Meet Michael Burnside

We were lucky to catch up with Michael Burnside recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I believe that we have a defining moment in our lives.
A defining moment defines you.
When I was a teenager, my parents were in debt with paying income taxes. I did not understand how people get into financial difficulties paying taxes.
When i decided to attend college, A college counselor asked me what major would I pursue. My first answer, was I did not know. Then I realized that I was curious about taxes. I asked the counselor, who does taxes. The counselor said, Accountants. I then realized that is what I wanted to be, an accountant!
That is called a defining moment!

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

Professionally, I serve as an Accountant. I want people to understand about our tax system and how to learn how to avoid negative tax issues. I want to share what I have learned about how to prevent living beyond your production financially.
As a former educator, I want others to help others discover their defining moment!

I also became an Author by writing a book about some of my journey!
I shared how an ordinary person can become extraordinary just by living.
I share how maybe the American dream is not Wealth of money, but Wealth of being love. I share that success should be measured daily, not after you accomplish all your goals or dreams.

I also believe that what you do in life should not just be self serving. What I do professionally should also enhance others.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

I think my faith in God, that there is a power that is greater than me,
A determination that hard work accomplishes much and that if you believe it, you can achieve it.
I believe that practice makes you better, rather that perfect!

For someone starting our on their journey, I would say take one moment at a time, to see your way through whatever moment you are in.
Do not just set goals, but have plans on how to accomplish the goals.
Also write your goals and plans, review them to reinforce your desire to complete them.
Study, train and educate yourself on what you are after! Learn your strengths and weaknesses, and make changes when required.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

In my life, there have been many people that have inspired me, employed and educated me.
Yes, it helps with a village of people to make one person feel success .
Starting with my parents, who taught me how to love and forgive others.
Mywife; who taught me to focus on how to be a family man.
My sons taught me how to be a present father.
School teachers and professors whi taught me how to become educated beyond school books.

Image Credits

Some photos by Marie!