By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings
In the bustling life of Sierra Leone, where economic hardships and societal pressures intertwine, it’s easy to become disheartened by the success stories of others. Whether it’s classmates who seem to have secured prestigious jobs or those who flaunt visible signs of success, it can often feel like you’re left behind. However, it’s crucial to remember that the metrics of success are not universal but deeply personal and varied.
Redefining Success: Beyond Financial Measures
Personal Fulfillment:
Success is not merely about accumulating wealth but about finding personal satisfaction and fulfillment. Achieving personal goals, such as completing education, mastering a skill, or maintaining strong family relationships, are significant indicators of success. For many Sierra Leoneans, the joy of personal growth and the ability to contribute positively to their community are markers of success that extend beyond financial gain.
Resilience and Overcoming Adversity:
In a country where economic hardships are prevalent, resilience becomes a crucial aspect of success. Navigating life’s challenges, overcoming obstacles, and persisting despite difficulties are profound achievements. For many, success is demonstrated through the ability to adapt, remain hopeful, and keep moving forward despite setbacks.
Contribution to Community:
Success can also be measured by the impact one has on their community. Acts of service, such as volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or mentoring others, reflect a form of success that goes beyond personal wealth. In Sierra Leone, where community support is vital, contributing to the well-being of others can be as valuable as financial success.
Health and Well-being:
Success includes maintaining good health and well-being, which can sometimes be overlooked in the pursuit of financial goals. Achieving a balance between work and personal life, managing stress, and nurturing physical and mental health are important aspects of success that contribute to a fulfilling life.
Educational and Professional Achievements:
Success in education and career development, such as acquiring new skills, attaining qualifications, or making progress in one’s profession, are valuable achievements. These accomplishments reflect dedication and hard work and can lead to personal and professional growth, even if they do not immediately translate into financial wealth.
Personal Values and Integrity:
Success is also reflected in staying true to one’s values and maintaining integrity. Being honest, ethical, and principled in one’s actions can be a significant measure of success, contributing to a sense of personal satisfaction and respect from others.
The Personal Journey: A Unique Path
Each individual’s journey is unique, and so are their milestones. Some people achieve their goals early in life, while others take longer paths. The struggles faced in Sierra Leone, from economic constraints to limited opportunities, are part of a broader journey that shapes our personal definitions of success. For some, success may be found in securing a stable job, while for others, it could be in completing education despite financial challenges or starting a small business with limited resources.
It’s important to reflect on your achievements and progress, no matter how small they may seem in comparison to others. Celebrate personal victories, and remember that every step forward is a step closer to your goals. As the Bible says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). This verse reminds us that divine timing is perfect, and our paths are uniquely crafted by God’s plans.
The Role of Gratitude and Perspective
In the midst of comparison and self-doubt, it’s essential to practice gratitude. Take a moment to appreciate where you are and what you have achieved. Often, we admire others without realizing that someone, somewhere, might look up to us with similar admiration. Reflect on your own progress, no matter how it might compare to the success metrics of others. In times of struggle, remind yourself of the words from the anthem: “Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
This anthem encapsulates the essence of trusting in a higher plan and being grateful for the journey you are on. Your struggles are part of a greater narrative, and your achievements, however modest they may seem, are valuable.
Embracing Your Unique Metrics
Success is deeply personal and can be measured in countless ways. As you witness the achievements of classmates and peers, remember that their metrics of success are theirs alone. Your path is uniquely yours, and your journey is defined by your own standards and goals. While it’s natural to admire others’ successes, it’s more important to set your own goals and work toward them, driven by your personal values and aspirations.
In conclusion, let the stories of others inspire rather than intimidate you. Embrace your own journey with gratitude and patience, understanding that success is not solely defined by material wealth or high-status positions. By focusing on your unique path, celebrating your own achievements, and trusting in divine timing, you can find fulfillment and success in your own right.