Lessons of 20s (04) Find Your Aaron: Surround Yourself with Believers and Embrace Growth
"Igba kii mu omi lè, a fi opolo wo"
Lamar is one of my friends who stood by me through it all, there was a time I failed in school and he innocently came to visit me, my pops asked him if we play football together in school, and he said Yes. Another memory of lamar coming through for me was when I was freshly out of school, he genuinely wanted to help and spoke to baba (baba calls me bantu by the way), I almost worked for NURTW, lol, maybe I could have truly transformed that place but I also remember what lamar said, a king like you cannot work there. Now that I remember, I have never worked for money in mind, all I have wanted was an enabling environment to thrive and succeed, make a real impact, and do amazing things. A lamar is an Aaron to me. Funny how, I am truly a greater beneficiary of headliners, the union of amazing friends.
Oh, how can I forget Omolewa, my friend, my gee, my guy- through the thorns of life, I have not looked for a reason to find a friend and her not coming through, we still spoke last night on how our relationship is a stick and carrot relationship, one of the best of my 20s. My Skul 2 guys are one of the best as well, I remember when I won the Employee of the Month award, that is simply one of the best moments working in that organization, it is a team I always recommend when I get the opportunity.
We all know the feeling that you've got a crazy, ambitious dream, but the world seems to whisper doubts instead of encouragement. It's during these times that we need an Aaron in our lives. I had done so many times, in failed businesses, failed relationships, the paths neglected, and the cold feet we developed. Remember Aaron from the Bible, Moses' brother? While Moses hesitated, unsure of himself, Aaron stood by him and had a strong conviction on the call of Moses that Moses could lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
We often think we don’t need people, there are of course journey that needs to be gone alone but there is an advantage that comes with leaning on people and learning from other people's experiences to live life more comfortably, hence, surround yourself with people who believe in you and your dreams, even when you doubt yourself.
Some of the names I had mentioned and those I had referred to in previous letters will challenge and support you, I remember Smeezy was one of the earliest largest donors for JOFFoundation, how words were sometimes like arrows but they were a push to grow while offering a hand when you stumble.
If Santi hypes you, you’ll fly a plane the next day, he has the energy to put you on. I mean, find friends who will be your biggest cheerleaders, sharing in your excitement and achievements.
I have a crazy friend called Lanre, he doesn’t know to tell you the truth, he will spill it like it is, I love him too, and even when it's tough to hear, but always with your best interests at heart.
Lateef and good counsel, surround yourself with individuals who have walked similar paths and gained valuable wisdom.
Be available to be taught- Embrace learning opportunities and be open to acquiring knowledge from various sources, including exploring your spiritual beliefs and seeking guidance through faith. Learn the fundamentals of building and scaling a successful venture, and understand and implement effective workflows and strategies while embracing lifelong learning and personal growth.
By taking these steps, you'll be well on your way to achieving your dreams. Remember, it's not just about having the right idea; it's about surrounding yourself with a supportive network, actively seeking knowledge, and acting.
Don't wait for someone to believe in you first. Believe in yourself, find your Aaron, and take 10 steps ahead towards making your dreams a reality!
Olajide