and increase his knowledge base in ways he can remember (and repeat properly)

It works so well and I’m so proud of J’s progress in 2021.

We are very excited and committed to the strategic step up for 2022 and I can’t wait to share J’s MCS results with you in January ? ?

  

? ? ? ? ? ??‍? ? ? ? ? ?

Of course, on the 12th day of Christmas there were

Twelve Lords a leaping.

And I want you to be leaping with joy when you get your exam results – even if you have a learning disability.

I will NOT let you think you can’t do this!

You can do anything you want to and that you put your time, effort and commitment into.

? I’ve got your back and I’m here to help you leap higher! ?

For bespoke 1:1 coaching package come and have a chat, just like J did.

Feel free to take a peek at the prices here and book in a call {here} so we can pick a bespoke package that works for you.

The Helen style Twelve Days of Christmas is coming for you! Enjoy!

I speak to a lot of students and hear a lot of the same things. And alot of words!

Some of these words make me roll my eyes … opps … should I not admit that out loud?! ?

 

My three least favourite words are …. Wait for it, I’m not gonna tell you yet obvs … I want you to read the blog!

 

But this blog is my outlet to scream and shout about the three words that really really make my eyes roll!

 

A little insight into my personality, I get passionate about certain things and with that passion I have been known to raise my voice, state and debate my argument and force some much more valuable solutions on to the table.

 

There are certain words that, as a revision coach, completely frustrate me! And as a human – wind me up!

 

Three words that make me cringe as a revision coach, because the words are just useless! The power that people associate with them doesn’t bring the right positive mindset.

You know I am all about mindset because that makes such a massive difference in exam success (especially as a resitter!)

 

Small tweaks to your language make a big tweak to your mindset.

 

Like I said I am a passionate lady and I make no apologises for sharing my opinion.

I show up everyday on Linkedin and Instagram sharing my opinion, giving revision advice and supporting qualifying accountants.

 

I love it!

And I love when my clients grow in confidence, have revision fun and of course pass their exams! {Yes my clients are passing!}

 

So without further ado …

Let me introduce you to my three least favourite words …

 

Hope

Oh this is a controversial one to start with.

If you are in shock already with my first least favourite word then bare with me ? of course there is a reason why.

 

Hope is a positive word, absolutely.

 

Hope in a revision context is less than positive though.

 

Do you want to hope you revise this week?

Would you hope you are on the right track?

Are you hoping you have done enough?!

 

Gosh … don’t even get me started on that last sentence! ?

 

Hope in this revision context completely turns the positive word into a negative. The word looses the powerful context of optimism and creates a level of wishing and wondering and most importantly WORRYING!

 

Worrying about your revision is NOT what you need.

 

I know you are worried already about your exam, so I don’t want you to add hope into your thought process to add another level of worry to your thoughts.

 

I want you to have revision confidence, self confidence and confidence in your knowledge base.

 

? Confidence is the empowered revision emotion that makes a huge difference ?

 

So … how about instead of “I hope I will pass” = change to = “I will pass”

 

“I will pass my exam because I am a smart Accountant”

“I will revise everyday so that I am prepared and ready”

“I can get back on track this week but sticking to my revision plan”

 

Now … doesn’t that feel better!

 

Don’t get me wrong, there are some positive ways to use and embrace the word hope (I’m not heartless) – I just really believe revision calls for less hope and more action, with confidence built through action.

 

Don’t dilute your revision confidence with the word hope.

Embrace and empower yourself, your words and your actions with stronger verbs.

 

 

Enough

Enough what?!

 

Even typing this work makes me want to throw my laptop out of the window!

 

To be really honest with you, this word winds me up!

 

And so so many people use it! I feel like shaking them when I hear it.

“I will only sit my exam when I’ve done enough revision” … or “It’s not good enough” … or “I haven’t done enough”

 

By using this word in your vocabular and thoughts, why are you giving yourself a goal you will never reach?!

How is that positively motivating and support you – personally or in your revision.

 

 

Surely you can always do more?!

Because you absolutely can do more, then this word ‘enough’ becomes a useless measuring stick.

 

It is not a self empowering word!

 

Again, it dilutes your efforts, confidence and preparation and you don’t see the amazing work and effort you have completed.

Cos if you wait until ‘you’ve done enough’ – you will never reach it!

 

What’s the point of thinking about something you will never reach – it is soul destroying – let alone the other emotions we have whilst riding the emotional revision rollercoaster.

 

Instead of this word, could you reframe and think about these actions instead.

 

? Let’s be smart – set, think and focus on specific and measurable weekly goals.

 

Goals that empower you and get you where you want to be, every week of your revision phase. One step at a time but moving forward.

When you have the weekly goal you will see your progress and feel great!

 

For example, Passed a mock. Recalled all the formulas. Written and stuck to your revision plan.

 

All actions and words that show you are amazing, you have done amazing work and you are on the right track.

No more thinking you are not ‘good enough’ …. Blurgh – I said that horrible words again! ?

 

 

Cram

The final of my three least favourite words is cram.

 

Arrrggghhh cram =stress!

And who wants or why would you want revision stress?!

You don’t – I know you don’t – let’s be real!

 

Cramming is an added emotion and action that we see, and I reckon, most of us think we need to be doing!

Well, as my mum said to me when I was a kid, if you saw someone jumping off a cliff – would you copy them?!

 

No of course not! So please stop copying the cramming thing!

Please stop thinking it’s what you need to do.

 

No more cramming!

 

Let’s have a think of the core problem though guys.

Is it a result of poor planning, being too busy and prioritising work or procrastiniating and worrying about it instead of talking action?

 

All these things avoidable by the way!

Not easy, but completely avoidable.

 

With commitment, dedication and organisation.

 

You might think it’s easy for me to say that, now I’m qualified, but I promise I was exactly where you are – working as a full time Assistant Accountant, Management Accountant, Senior Management Accountant, studying, revising, stressing, walking my dog, going on holidays, trying to run a house whilst my ex husband was in Afghan, oh and maybe a social dinner with my friends if I was lucky.

I have been where you are, and I really do not want you to make the same mistakes as I did.

 

Cramming is a revision mistake.

 

Cramming does not need to happen in a successful revision phase.

And you DO NOT need to cram to feel confident or pass your exam.

 

The best advice I can give you is to plan and have a 4 week revision phase. Have a read of my blog from last month about how to have a successful 4 week revision phase.

 

Cramming is for dumb accountants!

#sorrynotsorry

 

Just the thought of having to cram makes me feel stressed, anxious and uncomfortable.

I know you feel like that too, and I really don’t want you to!

Let alone the friends, family and colleagues around you and how unhelpful your stress is on them and your relationship.

 

There is a difference between cramming and spending 4 weeks with committed revision.

There is also a difference in what you do the week before your exam when you plan or cram.

 

 

Roundup of my ranty blog!

So there you have it, my passionate (maybe a bit ranty) blog with my three least favourite words.

 

I can’t even bring myself to type them out again in this blog summary…. Nope… can’t do it!

But they were my three least favourite words

 

Hope you have enjoyed the blog … there are many more to read to grab some much needed revision advice! Have a read here

 

I will catch you in a few weeks for the next blog – Why I wish I had a coach when I was qualifying!

 

Have a great week! I am here if you need any revision support – slide into my DM’s, come and watch my Thursday Linkedin Live – every Thursday at 12:30.

 

Oh … I nearly forgot! I’d love to invite you to my next free and live webinar – yes its free!

Come and Climb your Revision Ladder with me, to learn my revision secrets … CLICK HERE to register

Whether you got 98 on your objective test or 78 in your case study … this blog is for you.

As your Accounting Revision Coach I am on a mission to give you revision focused support so that your exam journey is full of motivation, self confidence and the right exam techniques!

 

I write a few blogs every month to support your revision journey.

Today’s blog is focus towards CIMA case study exams … but of course the tips, enthusiasm and Helen coaching style will share the revision love!

 

I failed loads of my exams, it took me nearly 6 years to qualify and it was tough!

I don’t want you making the same mistakes as me, and I reallllllllyyyy don’t want you to feel alone.

 

You are not alone, you are now in my Revision World … and I am here until YOU pass your CIMA or ACCA qualification and get your plaque up on the wall!

 

Because I struggled through my exams, especially the revision phase, I focus on revision coaching cos it’s what I wish I had more support in.

As a resitter myself, I also focus on coaching resitters .. this blog is for you if you are resitting your CIMA case study.

{If you are a resitter, you can also read this blog

 

If you got 76 or 78 marks in your CIMA case study …

Let’s have a chat about how you can pass your resit.

 

What is it about this mark that is so annoying?!

Oh … I’ll tell ya … it’s because the mark shows that Mr CIMA has just confirmed that you don’t quite know the right answers!

Yeah but … could he not just round it up?! It’s only one mark!

And could you just go back through and check, that one extra sentence from subtask 2.4 was so great!

And couldn’t they just do me a favour and read it again for that extra mark … I tried really hard!

 

These are some of my thoughts from when I got 1 mark less than the pass mark! {When I sat my exams the pass mark was 50}

I’ll be real and honest with you guys (as always) and say that I failed loads of my exams, but I never failed my case study.

I got my fair share of 48 and 49 fail marks … so I know if you are in the same position, I know how you are feeling.

 

Yes, I once paid for my script to be remarked because I really thought I had passed. I know this is easy for me to say, but there is zero point getting your exam remarked (because the result will stay the same and you’ve just spent ££ for nothing)

 

If you got 76 or 78 marks in your CIMA case study…

I want you to repeat after me “I am a smart Accountant and I will pass next time”

It’s true!

 

Of course if you freak out, give up, or throw your books in the bin then you won’t resit and then you’ll never pass.

 

But I have got your back and you’re in my revision world!

I say it aaaallllllll the time, but it is true!

 

You can pass your resit!

 

You can tweak your revision, learn an exam structure that works, find that extra preseen nugget, and most importantly you absolutely can learn how to answer the exam questions in ways that bring you 1 or 2 extra marks!

 

But …. A big caveat! …. YOU need to believe you can pass your resit!

 

How to overcome the confidence knock that this mark brings

Confidence is the glue that holds all of your revision jigsaw pieces together.

I know that you are thinking “Oh I need to go back and read all of the study texts again and relearn everything and focus on all the technical elements and all the syllabus things…”

 

Whilst the technical elements are important, of course this is a CIMA exam, they are not (I repeat NOT) the way that will help you pass your resit.

 

You just got 76 or 78 marks … you knew loads of technically relevant answers …. What you didn’t know was how to structure your sentences, to give that extra detailed level of explanation.

 

Now we need to focus on exam answer creation and exam techniques.

 

BUT … first it’s way more important to me that you boost your exam confidence and confidence in yourself that you KNOW and truly BELIEVE that you can pass your resit and that you are smart ‘enough’.

 

Confidence is the glue that holds all of your revision jigsaw pieces together

 

As your Revision Coach I focus on confidence as one of my superpowers because it is what is going to give you strength.

Strength on your exam day to find that extra two or three sentences, strength on that tough Saturday during revision when you just want to give up again, and strength of character to remember and truly believe that you can get your 80 pass mark.

 

As a resitter, your confidence is knocked a little bit, I totally get it. But it does not (and should not) make a negative impact on your revision.

 

You know my secret formula … Knowledge + Confidence = Success!

Let’s focus on building your knowledge AND confidence muscles every single day to strengthen your exam preparation so that you get the exam success on your resit!

 

Client testimonials

– Victor … Sophie … Nadeem … they are some of my CIMA case study students and they all got 78 and this is some of thier feedback …

 

Victor – OCS Aug 2021 “The biggest takeaways I took from Helen’s coaching was positivity, consistency and confidence”

 

Sophie – MCS – Feb 2021 – ” The brainstorming was brilliant, it was the highlight of the sessions. I cannot thank you enough for all the support and being there for me through all the highs and lows. I’ve not only learnt how to prepare for my exam in a smarter way”

 

Nade – MCS – Feb 2021 –  “Well taught and well run. It has made me think outside the box, and develop my sentences. It has enabled me to incorporate strategy and stakeholders into more questions”

 

And yes… guess what! They went from 78 marks … to PASS! {Nade got 105 marks}!

YES They all passed their resit! As part of my CIMA Mastermind – Here is your special free webinar invitation so you can grab some Helen coaching too!

 

What to do

(The right case study tactics as a resitter)

Okay … let me give you some Helen coaching {ssshhh…. Most people pay for this revision tip}

 

But cos you’re committed and you’re reading all of this blog, I want to help you out.

And I reward action takers, and I want you to take smart action so that you resit with confidence!

 

I’ve coached hundreds of qualifying accountants over the last eight years and I would never judge or say ‘You are doing this wrong’ … but I have seen lots of the same revision struggles and of course I know all of my revision mistakes!

For you, as you are resitting your case study what I want you to focus on is truly understanding how you can utilise and apply the core activities.

Mr CIMA gives you a blueprint which is vital for your case study success, and within this there are core activities and I can statements for each specific case study level.

This is your bible! This is what I want you to focus on and use as your technical foundation piece.

 

 

When to do it

(To make a difference so you get that pass next time)

When should you resit ? on the next sitting

When should you revise ? every single day {consistency creates confidence}

 

Let’s pass your resit … with confidence!

 

When should you work on your confidence ? Every.single.day

When should you start believing YOU can pass ? Right now! And every.single.day

 

? I’ve got your back! ?

 

Webinar invitation

If you couldn’t tell by now (or in my daily Linkedin posts I am ridiculously committed to you passing your CIMA qualification and getting that plaque up on the wall!

I am also a massive revision geek when it comes to the CIMA Case Studies – I love them and they are the best exams … ever!!

 

I have two invitations for you!

Firstly I host a free and live webinar that I would love to invite you to!

‘My top 3 case study secrets’

In this webinar I promise to give you some coaching that will highlight and show you what you need to do that will make a difference to get your 80 pass mark!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER for the next webinar >>

 

Secondly, if you are ready to commit and want me to coach you for your case study resit.

I have created a CIMA Case Study Mastermind.

A combination of weekly group brainstorming {where I lead and focus you on your preseen specific discussions} PLUS a revision hut {full of preseen specific resources, videos, exam templates, and some practice questions}

⛰️ CLICK HERE TO grab your seat on the mountain climb ⛰️

 

 

Thanks for reading guys! I love writing for you, revision advice, revision tips, everything revision … haha … they don’t call me a revision geek for nothing! ?

Feel free to DM me and ask any questions you have about revision, CIMA Case studies, the Mastermind, or anything so that WE can get YOUR exam passed … with confidence!

 

Reach out on Linkedin or email: hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk

 

Have a great week! H x

 

P.S – There are loads of blogs already here for you to read, plus more coming in the next few months.

I bang on about a 4-6 week revision phase allll the time!

No, not because I want to extend your exam journey.

It’s mainly because I want you to become a smart, confident Accountant.

 

I speak to qualifying accountants every day, I hear your struggles and I know exactly what you’re going through – I’m not just a random coach.

I am a CIMA qualified Accountant and I failed loads of my exams, my exam journey took me nearly 6 years and I struggled in so many ways.

 

I struggled in my revision phase by not understanding what I was actually meant to do.

I struggled when I had to sit a mock paper to time … I mean – how fricking hard is that?!

I knew the knowledge, but I really struggled with putting the knowledge together with the exam questions.

 

The revision struggle is real!

 

You might be reading this so far and thinking “It’s easy for you Helen, hindsight is a wonderful thing, but I just can’t do it!”

Firstly, there is no such word in the English dictionary as “can’t” … try find it, it’s not there ?

 

And secondly, you CAN achieve anything you want to!

Anything you want to put your mind to and anything you BELIEVE you can do.

 

I talk about self belief and confidence all the time, feel free to follow me on Linkedin for my daily posts.

 

My 3 super coaching powers are exam technique, motivation and confidence.

 

Today’s blog is focused on exam technique.

 

As always, I will give you a caveat of confidence. You need to boost your confidence everyday in your revision phase.

But you also, need to have a 4 week revision phase.

 

WHY?!

Gosh, there are so many reasons, but like I said, it’s mainly so that you become a smart confident Accountant (Erm, that’s why you’re doing your ACCA or CIMA – right?!)

 

Exam structure is important to me

Exam structure is about creating and designing the logical steps and path you need for exam success.

 

This is so important to me and my style of coaching because I like a plan … no correction – I love a plan!

I need to know what I am doing, when and how.

Having an exam structure adds such a solid foundation to my day and makes me take the right action {instead of just thinking about doing it!}

 

With my students, I focus on a strong exam structure so we have a solid foundation to build from. Build the right knowledge base, with a strong confidence base and mot importantly confidence in the right exam techniques.

 

Key point of exam structure

Without a strong exam structure you have a blank canvas.

I believe there is nothing more demotivating than a blank piece of paper!

 

The key points of exam structure are

? Solid foundation for learning

? Which gives you a clear direction on what to do

? This leads to being able to see HOW and take action!

 

What revision magic can happen in 30 days?

Congratulations for being here and being in my revision world! ?

 

I fricking love coaching you guys and giving you all the smart exam and revision tips!

I focus on revision on purpose – because it’s where I wish I had had more help and support.

 

The revision phase of your exam journey is where you actually learn HOW to pass your exam!

 

Hence why I bang on about the revision phase allllll the time.

And a 4- 6 week revision phase is an amazing exam structure to have!

 

Why?!

Exam confidence – Building the right exam confidence takes time, it doesn’t magically happen. So having 30 days to plan, focus and take consistent action will really develop, build and optimise your exam confidence.

 

Self belief – If you don’t believe you will pass your exam – then you probably won’t pass! By structuring your revision phase over 30 days will allow you to see your practice progress, one step at a time, and with stronger preparation comes stronger self confidence.

 

Topic clarity – Remember the exam is not a test of what you can regurgitate from the study text. To pass you need to be able to recall and analyse specific topics within a given scenario. With a 30 day revision structure you give yourself the ability to practice smartly on how to recall within your exam conditions – I truly don’t believe you can do this level of smart practice in 1 or 2 weeks.

 

 

If you’re reading this and ‘only’ do a 1 week revision phase

Well, let’s be honest, were not going to be best friends now are we?! JOKES! ???

Sorry, that was my attempt at being funny, of course I want us to be friends!

 

Even if we don’t become friends, all I actually care about is YOU passing YOUR exam and getting YOUR plaque up on the wall!

 

If you currently focus your revision in 1 week, please could you check in with these few suggestions and make a few adjustments for me.

? Consider your confidence level

? And your exam recall

 

Is this as strong and powerful as you need for your exam pass?

Just for the record – if you are cramming and stressing before your exam and can’t stop yawning, let’s be honest, the answer to the above is a big fat NO!

 

The difference between study and revision.

You might be able to tell by now, that I am quite a structured planned lady.

And when I talk about the revision phase, I am specific, on purpose.

 

There is a big difference between study and revision. Last month I wrote a blog all about this – click here to read.

If you are ‘only’ spending 1 week on your revision phase, then have a check in with the blog so you understand what I explain and coach as the difference.

 

 

How to revise in 30 days!

Cos I’m a smart Accountant – I have a revision opportunity to talk to you about.

I am an action taker, and I reward action takers.

 

And a 30 day revision phase is very important to me!

Plus .. my students are passing their exams!

 

So, if this blog or any of my coaching has resonated with you, this is your chance to learn HOW to revise in 30 days.

My signature revision course – funnily enough it’s called ‘How2revise in 30 days!’ is where I put together a revision structure for you.

 

My students have tried and tested my coaching techniques, boosted their confidence and most importantly pass their resits!

If you want that to be you, come and have a look at my signature revision course … the only revision course you need in your life! Ha… okay, you will need a question bank as well.

But trust me, this course is epic!

 

This is your invitation to pass your exam with confidence – come and look HERE.

 

The benefits of a 4 week revision phase

As this blog title suggests a 4 week revision structure has some benefits!

 

Let’s talk about my top 3 benefits.

? Quality exam condition practice

? Boosts confidence in your knowledge

? Consistency create confidence

 

There is so much detail I could go into for each one, especially cos I am so passionate about supporting you, I tend to get a little enthusiastic!

So, let me leave these thoughts with you instead.

These 3 benefits WILL allow you to stay motivated whilst you are revising, keep you on the right revision track for your exam and give you the exam confidence you need for your exam pass.

But only if you have a 30 day revision phase!

 

I actually did a Linkedin Live and Instagram live discussing these 3 benefits specifically – so check them out on my social media profiles to see the detail!

 

If you are a resitter

Most of my students are resitters (when they start with me) and I was a resitter for lots of my CIMA exam. So I always aim to give you extra help & support.

 

? Confidence is very important as a resitter because you need to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, but actually tweak your revision to pass next time!

? Building knowledge through question practice is key (not through the study text)

Like I said, I am here to help and support. I have written a resitters specific blog, which you are welcome to read here.

 

 

Risks of not having a 4 week revision phase

? Procracsta-learning.. a new term {I’ll be writing a separate blog just on this word, cos that’s how important it is to NOT do!}

? Build wrong kind of confidence

? Cramming/energy levels

? Exam failure {face palm}

 

I don’t want to keep firing bullet points at ya, but I’m aware how long this blog already is … and I want to keep your attention! So I will write a separate blog another time about the risks of not having a revision phase!

 

Keep in touch to catch more blogs, daily Linkedin posts and weekly emails!

Have a great day and reach out if you have any questions!

The difference between Study VS Revision is very simple

Let me explain …

 

I will warn you in advance for the blog, that I get quite passionate when it comes to revision advice.

I won’t apologise for my revision passion, mainly because my students love it and when I’m talking about revision I love it!

 

Today’s blog is on a coaching topic that is a fundamental aspect of a successful exam journey. And I think it’s often overlooked.

I want to help you be laser focused on what you are doing, why and then how!

 

Big difference between study & revision

Okay, let’s get into the detail.

When I talk about study or revision it’s because there is a big difference!

They are NOT the same thing!

Each phase deserves and needs a different perspective, focus and thought process – to get the best out of that phase – agree?!

 

Let me explain…

Study is learning

And

Revision is practicing

 

Each phase has distinct tasks, actions and perspectives. It’s really important to me that we focus on the differences so that when you see the difference, you will get a ? Lightbulb ? moment.

Then with that ? comes clarity, focus and success.

 

The difference between study and revision is as simple as knowing my two key words.

Learn

Learning is where you focus on developing and learning the knowledge.

 

Practice

Practicing is where you repeat exam techniques in order to be able to recall the knowledge.

 

Yes it’s simple when I say it outloud – right?! But I know you guys often mix the two, or focus ‘too much’ on the learn phase, which is why I am here to change that.

 

Change that so that you practice for longer, because practice is where you will actually pass the exam. The revision phase is actually where you will learn and practice the exam techniques and tactics in order to actually answer the exam questions.

 

Why am I specifying the difference?

Mainly so that you get a revision transformation!

 

I give Revision Tips every day over on Linkedin and this blog is no different, except this revision tip is about how to structure your whole exam – perspective is number one!

Then number two comes tactics.

 

Once you know and realise the difference between study vs revision you will be able to realign the way you study, which means you will be able to embrace your revision phase and make it count.

 

Black and white kind of girl

Yep, if you don’t know me by now, then let me remind you about my black and white personality.

I’m a typical accountant, I’ve done lots of personality test over the years and I really love them! I’ll do a separate blog about them one day, cos that will make you laugh.

 

My logical and practical thinking mind is often mis understood by non accountants. And even within my finance career I have been told I am ‘too black and white’ – cos I think there is a right or a wrong answer for example – how can there be any ‘grey’ inbetween?! ?

 

Explaining the difference between study vs revision is a very black and white piece of coaching advice of mine. But it works and it’s so powerful.

 

When I am in coaching mode, I over use the word ‘laser focused’ and it’s because once you are laser focused, you have the ability to turn down the emotions (esp overwhelm, panic and lack of confidence) and turn up the volume on structure, motivation and determination.

 

Being laser focused during your study phase means you should be focused on learn, learn, learn. Learning the knowledge, learning what the formula, learning how to apply it to a scenario or company.

 

Then in the revision phase you are laser focused on practice, practice, practice. Practising how to re-engineer that knowledge in order to answer an exam question, practicing recalling that formula, practicing time management skills, practicing selecting the right answer, practicing what Mr ACCA or Mr ACCA actually wants you to write about.

So many practicing actions to do … can you see why I’m specifically a revision coach now?!?

 

Direct with my coaching

And Yes I am direct when it comes to my revision coaching.

The tutors are amazing, and there are thousands of them out there to teach you the syllabus and support with your learn phase.

But when it comes to the practice phase (ie revision) – the tutors (in my experience) miss the trick and focus too much on the knowledge instead of HOW to actually practice in order to pass the exam.

 

I’m a Revision Coach because all I care about and coach towards is HOW to pass your exam … with confidence!

Not regurgitating the book, not knowing all the formulas but not being able to re-engineer them, and defo not procrasti-learning!

 

Explain how it can benefit your revision

Okay, so by know, you know the difference between study vs revision ?

 

Let’s go one step further and talk about how knowing LEARN vs PRACTICE will benefit your revision.

 

• It gives you a structure to focus on – instead of trying to mix learning and questions together and just going round in the wrong circles
• You will be able to actually get to a feeling of ‘Oh I know enough knowledge now, let’s get practicing’
• It will stop you learning in your revision phase and if you need to learn then do it through question practice – that’s the smarter way to actually pass the exam guys!

 

How it keeps you laser focused on the task in hand {Passing with exam confidence!}

The number ONE goal that you have is to pass your exam – right?!

I know .. the pass is the point – right?!

 

So can you focus on the task in hand please.

The task for your study phase is LEARN … yes I’m repeating myself, cos it’s *that* important!

The task for your revision phase is PRACTICE … practice how to pass the exam!

 

If and when you focus on ONE task at a time – you will feel calmer, more in control, with more confidence in the process (which in turns adds to your self confidence).

Instead of thinking ‘Oh I have so much to learn and do’ .. how about you take my coaching advice and

 

Focus on ONE thing at a TIME!

 

One phase at a time

One chapter at a time

One day at a time

 

Yes – slow and steady wins the race!

 

You wanna pass your exam … don’t ya?! ?

 

Yeah Helen, but can you give me the HOW?!

HOW to pass your exam?! ?

HOW to focus on each phase with success?! ?

HOW to be disciplined to smartly focus on study and revision properly?! ?

 

I have the perfect way to grab all of my revision coaching HOWS!

 

? Join My Ultimate Revision Club – I wanna keep you on track, supported and motivated.

 

 

Let’s take some revision action!

Actions speak louder than words guys!

Let’s take some revision action today so that YOU pass your next exam with confidence.

 

If you’re not quite yet ready to invest in yourself with some of my revision coaching options – I have a free revision resource for you >CLICK HERE to read<

 

When you are ready, give me a shout and check out my Revision Club, Revision Course or Revision 1:1 coaching opportunities.

 

Take some action today though please – it will help you feel motivated, confident and laser focused!

Does having accountability keep you on track – absol – fricking – lutley!

Do I think you perform better with accountability – hell yes!

 

Why though Helen … well obvs I’m gonna reveal all in this week’s blog, but ultimately it’s because bring held accountable brings out an inner strength in (most) of us.

 

That strength brings out an extra push of commitment, confidence, courage and motivation.

 

These four key elements lead to success – be it faster, happier or quantifiable success.

 

Do I believe you can succeed on your own – of course!

But I truly believe that having accountability keeps you on track – so you will get there faster and with more confidence … 100%!

 

 

Sports Psychology

I am huge sports fan, when I was growing up, I played loads of sports but my main focus was ice skating – Yes I skated internationally and #funfact I received a gold medal from Jane Torvill once.

Sports and sports psychology in particular fascinates and inspires me.

 

Usain and Serena are champions in their field {Yeah, I call them by their 1^st names cos that’s how iconic they are – right!}

 

Of course I know you don’t want to be iconic in Accounting – you ‘just’ wanna pass your exam!

But the confidence, motivation and drive their have for their race or match is something I want to talk about and I really want you to strive towards.

Strive towards the absolutely certainty and self confidence Serena and Usain have in themselves.

 

They know with deep self confidence that they can WIN and get that GOLD medal {Yes I’m shouting with capitals, but I’m making my point ?}

 

You might not resonate with Usain and Serena the way I do, so I encourage you to embrace the strengths of your sportsman, woman or team that you watch.

The way you watch them that inspires you, if you were on their team or working with them to run faster, score that point, find that extra 0.23 seconds or throw that extra millimetre.

 

The way a sport or sportsman shows up and gives 100% is an incredible strength ?

 

With the Olympics coming up I am here to remind you that you can pass your next exam, just like Usain can win another Olympic gold.

No, I’m not trying to be cheesey or force the link between Olympic gold and accounting exams – I’m being real with you guys, because the self belief, accountability, training and determination Mr/Mrs Olympian has can absolutely be replicated in your revision phase.

 

Answer this question – What personality traits do I see in *my sportsman* that I wanna replicate in my revision phase?

 

 

No I am NOT doing it FOR you

A coach does not do the work for you.

They do not play the match or run the race or do the exam for you.

 

The best coaches support you to make sure you give the best attempt you can on the day.

 

Do you think Serena and Usain are champions in their field because they did it alone?!

Do you think a sportsman wins gold because he or she got their coach to do the work for them?!

 

I’m not saying this to be mean or rude guys, I’ll be honest, I’ve worked with some qualifying accountants in the past and they come to me cos they want to pass the exam, but they want me to tell them exactly what to do, how, when and why … I might as well do the exam for them!

 

? I’m a coach for loads of reasons, because I can bring out your skills and align them with a CIMA or ACCA exam whilst really boosting your exam confidence! ?

 

I have run the race, tripped up on the way and got back up, kept running and I’m very proud to have crossed the finish line (with a few bruises) and have my plaque up on the wall.

 

One of the main reasons why I am a coach, and a passionate coach ? is because I don’t want you making the same mistakes that I did!

I keep you accountable.

I can get you there faster, more prepared and more confident.

 

I can’t guarantee you an exam pass {I wish I could} but I can absolutely guarantee that a coach will keep you accountable and keep you on the right track ?

 

 

Climb your mountain vibes

You might know by now that I love an analogy, and I use the mountain climb analogy quite a lot!

Did you know that I climbed Mount Snowdon a few years ago?

 

I set my goal in March 2019 to climb in August 2019.

I set my route plan to go up the Pyg Track and down the Miners track {not the easiest route!}

And I got a coach – well a PT – Because I needed to boost my fitness level… this is Snowdon, not a local ramble around Butser Hill.

 

I loved going to the gym and training, packing my bag, getting my kit, food and map sorted and I loved knowing I was 100% going to achieve my goal.

 

⛰️ There I was on the track up the mountain, and I was knackered! I had stopped so many times and the road seemed like it was getting longer not shorter!

 

I kept going, taking more photos and some videos (which no-ne has yet seen!) and I was struggling.

I can’t show you guys the videos cos I was struggling … mentally.

 

My mindset was strong, but ouch I needed more confidence and self belief.

Everyone was walking up past me, some even running {what?!} and I was doubting my ability – yes me! Confident Helen {and if you’ve seen me or know me, then you know I actually have so much self confidence ?}

 

Half way up the track I took two videos – one real, honest and raw about how hard this was and how rubbish I felt.

Then I put the camera on again and did a positive video – About how amazing it was, how I was doing so well and “wow wasn’t this fun!” … totally had to have a word with myself and boost my own mindset!

 

I climbed Snowdon in 7 hours and 46 minutes.

I climbed Snowdon alone.

 

I wish I had a stronger mindset cos I 100% know that I would have done it in less time and enjoyed it more.

I didn’t have to do it alone and I wish I had the coach with me as I climbed because I truly believe it would have made a difference.

 

What do you think?

 

Of course it’s easy for me to say that now.. that’s what you’re thinking.

 

But nope – I climbed Snowdon so that I could help you guys, make a few videos to support your exam journey, enjoy a hike and a pretty view.

 

I am so passionate about having a coach now from a few of my personal experiences – failing so many of my CIMA exams and most recently climbing Snowdon.

 

I didn’t realise it would impact me so much.

 

I am so glad I am an Accounting Revision Coach – not just any coach – but for CIMA and ACCA only.

I bring the accountability to your revision phase (on purpose) because that is where I wish I had had more help and support.

 

And climbing Snowdon proved to me that mindset is the key ingredient to any form of success.

I’m here as your Revision Coach to bring your exam success … let’s do this!

 

I’ve got your back

I’m not dragging you kicking and screaming to your study are or exam centre.

I’m not a coach to make or force you to revise.

When I say “I’ve got your back” (and yes I say it all the time) I mean I’m supporting you so we can stay on track.

 

Supporting

Support you ? so that you can implement revision techniques that work.

 

Motivating

Motivate you ? so that you feel genuinely happy and prepared with your revision phase.

 

Encouraging

Encourage you ? so that you believe that you can absolutely pass your exam (especially if it’s a resit)

 

Giving you the coaching expertise to have the right accountability and mindset to PASS your exam!

 

 

Expert knowledge makes all the difference!

This is a key part of the successful formula, which works esp for qualifying accountants.

You want someone who has been there and done it.

 

Having coached hundreds of qualifying accountants and being CIMA qualified, I am an expert in my field.

Let alone the passion and enthusiasm I have for you guys and how much I care about you finishing what you started, and getting your plaque up on the wall.

 

Tell me if you don’t agree, but expert help really makes a difference when I know I need help with something specifically.

 

If you had a toothache – you would go to a dentist – right?! ?

 

 

Olympians success

Do you think Usain Bolt won gold on is own?!

Or Serena Williams get her 23^rd grand slam title on her own?!

 

Nope, of course they had expert help and support.

 

Like I said, I love a sport analogy reference, mainly because these sports men and women inspire me so much.

And we – you and me – can create similar exam success together too!

 

YesHelen – your CIMA or ACCA qualification is as important ad special and as an exciting achievement to me, as a gold medal.

 

I’ve been told all my life that I’m a bit too keen and enthusiastic – especially for things that I am very passionate about.

I’m good with that – cos I’m ridiculously committed to YOUR exam success (and my clients are passing)

 

Tas came to me enquiring about his CIMA strategic case study resit and he said “erm, Helen, you’re very enthusiastic!” ??

He is the one laughing and smiling now because he got coached by me and passed his final exam, so is now fully qualified {Click here to join my case study mastermind and pass like Tas}

 

Do you need some accountability?!

To be honest, I believe everyone achieves more with accountability, be it confidence, motivation and or success.

Of course I have some coaching accountability options for you if you are ready for the next step of your journey.

 

No worries if you’re not ready to pay me yet ? Keep reading my blogs to support you.

 

? For weekly accountability ? How about my Ultimate Revision Club

 

? BESPOKE If you need to grab some bespoke 1:1 accountability ? let’s have a chat about paid 1:1 coaching

 

?TIPS – If you want to get to know me a little more before you decide ? Grab my free revision tips

 

I have options for you because I know everyone is at difference stages of their accounting journey.

 

First and foremost I want to leave you with this coaching tip …

 

If you are not committed to your exam, then a coach won’t be able to magically make it happen ?

 

Planning gives you a smarter response.

In your case, it gives you a smarter exam answer.

 

If you don’t plan your answer, then you are missing out on marks!

 

This week’s blog is relevant if you are sitting your CIMA case study or ACCA Students specifically any of your written sections.

 

This is my coaching on how to plan a perfect case study answer.

 

Case Study answers

Written answer are about three things – sentences, application and commercial thinking.

Add in the test of answering within 45 or 60 minutes and you’ve got yourself a CIMA case study exam!

Then add in the test of 1.8 minutes per mark then you can call yourself a smart ACCA student!

 

Why am I giving away my coaching secrets?

If you follow me on Linkedin or Instagram then you’ll know I always share my advice and tips. Yes of course I keep some secret’s for my paid clients, but I help and support everyone {on purpose} because it’s very important to me.

I also get super passionate about revision {and I’m not sorry about that! ?

 

Because so many people miss out the revision phase and they shouldn’t!

 

I share my coaching secrets cos that’s what I do – I’m a coach who cares about students passing with confidence – I’ve got your back

But yes.. I am a smart business owner as well – so if you want more than my free advice, I have a selection of coaching opportunities for you.

 

I host a free and live webinar with my ‘Top 3 CIMA case study secrets’ – Register here for the next one!

And I run a CIMA Case Study Mastermind – where we climb the case study mountain together and I give you all the exam techniques and tactics you need to have a successful case study exam… with confidence!

Click here to read more or secure your place in the next Mastermind!

 

I don’t want you making the same mistakes as me – hindsight is a wonderful thing – right?! Read here to learn more of my mistakes!

 

What makes up a perfect case study answer?

Like the header say – what makes up a perfect case study answer?

? Tip Number one – Getting to the point

? Tip number two – Telling me your financial opinion – get off the fence and yes honestly, give your opinion – but your financial opinion because remember this is an Accounting exam.

? Tip number three – Application to the scenario (the unseen mainly but having preseen foundations are a key part of your answer).

 

What makes up a perfect written answer?

Actually, there is no such thing as ‘perfect’ so I don’t want to reference that word anymore, because as long as you write a sentence that makes a point, then you will get a mark for that.

For any written answers use the tips above ☝️

 

You won’t magically be able to write strong sentences if you don’t plan or practice. So utilise and focus your revision on written question practice, practice, practice.

 

Why is planning so important?

Planning forms the foundation for a strong exam answer.

By brainstorming, thinking and then prioritising the techniques with a plan, allows you to write the best relevant points which you can and will want to explain.

 

Planning gives you the structure to answer the exam questions successfully and within time.

 

An important exam technique is to brainstorm what you could discuss and then plan what, why and how you are going to discuss your key relevant points.

 

A well-structured answer is obvious to spot as a marker, and I would bet you £1 that the successful answer was created because they prepared a plan!

 

What is the aim of a case study plan?

In my opinion when you know the aim of something, you achieve it much more effectively.

I want your case study plan to be successful, so let’s focus on the aim of what you want to get out of the plan and why.

 

? Aim – to type your answers within 30 mins (or 45 if you’re sitting SCS).

? Aim – Allow yourself to brainstorm and then drilldown and prioritise your points

? Aim – To structure your answer with a relevant template (eg headers and sub headers).

 

Remember this is the aim of the plan – not the whole answer.

 

You may have a different aim, which is totally okay, but I would like to encourage you to focus on what you want to achieve from your answer – because it will result in a better plan and answer for sure.

 

And specifically if you’re an ACCA sitter, yes of course a plan is needed for any written answer (for requirements with more than 5 marks), keep an eye on your aim and what the requirement is asking you specifically.

 

How can I utilise my time?

That’s a separate blog if I’m honest – so much I could share and write about the timings of the whole answer.

But for the timings of your plan, it would be less than 10 minutes.

 

?? Remember the aim of the plan

 

Oh – and I count reading the unseen question within this 10 minutes (yes really)

Of course there is a knack to writing a successful plan within 10 minutes… let me know if you want that timing or blog and I’ll write it for you.

 

How not to utilise your planning time!

Now that’s a revision technique as well right?!

 

At the start of reading and your question time it feels like you have ‘ages’ .. but please do not mistake 45 minutes as loads of time to write your plan – nope!

You do not get any marks for a plan {unless you incorporate it directly in your answer} and you only get marks for your points, sentences and calculations.

 

So please do not spend ages on your plan because typing points and sentences are where the actual marks are!

 

Oh and tip number 108 … reading the question won’t get you any marks either, so don’t spend ages on this either!

 

Come and learn more case study secrets

I am a geek when it comes to the CIMA case study exams, and as you can tell from this blog – I have lots of tips and advice that I can share. {And yes ACCA Students, I have specific coaching secrets for you too, especially for your P Papers}

 

So a few times a year I host a free webinar to support you guys on your CIMA case study journey

Click here to register for the next webinar on ‘My top 3 case study secrets on how to pass!’

 

Yes it’s free, in money, but it’s full of value and smart case study revision techniques.

Come and see my coaching style live – but I warn you – I’m a revision geek when it comes to the case studies – I love them and I’m very enthusiastic .. hang around with me during your revision phase and you will love revision – it’s infectious!

 

Join my CIMA mastermind and become a mountaineer

I’m here to give you Revision support, and it would be foolish of me to not talk about my signature CIMA mastermind ?

 

⛰️ I have designed a mastermind (not a course) for you to climb your case study mountain ⛰️

 

For 6 weeks I will lead you, with a small group of mountaineers to learn, scale and climb your specific case study mountain (specifically with your preseen materials).

We will have weekly group brainstorming where you can chat and learn from me plus I have created a Revision hut full of all the resources you need (more videos, workbooks and practise questions)

Have a look here to find out more

 

Summary

Like I said at the start of this blog, planning is key to a successful written answer.

Mr CIMA (or Mr ACCA) is testing you on writing a strong answer which has applied the scenario, made some financial common sense and links the theory and business together.

 

The best and most efficient answer will have a plan!

 

Write a plan so that you give the right points, with thought-out application and be able to stick to your time limit!

 

I love coaching case studies and written answers, so reach out if you have loved the blog and need some extra coaching.

I have other coaching opportunities if you are struggling and not sitting the CIMA case study, please reach out and DM me.

 

Thanks. Follow me on Linkedin and Instagram for loads more revision tips!

I love that I am a resitter!

I love that I failed some of my exams!

I love that I am now a coach and can really speak to and help resitters to give you the tools and techniques you need to be able to resit with confidence!

 

Of course I didn’t realise at the time!

 

Of course whilst I was qualifying I didn’t quite realise how amazing it was to be a resitter and how many skills and strengths I could have utilised to boost my confidence.

 

Hindsight is a wonderful thing!

And I’m here to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes as me.

As a revision coach I specialise giving the right tools and techniques to pass your exams with confidence… and as a classic resitter the majority of my clients are resitters.

 

I know exactly what you’re going through and thinking… guess what – I felt like that too!

Coaching and supporting resitters is my favourite thing to do, so you are in the right place!

 

Today’s blog is for you if you are a resitter. Learn my coaching tips, boost your resitting confidence and find your motivation in your resitting journey – it’s a fun journey!

 

Number 1 reason why being a resitter is so amazing

⭐ You get a 2^nd chance to really understand the topics (like a real accountant needs to do at work)

 

Number two reason – you are smarter than you think!

Smarter not dumber – what do I mean…

? Yes smarter, really, because you have had real exam conditions experience and you have seen (felt, freaked, smelt) the real thing.

That is a smart piece in your revision armour in my opinion.

The learning and exam technique you can take from knowing what *this* exams’ conditions are like, needs to be a key part of your resit strategy (I love strategy and tactics) Have a read here for more revision blogs!

Use this smartness to your advantage.

 

Resitter perspective

I know it’s hard and frustrating – but yes you need to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and stand tall.

I’ve resat so many of my exams, ones where I failed with 49% (and needed 50% to pass) and ones where I really thought I had done “enough” but Mr CIMA didn’t agree! Plus my most embarrassing 36% failure mark #ouch

 

? Let’s grab hold of a positive perspective and squeeze it, love it and enjoy it! ?

 

Your perspective will focus on the confident motivating actions that you need to pass your exam!

 

Resitter perspective – that adds value

You have a choice.

You can feel sorry for yourself, you can think and tell yourself that “you weren’t good enough”.

Or you can

?Focus on a perspective that makes you happier and positively motivated to stay determined, resit and feel confident. {Yes really – being a confident resitter will help your resit so much}

 

Tip/task – write and think about the positive perspective you want that will add real value and motivation to your resit. Put the words up so you can see them every day.

 

Over- analysing

I feel like this is a default that we can do as a resitter.

“What did I do so wrong?!” … “why did I fail?!” … “Will I ever pass?!”.

 

I’m here as a gentle reminder that you are a smart Accountant!

Please can you stop over analysing and book your resit!

 

? Actions speak louder than words ?

 

Instead of procrastinating and worrying about your fail.

How about ? you rebook your exam and write a revision plan

 

Instead of over analysing the topics you are rubbish at

How about ? you ensure you keep your knowledge and confidence high with in your great topics.

 

Instead of feeling overwhelmed with how much you need to relearn

How about ?  you make a list of 10 weaker subtopics and work on revising those through practice questions.

 

Tweak your revision technique

Especially if you didn’t sit 1 or 2 mocks in full exam conditions.

 

Please remember the revision phase is about practise and a resitters revision phase is no different.

You may be tempted to go straight back to the study text or videos and relearn the whole syllabus.

 

WAIT – you don’t have to.

 

I really don’t think you have to and I don’t coach that method.

Remember to pass your exam you need to answer a set of exam questions within time.

So please can you practice and only focus on that – exam condition practice.

 

Exam conditions are brand new questions randomly covering the whole syllabus where you sit to time, with no notes and not looking at the answers {until you have 100% finished}

 

Focus on what you are revising and why – which will lead you to a smarter revision session.

 

 

Exam technique

Again you have a choice. You can choose to revise in the same ways – but could you be honest with yourself though – did they really make you a smart accountant? Or did they make you feel knackered, exhausted and hate revising…… if yes or maybe – then that’s not the point! ?

Repeat

You can repeat the exam technique you just implemented and the revision technique you went through, which might bring the pass next time. Just make sure you don’t go around in the same circles of despair, lack of confidence and cramming.

Or you can

Tweak

How about tweak and change a couple of techniques so that you focus on subtopic recall, boosting your confidence and having a more relaxed, fun revision journey.

Or maybe you need to

Transform

By radically transforming your techniques to be laser focused on firstly confidence and secondly motivation, then knowledge building comes as a 3^rd priority might be the exam technique you need.

 

The exam techniques you practise will become stronger and more subconscious on exam day – so be smart and focused on these.

 

Fill your knowledge gaps

Of course the exam ‘might’ have highlighted your lack of knowledge on the syllabus.

But don’t get that confused with not typing or selecting the right answer, or reading the question wrongly.

We all have knowledge gaps by the way, we are learning large syllabuses and there is a vast amount of breath and depth to learn.

 

My coaching reminder is that you don’t need to know every single word in the study text (ie the knowledge).

What you do need to do is answer the specific questions asked (ie – exam question technique)

When and if you do go back to the book to refresh yourself on a subtopic – make it smart – and focus on the knowledge recall please, instead of memorising all the words of the page.

 

Repeat after me

Let me remind you again that

You are a smart Accountant!

 

Just because you are resitting doesn’t mean you are rubbish or in the wrong career.

 

Please repeat after me … “I can pass my resit because I am smart”

 

Repeating positive affirmations will give you the confidence and motivation boost you need.

I tell my clients to write positive post-it notes all the time! Having positive sentences around you to repeat, will add a perfect daily boost to you!

 

Hope you enjoyed the blog

I am a geek when it comes to revision now, so being a Revision coach is a perfect job for me.

I am here to help you pass your next exam … with confidence!

Keep in touch with me daily over on Linkedin or Instragram!

 

Next blog coming up – How to plan a perfect exam answer. Click on the grey words to read ?

⚠️ Warning ⚠️ This blog is all about CIMA case study ? ?

This is your go to CIMA case study blog!

 

Oh! I am such a geek when it comes to coaching about the CIMA case studies!

I cannot wait to share my Helen style coaching with you for this one – you have permission to smirk at me!

This is the only exam which I passed 1^st time was my strategic case study (previously called TOPCima) and because it’s one of my achievements I love to positively shout about it too!

 

You know when someone says “Oh I know how to help you” ….

Well seriously trust me now – ‘Cos I absolutely know HOW to get your case study pass…. With CONFIDENCE!

 

? I’m putting that guarantee out there! ?

 

I love case studies!

Mr CIMA is amazing for putting 3 into the current qualification!

As a CIMA student you are so fortunate to be examined in this way – so I really want you to positively embrace it!

Keep reading to find out why ?

 

Why so amazing?!

I’ll be honest with you guys, I’m not a huge fan of multiple choice exams. In my opinion they test in a way which limits your learning and understanding.

One of the biggest tests with Objective tests is answering 60 questions in 90 minutes (and getting 45 correct). And I’m personally not convinced that makes the strongest accountant.

 

What does make strong Accountants are financial exams that encourage conversation, providing solutions, recommendations and questions which test your technical understanding in a way you can apply in real life!

?– cue the CIMA case studies!  ?

 

Yes this blog is going to shout a lot about why case studies are so amazing #sorrynotsorry

 

But why Helen?!

? They make you think like a real Accountant.

? They give you smart application & analysis skills to use in your Senior Finance Career.

? The focus is on your commercial acumen that you need as a strong qualified Finance lead.

 

 

My unique coaching approach

I’m proud to say I have coached hundreds of qualifying accountants over the last 8 years.

I started by being a mentor on the official CIMA mentoring program and in 2018 I setup my own Accounting coaching business.

Every week I coach AAT, CIMA and ACCA qualifying Accountants, but I have to say when a CIMA case study student comes to me for coaching I get very excited!

It’s because I absolutely know I can go into ‘Helen Revision Geek mode’ and bring out my unique style case study coaching.

 

My coaching is different from all of the tutors and learning providers – which I pride myself on!

 

I want to be different.

I want you to learn from me, soaking up my enthusiasm and love for this exam.

 

One of my SCS students said to me “Erm, Helen, you are very enthusiastic!” …. Then he had 4 hours of coaching with me … and passed his SCS!

 

I will never apologise for being sooooo enthusiastic about case study exams! I love them – and I can support you, so you love them to!

 

When you love them, you will pass with more confidence!

 

I love them so much that I have created 3 brand new, super special, signature case study masterminds for you!

To join the waitlist for the next enrolment – click HERE – There are juicy treats for those on the waitlist!

 

Update: To join the May 2021 Mastermind – CLICK HERE! Doors are open until April 2021!

 

My promise about THE MASTERMIND!

⭐ I can GIVE you the exam technique to combine the right skills to answer the question within time!

⭐ It will BOOST your confidence so that you walk into that exam knowing you can and will pass!

⭐ We BRING together a small group of likeminded geeks to brainstorm and learn together! (Together everyone achieves more guys!)

⭐ It WILL be full of high-level enthusiastic Helen coaching! – because that’s what gets you motivated to revise more!

⭐ My enthusiasm and passion for case studies will rub off on you (if you like it or not!)

⭐ I promise it will REALLY help you get into case study mode and enjoy your revision! Yes really! You are going to love revising with me!

⭐ There is the SMART mixture of on demand resources, group brainstorming and 1:1 coaching!

⭐  Showing YOU the smart way to revise so you pass your exam … with confidence! First time!

 

You don’t have to talk my word for it!

* What did Helen bring to your case study revision?
“Helen clearly loves a case study! At first I was intimidated by a 3 hour long exam but Helen broke it down into much more manageable sections, especially for revision purposes which made it seem much less of a chore and much more manageable!”

L – MCS – Feb 2021

 

How CIMA are structuring the case study exams

CIMA Case study 1 – OCS

The Operational case study (OCS) is your first chance to impress Mr CIMA (and yourself) with your commercial awareness, financial acumen and technical prowess!

OCS is about starting the mountain climb. Learning how to put the technical elements together whilst applying and analysing the case.

The OCS is the 1^st chance where you learn HOW to answer case study questions in the right way!

 

CIMA Case study 2 – MCS

The Management case study (MCS) is your second chance, where you can supe up the volume on how much you have learnt and how you can now really apply it to the real world!

MCS is about stepping up into Finance Manager mode. Learning how to answer technically with recommendations and solutions.

The MCS is where you focus on medium term finances and what they mean for the business.

 

CIMA case study 3 – SCS

The Strategic case study (SCS) is your last exam … ever!! How exciting!

Here we need to step up strategically and analyse the bigger picture.

The SCS is all about embracing the solutions, challenges, risks and strategy to get off the fence and make a financial opinion!

 

The three unique case studies examine you in loads of different ways, all using elements of the objective test syllabuses.

There is absolutely a technique and skills to pass each case study uniquely – you nope, you can’t pass the MCS in the same way you sat and passed OCS! ?

 

How to successfully pass a case study

Gosh there is so many ways I can tell you {But you have to be in my mastermind to get all the juicy answers!} ?

 

What I will say is that passing a case study is all about how you approach the exam, yes mindset plays a key role in your case study success!

 

The first thing I say to my case study students is that the exam is not testing you on E+F+P.

They are technical papers, and you have already been tested (and passed them!).

So number ONE tip – do not spend all of your time refreshing your E, F and P knowledge! #putthebookdown!

 

Secondly the unseen is much more important than the preseen!

The only focus I want you to give the preseen is knowing the fundamentals about the case, the strategy and the stakeholders.

 

Thirdly and by no means less important – exam conditions must be practised.

Sitting mock exam questions in like for like exam conditions is super important!

In my Mastermind I will show you how, why, when – all the important things!

 

But obviously you need some exam questions to use – here is where I recommend Astranti *

 

Astranti will give you some amazing case study practise questions which we can use so that YOU pass your case study … with confidence!

Have a look at their packages here *

 

Have a read of my blog about ‘Revision confidence’ or ‘Please do not write revision notes!’ to grab more of my specific exam and revision techniques, which are super relevant to a case study.

 

 

* What’s the biggest takeaway I took from Helen’s coaching?

“When it comes to the Case Study’s, I found the training providers I used tend to focus on technical knowledge rather than how to correctly answer the question and fully immerse yourself into the case. With Helens coaching it really helped me to think outside of the box and get away from purely the technical aspect.”

Curtis – MCS – Feb 2021

 

Oh … another one!

“Having the brainstorming sessions gave me another insight into how to approach the OCS exam. Helen has a passion for helping others pass their exams, this shows in each session she puts on.”

Louise – OCS – Feb 2021

 

Thank you Mr CIMA – From a Finance Manager point of view

As part of my finance teams in my day job, I have recruited many qualifying accountants, and seen hundreds of CV’s and applications.

The CV’s that stand out (and get an interview from me) are where candidates have highlighted skills, alongside achievements and ambitions.

I love to see CIMA students positively showing off about their financial and practical achievements. The case studies are a big part of this, not just for an interview (that’s just one of the tiny reasons) – more importantly for me as a finance manager, it shows me that the candidate has shown their ability to link financial theory with real life scenarios.

 

Which is exactly what I need and want them to do in my finance team.

 

So just in case you are thinking “These case studies are pointless?!” … then trust me, your boss, Mr CIMA and your potential employers disagree with you! ?

 

 

That’s my coaching take on the CIMA case study exams! 

As I’m sure you can tell by now, I have a lot of passion for the CIMA case studies.

 

I am also ridiculously committed to qualifying accountants finishing what they started and getting their plaques up on the wall!

Yes – you! Yes – your plaque!

I want you to send me a photo of your qualified plaque on your wall!

 

When you are sitting your next case study – come and join my case study masterminds – so that you pass your next case study … with confidence!

CLICK HERE TO PICK YOUR MASTERMIND

 

Have a great week!! H x

 

*Just to give you a heads up and honest (as always) – The Astranti link is an affiliate link – which means if you purchase one of their amazing mock papers, I get a little bit back to help support my coaching – so I can bring better resources to you! You will not be charged differently if you use this link. But I will love you forever if you use it! 

I’m not sure about you, but at the start, working from home for me was enjoyable and I was able to work less but get as much work done and being in the comfort of my beautiful home (with Spencer my dog) made it stress-free and dare I even say … fun?!

 

Then it became about juggling working from home, running my coaching business and trying not to put on a stone per week was a lovely balancing act!

I didn’t manage to watch a live Joe Wicks class like I wanted! And I didn’t even have a family zoom quiz! Which does bring a little bit of guilt to me, BUT before I go off on a rant about all of the things I haven’t done!

I always stop and reframe my perspective and focus on the amazing things I have done.

 

What I have done (That makes me super proud)

? I have setup a new membership – The Ultimate Revision Club – is where nearly 50 qualifying Accountants hang out, get coached by me and transform their revision phase… with confidence!

 

? I have shown up on Linkedin every day since June, and always give revision and exam boosting tips and secrets … that work!

 

? And I have enjoyed many daily walks! I think I’m officially obsessed with how much of my village I have now seen!

 

So… now we are in 2021 … and I know loads of you are ‘still’ working from home!

You are ‘still’ juggling all the things, but because it’s become a new normal to you, then I have a feeling that you are stuck and struggling with getting out of the ‘new normal’ routine.

 

This blog is to firstly tell you that you are doing great!

Secondly to give you a virtual Helen hug and thirdly to bring you coms coaching advice on how to revise whilst working from home.

 

I reckon that

If the thought of studying after work makes you want to scream

Or

Wishing you could the motivation to turn off Netflix and pick up a study text is too exhausting

Or

You are struggling with your work load, you’re lucky if you even stop work before 8pm.

 

Then I have got your back and you will appreciate this blog!

 

This week’s blog is my Helen style revision coaching to help and support you to revise … with confidence!

I’m giving you coaching on how to work from home and revise successfully!

 

I absolutely love giving you structured coaching, in ways that boost your confidence and also tricks that you can implement straight away

Today I am focus on the Three P’s specifically for working from home!

 

Perspective, Planning and Positivity!

Three key words but I’m aligning them in a super laser focused way (cos that’s the smart thing to do in my opinion!)

 

Grab a notebook and enjoy this juicy blog! Feel free to share what you thought and what your biggest takeaways are – over on LI or IG

 

1 – Perspective

Some might think I overuse this word ? … but I think we all need to check in on a daily basis with our perspective.

Remember, this is your exam journey, and you can have whatever perspective YOU want!

 

My pro tip is to make sure YOUR perspective adds value and happiness to YOUR exam journey!

 

It really does not matter what Sue Smith or Joe Bloggs thinks, it’s about YOU and YOUR view! (Yes I’m shouting in capitals already!)

 

Your perspective is going to get you through this.

Your perspective will motivate, push and drive you.

Your perspective will influence your actions and behaviours.

 

In a good way {or in a bad way!} – YOU get to choose!!

 

Choose the smart revision perspective that makes you more prepared!

Focus on the learning and practising with a positive fun perspective!

Be laser focused about what thoughts and stories you are telling yourself – and turn up the volume on the amazing perspective!

 

For a smart way to focus on your perspective – I encourage you to grab a few post it notes. Write a positively motivating sentence about how you want to feel. Write it down and then say it out loud (over and over, every single day).

 

Here are some of my beautiful clients post it’s

“I can pass my F2 exam because I am a smart Accountant”

“I love AAA because I have prepared in my way!!

My personal favourite is “I will revise in 30 minute revision slots because my brain loves it!”

 

So turn up the revision perspective and  … Grab some post its today!

 

 

2 – Practical

When you get to know me, you will learn that I have such a black and white personality!

And I am so practical when it comes to my logic and solutions!

And I’m also a libra – so balance makes perfect sense to me!

 

When thinking about what is the best solution for me, I always go for the pros and con’s’ kind of list.

Or the right or wrong, or the why I should and why I shouldn’t.

There are always two choices, I rarely have many grey maybes in between!

 

I’m imagining you working from home, wondering about how and when to revise!

What you should do, when you should do it and then getting into a little bit of a head mess about all of the options….

Especially when what you have to do is learn a tough syllabus that will take longer than you want to soak into your already overwhelmed WFH brain.

 

In conjunction with your positive perspective, I want you to plan what you can do, how you can do it today and what smart revision do you want to aim for (eg pass 7 out of 10 questions)

 

Here are my top 3 practical recommendations to revising whilst working from home.

• Study Space

It might be a simple solution, but it’s such a powerful motivating one.

Caveat – no this is not your opportunity to procrastinate and tidy and redesign a brand new study space… that’s wasting precious revision time!

If you can, then I want you to find a study space in your house which is not your work space.

Pick a motivating (but not distracting) view.

Have enough space around your computer to not feel trapped by stuff – give yourself and your brain some white space!

If your study space has to be the same space you do your day job in, then I want you to be able to pack away your work and unpack your revision (quickly, efficiently and in a fun way!… Get a new box and label it- My CIMA commitment!’)

 

• Plan

Yes I’ve said this hundreds of times, and I will continue to say it.

You need a revision plan, because a blank piece of paper is the least motivating tool in my opinion.

I’m not going to give you my generic ‘here is how to write a revision plan’ speech… because this is about how to juggle working from home.

So we need a laser focused revision plan to deal with this.

What I would say is to write a 3 day mini plan- let’s break down the overwhelm and demotivation and be real.

What can you do today, tomorrow and the next day to be smarter, more prepared and more confidence about YOUR next exam.

I am shouting YOUR now because it really is about you… not Joe Bloggs or Sue Smith… and not even what you ‘used’ to be able to do. It’s about right here, right now and what YOU can do.

Please do not make it ridiculously ambitious, or stupidly easy…. Remember you want to pass your next exam (not just pretend your 5 minute slot per day made a difference).

 

I would recommend three 30 minute bite sized slots per day (with a break in between) and if you manage this then you can add a few more 30 minute bite sized slots in.

It really is all about being smart!!

 

• Have something amazing to look at!

When I suggested this to my members, they might have thought I was a little crazy .. but trust me now… the ones who haven’t done it are the odd ones out! ?

I want you to print off your qualified plaque.

Grab a blank ACCA or CIMA plaque and photoshop your name, ID and date onto it! Then print it out!

This is about having an inspiring motivating view, something you see everyday and you positively obsess about it!

I want you to work towards something motivating and positively obsess about it!

I’m here to keep you on track, supported and boosting your confidence every week!

 

3 – Positive

The 3^rd P from today’s blog is about being positive.

I want to encourage you to recognise your wins- however big or small you think they are!

Write your daily wins – in a journal, on a post it note wall, or a LI post – I want you to write them down, remember and recognise them and enjoy every single win!

You attitude is key to your daily behaviours and habits. This is your reminder that a positive attitude always motivates! Keep your head up, focus on positive words and stories that you’re telling yourself and wake up knowing tomorrow is a new day and you can pass this exam.

Repeat after me “Yes Helen, I can revise today and I can pass my exam! I can’t wait to tell you!”

 

 

The success of revising from home depends on you sticking to your revision plan. And I know that work, family, friends, tv, noises can disrupt this.

I want you to commit to your next exam so my biggest coaching hug I need you to do is communicate.

To be able to commit to your exam journey I need you to communicate your boundaries.

This might be as simple as putting your revision plan up on the wall and telling your household when you are not free (small bite sized slots remember- this is not about blocking out 4 hours of revision)

Plus communicating to your manager and colleagues. If they don’t know you are revising then they might ring you or give you an extra task.

 

Work boundaries are tricky – I get it .. this is a big enough topic to be a blog of its own, but a few overriding thoughts I want you encourage you to focus on

• Commit to the slot – remember this is your exam!
• Plan and stick to YOUR Revision times – don’t prioritise work – that journal can and will wait!
• Don’t put work first! – but that’s a whole ‘nother blog!

 

Thanks so much for reading my juicy blog, I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have writing it!

I’m a geek when it comes to revision… I might even change my Linkedin profile from ‘Accounting Revision Coach’ to ‘Revision Geek’ ???.

 

Any questions at all, feel free to ask. You can DM me on LI or send me an email {hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk}

 

Keep your head up, you can revise and pass your next exam!

I have many coaching tricks in my toolkit and coaching services if you need some extra help and support – please just ask (You don’t have to do this alone!)

Helen x

I am super proud to be writing this blog on my website for YOU!

 

Sometimes in life you must shout about your achievements.

This achievement is one of mine – so far in 2021 – But I am sharing because it’s all for YOU!

 

I have published my 1^st full article – in 20 Magazine – All about Revision confidence.

 

Only AAT members get access to this magazine, but I have got permission to tell you the article details ??

 

? Grab a notebook, cos this blog is full of juicy revision tips and advice ?

 

Smart Revision Article

Smart revision, confidence and exam techniques are the three most important things you need. This is my focus for you today, so YOU pass YOUR exam in 2021!

 

 

Revision focus

Successful revision is about being smart.

Study is learning and revision is practising.

Practising how to answer the exam questions in the way ‘Mr AAT’ wants you to, is the smart way.

You won’t prove you’re a smart Accountant if you don’t know the knowledge, and you won’t pass the exam if you’re not being smart.

 

A smart Accountant says ‘YES’!

Smart revision is about saying YES!

So that when you get your exam result you can scream ‘YES’!

 

Here is what I mean when it comes to saying YES to smart revision.

Y- You

E – Exam practise

S – Structure

 

Y – You

You are the person who will pass this exam because YOU know the knowledge and YOU know how to answer the exam questions. That makes YOU the smart one because you can do this. Put yourself first when you revise, at times which work for YOU, and in ways that work for YOU. Positively putting yourself first will give you the motivation you need to feel smart, prepared and confident.

 

E – Exam practise

Exam practise is the biggest part of revision. But not just any kind of exam practise, and definitely not cramming a week before your exam (that’s not smart)

I want you to practise exam questions in full exam conditions, which means to time and with no notes. Remember, we want you to pass this exam, so like for like exam practise will make such a huge difference when it comes to being fully prepared and confident on exam day.

 

S – Structure

Structure – if you only take one piece of my advice, make sure it’s to write and stick to a revision plan. With daily bitesize slots of smart revision. A revision plan will give you much needed structure to boost your confidence, get you super prepared for the actual exam, and motivate you every single day.

My moto to my clients is ‘To be smarter at the end of the revision slot than you were at the start’

Use your revision plan to revise smartly!

 

 

Practise, practise, practise.

But please be smart when you apply this. Revising for 12 hours on a Sunday is NOT smart. Writing exam answers when your test is online is NOT smart. Being too nervous to sit a few mocks in full exam conditions is NOT smart.

Yes, I give a big emphasis on revision practise, because it makes such a difference … but with a massive caveat … practise in ways that make your exam answers smarter (with more markable sentences).

 

What is smart

Writing and sticking to a revision plan is the most important revision advice I can give you.

A revision plan keeps you motivated and gives you a daily structure to keep you focused (on the right jigsaw pieces)

Consistency using a revision plan works because having a daily plan keeps you on track and allows you to make bitesize progress every day, which is much smarter than cramming at the last minute.

If you don’t have a revision plan, then you have a blank piece of paper, and that never inspires anyone to get on with the work and take revision action!

 

How you ‘should’ practise

• In ways that work for you
• Putting yourself first
• Committing to your revision

 

You started this for a reason, so I empower you to commit to your revision phase, focus more on how to answer the exam question and less on memorising every word in the study text!

 

Figure out what revision works for you… and do more of that! #smartaccountant

 

 

CONFIDENCE

If you don’t believe you will pass your exam, you probably won’t!

You could know every word in the study text and still fail this exam!

As a coach I speak to hundreds of qualifying accountants, and I know you are struggling with confidence and you find it hard to truly believe that you can really pass this exam… but trust me… you really can, and I need you to believe it!

 

Mr AAT is testing you on your application and evaluation of your knowledge. Think of the synoptic exam as a fun quiz where you get to prove (and show off) that you know it! You know that fun, smug feeling!

 

Confidence and self-belief are fundamental pieces of a revision jigsaw and to pass any exam (especially a Synoptic) successful revision is about putting the right revision jigsaw pieces together in the right way.

Make boosting your confidence a non-negotiable as part of your revision journey, work on it every day. If you are feeling less than confident, then it will show in your answers and energy… let’s make your revision count!

 

YOUR journey/exam

I empower you to do it your way, not like Sue Smith or Joe Bloggs, maybe not even the way the tutor told you to do it!

Be real and honest about revising in the ways that work for you!

Know what works for you… and do more of that!

 

Be kind to yourself

The words and stories you tell yourself impact and effect you the most.

Imagine telling yourself everyday “I am a smart Accountant” and “I can and will pass this exam”.

My coaching technique which I would love you to try is to write these sentences on post it notes and have them up by your study area, bonus points for saying them out loud.

 

 

SUMMARY

One of the main reasons why I became an Accounting Revision Coach was to get more Accountants finishing the qualifications which they started.

I empower you to keep going, embrace your exam with enthusiasm, smartness and commitment.

Keep going, keep your head up and stick to your revision plan.

 

Reach out to me if you have any questions, I’m here so that you get those letters after your name!

You can find me every day over on Linkedin and Instagram for more confidence boosting revision coaching!

Keeping Revision Simple. My Ultimate Revision Blog – Tips & Advice

 

Keep It Simple Stupid – KISS your revision.

 

I get carried away and can tell you so many revision tips and exercises that work and that will transform your revision.

But if I did – then overwhelm would take over (and I know that happens without me trying to help you).

 

I want to simplify it.

 

If you like my style & what you have read, then you will love what I’ve created for you! ‘Your Ultimate Revision Guide’.

It gives you a plan for the 30 days before your exam so that you stay motivated, increase your confidence and revise in ways that actually help you pass the exam (that’s the point – right?!)

 

Here’s the link to that!

 

Today’s blog I wanted to talk to you about Revision.

‘Your Ultimate Revision Guide’ gives you a structure to follow, plus tools that work, like a revision plan and positive post it’s.

 

This blog is all about being ‘Your Ultimate Revision Blog’

The key factors that make the difference between painful, overwhelming revision and fun, motivating and most importantly focused revision that works!

 

One of my coaching styles is to spell things out.

You guys are far too busy working, revising, and trying to juggle having a social and family life in between to want to read a blog for an hour.

 

So, I have spelt out, in the best way I know, the revision must have’s!

 

The 8 key components of revision that you need!

 

Ready for some R.E.V.I.S.I.O.N. ?! {Told you I would spell it out!}

 

Resits

Exam Practise

View

Improvement

Structure

Identify

Objective

Nerves

 

Resits

Let me start by saying – you are in great company if you’re sitting your resit ?

 

AND yes you are still a great Accountant!

 

It really is not the end of the world if you are resitting. As long as you learn and improve from it, then please don’t let it hold you back or bring negative vibes to your revision.

 

These are the 3 best things about having a re-sit

• Remember you have done this before – this is a good thing! You are more knowledgeable than you think – please remember that!
• You’re not starting from scratch. Yes you are missing some understanding, but that just means you need to structure your revision in a way that covers the sub topics in ways you need to remember and recall.
• Treat this like a new exam – don’t be negative and hold on to the past.

If you are sitting a re-sit, then I need you to focus on reading the question in a smarter way, coming to an answer quicker (this takes exam practise) and being laser focused on knowing exactly what you have to do to pass this exam (see the summary on the exam syllabus)

 

If it makes you feel any better, I took many re-sits… and I qualified!

? I also took my driving test twice before I passed – the best drivers take their test twice – right?! ?

 

 

Exam Practise (inc mocks)

Practise, practise, practise!

This is one of the biggest coaching phrases I shout about!

 

I say this because I didn’t practise exam questions enough and I know this is what held me back and extended the time I took to qualify.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing right?!

 

I’m not going to tell you how to practise exams, because it’s obvious?!

But my coaching words of wisdom are “Be smarter at the end of the exam paper than you were at the start!”

 

By that I mean, be able to answer that exam question better next time you attempt it.

 

Three tips for exam practise that I NEED you to follow

? Complete exam questions in full exam conditions (to time and with no notes)

? Complete 3-5 mock papers (in exam conditions)

? Practise in the way your exam is! I.e if you’re writing your exam- always practise writing. If you’re exam is online – always practise online.

 

Exam practise works when done consistently, and for weeks (not the week) before exam. Use your revision plan to get consistent positive results and pass that mock before the exam.

 

View (perspective)

I always say you will not pass the exam if you only have knowledge.

You need a good level of knowledge and a good mindset.

 

The view you have, sets you up for revision success or failure.

The words and stories you tell yourself on a daily basis dictate how you view the world.

 

I need you to commit to your revision phase for exam success, and that means commit to a positive view!

“Yes you are going to pass this exam!”

“Yes, I am a great accountant!”

“I love the revision phase!”

 

 

Your view dictates

? your motivation

? your focus

? your success

 

Change your view so you soak up as much positive energy, motivation, focus and determination to have an excellent revision phase … which will lead to revision success … and exam success!

 

Improvement

Improvements build confidence, and that it super important for your revision success!

 

Improvement also causes momentum, and that is GOLD when it comes to revision, because we need to keep going and build to improve every week – right?!

 

With every revision slot I need you to – learn and improve – be smarter at the end of the revision session than you were at the start!

 

How to improve with every week of revision

⭐ Set goals & rewards

⭐ Track your results – exam questions, mock results, revision time

⭐ Build up your confidence levels

 

Consistent, positive, focused revision slots will give you improvements every week. Start early enough (4-6 weeks before exam) and you have set yourself up for positive revision improvement!

 

Structure

We are practical accountants, fact and figures are the core to our happiness and career path!

We love structure, and it helps to motivate and focus our actions.

 

The best structure you can have is a revision plan.

Successful revision comes from knowing what structure you need and implementing it.

 

⭐ Revision plan – number one revision tool

⭐ Other items in your toolkit – positive post it notes

KEY POINT – Structure comes from consistency, small regular revision slots.

 

Please focus on the structure that works for you, not what others are doing. This is your revision and you need to be self centred, motivated and confident. The structure you choose has to be based on what works for you.

 

Identify

Each exam is different.

I need you to spend some time identifying what Mr CIMA (or Mr ACCA) wants you to do, say and know in order to pass this specific exam!

 

How to identify this?!

⭐ Exam syllabus (especially the summary)

⭐ Previous examiners analysis (He is spelling out what he wants and doesn’t want that students are doing! (Golden nuggets!)

⭐ Articles on CIMA/ACCA website – Again golden nuggets!!

⭐ Know the specific subtopics (obvs use the syllabus guide online)

 

Then breakdown the subtopics into excellent, good, weak areas.

☝️ WHY ☝️

Because I want you to structure your revision to be covering the whole syllabus and knowing your excellent and weak areas will focus your revision and make you smarter & more confident!

 

 

Objective

 

There are 2 objectives I want you to focus on.

Firstly – PAST – Why you started this amazing qualification.

Secondly – PRESENT – What are you doing & why.

 

Ask yourself …

What’s the point of revision for you?

What do you want to get out of it?

How do you want to feel the night before the exam?

 

Oh and also, be objective and remember these are only accounting exams, they are not the end of the world – no one is going to die if you fail, you won’t loose your job (ok, you might, but it doesn’t matter cos you’ll get a new one).

 

Your objective gives you the positive outlook and focus you need for successful revision!

 

Nerves

Yes, nerves are a bitch!

They are feelings that are wasting your energy, consuming your mind, distracting you from revision, and making you feel like a rubbish accountant! (which you’re so not by the way!)

 

So what can you do today to turn down the volume on them?!

⭐ Read your positive post-its out loud!

⭐ Go to the mirror and have a word with yourself and your nerves … ask them to “ssshhh!!” Or “Shut the F up!”

⭐ Distract yourself for 2 minutes with something you love – singing, walking, dancing, eating (my personal fav). But then promise me you’ll get back to your revision for 10 minutes!

 

Nerves are a very natural part of your Accounting journey… and I’m glad they are there, because that means you care and this means something to you!

Good – we need that commitment and determination!

If your nerves are really bad – take a peak at my blog on Confidence from last month.

 

Summary

That’s my take on REVISION!

A bit of a summary, with some tips and lots of coaching advice to give you all you need for an excellent revision session.

Use this month to plan and structure your revision in a way that works for YOU!

 

Revision can be fun by the way!

Plus wouldn’t it feel great if you passed a mock (or two) before your exam?!

Oh! And wouldn’t it be amazing if you felt super confident and prepared the day before your exam… ready to smash that exam and see the words ‘PASS’!

 

Yes, you can! Yes, you will.

All I want to encourage you to do is write a revision plan, stick to it and build up a strong mindset as well as a strong knowledge base!

 

Have a great week!

 

P.S – Here’s the link again for ‘Your Ultimate Revision Guide’

P.P.S – As always if you are struggling with any revision or confidence bits, please reach out and contact me. I am here to help and support you! Email (hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk and Linkedin

 

 

If I could shake you and give you one thing that I know will make a huge impact to your exam success … it would be …

 

CONFIDENCE

 

You know that feeling when you are ready and prepared, with a great big smile and your head held high.

Or

When you just know that you are living the best life and you are exactly where you are meant to be right now.

And

Showing confidence by jumping up in the air with no care in the world kind of confidence!

 

 

I have coached qualifying accountants for 8 years because I really care about you finishing this qualification – that you started with enthusiasm and determination.

 

I coach because I believe in you and that you deserve those letters after your name.

 

I am here so that you can soak up my passion for accounting, my determination for giving this exam (or resit) your best possible chance and so you have an Accounting friend who you can confide in, grow from and listen to (esp during the hard days)

 

But you don’t believe me do you?!

? You are not quite sure you have what it takes to pass that resit?!

? You hit the wall of fear every week when you are revising!?

? You get so anxious when you think about sitting a mock exam in exam conditions?!

 

 

Let me remind you – YOU can PASS this Accounting qualification!

 

I wanted to write a blog about confidence, to prove it to you!

 

Why it is SO important to find real confidence, what exercises and tips I can share so you can implement straight away and feel confident.

And most importantly, how confidence really really really needs to be radiating out of your bones to get that exam pass.

 

You want it – right?!

 

Are you ready …

 

This blog is going to change your confidence level … in a good way!

 

 

Stories & words

The stories and words you are telling yourself make up the foundations of your confidence level.

Plus on top of the stories & words you’re telling yourself, also the ones you are hearing from people, friends, colleagues,  parents that you’re listening to on a daily basis.

 

When you tell yourself stories & words – you brain listens and believes you!

 

Positive, confident, motivating, inspiring, happy, strong, confident words and stories are what we need in our thoughts – right?!

 

Yes, I know it’s easier said than done (literally) but I could tell you 1000 times and write hundreds of Linkedin posts and ring you every day to tell you that you’re a great Accountant and YOU can PASS this exam.

But if you don’t believe me or don’t tell yourself the same thing – you are lacking the true confidence you need.

 

Real confidence comes from within, from your heart and soul.

And yes, you need it for this qualification!

 

I mean, of course, you can fake it until you make it – but I think that’s just such a waste of energy, and I’d rather you used that energy for your revision to make you super knowledgeable and exam ready.

 

And yes, you can pass the exam if your confidence level is 5/10 … but I really don’t want you to have to go through that pain, all the nerves, sleepless nights, and cramming.

 

You really don’t have to!

 

All you need to do is focus on the stories and word you are telling yourself.

 

Yeah, right Helen – cos that’s so easy?!

 

OK, trust me, I never said it would be easier – but I will say it will make a huge positive difference.

 

Let me give you a few ways to make the stories and words you tell yourself manageable & powerful.

⭐ Start positively as soon as you wake up – what are you telling yourself about the day, and how you feel.

⭐ When you catch yourself being less than positive (see what I did there, I didn’t say the n word ?)… take 2 seconds to reframe that thought and take a confident, positive thought and think it twice.

⭐ Be grateful.

 

These will only work if you work on them everyday, actually if I’m honest, work on them every second. Until it becomes natural, confident, and makes you happy.

 

I’ll tell you about my secret confidence trick, if you scroll down – ssssshhhhhh – positive post its!

They are great tools to reinforce positive stories and words! So have a read and write some today.

 

Belief

Do you believe you can pass your exam?

 

OK, now the truthful answer.

 

Yeah …but….

 

Time for tough love, Helen style coaching.

If you do not believe you can pass your exam – how are you going to actually pass it?!

 

Like I’ve said, you can fake it and pretend, but that’s a waste of your energy!

I want you to positively use your energy on smart revision, exam practise, subject recall and mock exams (more about how to do that here)

 

Remembering why

One of the ways to boost your belief and cement the feeling is to focus on and remember WHY you started this qualification.

You didn’t have to, and I know you chose this for a reason, there is always a reason WHY.

 

I encourage you to recall that reason, and positively focus on it so that your belief, self confidence and determined attitude can improve your exam confidence.

 

I love that everyone’s WHY is different.

To read about my why have a peak at my other blogs here!

 

 

One of my secret confidence tricks!

Positive post it notes

If you only do one thing this month to improve your confidence – then this is it!

My number one tool to make the fastest and most successful impact to your confidence level, thus your exam result.

 

Seriously, these post it’s will TRANSFORM your revision!

 

How to write my positive post its!

? Write 3-5 short sentences to ooze accounting confidence

? Be specific

? Stay positive (no hopes or maybes!)

 

One of the sentences you can use is “I am a great Accountant!”

Another one is “I am knowledgeable”

or

“I love to work hard because I am determined to revise”

“I love to revise in exam conditions”

“I have the courage to revise for my resit”

 

I seriously LOVE THEM and … and THEY WORK!

 

? Why do they work Helen!? ?

 

Because

? Telling your brain makes it learn what you are saying (scientifically proven)

? Repeating the post its (at least) twice a day – out loud – reinforces positive thoughts and words (which are vital for confidence)

? It’s confidence building – you’ll see that in a few days when you follow the task!

? Put’s some fire in your belly – and energy! You need energy to keep focused on your revision plan and exam questions.

 

 

Perspective

What you think and why, really impacts your confidence.

I know I’ve talked about the stories you tell yourself, which goes with your perspective, I think.

 

When you have a positive perspective, a glass half full kind of attitude you might say, then this impacts your confidence in a sub conscious way.

 

I’m a huge believer in mindset techniques, and I have been fortunate to have completed many personal development classes.

Working on my conscious behaviours and subconscious beliefs, which have blown my mind – in a good way!

 

When I focus on the positives, I am more confident, have a higher motivation level and believe in myself ridiculously!

 

Having a perspective that is focused on goals, and positively achieving the goals has made me a qualified Accountant.

 

You’re welcome to read my ‘Diaries of an Oddball Accountant’ to read my journey through my CIMA qualification.

 

Confidence is about how you think, and your perspective is about what you think.

It’s no coincidence that I am writing a blog about confidence, and sharing that your perspective needs to be focused on.

 

When I mentored a shy young adult as part of ‘The Girls Network’ she was lacking confidence and asked me to help her increase this.

One of the questions I asked her the most, and consistently focused on (especially when the nerves increased) is this-

“What’s the worst that can happen?”

 

I encourage you to ask yourself this question.

Then give yourself a few moments to be super honest and real to what you believe.

 

I believe that giving yourself a few minutes to realise what’s bad for you, isn’t actually that bad when/if it comes true and you have removed some fear and anxiety around the topic if you ask yourself this.

Obviously, your answer will be ‘I will fail my exam’?!

 

Tough love Helen again – “so what?!”

You can resit, it’s not the end of the world, no-one has died.

 

You are in control of your revision, exam preparation, confidence level, perspective, motivation, I could go on but you get the idea.

 

You are in control of your perspective – so let’s use it wisely!

 

Emotional Rollercoaster

I say this alllll the time, but gosh, it’s sooooo true!

 

These accounting qualification are an emotional rollercoaster!

 

The ups when you pass a mock, or you have that lightbulb moment of finally understanding that formula, and of course when you pass the real exam.

 

The downs when you are staring at the screen with no idea what you’re meant to be learning, when nothing makes sense or when you read a practise question hundred times and still can’t understand it or when you have only done 10 minutes of revision in the last week.

 

Don’t get me started on waiting for exams results, in my day I had to wait 8-12 weeks!

 

I would love to say that confidence would stop the rollercoaster, but it won’t. ?

 

And if I’m honest, the emotional rollercoaster is an important part of the accounting journey.

 

Let’s work on your confidence so that you remember the highs and when the lows come, you can use the confidence advice to get back to your happy, smiley self.

 

 

Sounds great right?!

 

Are you ready to feel more confident, finally believe in yourself and be a Great Accountant!

 

Of course you are!

I believe in you, so use that for this week if you aren’t quite sure you believe in yourself and it will all work out amazingly!

 

If you’ve liked what you have read, then I have a free Revision Guide full of exam techniques, revision support and (most importantly) some more confidence and motivation exercises to get you super ready for your exam day! Have a peak here!

 

Have a great week. Watch out for next months blog all about revision techniques.

Helen x

 

P.S – Enjoying the confidence exercises! Please feel free to show me your positive post its – on Linkedin or Instagram

 

 

As you may (or may not) know I am CIMA qualified and I didn’t pass all of my exams 1st time.

My ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant’ is me sharing my highs and lows to the emotional but very rewarding Accounting rollercoaster qualification that I know you guys are on.

Read and use it as a confidence booster (to know you’re not alone) – a motivational story (to prove it’s worth it) – and a fun read (yes, you have permission to laugh at me!)

Over the last six weeks I’ve shared my honest, candid, funny and inspiring six-year accounting journey (yeah sounds ages doesn’t it!).

I’d love to hear what you think and where you are in your journey, leave a comment below or send me an email – hello@prettysuccesfulcareers.co.uk

 

Having that smug feeling – and what I’ve done with it!

What now, I had passed all of my Accounting exams, I was feeling like a strong confident Accountant, and I had just quit my temp job and secured my first perm qualified role, as Finance Manager!

 

As you can tell by now, I am a bit of a geek when it comes to CIMA and knowing what I want out of it.

 

I wanted my letters and I knew I had to get them.

 

Part of this was to get valuable work experience and completed my Practical Experience Log (PER). And no, you know me by now I didn’t leave it to the last minute.

In fact, I submitted my completed PER the week after I got my TOPCIMA results…

That’s how on the ball and focused I was.

 

I had heard stories from friends and colleagues on how people had waited years to submit their log and never got around to it. Please don’t be one of those people!

During my five year accounting journey I had a massive focus on my job roles and career, and by now I had five years of solid, strong and senior Management Accounts experience. I was able to write and complete my PER quickly and within all of the requirements.

This didn’t happen by luck (I don’t think many of my life achievements do), this was because a few years ago I researched and planned my missing gaps and focused my work experience to fill them in.

 

Don’t you dare leave your PER until after your exams – you’re missing a trick!

 

It was great that I hadn’t passed my exams first time, because a few years ago I might not have had all of the work experience to submit my PER so quickly.

 

I used the opportunity of every job change and promotion over the last few years to draft my PER and in between sitting and getting my last exam results I wrote it up, cross referenced to the CIMA requirements and simple – all done and dusted!

 

The best thing about 14th February 2013 is that I became Miss Helen Pretty – ACMA CGMA!

Yes- I became fully qualified and I could not be more proud and smug about it!

What I’ve done next and why

As a qualified accountant (Yeah I say that a lot because I’m so cool!) I get given lots of opportunities with CIMA. Since my exams, I have taken advantage of lots of these opportunities and in my spare time added some excellent ‘branches to my tree’.

 

I have been a local governor of two school in my local areas – one secondary and one primary. I have been their finance lead and supported with their budgeting and governor controls.

 

CIMA Mentoring Program

I have also been a mentor on the official CIMA mentoring program, supporting other CIMA students with their studies and career advancement. I mentored around 10 students during this program and loved it, I was passionate about helping them and making a difference and gave them so much of my free time, which they were grateful for, plus I really enjoyed it.

 

The mentoring involved a variety of things, much more than I realised at the start, which was great.

 

Some of my mentoring students stories

I mentored Alex for 5 months, to get through his operational CIMA exams. He had found himself in a place were he had failed the same exam a few times and was juggling work, his hobby and studying. We worked on getting him to balance less things at certain times and to focus on one thing at a time. He loved the mentoring and being accountable to himself and me, and he passed his exams and got a great promotion at work.

 

Ellie and Becky were two of my other mentees who asked for slightly different support. Ellie was doing a presentation in a massive event about her AAT apprenticeship journey, she was really nervous and classed herself as an introvert (sounds very familiar to me!), so we worked on giving a valuable presentation without the nerves and of course she smashed it!

 

Becky was a mum to 2 girls and had just gone back to work full time. She was finding it tough trying to prioritise anything and wanted to pass her exams but didn’t know where to find the time. We worked together and I encouraged her to focus, plan and commit to her exams if she really wanted to pass them. I know it’s easy for me to say, but I was there to help her, so she knew she had some Accounting support.

 

Another opportunity was working as a mentor for The Girls Network.

It’s a charity run by a few amazing women where I mentored a young adult, Sadie. She was in year 10 and had joined the program to increase your confidence.

After school once a month I would support and work with Sadie on what she needed. A big thing for her was confidence, and I am super passionate about giving someone else confidence and putting themselves first. We set some goals and ‘homework’ and the transformation was amazing. She joined some after school clubs, got a new group of friends and just felt so much happier and less anxious within herself.

It was such a great journey to watch her over the year.

 

What am I doing now?

I had spent the last five years mentoring and helping others with their exams, confidence, motivation and so so much more. I loved it and was good at it!

I knew I wanted a new challenge and wasn’t fulfilled in my job at the time, so I had an idea!

I decided to setup my own business! I wanted to coach and support more qualifying accountants and to take my voice and passion to a bigger scale. To show and tell more qualifying accountants that it’s okay to fail, you can still pass and get your letters.

Another one of my big messages is to encourage you guys to keep going, finish what you started and it’s totally worth it!

 

I am loving coaching qualifying accountants, it feels like I have 2 full time jobs with how busy I am, but I help and support real people on a daily basis and it’s such a great reward to see their exam passes and confidence grow.

 

And that’s a wrap! The ‘Diaries of an Oddball Accountant’ are finished (Sad face!)

I hope you had loved reading the diaries as much as I have loved writing them!

 

Here are the links to each year to go back and have a nosey!

Year 1 – Super Keen times!

My Year 2 – ‘Keep going’

Year 3 – ‘How have I not finished yet?!’

The Year 4 – My power year!

Year 5 – Putting CIMA 1st (properly)

 

I hope the diaries have inspired and motivated you.

I encourage you to book your next exam, keep going and keep your head up!

Please get in touch if you’re interested in having some coaching, here’s a link to my diary for us to jump on a call and get you one massive step closer to exam confidence and success! http://bit.ly/PSCChat

 

Thank you so much for reading and being part of my business journey! (That’s a long story for another day!)

Helen x

My ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant’ is me sharing my highs and lows to the emotional but very rewarding Accounting rollercoaster qualification that I know you guys are on.

Read and use it as a confidence booster (to know you’re not alone) – a motivational story (to prove it’s worth it) – and a fun read (yes, you have permission to laugh at me!)

Over the last five weeks I’ve shared my honest, candid, funny and inspiring six-year accounting journey (yeah sounds ages doesn’t it!).

I’d love to hear what you think and where you are in your journey, leave a comment below or send me an email – hello@prettysuccesfulcareers.co.uk

 

Putting CIMA 1st (properly)

I’m coming into this year with a good mindset, I ‘only’ have 2 exams to pass this year and then I’m DONE! I can see and feel the light at the end of the tunnel.

 

The only thing in my way was that E3 paper!

You know I describe the Accounting journey as an emotional rollercoaster, well one of the main reasons is because of exam papers like E3!

Honestly, the bain of my CIMA life!

 

How could I manage to pass E2 with the highest ever CIMA mark I’ve got but failed E3 twice already… oh no make that failed 3 times!

In March I sat it again and failed this time with 44%. ARGH?!?!?!

 

I know I talk about my failures quite a lot, mainly because it was a massive part of my journey, but also because not enough Accountants talk about theirs. You see all these social media posts about ‘I passed with 99%!’ and ‘I thought I had failed but got 65%!’

 

I’m not going to bullsh*t you and say failures are inevitable and they make you a better accountant.

Failures make the journey more emotional and longer!

 

But what I will say is they are a learning opportunity and it builds your personality in a way that only failing exams can.

You know that feeling of ‘I have to do this’, and ‘I will find that commitment and dedication bone in my body’.

It’s a powerful personality trait picking yourself and learning from a failure.

And once you qualify it will be a part of your accounting journey, for which I encourage you to positively shout about.

 

Do I go into job interviews saying I failed with 36% (more than once!) – hell no! I talk about why I’m a great accountant and my ambitious determined personality. If I need to explain why I will always talk about why I’m so determined, because my CIMA journey was tough and I overcome all the failures and took them as a learning opportunity.

 

Time to pick yourself up!

On 30th August 2012 I picked myself up and sat my E3 exam for the 4th time.

How did I pick myself up? Well, it started with having a word with myself and making a mindset shift about how and why I was going to finish this and I set a new timeframe – Dec 2012.

No way was I ‘wasting’ any more of my life on E3. I was desperate to be a Finance Manager and get that promotion and pay rise.

 

I was working in a temporary finance assistant job (on purpose), it wasn’t a bad job, but it was just enough to keep the level of finance good enough on my CV, but for me it meant less pressure at work so I really could put study as my number 1 focus.

 

#Focus!

And that’s what I did, focused, and seriously believed I would pass it! I knew the knowledge by now, and I just tweaked my exam technique to answer the questions the way Mr CIMA wanted me to!

Guess what – It worked and I passed with 57% – thank goodness! (Relief face!)

Whilst I’m writing, I can’t stop thinking ‘I wish I had some more help and support so I wouldn’t have had to go on this alone’!

 

Now, in September, this meant one thing … I only had ONE CIMA exam left!

And it was the one I was looking forward to the most! Back in my days it was called TOPCIMA and it was the only case study style exam.

After 5 years of CIMA and working successfully up the career ladder I had had some excellent exposure to strategy and commercial awareness – so I knew this case study suited my skill set and accounting thought process.

 

I stayed at the same temp job so that I could prioritise and qualify, it’s really good for me to have one focus and I literally am like a dog with a bone – on.a.mission.

 

One of my favourite exam days – ever!

On 22nd Nov 2012 I sat my last ever TOPCIMA exam, and let me tell you a secret, I couldn’t have been more confident and happy that I knew I had passed (without any arrogance, you know what I mean!).

It was like that case study style exam was written for me and I just finally ‘got it’ right first time!

But let’s face it, from my 5 years so far, I genuinely thought I had passed and didn’t… so I still had those ‘maybe not’ thoughts. (It doesn’t go away, you just learn to talk to yourself differently).

 

Thank goodness the wait for these results was only a few weeks, and on 13th December 2012 it was an amazing day …

I passed TOPCIMA and was now exam qualified!!

 

FINALLY! The accounting journey was over!

 

I got the result I had been working so so hard for. The feeling of relief, happiness and smugness is ridiculous!

I encourage (and beg a little bit) to you to KEEP going and finish what you started.

 

Year 5 was amazing wasn’t it! Can you believe my accounting journey? Is it similar to yours? Feel free to leave a comment below and share with your colleagues (yes, I give you permission to share and laugh at me!)

Oh, and do you think you would class me as an oddball accountant yet?!

 

 

If any of my story has resonated with you and you are looking for any Accounting help, get in touch and let’s have a chat about what coaching options would suit you – this year – to make this your year of exam success!

To book a call just click here – http://bit.ly/PSCChat

Thanks. Helen x

 

P.S – Oh if you’ve missed any of the early diary years – then just click below!

Year 1 – Super Keen times!

My Year 2 – ‘Keep going’

Year 3 – ‘How have I not finished yet?!’

That Year 4 – My power year!

Year 5 – Putting CIMA 1st (properly) (This one!)

The Year 6 – Having that smug feeling & what I’ve done next! (Coming soon!)

My ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant’ is me sharing my highs and lows to the emotional but very rewarding Accounting rollercoaster qualification that I know you guys are on.

Read and use it as a confidence booster (to know you’re not alone) – a motivational story (to prove it’s worth it) – and a fun read (yes, you have permission to laugh at me!)

Over the last four weeks I’ve shared my honest, candid, funny and inspiring six-year accounting journey (yeah sounds ages doesn’t it!).

I’d love to hear what you think and where you are in your journey, leave a comment below or send me an email – hello@prettysuccesfulcareers.co.uk

 

My power year!

There are a lot of diary entries for this year! Which means – oh my gosh I focused! I could not have focused any more than I did… so let’s see if it paid off ?

 

“I’ve got the power!”

The first quarter of the year started like a true power year – you know when you set your goals in January and say ‘This year I am going to xxx’.

Well I set my 2011 year as my ‘Power’ year. I could do whatever I put my mind to and CIMA was one of those goals.

I love goal setting and planning, it is one of the best motivation techniques for me.

 

I thrive off the challenge and attention the goal needs to be achieved.

 

 

My ‘problem’ is I tend to set too many goals, you know the saying ‘You under estimate what you can achieve in a year but over estimate what you can achieve in a week’ – Yeah I’m one of those people!

 

My 1st CIMA goal was to get part qualified.

 

By now I had been studying for 3 years and still not got anything real on paper to show for it!

I had sat my final Managerial paper in Nov, so I was waiting for my result …

 

Drum roll … I passed with 66%- my best mark ever!

 

The way I celebrated my exam success!

The way I celebrate most of my exam successes is, just like this night in Jan, with a fish and chips dinner and a mug of champagne! And that mug tasted so good and such a great start to my power year.

 

In Feb I received my certificate to show I was a real Accountant, and officially had my Advanced diploma in Management Accounting. It’s a smug feeling, and the remember the hard work has paid off is a great reward.

 

Halfway down now and no-one can take that away from me!

Got that diploma straight up on the wall!

 

When I realised things can be taken away from me!

But what I realised in March was that my job could be taken away from me!

I was faced with redundancy and whilst studying for my 3 strategic exams for the May sitting, I decided that my company was not the place I wanted to qualify and stay, so I took voluntary redundancy and moved back home to Hampshire.

Yes, all whilst studying and revising for 3 exam papers. Back in my day (so so long ago! ?) the first time you sat the Strategic papers CIMA enforced you sat them all at once.

Within a month, I was leaving a job, packing up my house, moving to a new house, with my 2 dogs, studying and trying to look for a new job. Lots of change, and I like change but when it’s all happening at once it’s a bit of a whirlwind isn’t it!

(This is Spencer – one of my dogs! He helped me with my revision!)

 

Don’t forget this is Power Year and my attitude was focused and on the ball!

I was focused on my goal and exams though, working every day on my revision plan and learning as much E/F/P syllabus as I could.

The mocks I wrote I scored some great pass marks of 60% and 68%, So I was confident going into the exam, but sitting 3 exams 3 days in a row, with my exam track record was going to be tough!

All I could genuinely do was try my best, answer 100% of the papers and put my CIMA hat on.

 

And yeah on 14th July 2011 I got confirmation that I am rubbish at sitting more than one exam at a time!

Exam results were E3-43% / P3-56% / F3-45%.

Thank goodness I passed one and it wasn’t a complete waste of time, and I think the other marks were close enough to know I was good, not great but good!

 

What was the one thing I think I did wrong to be so focused but still not pass?

Well, time seriously played a big part of my success.

I get a little defensive when talking about sympathy, because it’s not in my nature to ask for sympathy, so I don’t want you thinking ‘Ah, so sorry Helen, you were going through a tough time, no wonder you failed’.

We all have the same 24 hours in the day, but it really is about how we use those precious hours.

 

Honestly, I wasn’t as disappointed as previous years of failures, but oh it would have been so so good if I had passed 3 or even 2, because I would have had such a stronger chance of finishing this year!

 

I’m also a true believer of ‘Everything happens for a reason’.

 

The 2nd half of 2011 included me getting a new job and resitting the strategic papers for E3 and F3 again. The resits for Strategic happened more often than just May and Nov, so in Sept I focused just on one paper (F3)- see I learnt from my mistakes now – one paper at a time for me!

Guess what – I passed with 60% ?

 

Why did I pass?

Because I focused my energy and planned my time differently. I was so close to the end of my CIMA journey (3 exams left) that it was like a force had come over me and I was on a mission.

 

I was working at a job where I had more time to study and have a stronger work-study balance, it makes a difference guys!

 

I was on a roll and only had E3 and TopCima to sit and pass!

 

In Nov I sat E3 for the second time and failed with 43%! Ouch!

And what makes it worse was the 1st time I sat this one I scored 47% – how could I finish the year getting worse?!

I’m not going to lie, it was painful and those demons might have crept in a little bit…. But all I do when that happens is to tell them to ‘F**k off’ and let me get on with this goal that I have set myself!

 

Oh, something I want to tell you is that my mock for E3 I got 48%, and this is a warning sign for you guys (saying this with my hindsight), genuinely your mock scores are a good indicator to your exam mark. All of the mocks I failed, I also failed the exam.

 

Don’t you dare freak out when I say this!

All I want you to do to overcome this, is to sit and practise more mocks! One isn’t enough, please plan in 3-4 mocks (to time with no notes) – this is the biggest thing I can tell you that will make a difference in the few weeks leading up to the exam for a real pass mark.

 

Okay, back to my accounting journey. 2011 was a year of change and I actually sat a lot of exams! The main thing I feel is that I made progress and I was pleased with myself for that!

And guess what… it means that I AM going to qualify next year!!! That’s what I was focused and telling myself.

 

What would you tell me to do if you were my coach at this point of my studies?

 

That’s year 4 of the ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant!’ What do you think?! – please leave a comment or send me an email if you’re at the start of your accounting journey and have any questions.

 

To the lucky ones that are on my email list – I LOVE you for being here! Thank you!

If you’ve been sat under a rock for the last few months and not on my list – join here and you’ll get my secret tips and weekly coaching advice specifically for qualifying accountants! http://bit.ly/PSCsecretexam

 

Keep an eye out next week for year 5 to find out if E3 broke me!

Thanks. Helen x

 

P.S – Oh if you’ve missed any of the early diary years – then just click below!

Year 1 – Super Keen times!

.Year 2 – ‘Keep going’

Year 3 – ‘How have I not finished yet?!’

..Year 4 – My power year (This one!)

Year 5 – Putting CIMA 1st (properly) (Coming soon!)

. Year 6 – Having that smug feeling & what I’ve done next! (Coming soon!)

My ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant’ is me sharing my highs and lows to the emotional but very rewarding Accounting rollercoaster qualification that I know you guys are on.

Read and use it as a confidence booster (to know you’re not alone) – a motivational story (to prove it’s worth it) – and a fun read (yes, you have permission to laugh at me!)

Over the last and next three weeks I’ve shared my honest, candid, funny and inspiring six-year accounting journey (yeah sounds ages doesn’t it!).

I’d love to hear what you think and where you are in your journey, leave a comment below or send me an email – hello@prettysuccesfulcareers.co.uk

 

How have I not finished yet?!

 

I am going to summarise this year in one word – Emotional! Yes I know I used that for year 2, but trust me this year was so much more emotional than last year!

The one difference was the emotion was ridiculously worse in 2010, but the results and exam focused was 100% better! Guess what I took 2 exams and pass both of them!

Was my luck changing, no way, but my dedicated and hard work attitude was slowly coming back!

 

I won’t bore you with all of the personal details, but 2010 was full or personal emotion for me, I separated from my husband and moved out of the family home with my now 2 dogs and lots of sadness.

With this change, I got a new promotion in Reading and a new BPP centre!

As a Senior Management Accountant I was feeling confident at work and ready to show the accounting skills I had and ‘prove’ myself to a new boss and Finance Director. I love working hard and ‘proving’ myself – actions definitely speak louder than words!

 

I also took a different approach to my studies and revision this year.

I hadn’t proved to myself that I was a great accountant or that I could pass 2 exams in one sitting (completely the opposite in fact!). Being self aware of my exam skill and confidence levels I set out to sit one exam at a time and pass it.

Guess what – That’s exactly what I did! P8 in May and E2 in November – AND I passed with 66% my best result so far.

 

I wish I had asked for help!

As you know I describe myself as the most determined and ambitious person you will ever meet, which has always been part of me, but grown so much over my CIMA journey.

Another part of me is that I don’t really like to ask for help, you’re the same- right?!

 

As the newbie at work and college I was learning so much and going through a step in both of my work and exam challenges, but also doing everything on my own.

Honestly guys, this is one of the key reasons why I took ‘so long’ to pass my CIMA, nearly 6 years!

I struggled through the second year and then I focused in year 3, but still all on my own (yeah, get the violins out!).

No wonder I wasn’t part qualified yet. If only I had some real support then I 100% know that I would have passed my exams quicker.

This is my accounting journey and looking back I wouldn’t change 99% of it, but honestly I would change asking for extra help and getting focused with smarter revision, if I had the opportunities or coaches to help me.

 

Wowser, how emotional was year 3?! I don’t call it an emotional rollercoaster for nothing!

If you’re feeling like you need some support and a group of like minded, ambitious qualifying accountants like you then come on over and join my free group!

We all support each other with our exams, and I lead by giving weekly coaching advice, tricks, videos and amazing (if I do say so myself!) exam motivation. Just click here to join! http://bit.ly/PSCFBGROUP

 

See you next week for year 4! (sssshhhhh, it’s my favourite so far). Helen x

 

P.S – Oh if you’ve missed any of the early diary years – then just click below!

Year 1   – Super Keen times!

.Year 2  – ‘Keep going’

Year 3  – ‘How have I not finished yet?!’ (You’re on it!)

…Year 4  – My power year (coming soon!)

Year 5 – Putting CIMA 1st (properly) (Coming soon!)

.Year 6 – Having that smug feeling & What I’ve done next)

My ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant’ is me sharing my highs and lows to the emotional but very rewarding Accounting rollercoaster qualification that I know you guys are on.

Read and use it as a confidence booster (to know you’re not alone) – a motivational story (to prove it’s worth it) – and a fun read (yes, you have permission to laugh at me!)

Over the next six weeks I’m sharing my honest, candid, funny and inspiring six-year accounting journey (yeah sounds ages doesn’t it!).

I’d love to hear what you think and where you are in your journey, leave a comment below or send me an email – hello@prettysuccesfulcareers.co.uk

 

Just keep going!

Two ways to sum up this year before I go into the detail. Firstly, how I felt during the year – was emotional but focused. Secondly looking back on the year to write here, I was focused on the wrong things! (Hindsight is a wonderful thing isn’t it!)

 

So, this year I took 4 exams and passed …. One!

 

Why am I sharing this and being so honest with you?

Genuinely guys, if I had seen or heard of an Accounting coach I would have snapped them up! I didn’t quite realise I needed 1:1 support, but if I had then it would have made such a difference to my focus and study.

I remember this year well, because I really knew I was a great accountant, work was going really well and I was creating a real career and job role for myself.

 

When it came to my exams and studying, arrogance reared it’s ugly head!

I was still going to BPP, and took exams in both sitting (May and November). But clearly I wasn’t ‘getting it’.

 

One reason why I know I wasn’t passing is something I want to share with you (no judging me please), and I want to share the honest truth because I want you to not make this mistake, and trust me I think it’s an easy mistake to make.

I was signed up to BPP, but I wasn’t attending 100% of classes and I wasn’t submitting all of the work. My commitment just wasn’t there, well it was there for CIMA but not for the study piece and I just wasn’t doing enough work.

 

My BPP journey

Many of my BPP studies followed the same pattern, I struggled through the morning sessions and as soon as break and lunch were called I would sit on the steps in the corridor so on-one would see how stressed and upset I was (and on many occasions crying) – because I didn’t get the answer right in class, or because I really did not understand that topic or calculation.

How the hell was I going to pass this exam and be a real great accountant if I don’t get it!?

On one occasion I am embarrassed to admit that as soon as afternoon break was called, I went home. I ran out of that classroom, feeling super guilty for not making the ‘right’ commitment, but also smug that I was using my annual leave in a more fun way!

{Note to self and you guys – when you make the commitment, for goodness sake stick to it! There is no point wasting your time if you’re not committed}.

 

As we know these are tough exams, but they are not impossible, and it’s not only nobel prize winners that pass them and get their letters. ‘Us’ normal accountants can and do pass too!

I had worked so hard academically to get here, and I just forgot that I needed to dedicate real time and planning to these exams, I took my foot off the study commitment and I was kidding myself that I was working hard enough.

 

I looked like I was working hard!

Oh, I looked like I was working hard enough (Books all over the dining room and revision notes written neatly) and I talked the talk and sat exams every sitting … but honestly the mindset wasn’t there.

I was bored and tired and BPP was not helping with my motivation levels. Don’t get me wrong I genuinely wouldn’t have passed without my study courses at BPP, and it was my attitude that let me down this year.

I saw the whole study piece as a drain on my brain, and annual leave! And guess what – I failed my exams! Surprise surprise!

 

I’m not an A/A* kind of girl, I’m a hard worker, I only got my 1st Class honours degree because I was in the library every day for my final year and the ‘prize’ was so close in my reach, it was motivating me to commit and work super hard.

Being halfway through my CIMA exams was nowhere near the end, and this didn’t drive my motivation levels!

Luckily work did drive my motivation and I worked super hard here, building on my CV and carving out a niche in Management Accounts combined with Commercial Analysis. I loved my work and my work colleagues.

 

Sound familiar – right?!

If you are feeling in anyway similar to any of my experiences this year, then please reach out to me. I am qualified now and my super power as an Accounting Coach is being able to pull you out of emotional situations like this.

 

How? Because I genuinely have been there, I picked myself up and refocused to pass my exams!

 

I am one of the proudest CIMA Accountants in the World and I can coach and support you so that study is fun, we can build your confidence together and get ready for the passionate motivation I love to bring to my clients!

 

I won’t let any qualifying accountant bumble through with a half arsed attempt.

Let’s be IN and let’s get your exam PASS so you can get the pay rise or new job or new car and that holiday you desperately want to use your annual leave for.

Seriously, I’m not just saying this, but I know I ‘wasted’ this year and I won’t let you make the same mistakes as me.

 

So reach out for a chat about a bespoke coaching package that I can commit with YOU in 2019.

 

Well that’s the end of year 2, what do you think?

Would you class me as an oddball accountant yet or do you need to hear how crazy I was in year 3 to make your mind up? ?

 

I hope the diaries are inspiring and motivating you. Please get in touch if you’re interested in having some coaching, here’s a link to my diary for us to jump on a call and get you one massive step closer to exam confidence and success! http://bit.ly/PSCChat

Until next week! Keep your head up guys. Helen x

 

P.S – Oh if you’ve missed any of the early diary years – then just click below!

Year 1 – Super Keen times!

Year 2 – ‘Keep going’ (You’re on it!)

Year 3 – ‘How have I not finished yet?!’ (Coming next week!)

Year 4 – My power year (coming soon!)

Year 5 – Putting CIMA 1st (properly) (Coming soon!)

Year 6 – Having that smug feeling & what I’ve done next (Coming soon!)

As you may (or may not) know I am CIMA qualified and I didn’t pass all of my exams 1st time.

My ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant’ is me sharing my highs and lows to the emotional but very rewarding Accounting rollercoaster qualification that I know you guys are on.

Read and use it as a confidence booster (to know you’re not alone) – a motivational story (to prove it’s worth it) – and a fun read (yes, you have permission to laugh at me!)

I’m a very proud qualified Accountant and I describe myself as an oddball – because my accounting geek focus is uniquely combined with being super keen to smash my goals, ridiculously determined to finish what I start and sometimes overconfident!

Over the next six weeks I’m sharing my honest, candid, funny and inspiring six-year accounting journey (yeah sounds ages doesn’t it!).

I’d love to hear what you think and where you are in your journey, leave a comment below or send me an email – hello@prettysuccesfulcareers.co.uk

 

Being super keen!

Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin ?

 

‘What do you want to be when you grow up Helen?’ – asked by Mrs Edelman (Year 5 Junior school teacher)

‘I want to be an Accountant!’ I answered.

Yes really, when I was 8 (and ever since) I have always wanted to be an Accountant. (Sorry about the photo quality – it was the 1990’s!)

 

The perception I had was that I would always be in demand in the workplace, have a professional respect in the office, oh and carry a briefcase!

So I worked and focused on this throughout my Academics – Including my 1St Class Honours Degree in Business Studies.

Fast forward to 2007 and I was signed up to CIMA (with the exemptions from my degree), working as an Assistant Accountant and sitting my first CIMA exam!

 

Why did I choose CIMA? Well that was a no brainer for me, I knew I wanted to work in Industry (not practise) and I chose Business Studies for a reason – because of the commercial nature of understand all aspects of business. CIMA incorporates leadership, management and commercial awareness as well as the Financial skills.

 

Finally, I was starting my CIMA and becoming a massive step closer to really being called an Accountant! I was super focused, really excited and felt ready for my career journey. In my first job, I was a temp so didn’t have study support, so I paid for the registration and my exam by myself. I was committed and it felt great!

 

Super keen Helen mode!

I don’t think I could have been more keen and enthusiastic, at the start of my finance career, I had just got married, I was earning a salary and now I was starting what I had wanted to finish for such a long time.

Since Uni, I had a few temp jobs, but this one was different, there were 5 trainee accountants in my department, lead by a senior (who wasn’t actually qualified but I’ll share my views on that in a bit) and a qualified Finance Manager.

As well as having a sales and purchase ledger department, I knew this was a junior accounting role but there was loads of opportunities and it was such a great culture for my studies.

 

Along came May 2007.

I was in a random exam room in Leeds sitting my 1st CIMA Exams – eeekkk!! P1 and P4 were my exams of choice, for which I was self studying and self funded.

 

Can I just admit something … sitting 2 exams in 2 exam sitting is tough! It’s not testing your accounting skills and looking back it just puts too much pressure on the whole learning aspect.

Still a keen accountant, I waited for my results, I would say I patiently waited but that’s so not true – 10 weeks is a long time!

 

Along came July and results day, my colleagues were waiting for their results too and as the new girl I wanted to ‘prove’ my Accounting ability and status in the team.

 

Drumroll …….. Results were in … P1 – Failed 43% … P4 Passed 55%

 

For those who are reading this and failing P1 multiple times (then I feel you and no it hasn’t got any ‘easier’ has it?!).

 

Luckily I was doing well at work and I was offered a permanent position, it really is as important to show up and improve at work as well as passing your exams guys.

 

For the next exam sitting, which was November (back in the day we only had 2 sittings a year), I got full study support and used it! I signed up to BPP in Leeds for P1 and P8.

I know I said before sitting two exams together isn’t a great idea, but I genuinely didn’t see that at the start and because I was ‘competing’ against my colleagues and I am an impatient lady, I had to take two. In my head, one was a resit anyways, so I knew lots of it.

 

I’m not going to lie, so bare with me with my honesty here, but going to college was a pain in the bum!

As well as practically it was a pain (over an hour from my house), the whole emotional pain was intense. Having to sit in a classroom for a whole day and learn new, often complicated knowledge, with a teacher who rushes through the syllabus because it’s so huge and by 2pm I was so tired.

 

Juggling the work-life-study balance, as well as being in my 20’s, newly married , I had just got a new puppy (Emily) but I really disliked the fact I had to firstly sit that long to learn all this stuff, and secondly use up all of my annual leave (I got study support from work but no time off).

 

Exam Day – again!

November came along and I was feeling good, that I had done just enough work and balanced my life to put my studies and college time first.

 

I actually had to sit P1 and P8 in the same day – ouch!

I remember one of my colleagues giving me words of wisdom a few days before and saying – just make sure you pass one of them and do your best at the other.

 

For those who have sat two CIMA exams in the same day, two 3 hour exams, will know it’s ridiculous. But I had no choice in the times.

Looking back in my diary at the time I wrote ‘P1- estimates 50% and P8- Estimated 51%’ – So I wasn’t super confident was I?!

 

Trust me guys, the fact that you get your results in less than 10 weeks, cheeky CIMA students on the same day, you are very fortunate.

For most of my exams, I had a 10 week wait and for these I had to wait until after Christmas! (Thanks CIMA!).

 

Drumroll …….. Jan 21st results are in …….. and I failed both (yes both!) with a very embarrassing score of 36 for each!!!

 

Officially a rubbish accountant!

 

Yes I am officially a rubbish Accountant! Oh my gosh, how embarrassing and frustrating. All of that hard work and I wasn’t even close! I went to college, I studied, I committed and took it seriously and for what?!

I had to go into work and hear my colleagues telling each other and our manager their results…. And I had to share mine! Damn it. Honestly, how do you look face to face with your Finance Manager, who for the last year you have been impressing at work and asking for more responsibilities and pay and say you got 36%?!

 

I might as well not have shown up. (I didn’t believe that at all, but the emotions take over!)

 

2008 was a year of growing as an Assistant Accountant. At work this meant I got promoted, was involved in a great finance project (which I shined at) and being a really strong team player that grew with confidence and finance ability.

For my exams I resat P1 in May and pass with 60% (Thank goodness!) and sat P2 in November and actually passed first time with 59%! (Clearly I was stronger on this topic!)

 

So, I’m two years into my CIMA journey, I have sat 6 exams and passed 3. Not too bad but Oh I could have been twice as far forward by now ‘if’ I had just passed them!

My job was going super well and I was learning every week as well as getting promoted and having more responsibilities. Everyone in my company knew who Helen is and how much value I can add.

 

Year 1 thoughts

To summarise ‘Year 1’ I remember how excited I was and eager to start and finish my CIMA as quickly as possible. But I’ll be honest, it was harder than I thought it would be and I clearly didn’t understand some of the Accounting knowledge.

I remember learning ‘parrot fashion’ just to pass the question and although I went to college, I didn’t love it and I always felt like it was wasting my precious time! (And don’t tell anyone, but this gets worse in year 2!).

 

Biggest learnings from year 1

If I could share my advice on my biggest learning from this time, then it would be to commit and take more time to really learn the syllabus so that you pass first time. BUT your job is as important, so keep this a big priority as it will pay dividends later on in your career.

 

That’s year 1 of the ‘Diaries of an oddball accountant!’

What do you think?! – please leave a comment or send me an email (hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk) if you’re at the start of your accounting journey and have any questions.

To the lucky ones that are on my email list – I LOVE you for being here! Thank you!

If you’ve been sat under a rock for the last few months and not on my list – join here and you’ll get my secret tips and weekly coaching advice specifically for qualifying accountants! http://bit.ly/PSCsecretexam

 

Keep an eye out next week for year 2 where you can be the judge to if I’m an oddball or not!

Helen x

I know I say this all the time – but it’s TRUE. I know exactly what you’re going through right now.

 

I was nervous & moody before my exams (sound familiar?!). I’d study for weeks, reading my text book over and over. I’d spend days and days writing long, pretty revision notes (check out last week’s blog on why this is such a sh*t way to revise!).

 

I worked so, so hard. Studying, revising, learning. And tearing my hair out.

My career was going brilliantly. I was getting great promotions, job titles and practical experience.

 

But I wasn’t passing every exam and I was so tired, frustrated and bored.

My colleagues were passing their exams and I was gutted that I wasn’t proving I was a great accountant and knew my stuff too (again – sound familiar?!).

 

I was full of determination to get my ACMA letters and finish what I started. I truly wanted that qualification as an amazing strong foundation for the rest of my career and life.

 

Looking back now, this journey and those exam failures were the best thing that could’ve happened.  Because they made me such a more determined and ambitious lady – as you know, I describe myself as the most determined and ambitious person you will ever meet! And my tough CIMA journey contributed hugely to that for me.

 

After I qualified, I joined the Official CIMA Mentoring Program. I was a CIMA mentor because I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to support & help qualifying accountants to have the success they wanted & deserved too.

 

In 2016 I mentored some NHS Finance accounting graduates for a few months. One lovely guy, Alex, had sat his CIMA exams twice and failed – and guess what? He passed his 3rd attempt and is now a Finance Manager (click here to see Alex’s case study).

Another mentee needed to balance her work-life-study because she was juggling 2 young children, going from part time to full time and a new puppy!

 

I loved mentoring and supporting others to share my skills, tips and ideas. I loved helping people achieve results that had deep meaning for them (plus the amazing CIMA qualification).

 

Since then, I’ve honed in and soaked up as much coaching, leadership and mentoring development as possible. I always knew leadership was a superpower I wanted to use and develop (like when I was 18, I completed my Sports Leadership Awards).

 

But honestly, I love coaching – adore it, it’s my passion! –  and between you and me, I know I’m getting stronger & stronger as a coach with every single new client.

 

I’ve always been like a sponge (not a sieve – ha ha!). I learn and soak up knowledge, listen and ask a million questions, just to understand and know and focus on the whys and hows. I’ve loved growing my career and business over the last 15 years to be a strong, knowledgeable accountant who adds value and knows how to support a business and teams.

 

With that soaking-up-style of learning, I’ve watched many of my role models, coaches and managers and have picked up strengths, logically discounted their weaknesses and listened! All to develop and improve me as a super-strong Accountant and now an Accounting Coach.

 

It’s been a very fun and inspiring journey so far…

 

I set up my business in April 2018 & started work with my first paying coaching client not long afterwards. I’m super proud to say that my 10th client sat his ACCA exams in June! The passion, commitment and transformation of these clients is amazing. I’m SO proud of them – their confidence, motivation and accounting knowledge is ridiculously high!

 

They have implemented the plans and actions I coach them on and they have done the work – the RIGHT work!

 

I am a coach for a reason – because I love making a difference.

 

I am an Accounting Coach for a reason – because I am CIMA qualified and I know the struggles / pain / amazing rewards of this emotional rollercoaster. I KNOW how to coach accountants through it!

I am a cheerleader because my passion and enthusiasm really motivate my clients, boosts their confidence (with coaching tricks I’ve learnt) and keeps them on the right track to PASS.

 

I’ll be super honest here. I want to help thousands more qualifying accountants and I wish I could write that I’ve had 1100 clients in 2019.

 

I can’t – yet. But I WILL!

 

From the amazing clients I have coached, I’ve learnt SO much and finally been able to coach in a way that makes a positive, successful difference.

 

My superpower is the motivation and focus I coach when my clients are 2 weeks away from their exams (I frickin’ LOVE it!). So close to passing, we work smartly on tweaking the final bits and to calmly, confidently prepare for the exam day. It’s the absolute best bit for me!

 

Last month, two of my clients – Charlie and Taps – had the full-on passionate Helen coaching experience. Because they are sitting their ACCA exams! The 6 weeks of coaching revision had come together and the coaching magic was SO powerful. I was in my element – super confidence, Helen coaching mode!

 

THREE things I want to make clear and be honest about (one of my values is honest helpful advice)…

1. I took 18 exams sittings to pass my 10 CIMA exams (so truly, I know what it’s like to fail and HOW to pick yourself up and pass).
2. I still work full time and have an amazing career, as a Senior Management Accountant. I coach in my spare time and it’s my second full time job! Because I’m passionate and I love it and know how many of us need the support.
3. This is me being super real with you – I’m a MUCH a stronger coach now than I was in 2018.  I have listened to YOU, coached you and improved my skills so I can serve you better, quicker and smarter.

 

And I LOVE it! Being your Accounting Coach is my passion, it’s in my soul and it lights me up . I’d love to coach and support YOU today, too.

 

I can’t guarantee you will pass your exam (#sorrynotsorry) but I CAN guarantee I will do everything I can to coach, support, motivate and focus you, to give you the best ever chance of accounting success.

 

I did it, I know it’s tough, WE can do this!

 

If this still doesn’t reassure you, click here to see what some of my clients say!

 

And if you’re ready to take the next steps towards your success TODAY?

 

Just click here to book a call now – and let’s have a chat about coaching packages, and exactly how I can help you PASS those exams!

Until next time

Helen

STOP! Seriously just stop… put down the pen and paper and STOP writing revision notes.

 

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been talking about revision notes a lot. In the panic run up to the ACCA exams, the things I’m hearing and seeing most are ‘I’m writing too many notes’, ‘I can’t answer a question in the time because I’m writing so much’ and ‘I haven’t started practise questions because I’m still writing revision notes’.

 

And when I say stop – I mean it.

 

The point of revision is to RECALL the knowledge. Not to write pretty (long) notes and sentences, to try to make yourself look and feel smarter.

 

And I really say this from experience guys! If you had a crystal ball, you could look back and watch me sitting at my kitchen table revising. You’d see me writing SO many long notes, with different colours and so much writing – making sure I captured every single key CIMA word.

 

Guess what? Those were the exams I FAILED.

 

I spent so long (as you might be) writing notes, and never enough time learning the notes or writing enough practise questions.

 

Obviously, I have hindsight on my side to tell you what you ‘should’ be doing. But trust me, I know from failed experiences and so much coaching on using smart revision techniques what you really should be doing instead.

 

So here is my summary – a nice simple, to the point guide:

• For each chapter – write ONE A4 page of notes MAX.
• For each chapter – Write ONE A6 Revision card MAX.

 

But…that’s not enough Helen!? I need to write and know way more than that.

 

Yes! I agree completely. You need to KNOW more than that – but that doesn’t mean you need to write more. It means spending smarter time and effort on learning/recalling/practising that topic.

 

The best example of why I suggest this approach is to think about it like this.

I am an Accountant and work in Finance, so I have what I call ‘Accounting common sense’.

Imagine that I am taking your place & sitting your exam, one week from today. All I have is my Accounting common sense and your notes. And I have to PASS.  I have one week to learn, memorise and read your notes (one page of A4 only remember).

 

So you have to GET TO THE POINT…only write the minimum I need to know to pass… give me the KEY words, KEY formulas and KEY examples to use in the exam.

 

If I can’t pass the exam using your notes, then you can’t either.

 

Those hours of revision slots you have now saved (and have in front of you between now and the exam) are priceless. They are the key to you practising as many real exam questions as possible – TO TIME – and with NO notes!

 

You don’t need the notes to pass guys. You need the application, practise, knowledge and practise!

 

The way to PROVE you know the topic is to get a pass result in every official practise question you do. Let’s get real evidence that you know it, not “I think I know it because I’ve read the whole chapter twice”.

 

As you can tell, I get a little emotional and passionate when I rant on about revision methods and what you should be doing! I’m not going to apologise about that passion either – because my clients love it, need it and use that passion to motivate them.

 

The best way to see my passionate coaching is in my free group (CLICK HERE) I lead and support an amazing bunch of qualifying accountants just like you. You’ll get loads of coaching advice on what to REALLY do to successfully pass your exam.

 

I’m an accounting coach for a reason – because I know exactly what you’re going through & I want to help you get those Accounting letters. I have my CIMA Qualified letters and let me tell you, it’s such an amazing feeling! I have used my letters to boost my career, salary, job prospects, lifestyle and happiness.

 

I am in a senior finance position for a reason – because I have my CIMA letters. I earn an amazing salary – because I have my CIMA Letters. And I used my annual leave to travel the world – because I have loads of free time, rather than studying every weekend!

 

I also describe myself as the most determined and ambitious person you will ever meet. So if you spend too much time with me and watch my stuff, then it will rub off on you too! Are you ready for that success?!

 

If any of this blog today has helped or resonated with you, I have lots more articles and blogs to share with you here!

 

Don’t forget to join the group here!

 

Thanks so much for reading – now go and put those revision notes down and pick up some practise questions. Keep your head up high and practise, practise, practise!

 

And do reach out to me if you need any help or support (CLICK HERE)

 

Have a great week!

Helen

 

When I was 8, my teacher asked me “what do you want to be when you grow up?”. And I answered brightly “an accountant!”.

 

Yes, really. I was an odd child (and yes, feel free to laugh at me!).

 

But I saw an accountant as a professional career. Someone who wore a suit and took a briefcase to work (this was the ‘80s!). Someone who would always be needed and have a job and have a level of respect and authority to make the decisions in a business.

 

I used to dress up with my sister and pick out my dad’s old suit (sadly no pictures of me aged 8 in that suit, otherwise you could have a really good laugh!)

 

Honestly? At school, I was never an A* kind of girl. But I worked seriously hard. I got good grades, but not good enough for some graduate scheme applications (and I did hundreds of them!)

At uni, I REALLY wanted that 1st class degree. The highest mark, the accolade which shows true business academic success. I NEVER wanted anyone to be able to tell me my results weren’t good enough. That I wasn’t good enough.

 

And guess what? I got that 1st class Business Studies Degree. Even now, I positively shout about it all the time!

 

 

I always had the drive to become an accountant. I always had the motivation to achieve the highest academic success, to compliment my practical career. But it wasn’t easy. I worked SO hard for it (harder than so many other people I knew back then).

 

I started my CIMA within 6 months of finishing university – and, as you probably know by now, I didn’t pass some of my exams first (or even second) time.

 

It’s so damn tough to know you’re a great accountant, but you can’t pass the theoretical exams! Giving up crossed my mind more than once. But I never give up and I didn’t want to. I sat exams every sitting for 5 ½ years.

 

What kept me motivated to carry on? ME. I didn’t do my qualifications because I had to or because it was the right thing to do. I did them and worked so hard to finish them because of my mindset and my ‘WHY’.

 

Let’s talk a bit about ‘why’.

 

You know the reason you get out of bed in the morning? The reason you’re not a purchase ledger assistant? That something in you – that feeling that you’re destined to earn an amazing salary? The reason you’re reading this right now? It’s all because it MEANS something to you, deep within you.

 

I love that we are all different. Yes, we share similar thoughts and dreams, but we are all different.

 

You started your accounting journey to finish it – right?!

And I know it’s tough. Maybe you want to give up right now (or at least have a break)?

Well, trust me. I’m qualified for a reason guys – because I didn’t have a break until I finished. And now, because I’m qualified, I have amazing adventures filling my time and career!

 

This is where remembering your ‘why’ gets so powerful. WHY you are living this life, working so hard, and why you started this qualification.

 

What is my ‘why’? Let me share a little mindset trick I use. I put myself FIRST in my life. Yes, positively, passionately and proudly first!

 

As you know, I describe myself as the most determined and ambitious person you will ever meet.

 

My ‘why’ is to live my life the way I want and in the way that motivates & satisfies me!

 

I want to write and create a set of books. A long, library wall full of shelves of my life stories. I live my life to create amazing stories so that when someone picks up the book of my life, it’s one of those books they can’t put down. Full of smiles, laughing and (of course) some tears. But most of all – an encyclopaedia of books that are bursting with life and stories!

 

Every day, I honestly try to fill up my life with actions, activities and making a difference.

 

What is your ‘why’? Do you even know? WHY did you start your accounting journey?

 

When I was completing my CIMA qualification, I didn’t want to plod through and just try to pass, or sit an exam and see how I did. I wanted to give every exam my best attempt. I wanted to focus, be smart & have a clear plan and strategy to reach my career goals (and earn that money).

 

And you might feel like giving up right now, pulling the duvet over your head & hiding away from the world. I’ve been there too. But your ‘why’ is way more powerful than that.

 

Keep showing up, keep doing the work and you WILL get this!

I know you are reading this because you are on your accounting journey and need some support.

 

The best piece of support I can give you today is to find & remember your ‘why’. Hold on to it. Soak it up and squeeze it, to get through the motivational lows.

 

Whether your ‘why’ is about your children, family, career, pay rise, recognition, proving you’re a great accountant (you are a great accountant already by the way!)…

Remember YOU are the biggest reason. YOU are the person that can (and will) finish this qualification, get your accounting letters & get the job and salary you know you deserve.

 

Reminding yourself of your ‘why’ will give you the much-needed boost of energy, confidence and motivation (my favourite coaching skills).

 

Write it down, stick it up & repeat it to yourself (out loud!). Remember it every day, so that you live the life that YOU want. I know a big part of that is your accounting qualification – so keep your head up. Keep going and I promise you can do this!

 

My book of life is bursting at the 36-year-old seams… and I love it! The focus, determination and motivation I have and give my life is because I put myself FIRST. And at various points in my life, I have put certain things first, that matter most – my CIMA, my career, my salary, my holiday and my happiness.

 

What can you do this week to put yourself first & make a difference in your accounting journey?

 

And if any of today’s blog resonates with you – do click here to come & join our (free) Facebook group! There’s loads more support & resources there, to support you every step of the way.

 

Until next time,

Helen

 

Ok. I’m going to be frank here.

 

This year was meant to be the year you pass and/or qualify. Right? Finally get your CIMA or ACCA letters & step up into the job you deserve.

 

That job you KNOW you’re ready for. Finance Manager, Financial Controller, Head of Finance…and the big fat salary rise that comes with it.

 

But it’s April already (yes, April!). That’s a whole quarter of the year, slipped away already.

And you’re feeling SO frustrated that you haven’t passed yet.

 

Maybe you’re too scared to book your exam or resit? What if you fail again? (I completely get how that feels, by the way. When your confidence takes knock after knock, it’s tough to get back up & keep fighting.)

 

The motivation to study deserts you. You start beating yourself up, because you KNOW you’re not doing what you need to do & putting the work in to pass.

 

Life is getting in the way. Work is getting in the way.

And you’re stuck. You’re no further forward with your qualifications than you were in 2018.

 

I KNOW how much you deeply want that promotion. How it’ll feel, when you finally update your LinkedIn to ‘Financial Controller’. When you get that £50k salary.

 

So when I said I’ll be frank – here goes.

 

You NEED to get focused. The only way this is going to happen for you, is if you dig deep, re-commit to your finance career goals & take action.

 

• You want your life back.
• You want your weekends back.
• For your own sanity, you need to stop having exams on the brain.
• You desperately don’t want to read about audit. Again.

 

YOU made a commitment to yourself, to pass and finish this year. So – and this is coming from the best place – what the hell are you waiting for?!

 

This is my virtual attempt to shake you into action.

 

Take action. Now. Stop putting your future on hold. Book the exam. Write a revision plan. Stick to it. And focus on smart revision.

 

You CAN do this.

 

I know that the studying & revision takes up hours of your life & even more headspace.

It’s easier NOT to do enough & leave it ‘til the last minute. But we both know that is NOT going to help you.

 

And yes, it’s nice to know you can postpone the exam, but what’s the point? One thing’s sure – you’ll never pass if you keep doing that.

 

Your goal is NOT to pass your exam/s. Your goal is to be a Finance Manager, earn £50k+ salaries, take home £3k+ per month and never (ever) have to sit an exam again.

 

(I know wanting money is ‘taboo’ is our society, but it motivates me & I know it motivates you too. Maybe it’s that dream house you want. Maybe it’s amazing travel – it was for me, like a month I spent interrailing around Europe. And sod anyone who says otherwise!).

 

So if you’re ready to stop making excuses & start making a realistic revision plan – that actually WORKS – then I’d love to help!

 

I coach qualifying accountants to successfully pass AAT / ACCA / CIMA exams in 2019 (yes – 2019. This actual year. Not ‘one day’ at some distant time, when the planets align & you magically discover all the motivation from nowhere).

 

With my support, you get renewed focus & a whole new level of commitment to your own success. You get the confidence & right mindset to walk into that room & pass. You get a written, structured & bespoke plan, that fits study in to your life. A revision plan you truly believe in & that works for you.

 

What are you waiting for (seriously – what ARE you waiting for?!)

 

Click here now to find out more about your 1:1 Revision Coaching Success packages.

 

And then do come & join our (free) Facebook group – Exam Success for Qualifying Accountants! You’ll find live coaching, motivation & guidance, with tons of support from other qualifying accountants.

 

Remember WHY you started this whole process? I’d love to help you make 2019 the year you pass / qualify & start living the life you really want!

 

Helen x

It’s SO tough when you’re ready for that promotion. You have the practical experience & KNOW you can do it. But you can’t get the job, because you’ve not got your ACCA or CIMA qualification and letters yet!

 

So as a qualifying accountant, you’re stuck in a role you don’t really love. An Assistant Accountant or Trainee Accountant.

Knowing that you REALLY want to be the Finance Manager, Financial Controller or Head of Finance (with the salary rise that comes with it).

 

All because you don’t have your letters!

 

And you won’t move jobs because you have study support at this company (which shouldn’t always be a reason not to move, by the way. But that’s a whole other blog post!).

 

So you’ll just wait to move jobs & get that proper promotion once you’ve finished your last few exams (or even exams at certain stages).

 

BUT you can’t pass the exams. It’s a frustrating circle! And as long as you can’t pass the exam, you can’t get promoted.

 

Ouch. It hurts (believe me, I’m speaking from personal experience here).

 

So how DO you take control and get out of this circle?

 

Basically, you HAVE to pass the exam. The only way is to knuckle down, get laser focused & make yourself your #1 priority (that’s tough love coach Helen talking).

 

The softer coach Helen wants to show you how & and support you on this journey. Let’s get you off this exam rollercoaster and moving on to the fun stuff!

 

Like a pay rise, so you can buy that house. Or using your holiday leave for actual holidays in the sun, instead of studying at home or going to college. Or a new job in a new company that respects and values you as a Finance Manager (instead of that old trainee accountant you used to be).

 

Last week, I talked about being embarrassed with your colleagues and manager when you fail an exam. I totally get that. You want respect from your manager and respect for that promotion – you earned it at work, but just need the theory side/letters to match that respect. (Have a read of last week’s blog here!)

 

(To be honest, the respect is mainly in your head, but I get it and it’s real. For those horrible managers who think you ‘must be stupid if you fail your exam’ – then they can f**k right off.)

 

But let’s be honest (again tough love coach Helen) – you are doing your qualification for a reason. Right? And the point is to PASS and not just sit and resit exams every few months.

 

So let’s get you passing your exam! I am a coach for a reason – because I care, and I passionately care about qualifying accountants passing to get their letters. There’s zero point in all the studying otherwise.

 

I think you are amazing for taking on this challenge and getting out of your comfort zone, to progress your career & personal achievements. I LOVE that you are not just sitting in an admin-style finance job (even though that would be loads easier). You’re ambitious and determined and the finance world needs to see more of you! So let me help you to pass that resit & move UP the finance career ladder successfully.

 

I describe myself as the most ambitious and determined person you will ever meet. So if you hang around with me long enough, it’ll rub off onto you too.

 

I know you will pass by yourself. I have no doubt that you will. But I want you to pass your next exam right NOW and qualify as soon as possible!

 

(I’m a super-impatient by the way, so really will push and focus you. A client last week said to me ‘Wow, you’re a taskmaster!’ to which I replied ‘Yes, and I’m proud of it, you asked for coaching and that’s what I’m doing’ ?)

 

To successfully pass your exam, here’s what you need:

·        Focus (None of us can balance everything at once – it’s about doing one thing at a time, and doing that one thing very well)

·        Commitment (Like everything in life, when you 100% commit to study & revision success, you reap the rewards!)

·        Confidence (In yourself – utter belief you can do this, with the right perspective & mindset to walk into that room and pass)

·        The right plan (A written, structured & bespoke plan, that fits study in to your life. A revision plan you truly believe in & that works for you)

·        Coach (A cheerleader, positive voice, helping hand & supportive person – keeping you motivated and focused to the very end. And a person who knows what you’re going through and can really help you with these exams!).

 

I know I don’t need to tell you this – but truly, you don’t HAVE to be stuck or settle for a job that bores you, you don’t completely love or you want more from.

 

I’m on my 11th job. Over the last 15 years, I’ve worked my way successfully up the finance ladder. I moved around when it suited me to get those promotions and pay rises.

With every single new job, I got a salary increase and more finance responsibility (again, a whole other blog here!).

 

And I’m telling you this because I want to prove to you that don’t have to stay in a job that’s not motivating you, just because of your exams. I didn’t. And my career is amazing!

 

So here’s the next steps.

Click here now to find out more about your 1:1 Revision Coaching Success packages.

 

And then do come & join our (free) Facebook group – Exam Success for Qualifying Accountants! You’ll find live coaching, tons of exam tips & tricks & support from other qualifying accountants.

 

Can’t wait to support you on your journey to getting those letters, your dream job (and the big fat pay rise too!)

Helen x

Well – it really hit home this week, that ‘traditional’ revision doesn’t work for everyone.  The pages & pages of notes aren’t much fun. Maybe that’s you?

 

The truth is that there are loads of different ways to revise. Many that you might not have come across before (they should really teach this stuff at school!).

 

So I’m going to share everything with you in this week’s blog, in the hope that inspiration hits! To not only make your revision easier & more fun – but to help you actually PASS your exams.

 

I’ve just started work with an amazing new client, who was revising hard but wasn’t making the progress he needed. He was fed up with the endless notes & specifically asked me ‘think outside the box’.

 

And I love being that coach! The one who suggests a heap of new ideas, until we hit on the revision method that feels right & actually works for you.

 

Like Priya, one of my fab clients last year. She used to work in the library and revise…until I suggested she find a whiteboard to write down all her answers. And she loved it! A simple whiteboard helped her get to the point & get it out of her head. She massively increased her confidence because she realised how much of the syllabus she actually knew.

 

One of the problems my clients talk about all the time (and it was the same for me) is that you can revise so much in your head – but when it comes to the exam, you can’t type or write the answers out properly. So you don’t make the right points quickly enough, run out of time or just make the wrong point and fail. And the feeling of not writing the correct point in the exam is SO frustrating!

 

Revising all this stuff in your head is tough. Because when you come to practise questions, again you can’t get the point and feel awful that you can’t pass a mock exam in time for the real exam. Which hardly makes you feel confident on the day itself.

 

Here’s the thing…

 

I’m a classic note writer. And a planner. BUT since I’ve become a niche revision coach for accountancy exams, I’ve realised this is a h-u-g-e part of why I failed my own exams.

 

Because I wrote amazingly detailed and pretty revision notes. I spent so long on them, that I didn’t actual spend the time ‘revising’ – getting the knowledge in my head and applying it to exam questions, the way Mr CIMA wanted me to.

 

If I could go back, I’d shout at my old self “what are you DOING?! Stop trying to make the perfect notes. That’s not gonna work! Get your notes done in 10 mins and spend 50 minutes actually practising this stuff!”.

 

Sadly, I don’t have a time machine (yet). But the fact is that long revision notes are NOT a smart way to revise. And you don’t need to fill endless A4 notebooks to pass.

 

If I could go back – knowing what I’ve learnt during my time as coach – here’s what I’d do instead:

 

1. Write a MAXIMUM of 1 page of notes (A4) for each chapter.

2. As a maximum, write out the formulas.

3. And as a maximum, write 1 revision card (postcard size) per topic.

 

How does the thought of that make you feel? Relieved? Would you revision feel way easier & simpler, without those pages & pages (and pages) of notes?

 

And how much more FUN would it be?! I know, imagine that – actually enjoying revising. ‘Cos it’s 100% not fun when you’re ploughing through the text book & spending hours writing notes (especially when it doesn’t even work).

 

Honestly, revision really doesn’t have to feel that way!

 

Here’s some SMART-er ways to revise (you know the specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, timely thing):

 

·        Read it out loud (because it helps you verbalise what you know);

·        Read it out loud to yourself in the mirror (I know this sounds weird – but it works!)

·        Write bullet points, not paragraphs (it makes you get to the point in a few words);

·        Use A6 revision cards (to write less and know the points quickly);

·        Use a whiteboard (again, this forces you to write less & get to the point);

·        Give practical examples to the theory (to link theory with knowledge, so it makes sense to you);

·        Do short bursts of practise questions (to retain the knowledge and answers smartly);

·        Do mock exams to time (with closed books – to test yourself properly and practise for the real thing in a REAL way);

·        Listen to your voice saying the answer (to verbalise what you know and get to the point);

·        Call me & leave me a 60-second voicemail about ‘activity-based costing’ (or whatever it is – seriously, I won’t even listen if you don’t want me to! But it proves to yourself that you DO know this stuff).

 

There’s plenty more in my revision toolkit too. Not all of these will be right for you. But when we mix it up, try new stuff & find the methods that DO work for you, it sets you up for exam success in a whole new way.

 

I don’t know about you – but like I said at the start, I was never taught how to revise at school. ‘Revision week’ came along & we were packed off home. So I completely get that trying something new like this takes self-awareness, an open mind & the courage to try a new path.

 

Yes, I’m sure some of my clients think I’m a little odd for suggesting these things. But then they try them and LOVE them! They get such a confidence boost when they pass a practise question & realise all this amazing knowledge has actually stuck in their brain.

 

And when my coaching clients sit their real exams and pass, it makes me SO happy to have played a little part in their accountancy career journey!

 

So! I really hope the ideas in this blog have been useful for you.

 

Why not come & join our Facebook group – Exam Success for Qualifying Accountants? Be part of our supportive community, on this journey together. And I’m always there to help too, with loads more tools, tips & inspiration.

 

Or for a chat about 1:1 Revision Success Coaching, click here now.

 

It’s niche revision coaching for CIMA, ACCA & AAT exams, for when you’re in that phase. Not the study, teaching & knowledge stage – I support you during the bit in between that and the exam. Where you practise, grow in confidence and focus on the exam (the bit that’s critical to pass them!).

 

Here’s to you flying through YOUR next exams!

Have a great week! Helen

Why exam failure never stopped me (and why it shouldn’t stop you)…

 

 

My Grandma is in hospital right now. It’s the weekend – and as I type this, I’ve come down to Devon to visit her.

I’m staying at her house and last night, I found a letter I wrote to her, 10 years ago.

 

I remember writing every word of that letter. Because I had to tell her I’d failed 2 of my exams.

 

I tried my hardest – and yet still, I’d failed.

 

I’d worked SO hard. Focused, revised, gone to college, practised, worked full-time and was so motivated for the challenge of 2 exams (which is tough!).

 

I’d waited 10 long weeks for my results. Only to discover I’d failed them both.

 

What a ‘waste’ of time, effort & brain power (feeling emotional again just remembering!).

 

I know I tried and I know I’m a great accountant. But failing two exams is hard. And felt truly, deeply embarrassing.

 

So I wrote a letter to my grandma, who I know wouldn’t mind, because she loves me and is just proud that I’m challenging myself to make a great career (I know you’re the same, doing it for your career & your family too).

 

But I remember vividly that it would have been ‘easy’ for me to not tell her or not write the letter. I knew writing it down would kick all my mindset demons into overdrive. But still I did it!

 

Telling your manager can feel even tougher, especially if your company is funding your study support. When your career depends on passing, it’s a tough conversation to have.

 

I had to tell my manager I’d failed both of these exams (with 36% – the pass mark was 50%, so I was waaaaay off on both).

It’s even worse when your fellow qualifying colleagues are passing with flying colours…

 

So why I am telling you this?

 

Because I want you know that if you’re in this boat right now, you’re not alone!

 

Now – a whole decade on – I’m wiser. I’m a coach. Now, I’ve developed the skills & experience to quickly get past my mindset blimps (and yes, they never go away completely. You just get different challenges are your career progresses!),

 

So many of my clients say they hate telling people when they’re sitting exams. Especially work colleagues, because when these people ask ‘how did you do’, it’s embarrassing.

 

And we pile even MORE pressure on ourselves to make sure we pass, so we can tell these people good news and not have to sigh an embarrassed ‘yeah, I failed’.

 

Setting yourself up with the right mindset, confidence & self-belief for success can feel impossible.

 

I wish this stuff didn’t matter. But it does. In fact, it’s CRUCIAL. Because if your mindset & confidence aren’t in the right place, it dramatically affects your thought process. You put extra pressure on yourself that detracts from your revision & exam preparation.

 

And here’s the thing.

Do I tell loads of people I failed my exams a few times? Hell no!

I tell them I’m CIMA qualified & it’s one of my proudest achievements.

 

Do I worry that I only got 51% pass rates? Nope – I positively shout about my current salary and my amazing senior accounting career!

 

At the time when your exams are your main focus, of course you care. But worrying what other people will think or say – or how other people are doing – is a HUGE waste of your precious energy.

 

Truly, you don’t have to worry about them. Because all that matters is YOU, your pass marks & your career.

 

Please (please) focus your energy on YOUR exam journey and exam preparation.

 

I know it’s easy for me to say, 10 years down the line – but I remember my exams as if they were yesterday. And I wish I’d invested in myself & got the support I needed back them.

 

It’s my passion now to coach positive exam mindset, putting yourself first and taking control of your life.

 

When you’re studying, your life revolves around May/November exams (well, mine did!). And going to college, homework, studying the syllabus, revising, practising questions, mock exams…it’s full on!

 

When you fail, it’s hard to not take it personally. Not to think ‘I’m a rubbish accountant’. It would be SO easy it would be to stop the exams, or take a break, or even worse change your mindset & actually start to believe you’re a rubbish accountant.

 

It’s not true. And maybe you just need the right support, to get those exams in the bag.

 

Keep going.

 

Because it’s SO worth it in the end!

 

In 2013, I qualified and got my ACMA CGMA letters after my name (this is my plaque taking pride of place on the wall!)

 

I’m so proud of where I’ve got to in my career now. And I know the best is yet to come.

 

And if I can help YOU – to coach & support you through your exams, to:

·       Increase your confidence;

·       Reduce your stress;

·       Set a revision plan, to balance exams / work / life;

·       And ultimately get the successful exam pass you need…

 

…please, do get in touch. I’d love to help you!

 

Just email hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk or call 07855 130066 for a chat today.

 

I’d love to support you on your journey to exam success & the finance career of your dreams!

Helen

Confession time!

How do I start this?! I’m getting twitchy and nervous just ‘saying’ it out loud!

 

 

This week marks 6 years since I qualified with my CIMA qualification, one of the proudest achievements of my life… so far!

As you know I describe myself as the most determined and ambitious person you will ever meet, and whilst that is completely true, I am also very guilty of trying too hard, working too hard and getting anxious and overwhelmed with everything going on in my life.

And let me tell you … ssshhh…. I’m whispering (cos I’m a little embarrassed) … that I have been struggling with my life over the last few weeks! This is something I don’t talk about very much, but I wanted to be honest with you guys and share what’s been going on and how I’ve dealt with it (because I reckon you’ll know exactly what it feels like).

 

 

Since my Degree in 2005 I have focused on getting my letters and working quickly and successfully UP the career ladder. The highlights of my career have been an Assistant Accountant in a distribution company, Senior Management Accountant in a retail company, Finance Manager to manufacturing organisations and my current role is a Senior Management Accountant within a growing manufacturing SME.

As well as my successful and amazing 9-5 job, I decided to set up my own coaching business in 2018. I have been mentoring on the CIMA mentoring programme for the last 5 years, as well as lots of other voluntary opportunities (including governor of a secondary and primary school, mentor on The Girls’ Network programme and interviewing at local schools).

 

One of the aims of my business is to support more qualifying accountants and I have been super focused on being visible so you guys see how a coach and experienced qualified accountant can really help you succeed (just like I am doing!).

 

In January I ran a webinar on ‘How to successfully balance your work-life-study stress’, which was so fun and the appreciation for you guys was amazing – thank you!

 

But guess what … I was at the point of overwhelm and stress!

 

I’ve spent the last few weeks battling the stress and trying to pretend I’m fine and I just need to keep going.  I know that’s a familiar feeling for you guys on your Accounting journey (I’ve had these feelings quite a lot!) so I wanted to tell you that my business and career journey is also tough!

 

Honestly is one of my proudest personality traits so I wanted to be real and honest with you guys.

 

Growing my coaching business and having a senior finance position plus my family and household commitments (the dreaded washing up!) has been TOUGH!

I have been trying sooo hard and working crazy hours to bring amazing content to you to help and advise you through your exams PLUS impressing my managers and growing as part of a successful Finance team, but ouch my head hurts and my brain is FULL!

 

I have a coach to support me through my business journey, and this week I had to reach out to her for some extra support. It all just got too much.

Thank goodness I did.. I feel so much better now! She just gave me the right words and coached me through my emotions and what I needed to do to reduce the overwhelm, get back on track and relax to remember the point of my life!

 

The point of my life is to be unapologetically Helen Pretty, be an amazingly on the ball qualified Accountant and be the determined and ambitious Accounting coach to YOU!

 

I know I can only do that when I feel balanced, happy and motivated. Watch out guys… I am back on the ball and feeling super happy and relaxed about the next chapter in my journey.

 

How are you feeling?

Drop me an email (hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk ) or a DM on Linkedin (click here) to let me know how I can coach you through the emotional rollercoaster that is your *CIMA/AAT/ACCA qualification journey.

 

 

I pride myself on my planning and organisational skills, not because I’m arrogant or a show off, but because they work for me and the amazingly successful results I want out of my life.

For example, a few years ago I set some yearly goals – to have £4,500 in my bank account at Christmas, to visit 2 new foreign places, to visit my grandma and Nana twice and to make 2 sewing items (I love my sewing machine!).

Guess what – when it came to the end of the year – I had nailed ALL of them! (plus some more!!) The smug sense of proudness and happiness I felt for my life was at a super high. I had thoroughly enjoyed my year and was in control of my life and my successes. And raring to go for the new year ahead!

 

Planning and setting goals comes naturally to me, lots of things come unnaturally to me as well – never ask to me sing, run or dance, cos I’m rubbish at those things! But planning and achieving the results is my bread and butter, my daily focus and my go to happiness key.

 

I can and want to support you and help you to write, set and implement successful goals.

I am a qualified accountant and experience Accounting coach for a reason – because I know what works for me, how to use it to my advantage and focus on the end result.

My number one tool to how this magically happened (tip- no magic about it!) was to HAVE A REVISON PLAN.

My number one method to SUCCESSFULLY ACHIEVE the plan was the magic bit!

 

 

Here are my ways and tips for you on how I have successfully set and achieved my goals!

 

SPECIFIC

I have a logical, organised thought process and I love structure when it comes to my life and goals (especially my big goals).

Like I said, I used this to my advantage, and I honestly do not politely care what anyone thinks about it!

BE SPECIFIC with your goals and your reasons WHY.

I set my goals specifically because it aligns with my brain and what I view as success.

 

The most useful example I can give is travelling. I love to travel and have been fortunate to have travelled a lot. Over the last 8 years I have travelled alone and had some amazing experiences (I’ll tell you about the funny stories later!)

My travel goal could be ‘go on holiday’. But this isn’t going to make it happen!

My SPECIFIC goal should be ‘I will travel to 2 new places in 2019, and the detail will be ‘a hot sunny holiday in the summer (Greece) and a fun holiday (Spain) for my birthday in October’.

 

I know exactly what I’m doing and when because I have made it specific!

 

REALISITIC

I set goals that are what I call a ‘realistic challenge’, so they are something I know I can do and achieve, but with a bit of work and focus. Maybe saving some money for a few months to make the goal happen.

A realistic goal will enable you to feel happy before it even starts! Confidence and happiness are powerful emotions that I believe are key to a successful life.

A challenging goal enables you to bring out courage, determination and ambition. These are exciting emotions which I love feeling, they bring out my personality and help me focus and motivate myself super well.

An example of a realistic goal would be ‘To pass your next exam with 60%’ – this means there is a challenge in there, and you’re not aiming too high or too low – you don’t have to be a prize winner and you shouldn’t focus on 50% because its too close to failing.

 

My realistic challenging goal for 2019 is to have £10,000 in my bank account by 31st December 2019.

 

PRIORITISE

A successful goal is about prioritising what is right for me.

Here is where I need you to be brave and put yourself FIRST. This is YOUR life and these are YOUR goals! You can set and achieve anything YOU want to!

If you want to pass 1 or 6 or 200 exams in 2019 then set the goal for that! It does NOT matter what anybody thinks, as long as it is specific, and a realistic challenge and has a plan – then YOU CAN SUCCESSFULLY ACHIEVE IT!

 

My life goals are to write a book, not just one book, a series of books, with my amazing life stories in them. I live my day to be able to write those chapters and make the stories happen.

What are you going to prioritise to bring out your courage and life successes.

 

PLAN

The only ways goals truly work is to write a plan. Writing on paper is a powerful tool for me. It keeps me accountable and structured.

Once you know WHAT you want to achieve (and why), you need to figure out HOW!

 

I tend to ask myself quite a few questions – the normal ones – what, why, how, when, why. The power of a plan is that these questions are simply identified and answered.

It allows me to brain dump my answers, throw them all in the air and then structurally plot them out on paper in a methodical timely manner to implement the goals.

 

My 2019 plan is written and on the wall in my kitchen, having the visual aid really helps me to look at it and tick off my successes!

 

Do you think you can –
·       Be specific
·       Set realistic challenges
·       Prioritise what is right for you
·       Write a goal plan?

OF COURSE YOU CAN!!!

 

I would love to hear what you think about my article, so leave a comment below or send me a DM on linkedin – Here!

Get in touch with me if you would like me to help you write, set and implement your successful goals! Book a call here – http://bit.ly/PSCChat

 

Thanks! Helen x

Hi guys!

 

I have nearly 5000 Linkedin connections (If that’s not you – why not ? – just click here to connect).

And I have been asked may times over the last few months to ‘What I do’ and ‘Can I teach the syllabus’ to you. I wanted to write an article to give you all the answers you need!

 

What do I do ?!

So, I coach qualifying accountants and yes I can technically teach the syllabus (because I’m CIMA qualified and work in a senior finance position) but teaching the course to you is not my business nor what I want to offer you guys.

 

I am an accounting coach for qualifying and qualified accountants to help you pass your exams, move up the career ladder and get the Accounting job of your dreams.

I work in conjunction with study resources (BPP, online tutors, study texts, self-study, ACCA or CIMA official materials) to give you all the other skills and tools on how to get that exam pass.

I believe you won’t pass the exam by just reading the books and going to class! (Shock emoji face – did she just say that?!)

 

 

I love a sport psychology reference and it helps to illustrate the answer perfectly.

Imagine an Olympian, let’s say Mo Farrah, he will have a tutor to teach him how to technically run (ie put one step in front of the other). Mo will have a coach to focus and support him to how to win a race.

Qualifying accountants have tutors to teach the syllabus and some exam skills. They have a coach to know HOW to successfully pass the exam.

Do you think Mo Farrah won 4 Olympic gold medals without a coach!?

 

An accounting coach is a new concept, I get it, there are not many of us! How great is it that coaches like me (qualified accountants) are available for YOU (YES you!!) to work with and have expert coaching from to really get that qualification and really get that £40k/£50k finance job!

 

What’s the difference for you?

 

1-     End Results

I have been exactly where you are, sat in the BPP classroom being taught (and getting bored) learning the syllabus and at home on my kitchen table with books and notes open staring into space trying to self-study!

All I really cared about was passing the exam. Getting that 50% exam pass!

And that’s all I care about now – coaching YOU to successful pass your exam.

 

I truly believe you won’t pass the exam by just knowing the syllabus (okay some prize winners might be able to do that, but it’s the minority).

To pass the exam you need to know how to answer the questions, with confidence and technical ability. The study resources give you the technical ability and my coaching gives you the tools and support to put in place the other skills to get that pass.

Tutors give you the technical ability (which is great and you need this) and coaches work on all the other areas, as a holistic approach, but with the focus to getting to the end result!

The pass is the end result, not the study in between (that’s the tutor’s bit)– it’s all about passing.

 

I know you are and can be an amazing accountant, passing your ACCA or CIMA qualification won’t be the way to prove it! Your work experience combined with your theory will be how you prove how amazing and skilled you are.

I’ll tease you and save the reasons why for another article, so for now just think about the end result of your exam pass and how an Accounting coach (that’s me ? ) can do that.

 

2-     Motivation

A key part of a coach’s role in your success is providing the motivation you need to gain your version of success.

 

Motivation is ‘the general willingness to do something’.

 

For Mo Farrah success is winning a 10k Olympic race.

For qualifying accountants (that’s you) success is passing your exam, but also feeling ready and in control to sit and pass your exams, with confidence, technical knowledge and the ability to not loose it all on the day!

A coach is there to support you to get the success you want, to hold you hand through the emotional journey, and to be your cheerleader at every step of the way.

 

Obviously some tutors do this too, but this isn’t really their role in the process, and these special tutors are in the minority. I have had experience of many BPP tutors, some good, a few great and a few rubbish ones (where I’ve changed classes!)

I would never have qualified without them, so I know they are vital parts of the study and exam process, but their role really is to teach you the content.

Will you be able to successfully pass your exam (with confidence and no stress) if you just have a tutor?

Would Mo Farrah have been able to get those gold Olympic medals if you only had a running tutor?

 

Motivation is the key part of a coaches role.

I’m an accounting coach and I am here for the journey, not just the study for my clients. I motivate, encourage, support and guide qualifying accountants to successfully pass their exams.

Check out my testimonials and case studies to see what my clients truly think about me!

 

3-     I’m a qualified accountant – so…

I qualified in 2013, not that long ago, and I didn’t pass some of my exams first time, but I did keep going. I also self-studied and paid for ¼ of my resits and exams myself.

Having an expert and experienced coach will make the difference to YOUR success.

I know exactly what you are going through, and the real stressful, frustrating emotions this qualification brings out. It is a tough qualification and mix in a full time trainee accountant job (I had one of those!) and mix in a social life (I tried to have one of those!) and family commitments (I had those!).

I promise you, I know how to support you because I have been there, done it and got the CIMA qualified plaque on my wall!

 

Imagine Mo Farrah having a choice of 2 coaches to use to support him.

One is a lovely guy who has always worked in banking and knows how to lead a team to smash their finance targets.

The other one is Usain Bolt- someone who has the technical running knowledge, but mainly the real-life empathy, skills and ability to know exactly what Mo is thinking and finding hard, in order to focus on Mo’s version of success.

It’s a no- brainer – Mo will choose Usain Bolt every time! And he will excel in so many ways!

 

My name is Helen Pretty and I am YOUR Usain Bolt!

 

I would love to have a chat about being your accounting coach – get in touch today –

My email is hello@prettysuccessfulcareers.co.uk

My Linkedin is – www.linkedin.com/in/helenprettycoach 

 

Have a great week!

Thanks, I would love to hear your thoughts so leave a comment below  me ? ?