A day in the life of Paraplanner, Cecelia Willemse
Welcome to Logic’s “day in the life” series, where you can learn more about the people at Logic Financial Services, and find out what we do at work and home.
This month, meet Cecelia Willemse, our Paraplanner who relishes a second sleep, and the secret behind serving easy yet healthy meals.
What time do you wake up and do you have a tried and tested morning routine?
I wake up around 6.15 am but then snooze my alarm for 10 minutes… the second sleep is the best 😊
I then need coffee! My husband and I make sure we have a few minutes chat at the kitchen table, while having breakfast to align our mindset and prepare for the challenges the day may bring.
Then it’s a rush to get ready for the workday. Trying to get my teenage son to wake up and ready for school is a task in itself.
I spoil my little family; I make sure my son gets breakfast in bed and my husband gets a freshly brewed coffee for his journey to work… it’s the little things that count.
Then it is school drop-off and driving to work.
How’s the commute? Do you use public transport, drive, walk, or cycle to work?
My journey takes around 45 minutes by car – from leaving my home, school drop-off, and to work. I travel the country roads and can get lost in thought when I see the beautiful fields and old buildings.
What are your primary responsibilities?
My primary responsibilities include conducting detailed technical research and report writing. It is crucial for me to ensure that the information I provide to clients is not only accurate but also ethically sound.
To achieve this, I adopt a client-centric approach by placing myself in their shoes and asking, “Would I be satisfied with this outcome?”
If the answer is no, I make it a priority to reassess, strive for better solutions, and take the necessary steps to ensure that fairness and integrity are upheld at all times.
First task of the day?
I first check for any new tasks that require my attention and then prioritise tasks for the day from there on.
Priorities can change quickly and is it important to be flexible.
Any top tips for managing your time?
A to-do list, setting boundaries, and “eating the frog” (meaning I always try to tackle the hardest job of the day first!).
What three small things always make your day better?
Good coffee, respect, and happy people.
What do you enjoy most about working at Logic?
Everyone is very respectful, and I am allowed to make a report or letter my own (put my own flair on it).
What’s for dinner and who’s cooking?
I recently started using Green Chef and I just love the fact that I don’t have to think about “what’s for dinner”. I simply grab one of the menus and begin preparing the meal with ease.
On occasions when I don’t use Green Chef, my preferred option is a quick and nutritious stir-fry, generously packed with fresh vegetables to ensure a healthy and efficient meal.
How do you unwind in the evening?
I need exercise. It could be a quick workout or a walk on the treadmill while watching something on TV.
Quickfire questions
Favourite food? Omelette with loads of braised mushrooms
Favourite film? Ratatouille
Top of your bucket list? Climbing Snowdonia (Watkin Path)
What are you listening to right now? Vuur op die Water – Elandré (a South African musician – on Spotify).
What are you watching right now? Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy (BBC iPlayer)
