What and How Professionals Perform
01 Oct 2024
Towards Continuous Improvement Along Your Professional Journey
The act of being a ‘professional’ is not and endpoint, but a lifelong journey on which you continue to learn, unlearn as you consider new evidence, and then learn again. This view is supported by research in education as well as other branches of science, including psychology. Building one’s repertoire of professional skills involves constantly strengthening of existing connections and the generation of new ones.
Importance of testing
In converting study into mastering new knowledge perhaps the single most important strategy is to regularly ‘test’ yourself as you go. Reading and re-reading is not nearly as effective as testing yourself. Taking tests on the new material multiple times will result in neuro-coding, i.e. locking it into your mind. So, the pattern should be study, then test. Study some more, test again.
It is important that you see testing in a positive light. Recognise that emotion plays an important role in learning and motivation to learn. See testing as ‘learning’ not ‘evaluation’
Focus / alertness / motivation
Attention and focus are vital. Applying our attention and focus turns on the nervous system. Be honest with yourself. Focus and attention involve commitment and hard work. Successful students can force themselves to focus. They commit to put in the hard work. They understand that learning is meant to feel difficult. It requires effort. You can do hard things. Moreover, doing hard things is vital for personal and professional growth.
As philosopher Will Durant argues:
“The golden mean, however, is not, like the mathematical mean, an exact average of two precisely calculable extremes; it fluctuates with the collateral circumstances of each situation, and discovers itself only to mature and flexible reason. Excellence is an art won by training and habituation: we do not act rightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have these because we have acted rightly; “these virtues are formed in man by his doing the actions” we are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit: “the good of man is a working of the soul in the way of excellence in a complete life;... for as it is not one swallow or one find day that makes a spring, so it is not one day or a short time that makes a man blessed and happy.”
Don’t make excuses. Don’t wait till you get motivated. Action precedes motivation. As H. Jackson Brown Jr. noted:
“Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have the same amount of hours per day that were given to… Michelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo Di Vinci… and Albert Einstein.”
Seek feedback
Learners should actively seek feedback from their teachers, peers and other stakeholders. Constructive feedback helps identify areas of improvement and provides an opportunity for growth. Actively engaging in discussions and collaborating with others can foster creativity and lead to deeper knowledge and better learning strategies.
Use all your senses
Memory, learning and focus are also enhanced when one uses all your senses. See it, hear it, write it down and then test yourself on it to determine what you know, how well you know it, and what you don’t know.
Power of story
Another powerful strategy involves the interleaving of information. This is especially true in relation to the power of story to help you link elements together and trigger your mind and aiding recall and deeper synthesis of the information
Power of sleep
There is also a strong link between one’s physical and mental health. A good night’s sleep is vital for learning. Actual changes that come about in the learning process do not occur during focus, but during sleep, especially during rapid eye movement which tends to occur near end of first night following learning.
Nutrition and Exercise
Two other vital components of physical health that play a significant role in effective learning are nutrition and exercise. Good food and regular exercise increase your energy level and enable all biological systems (including the brain) to function at their best.
Mindfulness, meditation, posture and deep breathing
Focus is also assisted by mindfulness and meditation. Ten minutes a day, focused on good posture, breathing and regular meditation and reflection on your professional growth will pay big dividends when it comes to learning. (See e.g.’ Non-sleep deep rest (NSDR): https://www.sleepfoundation.org/meditation-for-sleep/what-is-non-sleep-deep-rest ).
Structure and plan your study
Learning will also be optimised if you schedule your day so that it supports optimal learning. Successful students schedule their study as definite period of day. They tend to have a definite period when they study alone and without distractions, including no phone or surfing the web. It is important to choose times when you know you are alert. Tell your friends-- no interruption!” –and enforce it. Our brains get used to being focused on a particular time. Developing and strengthening such a habit is a vital professional skill that will serve you well throughout life.1
Invest in yourself and commit to continuous improvement
Continuous improvement is the key to staying relevant in the ever-changing world of all professionals. It involves constantly learning new methodologies, tools, and techniques to enhance productivity and efficiency. By embracing a mindset of continuous improvement, successful professionals can keep up with industry trends and deliver better results.
Successful professionals should invest time and effort in training and upskilling themselves. Continuous learning and professional development enable testers to acquire new skills and stay competitive in the industry. By regularly updating their knowledge and skill set, learners can improve their ability to tackle complex challenges.
Continuous improvement is not a one-time activity but a lifelong commitment. It requires dedication, perseverance, and an eagerness to grow. By making continuous improvement a part of their professional journey, you can become more effective, efficient, and valuable contributors to your profession and wider community. Also, be curious. Know that there is always something new to learn. Know also that previous and current views must always be tested to ensure that current knowledge still applies to new situations. Curiosity is the fuel that drives continuous improvement. As continuous learners, we must always keep our minds open, stay curious, and embrace new challenges. Only by questioning, exploring, and experimenting can we truly develop new skills and uncover the hidden flaws and vulnerabilities in our current knowledge.
Take time to celebrate achievements
Professionals should acknowledge and celebrate their achievements at every significant step. Recognising the progress made, boosts morale and motivates learners to keep pushing forward. Celebrating achievements also fosters a culture of appreciation and collaboration with other members of your learning and professional community.
Recent Blog
02 Jul 2025
My Strategic Journey as an Accounting Student
When “accounting” is discussed, it is usually thought of as numbers, calculations and boring spreadsheets. I was not any different either. But now, as an accounting student, having amassed a lot of knowledge, I have realized that it is much more than that. It is more about understanding how money works, how businesses survive and grow and how important it is to keep things fair and honest. Accounting is just that.
Why I Chose Accounting?
I chose accounting because I wanted to do something practical and useful. Every business need someone to manage its money properly. That means no matter where I work big company or small shop, accounting will always be important.
Also, I enjoy organizing things and solving problems, and accounting gives me that chance. There is a certain satisfaction when your numbers match, or when you figure out where something went wrong and fix it.
What I’ve Learned So Far?
My academic experience has enabled me with the ability to prepare and interpret key financial documents such as balance sheets, income statements and cash flow statements. I have developed and improved technical ability in recording transactions, analysing financial health and finding risk.
On an equally important note, I have also adapted essential soft skills like time management, team collaboration and the ability to communicate complex financial concepts in accessible terms. Accounting has taught me that trust and ethical responsibility are foundational. A minor miscalculation or lapse in integrity can compromise not just financial statements but entire organisations.
The Struggles Are Real
Studying accounting has its challenges. Mastering complex standards, reconciling financial differences and meeting academic deadlines can be overwhelming. There are times when the pressure to support accuracy and consistency feels relentless. However, every challenge has reinforced my analytical mindset, attention to detail and persistence traits which are essential for both professional success and personal growth.
My Hopes for the Future
In the future, I want to become a professional accountant, even get my CPA or CA license. I want to help businesses make smart decisions and stay financially healthy. Most of all, I want to do a job that makes a difference.
Final Thoughts
If you are thinking about studying accounting, just know this it is not easy, but it is worth it. It teaches you responsibility, patience, and problem-solving. And once you get into it, you will see that it is actually interesting.
Being an accounting student has helped me grow not just academically, but as a person. I am proud to be on this journey, even on the days when the calculator and I do not get along!
22 May 2025
Rising Demand, Real Impact: Why the Bachelor of Social Work is the Future of Care and Community
As Australia faces growing challenges in mental health, aged care, family services, and community wellbeing, social work is emerging as a vital profession for the country’s future. The Bachelor of Social Work is more than a degree—it’s a pathway to a meaningful, stable, and in-demand career.
National Trend: A Growing Need for Social Workers
The Australian Government’s Labour Market Insights report highlights that the demand for qualified social workers is expected to grow strongly in the coming years. Between 2023 and 2028, social work jobs are projected to grow by over 23 percent.
This increase is driven by:
- Greater focus on mental health services
- Expanding aged care and disability support
- Government investment in child protection and family services
- The need for culturally competent professionals in ever increasing multi-cultural communities
Why International Students Should Consider Social Work
Social work is recognised as a skill shortage area in several Australian states, which opens doors to potential migration opportunities through state nomination and skilled visa programs.
Other benefits include:
- Qualifications that are nationally accredited and recognised (often through AASW – Australian Association of Social Workers)
- Diverse employment opportunities in government agencies, non-profits, healthcare, education, community organisations and pathways for research careers
- Opportunities to build strong professional skills in communication, cultural sensitivity, and case management
- A career that provides emotional rewards alongside professional growth
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates with a Bachelor of Social Work may pursue roles such as:
- Mental health social worker
- Child and family support officer
- Community development worker
- Hospital or school social worker
- Aged care or disability services coordinator
- Crisis intervention or domestic violence case manager
Many of these roles appear on Australia’s skilled occupation lists, offering a clear path for international graduates who wish to stay and work in the country.
Why Social Work Matters
Social work combines professional knowledge with a deep sense of empathy and service. It is a career for those who want to make a lasting impact—whether by supporting individuals through hardship, strengthening families, or advocating for vulnerable communities.
If compassion is in your DNA, the world needs you now more than ever.
The challenges around us are many — injustice, inequality, suffering — but what we need are people bold enough to face them head-on. People with heart. People with courage.
At NAPS, we don’t just train social workers — we shape change-makers.
We’ll equip you with the skills to think critically, act creatively, and respond with innovation in the face of real-world problems.
‘Let's get this right, when compassion meets action, everything changes'
24/04/2025 Professor Venkat Pulla
Choosing to study a Bachelor of Social Work is both a smart and compassionate decision. It leads to a career with strong job prospects, personal fulfilment, and the potential to contribute meaningfully to Australian society. For international students, it also offers long-term opportunities and a chance to be part of a profession that changes lives.
15 Apr 2025
IFRS in Australia: A Guide to Financial Transparency and Accountability
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) form the backbone of financial reporting in Australia. Since their adoption in 2005, IFRS has shaped how businesses communicate financial information, ensuring consistency and transparency. But what does this mean in practical terms for businesses, investors, and the broader economy?
The Role of IFRS in Financial Reporting
IFRS is a set of internationally accepted accounting standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). Its primary goal is to create a common financial language that facilitates comparability and reliability across global markets. Over 140 countries, including Australia, have adopted IFRS, making it a fundamental element of financial regulation and reporting.
In Australia, the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) is responsible for implementing IFRS while considering local economic and regulatory factors. This ensures that financial statements meet global expectations while addressing specific national requirements.
Why IFRS Matters to Australian Businesses
For companies operating in Australia, IFRS compliance is not just a regulatory obligation but a strategic advantage. Standardised financial statements help investors, creditors, and stakeholders make informed decisions, reducing uncertainty and enhancing market confidence.
Before IFRS, different national accounting standards created inconsistencies that made financial comparisons difficult. Now, whether an investor is assessing an Australian firm or a European counterpart, IFRS ensures that financial data is presented in a uniform and understandable manner.
Key IFRS Standards Impacting Australian Businesses
Several IFRS standards significantly impact how companies report financial information in Australia:
- Revenue Recognition (AASB 15/IFRS 15): Establishes clear guidelines on when and how businesses recognise revenue, reducing discrepancies and enhancing consistency.
- Lease Accounting (AASB 16/IFRS 16): Requires companies to record most lease obligations on their balance sheets, offering a more accurate picture of liabilities.
- Financial Instruments (AASB 9/IFRS 9): Regulates how businesses classify and measure financial assets and liabilities, improving transparency in risk assessment.
How IFRS Affects Investors and Everyday Australians
IFRS extends beyond businesses and accountants—it influences anyone with an interest in financial markets. Investors, for instance, rely on IFRS-based reports to assess company performance and make informed decisions. Superannuation funds, which manage retirement savings for millions of Australians, also depend on IFRS-compliant financial statements to evaluate asset performance and risk exposure.
Moreover, IFRS supports economic stability by promoting confidence in financial reporting. When businesses adhere to a globally recognised standard, stakeholders can trust the accuracy of financial information, reducing the likelihood of financial misstatements and corporate scandals.
The Future of IFRS in Australia
Financial reporting standards continue to evolve, reflecting changes in business models, digital transformation, and sustainability concerns. The AASB actively monitors and updates IFRS standards to ensure they remain relevant to Australian businesses and investors.
One emerging area of interest is sustainability accounting, which integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into financial reporting. As global markets place greater emphasis on sustainability, new IFRS standards are being developed to provide consistent reporting frameworks for ESG disclosures.
Final Thoughts
IFRS plays an essential role in maintaining transparency, accountability, and trust in Australia’s financial system. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or finance professional, understanding IFRS helps you navigate financial statements with greater confidence.
At NAPS, we are committed to equipping future professionals with the knowledge to interpret and apply IFRS effectively. Stay tuned for our next blog, where we will explore Sustainability Accounting—a growing field that integrates environmental and social considerations into financial reporting.
Aflah Tasnim
24 Mar 2025
Easter Breaks in Australia: Tradition, Symbolism, and Social Reflections
Easter is a significant holiday in Australia, widely observed with a mix of religious, cultural, and commercial traditions. For international students, especially those in social work, understanding the historical and social aspects of Easter can provide deeper insight into the cultural landscape of Australian society and its impact on various communities.
The Meaning of Easter and the Holiday Break
Easter, primarily a Christian festival, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is observed on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, which places it between late March and April. In Australia, Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays, leading to an extended break. This time allows families and communities to gather, reflecting on faith, renewal, and togetherness.
For social work students, Easter presents an opportunity to observe how different community groups engage with the holiday. It is a time when charities and social organisations focus on helping the vulnerable by providing meals, organising events, and addressing social isolation among the elderly or disadvantaged groups.
The Easter Bunny and Eggs: Where Do They Come From?
The Easter Bunny and chocolate eggs have become synonymous with Easter celebrations, but their origins predate Christianity. The rabbit, or hare, is an ancient fertility symbol associated with Eostre, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring and renewal. German immigrants brought the tradition of an egg-laying hare (the "Osterhase") to other parts of the world, including Australia. Over time, chocolate manufacturers commercialised the idea, making Easter eggs a beloved tradition.
Eggs, which symbolise new life and rebirth, were originally exchanged and painted in early Christian communities as a representation of Jesus’ resurrection. In modern Australia, this symbolism has evolved into Easter egg hunts, an activity enjoyed by families and communities nationwide.
Easter's Social Implications in Australia
From a social work perspective, Easter highlights various aspects of Australian society, including multicultural inclusion, commercialisation, and social equity. While many enjoy celebrations, others face financial hardship, loneliness, or food insecurity. Organisations such as the Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul run initiatives to support marginalised communities during this period.
For international students studying social work, Easter offers a chance to participate in community service, observe Australian social structures, and reflect on the importance of cultural traditions in community bonding and support systems. It also serves as an excellent case study of how religious and cultural traditions are adapted within a multicultural society like Australia.
Easter in Australia is more than just a holiday; it is a reflection of history, tradition, and community welfare. Understanding its roots and contemporary impact can provide social work students with a broader perspective on cultural diversity, community support, and the role of social services during national celebrations. Engaging with Easter from a professional and academic viewpoint enables students to appreciate the social fabric of Australia and contribute meaningfully to community well-being.
24 Mar 2025
AI and its Importance to Students in the Professions (Part I)
What is AI?
AI Potential and Fears.
Many experts write of the many positives that AI will bring to almost every field of endeavour. Reflecting upon the immense potential of AI Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee wrote in 2018:
Most of the fears about AI are about general AI. At the extremes, some experts think What are the risks to humanity itself when most of the ‘intelligence’ in the world is machine made rather than man-made. The essence of these concerns is captured by world renown theoretical physicist, Stephen Hawking, who noted:
AI Issues for students preparing for a career in the professions.
- Industrial opportunities and challenges in developing AI
- Enhanced data collection, big data analytics/algorithms and ever-increasing application to new areas of human activity.
- Understanding society-wide impact in key areas, eg introduction and rapid expansion in use of automated transport
- Expanding the application of blockchain technology in providing solutions to multiple industries
- The role of AI in the biological sciences and breakthroughs in health informatics
- The role of AI in enhancing the productivity and intellectual power of humans
- Role of humans in interacting with AI products to ensure they are safe and do what we want
- Speech recognition developments to promote universal applications and enhance human-machine interactions
- The impact of AI on digital marketing and other business activities
- Commercialization challenges and opportunities in relation to AI
- Capturing video and incorporating it in AI applications
- Machine and deep learning in the next generation of AI applications
- How to better define and control the boundaries on AI systems
- Growing movement towards singularity and machines approaching and in an increasing number of areas surpassing human intelligence.
- Capturing the potential of big data analytics while at the same time dealing with challenges of discrimination and prejudice that can occur
- How to build AI to Scale and gain return on investment
- Internet of things: use of AI to help build systems in which various technologies are connected and working together to transform organizations and industries.
- The impact of robotics and AI on employment.
- Education: how do we bridge the talent gap needed to develop this important new area? How can universities, through their research mission, better support the growth and development of this important industry? How will AI change how education is delivered and to whom?
- Geopolitical questions such as regulation across national borders, impact on security, cyber warfare and so on
- Challenge of regulation so that AI advances promote industry advancement and at the same time protect important human values such as privacy.
- Law as infrastructure: how can a legal framework be put into place that achieves the benefits of AI while at the same time limiting and guarding against potential harms that may result? How does law, which tends to work on a linear path, keep up with technology which is growing exponentially?
Conclusion
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