Steem4nigeria Accelerator Contest Week 76: Advice to my younger self.
Growing up as a child has fond memories of me happily playing and depending entirely on my parents' provisions which are still livid in my mind but also in sharp contrast with the independent mentality of maturity in my reality today, especially in decision-making.
Have you taken some irrational decisions while you were much younger?
It is written that foolishness abounds in the heart of a child, and actually I lived like a child. I had big dreams, but then I made some decisions and choices which were not the best (due to ignorance and misinformation) and I can say I am still paying the price.
Do you think you're now wiser and better than you used to be?
Over the years, with first-hand experiences, I have grown to a stronger and better version of myself. I have been able to see life through a better lens. I also learned that everything might not go as planned, but that’s not entirely bad, because some other routes can also lead to the best destinations."
What advice would you give to your younger self or a younger generation who are already in that stage of life you were once in?
Dear younger me,
Firstly, do not put all your hopes on just one path, which is education. Actually, education is important, but so is also having a skill. The struggles in the Nigerian educational system is tough.
For example, admission processes can be depressing and time-consuming, so make sure that, while awaiting that admission, learn something. Choose a skill or a trade, something you have a passion for, something practical that can help your growth. "Gone are the days when education was the only key because, sadly, the padlocks have been changed." That is to say, you can have both a degree and a skill. It shouldn't be either, but both.
Secondly, just like me do not have a narrow mindset about success. I was made to believe that only professional courses like medicine, law, pharmacy, accounting, banking, nursing and engineering were worth pursuing and
making a living from (infact I didn't hear or know of many other courses while growing up except the ones mentioned above). But that was just a limited version of what my environment knew which was not right.
Many other courses and careers are just as professional and fulfilling. If only I had done my findings earlier, I would have known that success is bigger than tying it to just a few career titles. So, for any younger me, reading this do not fail to search out, inquire, and don’t limit yourself because of what the society says.
Also, remember to find your voice early. My older self just found her voice, and I have a bit of regret not taking a stand sooner. I faced lots of bullying, especially in school. But I am advising you, please don’t let that silence you. Be bold, be confident, because the world will always attempt to suppress and silence your voice, but don’t let your humility become mediocrity or a weakness. Stand your ground when necessary. Your voice matters!
What are your thoughts and advice towards your younger generation?
@collins012
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