Don’t focus on money – Build capacity!

Recently, I have found myself engaging with a growing number of young people—individuals who could aptly be described as “up-and-coming” in various fields. One striking characteristic they all share is an intense desire to be successful and influential. However, while many of them have this strong aspiration, they often lack clarity on how to achieve it. They simply feel the drive within them.

I firmly believe that my encounters with these young individuals are not mere coincidences. I have been trained to understand that “challenges gravitate towards their solution,” and so, I recognise that I am positioned to guide them. Whenever I interact with these young minds, I intentionally create an environment for open discussions, aiming to understand their mindset. From there, I begin to guide them towards success through words. I have learned that great men and women are moulded by words and that the first step towards greatness is a transformation of the mind—one’s mindset, perception, and outlook on life. Each time I engage with these youths, I see greatness in their eyes!

Work on developing yourself and building capacity rather than merely chasing money. What you become determines what you have—a truth that cannot be overstated.

The world is divided into two groups of people: those who help others and those who wait to be helped. You must decide which category you wish to belong to. I made my choice long ago—to be a helper and a builder of people. True success is not measured by material possessions but by the impact one has on the world through personal development and self-investment. To achieve lasting success, you must first invest in yourself to the point where you have something valuable to contribute to your world.

A distinguished and highly successful individual once shared the secret to his achievements: “Identify a human need and meet it. Anybody can be successful.” True success is linked to discovering and fulfilling one’s purpose in life. Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why you are alive in this era and not in the fifteenth century? Why were you designed the way you are and placed on this planet?

Success is about understanding why you exist and then fulfilling that purpose. No matter how beautifully crafted a product may be, if it fails to serve the purpose for which it was designed, it has failed. Likewise, if you fail to identify and fulfil your purpose, you have not truly succeeded.

What is that skill or ability that comes naturally to you? That is your gift. That is the seed of greatness within you. Nurture it, refine it, and develop it into a skill—within it lies your purpose. Life becomes more meaningful and your thoughts more productive when you understand why you are here and actively pursue your calling.

Once you have identified your natural talents, push yourself to become the best in that field. The future belongs to those who are knowledgeable. This is why it is essential to continually develop your intellectual capacity.

Young people must prioritise education. Whether formal or informal, acquiring knowledge is key. Read extensively—seek out materials that will enhance your intellectual capabilities. Do not waste all your time reading newspapers or watching random television programmes. Otherwise, you may find yourself on the sidelines of life, merely reading the news when you should be making the news!

Think at a higher level. Dream big. Reject mediocrity. Elevate yourself by exposing your mind to relevant and up-to-date information. This is not just about reading international magazines or watching global news; it is about activating your mental potential, using your mind, and cultivating a strong drive for excellence.

Do not merely dream of being influential someday—become influential now by committing yourself to learning. Invest in your mind through continuous reading and self-improvement. Some individuals have gone through formal education yet have not learned to stretch their minds. It is not enough to master your course curriculum; the world is much broader than your area of specialisation. Start exploring knowledge beyond your field—make it a habit to learn something new every day.

You do not have to become a university professor to be successful. The key is to improve your intelligence and your understanding of life. Train yourself to learn about different fields. Discipline yourself to acquire knowledge. By doing so, you increase your value and relevance in today’s world.

Let this message ignite something within you and propel you towards taking bold steps in your chosen field. Enrol in a course, purchase books and dedicate time to study. Let reading this article inspire you to take decisive action towards your dreams. The person who becomes great is not the one who merely gathers information but the one who applies it.

Start taking steps towards your dreams today. Begin, and never give up—because I see greatness in your eyes!

Much love

Sharoneez Emephia