This week, Monika explores the big question: is your career heading for a sudden cliff or does it have a runway for take-off? She draws parallels from past disruptions — typesetters replaced by computers and librarians displaced by the internet — to highlight how today’s fears around AI are part of a recurring pattern. Some people adapt and thrive by upskilling, while others stagnate. Monika shares warning signs of career stagnation, from outdated roles and lack of new skills to limited visibility with decision-makers.

Monika then outlines how to turn a potential cliff into a growth runway. It begins with honest self-assessment and continuous learning through micro-courses, mentors, and side projects. A growth mindset, curiosity, and the willingness to adapt are crucial safety nets in uncertain times. She emphasizes the power of networking with peers and mentors already thriving in the new environment. Drawing inspiration from Peter Drucker’s lifelong learning journey, Monika reminds us that constant adaptation is the only way to stay relevant.

In listener questions, Sneha Rege writes about transitioning from a misled ULIP investor to an aspiring SEBI-registered advisor and asks about international diversification and classifying NPS in asset allocation. Abhishek Kumar Goyel, a merchant navy professional, seeks guidance on consolidating a scattered portfolio and creating financial order. And Anonymous, an early retiree, worries about whether a flat or prolonged bear market could derail her investments.

Chapters:

(00:00 – 00:00 ) Work Does Not End, Jobs Do: Navigating Career Cliffs and Runways

(00:00 – 00:00 ) International Diversification and Global Fund Choices

(00:00 – 00:00 ) NPS in Asset Allocation and Retirement Planning

(00:00 – 00:00 ) Bringing Order to a Scattered Financial Portfolio

(00:00 – 00:00 ) Managing Retirement Wealth Against Market Risks

If you have financial questions that you’d like answers for, please email us at ⁠mailme@monikahalan.com⁠ 

Monika’s book on basic money management

⁠⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-money-english/⁠⁠

Monika’s book on mutual funds

⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-mutual-funds/⁠

Monika’s workbook on recording your financial life

⁠⁠https://www.monikahalan.com/lets-talk-legacy/⁠⁠

Calculators

⁠⁠https://investor.sebi.gov.in/calculators/index.html⁠⁠

You can find Monika on her social media @monikahalan. 

Twitter ⁠⁠@MonikaHalan⁠⁠

Instagram ⁠⁠@MonikaHalan⁠⁠

Facebook ⁠⁠@MonikaHalan⁠⁠

LinkedIn ⁠@MonikaHalan⁠

Production House: ⁠www.inoutcreatives.com⁠

Production Assistant:⁠ Anshika Gogoi