Some days we wake up and we sincerely don’t feel like going out to “fight”, or we may just be feeling a bit irritable with our-self or the rest of the world generally. It could be the fear of going out to face the monster tasks ahead, or the deep worry of not being good enough. Or the torture of verbal/emotional abuse/harassment subtly received from classmates/colleagues/bosses/lecturers for whatever reasons. Or it could be that you’re running away from the “monkeys” that won’t let you be (one of my sisters and I joke a lot about the “monkeys” – they are those huge tasks, deliverables, etc – it is either we are chasing them or they are chasing us – I like to feel like I am chasing the monkeys though – lol). Or it may be that it seems your efforts are not equivalent to the results you’re getting – and so why bother.

I can relate.

I have gone through different career transitions. I have had to learn my jobs over and over again. I have had to work in different Countries, across different cultures. I have been bullied, discriminated against, and talked down at. As a woman, working in an industry dominated by men comes with its own fair share of bullying; working as a new immigrant and being the only black face in the room – believe me has its own challenges; having to get myself and my kids ready for the day to day tasks everyday – it is a tough thing to do.

But what do I do daily?

I get up, dress up, show up, wear my positive attitude, and give everything I am doing my very BEST. The getting up part is very critical – getting up inspite of the odds, getting up within – inspiring myself to never give up. Dressing up – wearing the look, dressing for the job, dressing up bold and bright, wearing the most important thing – my smile. Showing up, even if I don’t have all the answers; just showing up and being fully present – giving everything my best shot. I have had to re-invent myself; learn, re-learn and learn again.

No matter what you’re feeling today, no matter what the situation around you is – don’t you ever let that thought/situation weigh you down. Don’t believe the lie around you. If you’re being bullied, harassed, or discriminated against – ask for help. If you’re struggling with your job, or in school – get additional training, attend extra classes, ask to be mentored, ask questions, get help, read, study, improve, re-invent yourself; if you need to take a certification exam or go for a course – go for it; socialize, engage, be involved.
The biggest battle you ever have to win is that within yourself. And you know what, you’re an amazing package – You have all it takes to be successful. Do not believe the lie in your head that you’re not good enough. Do not let the noise around you distract you.

Wake up everyday, and press towards your goals. Don’t give up on yourself. Step out and give that task your best shot today!

Remember 2 Corinthians 4:8 – We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” As a believer, you are not alone. God is with you. Remember – You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” – 1 John 4:4

If you don’t have a relationship with God, here is your opportunity – He loves you and He wants you to succeed. Give your heart to Him today, confess and repent from your sins, and He will forgive you your sins.

You will succeed!

Tope Rebecca Olotu

#showup #giveityourbestshot #dressup #getup
#DearAburo
#DearYoungerFriend
#LetterToMyAburo