How a Vietnamese financial data analyst conquered financial barriers to pursue his dream
Tung Tran, CFA, is happy that his life has turned a corner but still remembers the academic setbacks and financial hardships he faced along the way. Now a financial data analyst at a Vietnamese securities brokerage, Tung would tell his younger self to develop a saving habit, focus on developing his unique talents and make time for his family and personal interests. "Money can buy everything but time,” he says.
Today, we have achieved success and I’m here to share with you and give you advice that can help you in your journey as you grow up.
We share a common passion, that is to become a successful entrepreneur in the financial sector. During the time you were in school we failed some very important exams, like the entrance exam for the specialized math class and at those times, you felt very demotivated and felt that the door leading to your dream had closed. However, don’t let that discourage you. Stand up and reflect on those failures.
In the past, our family faced many financial hardships. However, after gaining work experience, I was able to support our family by changing our daily expenses and setting aside some money for saving and investing.
I also want to offer you a few pieces of advice. The first is to believe in yourself. You have talents that not everyone has. Try to discover your potential and develop it to help you succeed in your career path.
The second piece of advice I want to share is to start developing a saving habit now.
Use it to save and cover future financial needs. Money can buy everything except time. When you achieve financial independence, you can spend more time with family, loved ones. Spend your free time on personal hobbies such as playing billiards or sports. Even when you succeed in your career, balance it with your personal life.
A letter to my younger self
What advice do you wish you had heard before starting your career in finance? In this series of personal stories, CFA® Charterholders from different backgrounds discuss the insights they have gained during their career journey and the pivotal moments that shaped their professional paths. What would you write in a letter to your younger self?
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