There’s no shortage of career advice out there—but for finance executive and Certified Management Accountant (Australia), Michelle Maralit, just one line changed everything:
“Never settle, and never stop learning.”
That mantra didn’t just push her to grow. It completely reshaped how she approached work, leadership, and long-term success.
“No matter how much experience you gain, there’s always something new to learn, a new challenge to tackle, and a better version of yourself to strive for,” Michelle told Financial Adviser PH.
It’s the kind of mindset that turns steady careers into breakout ones.
Why Staying Still is the Real Risk in Finance
In a fast-evolving industry like finance, staying in your comfort zone is more dangerous than taking risks.
“The finance industry is constantly changing, and those who stay ahead are the ones who are willing to learn new skills, embrace innovation, and step out of their comfort zones,” Michelle said.
That’s why she constantly pursues new certifications, explores ESG reporting, and dives into data analytics—long before they became industry must-haves.
Growth Doesn’t Just Happen—You Have to Make It Happen
One of the most pivotal moves in Michelle’s career was stepping into a leadership role—a shift that forced her to think not just about the numbers, but about operations, strategy, and people management.
“I had to develop a leadership style that worked for me and gain a deeper understanding of different business functions,” she said. That challenge? It became her greatest opportunity.
Reinventing Yourself Is the New Power Skill
Whether you’re early in your career or aiming for a senior role, Michelle’s advice is clear: keep reinventing yourself.
“If you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind,” she says. “Growth is about being uncomfortable—and choosing it anyway.”
The takeaway? You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to stay curious, stay driven, and stay learning.
Because the moment you stop growing—that’s when your career really starts to stall.
