Life sometimes presents us with some opportunities that could be once in a lifetime. Opportunities that come with this name tag could lead to the unknown and as such, your appetite would determine whether to travel along the path whose destination you can only predict; nothing seems certain.
source
About this time last year, I decided to travel along the lonely path that leads to the unknown hoping that the destination would be as beautiful as I envisaged.
It was my last TV appearance (in the meantime) 1st April, 2017. I remember how the moment was for me on set. While on set, I gave my last appearance my all despite not being sure whether my guts to leave the familiar to the unknown were right. All I knew as I sat on set that morning discussing "Suicide" with my guests, was that I wanted that thing standing at the other end of the rope, whose voice beckoned to me in a voice many couldn't hear.
What more could I have wanted as a young lady with a promising career in the media industry, newly wed, delivering well on her role from feedbacks and appraisals, a manageable pay cheque to meet my basic needs?
Well, I wanted something beyond me. I wanted to be able to live not just for me. I longed for an atmosphere that allows for consistent career growth and one that rewards excellence. I felt I was too young to be stuck in the familiar at such a tender age. I wanted something more than "job security".
Looking back on the decision I took this time last year, do I have regrets? No.
Have things being exactly how I envisaged? Not 100%.
I am grateful I am still here and able to look back on that decision with all sense of fulfilment.
I think I made the right choice.
My account might not be reading 6 digits just yet, but I have evolved this past 1 year.
I am growing and changing.
My perspectives to life and money have changed.
If it's about the money, you'd soon find out the more you have, the more you still want to have.
To readers under the age of 26, the time to stretch is now. The job market you're hoping to pitch your tent in needs you to be young in age and at heart. Well, most multinationals wouldn't consider your application for an entry role once you've crossed the line of 26. The earlier you launched into the deep, the better.
While waiting for your dream job, volunteer in places where you'd learn and grow with or without remunerations.
Whatever job you're on is a phase and it would pass. I am yet to arrive. I won't be foolish to settle too quickly. When this phase is about to end, the knowing would come and the hunger and thirst for something more would be stronger like never before until I reach for the new and better life has in stock for me. Keep striving for more.
At the verge of ditching the new but unfamiliar opportunity that life brought my way for the familiar, I decided to speak with my CEO after my last TV appearance. I was afraid i was taking too big a risk. I asked him to counsel me as a father and that's what he did. His words are still with me. He didn't only counsel me, he also prayed for me. I got his blessing before finally making up my mind. He opened his heart to me like a father would, his daughter. Speaking with him was helpful a big deal.
Did you see the lesson in there? That you've gotten another opportunity doesn't mean you should slam the door on those you've been working with. Be sure to exit on a clean slate. Do the needful. Resign appropriately.
I am grateful for the people I worked with at my former organization. Beyond delivering on the tasks I was given, I learnt about life, relationships, leadership, commitment and dedication to duty, whether salary came as and when due or not.
I enjoyed working in my team. I found a home in that team whose leadership was stirred by my amiable producer, Wole Oladele with the assistance of Yemi Alao and Abdulrophl.
When you want to journey into the unknown: like i did this time last year:
- Seek counsel.
In the multitude of counselors, there is safety.
Acquire relevant information. Know what you're going into.
Be prepared to live with the consequences of your choice.
The road will not always be smooth.
Focus on the big picture, especially when things do not go as planned.
Toast to the greater days ahead of me.
Toast to the greater days ahead of you.
