Plans - Is it for business or life?

Am I guilty of double standards?
It's so easy to judge others harshly and not think of what i am doing myself. What am I on about?

I remember this year watching Arun Sarin (Vodafone CEO) weathering strong opposition to survive another year. All through what has maybe kept others at bay is the fact that he has tried to sell a vision to the sceptical group of shareholders. Life is about setting goals and every now and then evaluating oneself.

On the same token I have suggested that Uchumi Management should be more vocal in setting out there plans. It is not enough to come and tell the public seeking more funds without sharing what or when we will start reaping the benefits.

It is polite and customary to wish everyone a happy new year - hope you all realise your dreams and the put nightmares behind.

So what are my plans for the brand new year?

From 'Adaptation'

I am thinking of going home for like two weeks preferably at the end of Feb - what attracted me was the fares on BA - I got a return ticket for like £368! that's a bargain at the moment (I'm yet to confirm - logistics)
The thin is I'm not just going to visit - I've been seriously thinking I should be planning my home coming. I was talking to this lady who was telling me she's afraid soon her biological clock will be ticking. For us guys we do not experience that but I can relate (I'm not aware!)
So it official I am looking for opportunities in Kenya - though I have to have an open mind right. Thinking outside the box yeah that's it.

Nothing much happenning? - you must be joking!

[At a seminar, Charlie Kaufman has asked McKee for advice on his new screenplay in which 'nothing much happens']
Robert McKee: Nothing happens in the world? Are you out of your f?*#ing mind? People are murdered every day. There's genocide, war, corruption. Every f*&king day, somewhere in the world, somebody sacrifices his life to save someone else. Every f$*king day, someone, somewhere makes a conscious decision to destroy someone else. People find love, people lose it. For Christ's sake, a child watches her mother beaten to death on the steps of a church. Someone goes hungry. Somebody else betrays his best friend for a woman. If you can't find that stuff in life, then you, my friend, don't know crap about life. And why the %!*& are you wasting my two precious hours with your movie? I don't have any use for it. I don't have any bloody use for it.
Charlie Kaufman: Ok, thank you.

... New year - Should I

Should I or should I not forget about new year resolutions?
Someone just told me his new year resolutions are last year's actually he only needs to change the dates. It is always good to feel that you are on the right path I guess that's why I have to join the bandwagon - experience has taught keep it short and simple (rather than large and sexy?). Sometimes honestly we try and I know I'm my worst critic. Most of the time I fail to celebrate the 'small' victories.

1. Anthropologically, we like to nest - mark out our territory and defend it. It is noble that this year should be one where I mark out my territory and defend it! I keep thinking sometimes I am too cautious - and it is all round. Which can be frustrating to some around me (I wish they understood that after careful consideration I sometimes decide not to make a decision). Strategy is not just what you decide to do - it is also what you decide not to do.This should be the year when I 'settle' down - I mean it's either here or go back home (easy to forget that I have a home!). I'm tired of just going to work, come home sit in front of TV and watch life pass by - well it is an exaggeration but there's a point there. I need to get a place of my own (finally!). There is always the temptation when you are far from home to tend to look for anything familiar and cling to it. It is understandable but also there is a danger of taking a myopic view - I must mingle more.

What a plan - simple yet insane!

2. Time is money. It's not something I have discovered but it came to light that maybe I am wasting some time. This should be the year when I appreciate time - it is a precious gift
The difference between a prosperous person and the majority of us is how they value time.
I am looking for a nice watch - a symbolic move. It's a long time since I owned one - thanks to my mobile phone. Does it reveal that I am careless as someone suggested? I hope not. (My phone can play music, take pictures and listen to the radio - that's massive savings on my entertainment costs!)

Logical incrementalism - Business success is about exploiting opportunities.

Exploit opportunities, Save time, Network more, Enjoy my 'small' victories more...

..It was the night before...

I'm made to understand that Christmas eve is the best time to make negative news - I mean who would be reading the press (of course except me?). Everybody is distracted by the festivities - mostly indoors. That is especially true here as no public transport is operating and for people like me we are stuck wherever we are. This are times why I think maybe I need to do the most stupid thing and buy a car!

"It's a deeply ingrained strategy with people in public relations. The purveyors of bad news — public relations people and politicians — are very apt to go out with it the night before Christmas, when all through the house, no one was there." Howard Rubenstein

I'm sure I'm the only one waiting for Christmas while surfing!
Get a life won't you!

... Season's Greetings...

Yes it's that time of the year when you go crazy with the financial discipline you have maintained throughout the year.I have managed so far to maintain some sanity amidst all the madness, and I note that I have not really been desperate to get anything from others. It must be an 'age thing' - i mean I give and not expect to receive back - well not very keen i guess. Is it just me or what - it's more beautiful to watch the smile on others faces when you surprise them with a gift. Especially kids I just love the looks on their faces.

I received a beautiful card all the way from Kenya - it is beautiful just to know they still remember me. I know my family is always supportive but getting a slow mail was a nice one. Good old days when emails, txt msgs were scarce.... best things in life are still free. You sometimes after I've sent cash to family I think I have done my duty. Actually I confess that I seem to think it seems that cash is the solution - I should send more cards from now on - not just emails and text messages.

Whatever the situation I hope everyone has a merry Christmas - just being here now is worth celebrating!

.... Big bonuses on a cold day

It was -2 Degrees and I was out there in the thick of it all.
I know its not the coldest but for me there is no difference anything freezing doesn't go well with my system.

Anyway as expected Goldman Sachs Lloyd Blankfein went it the record books today for the highest bonus on Wall Street - He's definately not feeling the freezing weather. I don't really bother quoting the figures it is difficult to relate to what they are talking about - okay maybe to me! $87m BONUSES just after 7 months on the job! In London of course there was debate about this excessive pay in the City. Jealous, maybe that's what the bankers think of the rest. And the mayor of London had an interesting perspective.

It is the time of the year when those who worked hard are rewarded - NOT EVERYBODY. Well the money will move around and therefore the financial hubs of London and NY will benefit. It is normal apparently for the rich to want to connect to others who have less!

I don't know about that.

Hey it's christmas maybe like me you got something small as a bonus or maybe you got nothing it's life (That's my christmas message). I'd like to know what others think - Do we have such issues in Kenya or Africa for that matter.

Irreplaceable?

One life to live. I try to enjoy life every now and then (believe me that is hard work for me!) Nothing to do with cash most of the times - I just think I try very hard (and I have perfected the art) to avoid having real fun. Real fun? - That could be anything to anyone.

Anyway I've been thinking if I have any regrets this week. Well on Saturday morning I was listening to a radio station here and there was an interview of Calvin Richardson (What? He was in London for a show this week! And nobody told me! Scandalous!) I just came to know about him through his current single that has been receiving rave reviews on this station (There goes my baby...). I also got to listen to some of his earlier works - highly recommended all I can say.
During the same week The Roots were in town and I missed it somebody at work keeps telling me how much i missed (aaarrrgghh!)

Simply put - IRREPLACEABLE! I could not have that back in a minute!

I know I can't attend all the shows - but.... forget it

Book I should read

Every now and then I read books review in newspapers/magazine and think to myself I should get this book. I still remember that I should get Malcolm Gladwell's books (any)among others. The thing is I've noticed that if I delay I tend to forget other pressing issues arise and before long it ceases to be a priority.

This week I came across James Jasper's 'Getting Your Way: Strategic Dilemmas in the Real World'. He was inspired by a mugging incident he was involved in at Times Square in the middle of the day with crowds of people all around (Reminds me of River Road!). Naturally one should be mad after such an incident but not Jasper apparently the incident drew some parallel to strategic action. His description of the event impressed me:

"Often, by the time you realise someone has begun to interact with you in a strategic fashion, it's too late to do much about it, sometimes you have already lost."

Understanding the social and cultural context in which you are operating is vital if 'you are to get your way' and achieve a strategic goal.

Not sure whether it is in the UK already but it will hit me like $28 (Damn just after I bought the Amy Grant DVD and Bebo Norman's CD!)

The Week That Was...

Fat cats.
So Kibaki thought it wise not to accept the generous offer from his fellow parliamentarians. Friends or foes? I mean surely did they expect him to take the salary hike? It is in the same week that Wall Street giants announced very high profits of course the Chief Executives are in line to get generous COMPENSATION packages. Reward is tightly tied to performance I think that is where our parliament went wrong if they would have given the pay rise and given reasons say pay was tied to the inflation level or the country was doing very well hence the need to be generous to the persons responsible.

The figures are not that important - just believe they are huge $50m in salary and bonuses after a 93% rise in revenues! The positive in all this is the fact that the average staff member will get $600,000 as compensation. Bingo! Good compensation package includes EVERYONE in the plot - so where is our cut?

On a positive the company that I work for won a government franchise this year - the two owners got to share £100m windfall. I got a small pay increase backdated 3 months - the very small gesture felt good. So it is not such a bad christmas after all.

My annual pay rise.

I got my annual pay rise the other day - at first i was kind of happy until I got home today and was watching Al Jazeera (one of those days) apparently Mr. Kibaki is getting the reward of running the country well. I think that is why whoever thought it necessary did that

So the president got a huge a pay rise - what's the big deal?
FACTS:
I am made to understand it is 186pc that raises the salary to $528,000 leaving GW Bush with just $400,000, while the Japanese Premier is going for a pay cut. Poor performance?
More than 1/2 population living under the poverty line.

It is not my business to say whether it is right or wrong (not that I don't have an opinion), but it highlights a serious issue in the corporate world - Executive performance review. It is from performance that reward is set. So when the targets are misplaced or wrongly set - usually the Board plays a huge role in all this. Unfortunately the danger is that the Board composition is always a matter of contention since the Directors just rotate chairs.
There is always the danger of

Mr President is laughing his way to the bank thanks to the parliament - I'm sure they must have thought through the whole process and the repurcussions. Should we be looking for new leaders? Preferably less eductaed and less experienced? Imagine the savings on taxpayers funds.

What were the targets that were met to warrant the pay rise or was it just due to inflationary pressures? I am honestly looking for information.

Invest in Kenya

Over the weekend we had a 'powerful' delegation led by the Finance Minister in London - promoting investment opportunities in Kenya. A noble cause but I was unavailable (I was getting paid!).

From different sources I have a hint of what went on (I have my sources) during the presentation. Depending on who you listen to the meeting I think by and large it was positive. I suspect it is politics as usual - but always good to give others a chance. Someone says the Minister was so eloquent 'possible presidential candidate in the future (!?) - honestly I hope not.
Most of today's papers had an article on immigrant population contributing to UK's economy. They are mainly better educated and work longer hours, yet the take up menial (elementary) jobs. There is an ever widening gap in wages yet statistics show that 17pc of UK born population has a degree compared with 45pc of new immigrants. Don't get me wrong opportunities are in plenty here with the right qualifications and experience of course and an endurance spirit. Although the fighting sometimes can be so intense if you are not good in office politics - you will be swept aside. Life is not quantity but quality - hard to find any positive role models.
All this are convincing on why this investment seminar might be a positive development that needs to be followed up. It is painful to see those 'stuck' here and not being able even to think of investing in Kenya.

I should know I've been trying to set up an account and put some money one or two investments I've been looking at but the logistics are stack against me. Actually my plan was to go to Kenya early next year to do something about it.

I hope someone told the minister and his entourage that most Kenyans here plan to go home someday. Whether that day will ever come it's besides the point - the point is it feels like fish that's soon will run out of water.

Soon we are going back home!

While I'm still on this age thing...
Is it just me or what - it's hard to beat the system!
Early in ones career usually we are so eager to move on and get resistance from the older guys (40s - 50s) and then you survive through the years only to be be confronted in your later years by fresh, ambitious graduates!

Move over granddy! I always imagine that happening in future - Why should I even bother - live now and let die!

Overbearing pride or presumption - hubris There is much hubris in the age groups about their superiority!

hehe.. Let me go to bed.

Feeling like a pensioner already

There's a song I used to hear back in the days - family FM/TV had just started and the song went something like ....I've been thinking about babies....' I've tried to look for the song or even remember who sang it to no avail.

I'm not growing any younger (duh!) and every now and then you will see something that will remind me of planning for my retirement. The pension schemes are in a mess thanks to the erratic stock market and employers failure to quickly arrest the situation (nobody saw it coming so the schemes are under-funded). Today was that day read of how the retirement is projected to rise to 70 here in the UK. Work till you drop dead! Then the Washington times had a story on planning and making the most of your retirement age. It's actually the time to think about this.

Strange or is it not life.
You work hard think you've got most of the things sorted out then something sets you thinking again

Hey Gotta make some plans are you?

Yeah I have to think about babies - it's an obvious secret on my part.

PS: I hope the link does not let me down....aaaaaarrgggh! And that song any ideas?

New Laptop? I'd rather bury my head in the sand!

Funny E-nyce should remind me one of my very few weakness!

Well as I was counting towards pay day to get me a new comp in the process of interviewing and doing a mini-research a friend introduced me to a friend (sic) who knew one or two things about laptops.

So he simply did some magic it is working fine but he strongly advised that I should be planning to get one soon. (Worries and problems never cease to follow a brotha!)

Procrastination??
With the arrival of Windows Vista I've also managed to buy sometime till next year. I've seen some adverts that the comps can easily be upgraded (?)
And matters seem to be even more complicated with christmas around the corner - I'm supposed to take a sister out.


Did I forget to mention the problem was sorted out with only £20s and even better the guy is around so some sort of warranty is guaranteed!
So for the time being christmas is on my mind and a possible mother of all dates - it might cost me a small fortune. Hey E-nyce are you with me? I think I'm just buying time for the time.

So if you see me closing my eyes, I' not sleeping - just resting my eyelids; I still got financial issues to deal with.

By the way did you say you are riding a new baby? Congrats. Good for you but I'm getting one soon, real soon!

Samuel L. Jackson

Watched 'Changing Lanes' - again!

Actually I almost missed it and for a good reason - had to The Premiership watch Man U Vs Boro - that happens when there's a vote and you are not at your place. I went to Luton my flat mate was meeting a gal he knew back in the day. I was supposed to be there and act like I was not there - literally.

I love Samuel Jackson's movies (well most of them!) forget most of his earlier stuff. He seems more real and kind of captures your attention - most actors are about looks and he's not blessed in that way - but he's good. I guess it gives some of us hope that our ability might go before us (what!)

He plays Rev Fred Sultan in 'The Great White Hype'

"I like you. You have a goal, and you have the balls to reach that goal. You have this blind stupid belief in yourself."

All in all a nice Saturday for me - one of those rare moments for me. I should do this often. I'm trying to believe me

Excuse me!

What to start a Saturday morning paper.
Apparently under oath the Nasdaq Chief executive Bob Greifeld admitted he did not understand how to calculate Gross profit margin (rudimentary formula in accounting) and add salt to injury he is an MBA! So you can understand the reaction in London keeping in mind that there's a hostile bid for the London Stock Exchange by NASDAQ.

Reminds of a book someone recommended (and yes I've never got the time! - for the past two years!)
Imagine him interviewing me and I had no idea what mark-up or margin is all about
Give the guy a break he can afford to hire guys who can do that for him!

Some of the things we learn in class why the torture? I guess that could have been his attitude when he was in ACC 101 - funny I can't see the same story in other papers. It's not that important is it? I thought not. But this only gives ammunition to those who criticise Business Schools. Whatever the case it costs a fortune to invest in this area

The Wine Diet

Is it not a conspiracy the way we have all the things we grow to know as 'facts' suddenly tern to be fiction?
Do you remember Pluto used to be a planet? I wonder how many other things are wrong and yet we think we know ("The known unknowns!")

Anyway I've been following a series of articles on diet - last week it was about how wine is good for my health. I never used to drink (oops sorry I never could afford buying wine!) was not even concerned about its medical value. It was not an issue back in the day - I stayed healthy the natural way; anything I did I did it with moderation. It is amaxim I still subscribe too.

As I slowly (and gracefully grow 'old') move on in years I realise the importance of watching what I eat. I know life is tough but we still cling to it.
Healthy diets are big business nowadays - manufacturers have us paranoid so they can sell anything to us. Remember kimbo with vitamins? If you cannot convince someone at least scare them into buying

low fat diets, fibre and drinking lots of water...

This are the most expensive stuff to get in any supermarket. Two slices of bread stuffed with slices of chicken and lettuce £2 - hey and that is from the 'normal' shops I go to and for drink to go with that - that's a small fortune, especially since you are not full at the end of it all. I look at all that and read that diet and chronic diseases, like cancer, are closely linked. Obesity is linked to diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary heart diseases and various cancers. Especially when you are young if you somehow manage to survive all that in your old age you are staring at blindness, osteoporosis, cognitive decline and dementia. AAaaarrggh!

I better watch what I let in my body. Buy lettuce, tomatoes, bread and make my own sandwich - very much cheaper.

Changing Lanes
Samuel Jackson as Doyle Gipson

"Money. You... you think I want money? What I want is my morning back. I need you to give my time back to me. Can you give me back my time? Can you give my time back to me? Huh? Can you?"

Extreme Jobs?

While we are still on the topic of tough jobs.
Business language continues to develop forget workaholic, there's a new term for those high adrenaline top jobs.

A report will be coming out next week on the Harvard Business Review (Extreme Jobs: The Dangerous Allure of the 70 hr work week) according to the FT (29/11/06)

This are the always accessible heads of global companies - they carry around blackberries, mobile phones that have email access matched with alot of travelling around. Apparently they give a huge part of their hearts and brains to the job. The problem is they are between 35-55 year olds - they are in essence separated from their families and failing in health. I'm not complaining any more - usually I don't feel like talking to anyone after a hard day and we are talking about something like 9 hours of work. Imagine if I was married poor soul.

Why don't they just quit?
Work for one or two years and leave? Most of those in this positions are not even aware that this are extreme jobs (workaholics). Besides let us not forget the over-sized compensation packages they are getting, the recognition and respect from peers....

We all want what they got - maybe that's why they are not quitting.

The downside is evertime they go to bed 4 people are in bed together.
1. Oneself
2. Partner/Spouse
3.and Two Blackberries!

Friends?

On a light note – we are getting friendly in the UK.
Britons have an average of 54 friends! What? Apparently due to improved communications! I'm trying to count the number of friends I have and honestly I need help - it's way below the British average.

But I'm wondering if we are making so many friends why are still so lonely? I mean we have so many people we can talk to yet we are so isolated and vulnerable. Look at the numerous dating, graduates, xanga etc etc sites coming up daily we are all looking for company. Seeking the approval of others - how sad but real.

Maybe it is easy to appreciate people when they are far - they move too close we will find a reason to push them off.
I'm just flowing with the flow -- okay Goodnight tomorrow should be better there's a high chance i will make a new friend I'm way below the average in Britain!

Monday Blues

Monday mornings are never the best times to change the routine you are used to. Someone somewhere must have done this research.

I mean it can only happen on a Monday morning you wake up rushing as usual last minute to catch the train only to find trains are not running - Over running engineering works. My former lecturer would claim an accountant (Duh!) would find something to talk about for the rest of the week - how interesting victims of that profession can be. It shows how important it is to leave in a neighbourhood that has good transport system - normally it is the top on my list if looking for a place. Yes mainly because I'm not driving hence dependent on public transport. Because I, like so many others, operate like machines in a routine fashion my route for the day is pre-determined hence any change and the whole world crumbles - on a Monday. You are even forced to ask the guy who sells coffee whether he knows the buses in the neighbourhood! I saw it all today.

I remember when I first went to an underground station - suddenly you are a distraction - ladies on high heels racing down the escalator! I guess that is what it means to be in the city - thought Nairobi was hectic. Everyday I am convinced of maintaining a work/life balance - easy to go crazy running around.
I mean going through the papers on the same day we learn that 4 rail executives are going to share £13million in bonuses!
Of course everyone is crying foul (me I’m just jealous – when will I become a fat cat too!) In London it is a luxury to drive to work – the public transport in my opinion is good enough (of course except today!) – Anyway if you drive to work where will you park? Or even get there – the traffic is normally horrendous. So most people including myself use public transport (I cannot simply afford to maintain a car)

I can't wait for proper winter to set in and then transport is messed say on a Monday morning or Friday afternoon - AAAaaaarrrggghh! A site to behold.


Black cabs:

A black cab from waterloo to say Wandsworth Town costs at least £20 – Zones 1 and 2; a weekly travel card for the same zones should be in the same region. I discovered why I'm never keen on using these luxuries and someone pointed out to me that I was supposed to tip the cab driver! Thank God I was not the one paying the fare - frankly maybe I'd rather walk

Engineers or Technicians?

"The trouble with the British is that they call the chap who fixes the fridge an engineer. He's not. He's a technician. An engineer is someone who will invent the next light bulb."
- Sir Richard Sykes (former boss of GSK)

He is furious of the lowly status given to engineers and even worse Britain's reluctance to educate more and better scientists.

Whatever I should be in bed!

Diddy - Super cool!

Is he hiding somegthing or is he just super cool? That's what some people thinks (playa haters?)



Funny stuff - ever wondered how come you will never see p. diddy (aka diddy, puffy etc etc) in an un-cool position. Apparently he does not let just anyone reporter take his picture - if you book an interview he has to be dressed up first.




No problem with that. But again he has to put on his shades first! That is what the reporter of the Sunday Times found out in Copenhagen recently.
He is definately working too hard to be cool!

Makeover?

Funny I was going through my profile here and was surprised of what I was writing. You know when you start something new and you are all excited to just get going? That's the feeling I had when I started writing here. I wanted something that was reflective rather than personal and most important I was concerned about my finances. Am I still on track?

Exuberance?
It is not a dating site (Hahaa) what was going through my mind.
At about the same time I was starting here a friend sent me an invitation to join one of those site where you have to give a brief description with a catchy phrase. I must have picked a line from there!

I like to think of myself as being serious (!) others think otherwise - that might be misconstrued as boring. When I go out usually I'm the first to leave the club, its takes time for me to loosen up and go with the flow. I'm careful about what I drink. Clearly I wouldn't be your buddy if
Loosen up? You must be joking that is hard work!

There was a Japanese PM back in the 90s who was accussed of being 'boring' and someone challenged him to kind of loosen up, his response: 'I do not see why I should I have been boring all my life. Look where I am now!' (Of course it is paraphrased! - it was a long time ago I read this - Okay)

Back to the profile is it going to change? mmmm of course just not now. (If not now then when?)

Did I mention it is a beautiful weekend? Oh and I received a council tax bill (£187.79) and warning 'pay within 7 days or else...' I'll pay later after exhausting all avenues of exemption.

A good day has nothing to do with the weather. Enjoy.

The Last Man Standing

The past week most companies released their half year results. Impressive from the usual suspects - it sets me wondering does pressure on the management actually produce results?


Vodafone announced its half-year results this week - as expected because of the changes that are happening it made a pre-tax loss - much better than same period last year (impairment charges). Interesting the CEO is still around and many agree that it seems like there is a sense of direction finally creeping in.

What is interesting to me is the fact that competition in Europe has been very stiff hence Vodafone's interest in emerging markets. I was reading somewhere in the local press (Daily Nation or Standard) that it had an interest in increasing its stake in Safaricom. I don't know how far that has gone but I understand why the interest. I mean Safaricom is now enjoying the best time in the Kenyan market (Celtel does not seem to be offering competition)

'....expand to emerging markets....selective acquisitions in Africa'

Revenue from emerging markets helped offset challenges in Europe. SA or Kenya??

On his future as CEO: I am in the job and I intend to continue in the job. What I like most about the whole situation is the way business leaders are put on the spot. I mean you have to produce results to justify the obscene salary and bonuses that they receive. Arun Sarin was under (is still is) to bring changes this announcement should loosen the noose around his neck.

Same thing is happening at M&S - sales were down, staff demoralised and facing take-over threats from BHS - Stuart Rose had to fend of all this now things seem to have changed. While BHS had a moderate performance M&S is the darling again of high street. Now M&S is a standard mark of success - suddenly there is a renewed confidence about everything. They are moving abroad, new adverts are out, new product lines - its easy to forget just the other day they were about to be taken over. Okay and Stuart Rose is still the top guy here and suddenly Phillip Green (BHS) is forgotten.

I know it is a long short but I think that is what should be the case at home - still thanks to the distance I rarely hear anything on Uchumi.
One year is just too long to give an update on what's happening - I thought the CEO would showing us every now and then the progress he and his team are making (remember the public has a short memory)

Maybe it's just me - I'm whingeing! I guess I just hope all this would be happening in Kenya since the potential is there.

Psst. So is it for real that Safaricom is planning to offload 25% of its shares to the public? Interesting. I read here that the board is interested in expanding its investment in the growing African Mobile technology market.

Definition of a Man

I don't know think that you should go
through the change that you do
I want to change things for the better

He don't deserve your kind of love
like the kind of guys like me need don't
get enough of
hanging out late with his friends
always in your pockets spending you ends
What I wouldn't do to be in his shoes
he goes out his way to misuse you
don't take much to share responsibilities
he don't even care what kind of man is he

You give him everything
but get nothing in return
whatever you need just teach me
I ain't afraid to learn no

Ill care for you be there for you I'll
share with you
I'll understand I'll be your friend
that's my definition of a man
I'll care for you be there for you I'll
share with you
I'll understand I'll be your friend
that's my definition of a man

You don't seem like you're satisfied
he said that he changed but you know he lied
I never been one to have a Phd.
cause I don't want nobody player hating on me
I know a good thing when I see one
I look in your eyes girl I see the sun
girl let him go while you're ahead
I should be the one sleeping in your bed baby


See baby you should never have to wear the same
thing twice
I'll buy you everything you like
I'll go to the wall for you
spend my last dime at the mall for you baby
go downtown in more ways than one
see a good man's
is never never never never never
never never never done baby

G.L

The apple does not fall far from the tree.



Sad really just read this news from Chatterly that Gerald Levert is dead! Life is precious - was a heart attack I gather from BET

I remember seeing him in London promoting his album - live he had what an entertainer needed - oh and he had a way of pleasing his female fan base.

Personally I love music after getting what the lyrics are all about. I remember Rythmix on KTN back in the day and the favourite "I'll Give Anything To Fall in Love" I guess I kind of related to the lyrics.
Then I came to the UK and it was kind rough and my two first CDs were both by G.L.
'Dream and No Love' - I played it almost daily maybe due to the insecurities I experienced - alone and far from home ....lol

'Application' :... Coz I'm sending out this application all across the world hurry up and sign up...
'DJ Played Our Song' ...I see u standing across the room and you look so beautiful to me... Now it's come to this no loving no kiss it's time to move on.. But what if the DJ played our song.! (mmmmm mmm)

Sentimental. From the pain of love to the joy of finding love he had it all wooven together. And the Father and Son album is a must for anyone after good music.

Maybe I loved his music because of the fact that being kind of reserved I thought I could use some of his lines (What am I saying?!)

I could go on and on - guess simply said I miss the music already.
You guessed it right I'm not your cassanova!

R.I.P - I hope you found what we all looking for.

Laptop Vs. Desktop

One thing that I find challenging is making up my mind on certain things, mainly when usage of funds is involved!

Take a good example my perennial problem of getting the laptop fixed - all the knowledge on investment analysis don't help me that much! My current lifestyle demands that laptop would be most convenient (Yes I'm a nomad!) - it is VERY convenient for me. A desk top - though cheaper takes up a lot of space in my opinion and worse when I'm moving around. Maybe I've just gotten used to laptops - sentimental? Thought I was pragmatic.

This is where I need advice. Which is more durable?

My current laptop has lasted for approximately 3 years - being my first one I guess I never took great care of it. The next one would be well looked after!
Apart from cost why should I go for a desktop?

This is where I actually need help - I hope e-nyce is around (can I borrow your brains)

Who told to take time when deciding who to marry this is more complicated!
Nice weekend.

Straight, Unwavering, Focussed and Tragic

I will definately miss him.
All the presidents key men are older (and wiser?) I must confess I love any interview that involved D. Rumsfeld the way he was brash and arrogant. That comes with experience - no wonder all this places require people with experience.

He acted smarter than everyone else and often pre-empted reporters questions - infact in an interview on CNN someone said if you walked into his office you better have a good case if you wanted to challenge his decisions (Now that's my boss!). Chances are that someone like that could bring the best in you - you have to clear when you ask a question

"He tries very hard not to talk before he's thought through his answer,"

I hope that is the last one to leave - what would politics be without Dick Cheney and his warm sneer? Or Adam Boulton at the UN.

They must be geniuses - that's why they are so impatient with 'common' guys like me!
Who am I trying to impress?

"I have benefitted greatly from criticism, and at no time have I suffered a lack thereof." Winston Churchill

Last few things I bought

Being in the situation I am, I try very much to avoid using money. Sorry I mean I try very hard to avoid spending - that's one thing I am shy of doing. For good reasons especially when I read about the debt levels in the media, always rising.

So rightly I try to look at my expenditure and see how I'm doing. Apart from the obvious like rent, loan repayment others can be avoided. How have I spent cash this week?

1. I bought the 3 papers this week - £ 1.20 (3*0.40) (Yippeee! That's all I did)

2. Wednesday - bought 2 cups of cappucinno and a sandwich £3.60 (yes from one of them cheap places - I'm proud of that. The coffee was really good)

3. Later same day bought some groceries £15.17 (quiet unnecessary - we've done shopping here and it's killing us. We have to buy bits and pieces every now and then. I don't like that!)

What is amazing is that I have so far avoided to be enticed by all this bargains on autumn closing sales (There is always a reason to make go to the shopping).

In other words people I'm broke - went to the ATM and got an advise slip warning me I couldn't withdraw any cash. 1st time in awhile it has happened since I came to the UK - depressing.

A good week indeed - Tight fiscal policy!

Strange I've NEVER read this book.

Why We Want You To Be Rich

As I'm writing I'm watching this interview of Robert Kiyosaki (who?) this guy who wrote 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' and Donald Trump on this book they have out. Yeah I'm so behind - it was done some time ago on the Paula White show. Interesting.

Timing is right as Americans are going to polls - concern is for the shrinking middle class (ordinary Americans have missed out on the benefits of growth apparently). The old story the rest of the world is facing with the rich getting richer at the expense of poor or middle class for that matter. It goes further that income stagnation is affecting people with college degrees as much! - in America! Amazing. There was a time when you only had to be born in America to have made it in life.

An interesting thought:
Most of want to enjoy what money and riches have to offer but very few are ready to do what it takes. We make a few chums and hand them over to some fund manager or Financial advisor to invest it on our behalf. The fund manager invests in the stock market, he/she also loses control of our hard earned money to the stock market. Oops don't forget we are in control at our place of work someone else holds our fate!

It's all not gloomy look at Warren Buffet - Is D. Trump into stock trading? I'm not really sure though I doubt. He comes up with an idea and you and me invest in it.

I certainly want to be rich too - we all want to. It's good others who have made it want us to join them too. Have you read the book?

Friday - It's all good

It's been a fairly good week... not that I succeeded in getting my comp working again (Don't you hate it when you wake up in the morning and yesterday's problems seem to never let you go?). At least I know where the problem lies and the advise I'm getting is helpful - times like this i wish i was a jack of all trades and a master of all of them!

Long story short - either way it is going to cost me major, tough choices. Now I know what Mr Bush faces. So many interests to satisfy yet resources are limited. But I just realised I'm addicted (that's harsh I'm not a junkie am I?) to the computer - I used to think I love TV. I do almost everything online now.

It's Friday I'm going to pick my girls and we are going to hit the club scene tonight. Well not necessarily me - that's a line I heard from Aaliyah - I wish I could say that! LOL. Nature does not allow me (I'm tied by my own policies!) Someone reminded me of a comment of an accusation (very wrong if you ask me) of how boring people in a certain career tend to be. A classic from my business strategy lecturer who did not hide the fact that he thought we were programmed individuals.

'You want to know what you will look like in 10 years time? In the evening go to London Bridge and stand outside the PWC and EY offices - just watch all the men and women walking out of that office. This are people who live in Surbiton, wake up every morning buy the Guardian and the most interesting story they have when they get to the office is how the train was late for 10 minutes today! It is a pity you chose this career.'

This guy really loved us I miss his lectures.

Oh by the way I'm just around this weekend nothing much happening - NOT because I read


Have a nice one won't you I can't wait to hear what others were up to.

Yeah!

As I was saying I'm off the whole week and broke.
I know I should know better in money management (that's what people assume - I live a simple life!); some things are just beyond me.

I have a laptop I bought sometime ago, 16/11/03 yes I got the receipt!, and it's giving me problems. It has depreciated in my opinion - for some reason I must have assumed that it would last forever. First the battery is gone that would cost like £100, the cable was replaced recently - £36. I walked into a repair shop and the man told me it would cost me £120 to fix everything and the shop next door offered to fix it for £50. (All this reminds me of the rogue traders)
The problem is both guys will stay with the laptop for two days - can I trust them? Someone has just hinted that most likely they could interfere with other parts - to make me go back.
Just like how a pimp would get his girls hooked on drugs so as to control them.

Maybe I should just get a new one - the prices have gone down of late. For £400 I can get one forget about its features it can do the basics.

So that's how my week is going to be - lovely.
Me and my miseries, don't feel sorry for me I will get by.

A lovely week

This week is bound to be good - I can just feel it. Largely I believe it is coz I'm not going to work. Is it natural to want to avoid work? I mean if I had my way would I really work? Yet unfortunately work takes up most of our time - we spend so much time at work than with our families. Why am I not close to my colleagues at work? I think I can live (maybe survive is a better term!) with almost anyone.

Enough of that - I hate talking about people when they are not here.

Mmm Again?

Just something to get first thing in the morning when you open a paper is statistics. There are so many everyday someone just wakes up and decides to do some poll... on ANYTHING - don't worry you will always get respondents!

NO SEX PLEASE WE'RE WORKING - Is the title.
Apparently young workers are too uptight and hardworking for sex (Just to make it clear I never participated in the poll but it doesn't mean it is not somewhat true!) Apparently our 'parents' had more sex than the current generation (45 plus)- confessing they had affairs (a little something, something on the side!)
So if you are between 21-44 you may agree with this stats.

I remember yesterday we also had another one by the late poet Sir John Betjam - most pensioners' big regret in life is NOT HAVING ENOUGH SEX! This polls are interesting. Are these the pensioners who wasted their lives on their careers? Funny

Moral of the stats - Is it make the most of your youth? Somebody help me.

On more serious issue at hand Euro jackpot hits £64m! - something to discuss for the rest of the day at work?

Wish me luck - ama it's a Friday

Ban Ki-moon

For some reason I had saved this for sometime hoping to publish it - definately the blog has been passed by events. But why not let's share it. The new UN boss is around and Vodafone is back to discussing with Carphone Warehouse on future opportunities of "co-operation".


Big story this week - the new UN Secretary General confirmed.
Obviously all the commentaries tried to analyze the success (or lack of it) of the current Sec. Gen. Conclusion: Management failings often undermined the strong moral vision; he made powerful enemies in America.

It's always good to sit back and reflect (I'm sure he is thinking in retrospect what he should or should not have done) - feeling a complex mix of deep nostalgia, missed opportunity and profound relief.

Honestly the article I was reading also made me think about what's up with me. Especially important is the fact that I've been thinking of home lately.

"Together we have pushed some big rocks to the top of the mountain, even if others have slipped from our grasp and rolled back. But the mountain, with its bracing rocks, winds and global views, is the best place on earth to be. It's been difficult and challenging, but at times also thrillingly rewarding. And while I look forward to resting my shoulder from those stubborn rocks...I know I shall miss the mountain." (From FT - 11th Oct 2006)

Annan's valedictory speech (! I thought I knew English)

Vodafone: (Winners/Losers)

My favorite company was on the news again dropping a bombshell. It has severed its tie with Carphone Warehouse - after 17 years of partnership. It caught the owner of CW by surprise just hours after announcing take-over of AOL UK! It wiped out £450m off the value off CW. Business is interesting. Shifting of power? Likely CW's main rival Phones 4 U got the deal.

CW are like brokers - trying to be independent in providing phone contracts on behalf other companies - but it has grown into other areas - internet broadband provider most likely its because Vodafone also has interests in internet service hence the clash of strategies.
Obviously as he (CW's owner) expands those services he sells he is increasingly going to have some overlap with our business and our strategy" - Vodafone's Head of UK Business (Nick Read)

UPDATE:
CW is looking to entice Vodafone back into it's fold - but that would take more than a year from now with the contract with Phones 4 U. Don't it feel good to be big strong and powerful? Calling the shots..... I'm looking at there moves in Nairobi - Mobile phone technology is growing in Africa I read.
Interesting.

Rusticate

This week has been something.
I volunteered for an online assessment with this agency after I forwarded my cv. (Volunteered might be the wrong word - I actually wanted that chance. And that is where the drama started.
My computer could not support the web link - therefore after trying EVERYTHING to update my comp to the wee hours of the night I gave up. My only option was to go to a cyber cafe very early in the morning to quickly do the assessment.

So there I was first one in the local cyber cafe - I did the first bit (basic interpretation of graphs) took a break by going to Central London. That was just to have a breather and analyze how it went. At around mid day I found the second cyber cafe - had nice background music and more mature crowd. But while in the midst of all the drama, I'm sweating, this guy walks in and borrows my pen! Hey I could have strangled him..... Well I just waived him. He must have thought I was the rudest guy on earth - brother understand it's life and death.

On finishing the assessment I looked around and went to apologise to the brother - either he was polite or a good actor coz he just acknowledged my apologies.

Getting 'the' job - ain't easy.

On a lighter note from the Daily Telegraph.

An Oxford student, a grandson of a Lord, has been suspended for secretly filming two others doing their thing. He posted it on the school website - every student had a copy on their phones. Technology is good. He was brought before a disciplinary committee where he was rusticated for one year.

Time for me to rusticate myself?

Never been a formula one racing fan.
I mean they just go round in circles what's the fan in it? That beats the logic out of me. It must be because I grew up watching Safari Rally. Now when you talk about the World Rally Championship we are on the same level. Maybe it's also because the cars there are real - you know what I can aspire to drive. MMMMmm could this also explain why I rarely (actually NEVER!) watch all this scifi movies - well unless you tie on to a seat and turn on the TV.

Back to Formula One.
I watched the Shanghai race where ati Alonso lost because someone on the team put the wrong tyres for the wet conditions. The sport is not about who is a good driver per se (weee!)- rather the team. My theory (I think it is conclusive in itself) you can put anyone on the driver's seat with a good team and for sure he/she will win.
Aha! So Schumacher is just overrated!

I'm so happy for alonso I hope he makes it in the top 10 in Brazil, next weekend?

Have a nice and victorious week

Still on the first hurdle?

It's long since I said anything about my finances... Maybe because I have a simple solution to the dilemma - I need more of it. I know (and believe) you have to be faithful with the little you get - actually prove myself with what I got. So as I was reading a certain site I visit quiet often I came across a Kenyan Financial advisor. The internet is amazing!
What's even more interesting is the fact that we went to the same school and now she's with a company in Nairobi involved in investment. That's what the internet was set out to do! The talks so far are educative - hopefully it will lead somewhere.


The FT
The weekend FT normally has an article "Lunch with FT", where they invite some interesting person and interview them. It could be anyone interesting. Through this article I came to know of Malcolm Gladwell the author - interesting books (never really bought any of his books), also an interview with Madeleine Albright among others. To kill monotony with the encouragement of some friends got Chinese. I'm very predictable when it comes to such meals - my strategy is simple - 'stick to the knitting'. I normally eat only what I'm used to (Beef in Black Bean Sauce with egg fried rice). The restaurant has a table for those ordering take away filled with all the papers of the day. I noticed I am usually interested in what the interviewee ordered and the total cost of the bill. Not worry I have no idea about all this food they order. I'm used to things like KFC's mini variety, Chicken fried rice, chips and sausage - you get me. Laurence Parisot who was being interviewed is supposed to be a prominent French business woman (sorry I have no idea who she is) I remember having worked for a Phillipe Vandebrook while in Kenya years ago. Here is what she had at the Les Papilles in Paris:

2 x cream of leek gazpacho


2 x pan-fried egg with girolles


1 x rice pudding with fruit


1 x chocolate cappuccino mousse


1 x half bottle Morgon Marcel Lapierre 2005


2 x bottles spring water


Total: Euro 102.90

Interesting! Reminds of MA$E - buying things I can't even pronounce - I can't wait to get there

By the way my total bill tonight was £3.50 and a drink £1.55 - it was lovely though I still think it is too high.

Would be interesting to find out how much people spend out there - guess I'm curious to find out if I'm stingy.

Strategy of Optimism

"The role of chance in business is enormous but it is not
acceptable to say that. Most of us overestimate our likelihood
of succeeding in a given endeavors,
but entrepreneurs are the foremost optimists".
(David Storey - Warwick Business School)
The paradox
is that responding to setbacks by trying again -
the strategy of optimism -
increases the chances of eventually hitting pay dirt.


If first you don't succeed try again!

mumbling....?

Charities and Risk management? - I think this tight (off the hook)
That's me after spending the whole morning trying to come up with something tangible for my project. Reading all this PhDs/Professors - can I go that far? Me an academician? Naw!

Anyway a terrible morning for anyone who worships the sun here - it has been raining. I love walking in the rain (well, when I'm not going for an appointment/meeting) - so I walked to the bank got rained on and felt good! Maybe it's just me.

My buddy I told you just finished he's PhD project - awesome!.
Bob Woodward (Remember Watergate Scandal?) has book out "State of Denial" a behind the scenes account of how President Bush decided to wage war on Iraq. I doubt if I'll get a copy or even read it - got so much on my hands at the moment. I understand he is reporting rather than expressing his opinion! It must be because he must be planning to write a sequel! - maintaining good relationship. He interviewed many people in the Bush administration including Bush himself.

I read his description of Donald Rumsfeld in the previous books he's written - "a walking example of what the novelist Wallace Stegner calls resilience under disappointment', the persistence, the drive, hard work and even stubbornness when ambition has not been fully realized". From "Plan of Attack" - his second book on Bush administration.

I wish someone would be kind enough with words and describe me so! I sometimes feel I'm not working hard enough. It must because I feel I got all this ideas but still struggle to get moving.

...Back to the draing board...

What do you do when you rush into class and the first person to speak is actually thinking what you have been thinking would your research topic?

Sorry let me start again.
I have enrolled for an MSc. in Finance/Accounting (I promise this the last time I'm in class) - my background and qualification allow me to go straight to the dissertaion stage. Yes I keep surprising myself - when we will all this end?

I have been mulling over this topic for quite sometime - I know even if we both go on to do the research we will come up with very different thoughts. I was just surprised. Still I'm raring to go and this weekend I'm staying put untill I come up with a proposal that is credible.

Back at school

First years - Advice

The registration for the coming semester is going on at the moment and the quote from a a certain academician..


STUDY VOCIFERIOUSLY AND THINK CRITICALLY
That's just what is expected from me.

Help!

I know I'm on my own here. How comes my links on this blog are not leading to the pages I wish them to lead to?

Lest I be accused of plagiarism. Would appreciate any help from whatever source - I see some of the blogs are well laid out.

Mergers & Acquisitions

Sunday papers had speculations that there is an imminent merger of Schering-Plough and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Actually it is a reverse merger - which would create the world's largest drugs group with a market capitalisation of around $80Bn.

Now I know why accounting moved from merger accounting - this is not a merger is it ? BMS is by far larger than Schering so definately they are not equal - one party will definately be dominating. True and fair view.

By the way in Kenya we never seem to hear much about M&As - it's big business here. Businesses are always on the look out predator and prey relationship.
Another interesting article was the most respected companies and Johnson & Johnson was the leader - it is interesting to note that the management of JnJ have steered off acquisitons that are contested - It destroys value. Once value is destroyed shareholders are mad and the company attracts negative publicity. The poll was conducted among fund managers.

I should find out which are the respected companies in Kenya - not solely in profitability terms. Other criteria would include clear business strategy laid out by the management (I'm still waiting to hea what Uchumi is up to).

As if that was not enough there is talk of Corus the indstrial steelmaker is desparately searching for a suitor! (Is that how it feels to be in a crowded dance floor and you are not the most attractive?)

Merck is after Serono with the aim to be the leader in the Biotech industry.

In all these activities underlies what drives capitalism - the need to be the strongest and always leadier. Why didn't think of this? You need to keep competitors running for their money, utilise the fact you have the brand name - all households in Kenya know Uchumi, like WalMart it could have controlled its suppliers
STRATEGY: Let the small competiton see the reason to run from you.

Ethics? Everday we hear the Boeings, WalMarts, Tescos among others being criticised - but guess what - they are the still the leaders. (OOoops I conveniently ignore Enron)

Another week!...Aaaaaargh!

Yes that's how I feel after sleeping late trying to fill out application forms. I'm hoping and keeping my fingers crossed this week - I sent out some application forms. Life should have been simpler - why the complication.

By the way it has not escaped my notice the fact that I've been involved in what psychiatrists describe as 'financial infidelity' - failure to disclose my true state of affairs financially. Apparently I notice it very obvious I have not kept an update of how I'm doing (yeah I was supposed to!).

The idea though good and my intentions were just to keep myself up dated with what I was up to I find it hard to write some of things. It has crossed my mind that maybe I should change my blog title. Go through the naming ceremony again looking for a suitable name - they say you should be careful what you name your kids; names shape their personality!

What's in a name?

London Fashion week

I heard somewhere that the London fashion week is on. I am not so much into all that fashion stuff but I remember back in the day when CNN was just coming to Kenya when there was a 30 minute programs on fashion every week. For some reason better known to myself I used to watch the girls on catwalk - honestly I fear I know why I used to do that but I will not own up.
Strange now I even haven't got a clue when this events happen - lost interest? Maybe my fears have been confirmed that it is abnormal for a lady to look strictly like the traditional model - they are just too skinny. This week I saw a piece of news that they are turning away all the overly skinny girls from the catwalk - I think it was in NY. Apparently someone has realized that they do not project a good image of what women should look like - this is especially to protect teens.

With that in mind this weekends NY Times had an article I only read the introduction and loved it.

SPEND a week looking into the glass of fashion and you soon realize that the individual actually is the universal. Almost nobody, not the rich, not the celebrated, not the occupationally beautiful has any true sense of how they're perceived.
Models do not think they are too skinny. Actors do not find themselves handsome. Stars claim not to know what all the fuss is about. Our crazy cultural obsession with the perfected surface has become so absolute that everybody ends up having to work off some obscure psychic debt.

Read the rest of the article - I got to find out and get a true sense of how I am perceived.

Not out of the woods yet!

Earlier I indicated how I get cheap copies of the Financial Times as a student. I pay £0.25 as opposed to the cover price of £1 during the week - this is massive savings for someone like me. An opportunity to reaarticleses that are relevant - there so many newspapers sadly most of them are kind of 'shallow' (I can't believe I said that)

Anyway I had today's copy and loved when I saw they had a list of ACCA finalist and my name in the FT! Now what more could I ask for. I have decided to learn to celebrate the small victories that I come across.

The challenge is I got to get RELEVANT experience - I just have to work hard (REAL HARD!)

On a light note there was an interview in the paper of the two founders of Pret-A-Manger they are currently doing different individual projects. One of them is struggling with his 8 year old sushi chain. When asked how he was doing his only comment was: "The higher the monkey climbs the tree, the more you see of its arse"

What can I say - well as I climb higher I hope my behind is covered.

5th Anniversary

Today I'm celebrating 5 years since I came to the UK - I was watching the TV on Americans remembering the terror attacks 5 years ago. I was just leaving Heathrow airport when the streaming live pictures started being relayed.

Sad day indeed. I remember how I had to look for a calling card to get in touch with my family.

So Yes 5 years! Time is moving so fast. It is time to count my blessings.
I'd say the biggest achievement was to finish university here and gain ACCA Affiliate and of course managed to put aside some money in my account. On that front I have been blessed. It is easy to make plans before you arrive here but totally another thing to actually realize what you set out to do.

The Pressure.

Only yesterday I was thinking maybe it's time to move (Not maybe - IT IS TIME TO MOVE ON!)I guess it is because as they say time is not a friend to wait for you. Generally though the 5 years have been successful. The friends I came with are all doing well, we are scattered but keep in touch and life has treated us well. We all still agree that home is always the best place for us.

So I'm happy for myself, the small achievements - I believe my stay here (God knows how many more years!) has been good - I've grown older and wiser to the ways of the world. Even believed I can be who I want to be and actually stand on the verge of being just that.

It's been real.

Next step...Bring it On

I'm off today and have the whole day to myself - Only that I got so much to do - cleaning up. I'm the kind who really struggles like ensure my place in order. I'm one of those spoilt kids I guess.

Anyway since I do not have a washing machine I had to go to the local launderette. I'm proud of myself today - I can proudly say I did well today. (Only a brother wants to be praised for doing what he is supposed to do: I take care of my kids!)

Anyway since the real battle has started I received my application form to be an ACCA member - God knows how I would love to gain full membership. I have to keep a record of the relevant experience I gain from now hence forth. This is foreign in Kenya where I worked for a while. Does all that previous experience go to waste? I hope it has changed but still things might not have changed. We do not place any enough emphasise on practical experience. Very few employers are even bothered. That is the difference here - without the normal restrictions for foreigners - one can get very relevant experience.

The dreaded part I'm looking at is how much it will cost me - a quick glimpse at the forms I got it would cost me £170 to be a permanent Affiliate or £85 every year.
Hey I have to gain full membership soonest!

I can forsee this next few days will be interesting.

When the Tough Gets Going....

There is still issues to be settled at Vodafone - I'm sure the CEO is feeling the heat.

Well Vittorio Colao is back. He is the same guy who was overlooked for the position of CEO when Arun Sarin was preferred. He did what any man in his position would do - RESIGNED and went back to Italy. He's back as the deputy to Arun! He is running the European division (80% of the business!) - you do not have to understand rocket science to know something is brewing.

Of interest is the opinion some believe that the 'Anglo-British' are against Mr Sarin because he is not 'British' (I think this definately means he is not white) - That was the opinion of a shareholder during the concluded AGM.

Shouldn't Mr Sarin be looking for a job?

Aha and what's happening at FORD? William Clay Ford Jr has been forced out!
Honestly this is are tough times for some of these guys.

The blacker the berry.......

Another week another murder!
It ended well (AGAIN!)... curious that I interesting story on marriage. I have a buddy in America living with his girlfriend but has ruled out marriage for now. He has many reasons (I suspect ladies would say excuses!!!lol)

Anyway he is not the topic of discussion!
Latest figures show that divorce rates here in the UK have fallen - good news because personally I believe it is something worth fighting for. The statistics continue to reveal that couples in there 20s are the most likely to divorce.

All this is disturbing for some of us who are aspiring to enter the exclusive club. Interesting that I got the article after explaining to this lady why am still single. (I can't remember the reason I gave!) I was raised to believe a man should be the bread winner - currently I'm bringing home crumbs.
It reminds me of a discussion I found on the Harvest Show when they were reviewing a book "When the Man in Your Life Can't Commit"
Nobody in there right minds enters into marriage with the plan to divorce (okay maybe gold diggers!) Maybe it's just the fear of failing - divorce is so easy nowadays I understand.

"It's vital that people are able to leave unhappy marriages, but the fact is that many over-estimate the benefits of divorce and under-estimate the costs - both financial and emotional."

On the subject of marriage, the sage of Omaha got hitched. Warren Buffet on his 76th birthday got married to his long time companion of 29 years - sweet. 29 years we definitely should be learning something.

I wonder if I am commitment phobic?

...Another week - Wishing on a Star

Like I've always said one victory leads to a new challenge.

As an ACCA Affiliate I am challenged to fill out my STR with relevant experience (imagine all those days flipping buggers are not relevant! - outrageous)

Monday was bank holiday here I did the necessary - stayed in doors and made some job applications and sure as the sun rises every morning I got a call from a company I've always wanted to be associated with.
Nothing much only that the lady called me 10am I was still in a sleeping mode and I had a brief telephone interview and she promised to call back within seven days. My fingers are crossed I'm hoping I was convincing enough because getting an interview is not that easy.


So people that's the challenge I'm facing at the moment huge yes, not impossible.


Don't let them hold you back

A nation of fatties

Is it good news when you hear that the population of those who are well fed (obese?) has overtaken the starving?

If you are from sub-saharan Africa you wonder what this is all about. Images of children starving to death is all too common.


This only emphaises the gap that continues to grow between the haves and the have nots. And it is a cruel world everyone is looking for an opportunity to acquire more and more.

Guess I'm just feeling guilty - I am better off than most people but still hard to reach a point of being contented.

...What next?....

Now that I am an Affiliate it's just the beginning of the interesting part of my career. Coz to have the ACCA title against my name I have to do some RELEVANT accounting work and above it has to be signed off by a professional.

Before starting the ACCA I had previous accounting experience for over 3 years - does that count? I doubt it because in Kenya we did it differently (It hurts, kills me! --- sorry I'm listening to Ginuiwine on capital). If only I could backdate my experience. Anyway slowly but surely I will get there.

The relevant experience is important now. Last year I attended an Afro-Carribean function hosted by Ernst & Young here in London. I got my hopes very high after the function but lost interest after sometime - my contact kept sending me emails that they are still looking for something for me, by the time my exams were getting nearer I had to give less attention to that. Guess this is the time to go back to them - fingers crossed.

Yes it can be tough for foreigners here when it comes to getting RELEVANT experience - a friend from Ghana is going back home next month to see if things will work out, if not he will be back here after a month.

Should I do the same thing? mmmm!

Keeps Getting Better

One thing that was on my mind through out this period was the exam results that were due out soon. I came home on Monday morning went online and I'm happy and proud of my feat I passed all the papers.

Ant other way would have been an anti climax. My prayers were surely answered - it still pays to be positve always.

How important were the results - officially I am an ACCA Affiliate! Feels good.


To add to all this positive vibe I was getting at around 1 pm I got a text message from a good buddy of mine his wife just got baby girl - I can't wait to see the new family member.

It's still a beautiful world!

I have been basking in my new found joy honestly in one of the papers I thought I had done myself dis-favour when I 'forgot' to answer one compulsory question only to realize when I had like 30 minutes to go. (You should have seen me sweating!!!)

Of course passing the exams brings on new challenges - quite different but all the same manageable. Is it not the irony of life to win today only to face a new challenge?
Bring 'em on!

Links

I notice some of the links I have here are not doing what they are s'pposed to do, lead to more information.

I need help.!.!.!.!

And also I found the kenyan weblogs - interesting stuff.

Ni Furahi-Day!

Yep! I'm feeling good but wondering why I always seem to find an excuse not to go out nowadays. I wonder if it has anything to do with my constant obsession with money?

There's this theory I came across sometime ago - You become what you abhor. Why is it that I child who is molested is likely to end being a molester? Or the son who witnesses his dad beating his mum ands up doing the same in future? It is like a viscious cycle. What am I aiming at?

There's this old man I work with he counts every cent he spends - woe unto you if he buys a cup of coffee. Just say NO! It's a trick he will remind you for the rest of your life! I think he is miserable but I wonder using the theory of viscious cycle if there is any remote chance I would end up like him? God forbid.

I got my tickets for the concert in Birmingham and bought train tickets for the journey on Sunday afternoon - my plans is to arrive there just before the concert starts and let the evening flow. I can't wait. Only hope he will come with a descent line-up, but I'm excited.

Am I obssessed with money?

OOOOoops! Big Brother final tonight! (Who cares!!!) Another evening well spent? God I need to have my own crib where I hold the remote control. That's the adjustment I had to make when I came to the UK - we not only have many channels but people's tastes are far and wide. Imagine I know someone who is still interested in watching Rambo 3! What's the world turning to?

Birmingham here I come!!

Finally received my tickets for the A.Hamilton concert this morning..... actually tickets cost £15.00 but with postage and everything else I'm paying £23.00! (daylight robbery if you ask me)

Sad I will be on my own - it's hard to get people so committed at such a short notice and realizeded it is not everyday I get opportunity to see mfavoritete artists.

Still not sure whether I need to book a B&B - or it's an all night thing. I will see what's up on Sunday night.


It's all good!

I had to include Goapele's (Gwa-pel) picture - Fellas she is hot! Is it just me or what? Anytime I come across a beautiful lady I feel like I can never be more ready than now to get married? Naw! It's just me.

Sad the shows are all sold out at the London Hammersmith Apollo - same rookie mistake, I should've bought them immediately I got the news. Second time I've Anthony Hamilton in London.

On the positive side he's performing on Sunday in Birmingham and I just ordered the tickets online £24.75 (cheaper than the £31.75 in London). On the downside is I got to get myself to Birmingham - and probably somewhere to sleep!

Even worse Goapele will probably not be in the line-up, I was looking forward to seeing her perform! lol

Corporate World

Rumour had it that Vodafone's CEO was poised to be replaced and Friday afternoon there was a beehive of activities in the stock exchange. I am made to understand that between 2 and 3 pm about 200m shares exchanged hands! That man is between a rock and a hard place, the foxes are out for the kill.

Just made me realise again how much pressure the executive jobs carry and the contrast between Executives at home and in the developed world. One has to account for his time in office by meeting targets.

It's not in our culture to hold our leaders to account for what they have done in office. Maybe I'm wrong. It's far from home and information is scarce - guess that's why I'm avoiding specifics when it comes to commenting on some issues.


Anyway it's weekend, I'm FREE! and I have an opportunity to get some tickets for next weekends concert (gig). Checkout the line -up: Angie Stone and Anthony Hamilton supported by an artist I've never heard before but Ithink I will love her Goapele.

Be Better Tomorrow Than You Are Today

I am reading John C. Maxwell's book "The 360 Degrees Leader"and came across this story:

A turkey was chatting with a bull.
'I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree, but I haven't got the energy.'
"Well," replied the bull, "why don't you nibble on some of my droppings? They're packed with nutrients."
The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it actually gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fourth night, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree. But he was promptly spotted by a hunter, who shot him down out of the tree.

The moral of the story: BS might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.

M&S

Oops I meant to attach the share movement over the years and accidentally forgot here we go.
For the last 2 years there has a positive movement - this what I beleive we call value creation. Through the years that is what Shareholder Value creation is all about.

Infatuation? You Tell Me!

Not sure I'm on Uchumi's case always, maybe I see the potential that lies in the company. I mean it shouldn't be where it is at the moment, or is it that I see a clear opportunity for a Kenyan to succeed as a CEO? Would it not be encouraging to see a Kenyan business leader coming along and building this 'giant' - he would be a hero.

Simply because Uchumi was an icon a brand that has not been exploited. It is a fact that the biggest lie we grew up with (well most accountants maybe and the masses) was that the balance sheet represented the worth of a company. Since the ENRON/WorldCom saga it is clear balance sheet figures are unreliable.

So I was reading an article by Sebastian Mallaby (a Washington Post columist). Basically his argument is that brand name/identity has become very important.

The number of people who have grown up going to Uchumi are many and I'm sure so many would love to support the supermarket - I hope the new team sees this potential and is working on it. Maybe it's just me having crush on this supermarket.

Again what's the strategy? Especially with managing the brand name? Therein lies goodwill. Most companies would kill to have what Uchumi has (I only hope the directors know that). I hate to make comparisons with companies here but others have succeeded in their turnaround strategies.

A good and favourite case in point is Marks & Spencer here in the UK - two years ago it was strugling, facing takeover threats from the rival BHS, which at the time was the darling of the city. There was so much politics involved in resisting unwanted advances from the favoured bhs owner Phillip Green (I think he is a sir now)
To cut the long story short M&S went through a period of re-branding and not long after it has been perfoming well - new bold adverts for its designer fashion clothing, stores well laid out and above all looking for a new strong management team. This has been reflected in the stock market

Interesting piece from the NY Times

We Want Pre-nup!

It's been ages since I was here. Commitments, that's my excuse. I mean I couldn't even spare a minute to stop by. Interesting....Right.

When I started blogging I thought it would be easy. I mean just jot down my thoughts and experiences - mostly on my finances or rather business. Like other people I have dreams which I hope will not just be dreams. Is it not scary just to have dreams, I mean as you grow older it scares the hell out of you. Nah maybe it's just me - I've been told many times that I'm too cautious. Honestly I believe the opinions have been rather cagey - people telling me half truths.
Which is okay. I mean I'm the same when it comes to others affairs, guilty as charged.

Oh by the way it was a nice week for me. Big story was the £48m divorce settlement of this 'self-made' millionaire. Why what was the problem there when they got married 30 years ago they had 'nothing'. This is believed to be Britain's largest divorce award. John Charman is mad (he will definitely appeal) he had earlier offered his former wife £20m arguing it was "impossible for any reasonable person to spend in their life time".
What I know about divorce cases is that they are not the best of times to expect the spouses to be reasonable - for heaven's sake they wil look for every opportunity to screw each other. Beware the fury of a scorned woman - she just found out that her husband was moving witha younger woman! I would do the same thing - squeeze the guys balls.

Pattni once said 'People living in glass houses should never throw stones'... and some other wise man said 'Do not piss on against the wind, you will end up pissing on yourself'
Yes I'm a guy but I think the woman deserves to be nasty to the man otherwise this wouldn't be a divorce!

PS: £48m is only 37% of Mr. Charman's £131m assets.

Mr. Justice Coleridge: "This was a long marriage where the parties started with nothing and all the wealth was effectively created during its subsitence." Makes you wonder why all the gold diggers still get a huge chunk during court cases - we remember Tyson and of course O.J. Simpson (he didn't have to do it but we can try to understand)

Qoutes From the convention

What you can tolerate you will NEVER change!

By the way is it not amazing how when we go to the restuarant we order using the price rather than the meal? Maybe it's just me.

At some point in your life you will be forced to live by faith or the consequence of your doubt.


Come to think of it I was giving out so many excuses as to why I couldn't go for the meetings - yet I was 'idle'. Everytime I sit infront of the TV with no agenda I consider it idleness

I Thought I knew Better!

I have managed for sometime now to check my spending habits and for sometime I thought I was on the right track.

Not to worry I'm not like in an financial ICU. I managed to reduce my dependence on bank overdraft. But can one survive without a bank overdraft and in the extreme loan here? There is a beautiful ad on Dodge and it goes for £11,000 - that would tempt any young single male....Imagine all the honeys!

The reason I'm saying this is last week I went for a convention (crusade?) and when it came time to tithe and offering - you can use your credit card to 'pay' the offering. I used to have a good excuse for not giving an 'offering' -uh I forgot to get some cash/ cash machine was not working and just this once I forgot my cheque book! Everybody who is not minding his/her own business would understand my case.
During the convention you only needed your card details and you can offer your offering!
Talk about making life easier.

Anyway is it right to use credit and overdraft facility to give offering? Using debt in the house of God! That's not my money and I'mgettingg into debt.

Credit cards and overdraft facilities have become so much part of us - easily confused to be a right. Personally I never use the one credit card I have unless it is necessary. But overdraft I'm a bit careless. I project this month I will use like £600 on overdraft - too much for me!

French madness!

The Miss Universe was held the other day in Carlifornia (I think!) and was won by Miss Puerto Rico (correct me if I'm wrong!)

Anyway the reason I'm saying this is the French contestant was ejected after she head butted Italian beauty!
That's the French beauty - looks can be deceiving!

Business Strategy

To plan - To bother about the best method of accomplishing an accidental result.

So Uchumi is back in operation I am made to understand. No idea what the strategy is but I assume it is just to sale more than competitors!
Strange way we do business in Kenya. So far and I again forgive my ignorance I have not heard anything about the strategy of the new chief steward at Uchumi. So how are we to tell we are on the right path?
I think I feel sorry for those with Uchumi shares - Why is no one talking about the direction the management is taking?

Only thing I know is politicians are generally people who follow the opinion polls. Is that not John Kerry was famous for? So yes I am worried when I hear nothing from the man in charge of Uchumi - I hate it when I appear to be rude but history is on my side when I say leave business to the business men.

Not to suggest that our honorable MPs lack business skills. On the contrary they possess a strength which in this case does not work for them here. Most politicians have private businesses, are learned and have had exceptional careers it's only that Uchumi is in the public eye and could lead to bad publicity.

Interesting when a Japanese car maker hired a westerner (Scottish) to run the company rumor had it that he was supposed to carry an axe in a cost-cutting measure. Apparently in the culture in Japan, employers don't just sack people - this is a Western concept.

All I'm saying is there's need for a formal plan to be laid out - I'm sure the many will be interested - not just the suppliers! Issues like profitability and getting back to Stock Exchange listing - remember the forgotten lot (shareholders).


A.O.B:
Now I have to pay for some of the content on The Daily Nation it was almost exclusively my only source of information on what was happening in Kenya. The strategy not very original, but a step in the right direction? Only time will tell. I'm waiting for the newspaper to announce it's quarterly results (oops!) - what the impact would be. I mean is there a viable market to sell Kenyan stories to (Kenyans in the diaspora?)

On VALUE it has been said it is what customers are prepared to pay. Can I part with $10 (£6!) every month to access the premium contents? For the few months coming I don't think I'm ready to part with that! Some justice here? I think so. Someone in Nairobi is buying the paper why should I get it for free!

and we had some jokes too!

Jay Leno had this to say on US exit:
'The US finally came up with an exit strategy. Unfortunately it's for the world cup'


'THE US IS OUT OF THE WORLD CUP. WE LOSE THIS THING EVERY FOUR YEARS. IT'S LIKE WE'RE DEMOCRATS.'

Zizzou snapped!

Still trying to make sense of what went on during the world cup - I mean all my predictions were way off target!
Anyway top news is still Zidane's antics and the press here as usual are trying to explain. Infact sports news today was all about analyzing the impact - heeehe - some even had lip reading expects to try and figure out what was actually said!

Here are some of the press cuttings:
'If we make gods of men, we should not be surprised when they fall to the earth... no footballer has received greater praise than ZZ. He has enriched our lives - So why could he not leave us in a way that is fitting?' wondered Simon Barnes, Chief Sports Writer of the Times.

Of course we forget he was human - and once in a while we lose our cool. It wasn't I wise move but I understand.

He continues 'The tension between being a real person who does things such as fail and defecate, and being a person who is seen as a god, is almost impossible to deal with.'

What do you think?

The most interesting coverage I came across was in The Independent newspaper.
1st there is the condemnation of the incident as Zidane's fall and act of betrayal. I was betrayed too - I still think weak teams advanced to the finals (I know I'm a sore loser!)
Look at the diving incidents - it used to be an outrage; thanks to this world cup it is an intrinsic part of the game.

well still reading the Independent and it is interesting - will publish some of the articles here.