Tuesday, 19 July 2011

Living Your Own Life

Life is an interesting book that ends when we stop existing, until then we keep pursuing happiness, wealth, truth and everything in between. The success of social media sites such as Facebook, Linkedin shows that man has an innate need to connect with one other. Think about this for a second. As soon as we receive good or bad news especially the former, we almost can't wait to update our Facebook status. It is not uncommon to see status updates centered on a new marriage, relationship issues, child birth and even death. The person with the update expects comments to follow from friends who either celebrate, sympathize or make fun of the situation. Somehow like most animals man needs man to survive.

As such we crave approval of people we trust when making decisions. From our parents who sometimes tell us to marry only from our race or ethnic background, to teachers, opinion leaders and friends. They all help shape our thoughts, behaviour and opinions. This makes it only common sense to be careful who we allow into our lives to influence us. Some young people run into huge debts trying to impress others. We want to wear what we cannot afford, live in posh apartments and stay trendy at the expense of future gains. I am not against living the good life as many call it, but it worries me that many find it okay to live above their means.

Individuals with a strong sense of self change the world not people who can be won by any doctrine. I like to watch Steve Jobs give a presentation, he always look brilliant. He is his own man and people accept him because he is a technology and marketing genius. We cannot all be Steve Jobs but it is okay to be you. Find your style stick with it and watch others appreciate you for who you truly are. Most of my life for as long as I can remember I have been described as a non conformist. I try to think with my own brain,analyze and draw conclusions based on varied evidence. It does not make me better than anyone but atleast when I make mistakes I accept responsibility.

The journey of self discovery is a long one and I am still walking that road. We can help others by admitting our own private pains where necessary and encouraging as many as we can. We are all trying to find meaning in this world, there is no point making it difficult for the next man.

Until next time, remain young, hip and proudly Naija!

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