Was speaking with a colleague who made the top 1 on the 2023 Duolingo Language Report learning French.
I think the conversation was about what she spent her free time doing the most. She said learning. Learning on Duolingo app.
As someone who had been unable to keep up with learning on Duolingo, I told her I salute her consistency.
“I don't even know what to do with it.” She said.
“Learning another language is very impressive. Actually, learning anything new is always impressive. We humans are meant to grow after all and growth comes by learning.” I told her.
Remembering a few persons whose knowledge of French and German languages has paved the way for them, I added, “It is an opportunity you are building. Keep it at.”
The statement also reminded me of the goodwill I enjoy in the market from Igbo traders whenever I speak their language.
“I bu onye Igbo?” or “You be omo Igbo?”
“How you take sabi my language?”
They would ask with joy in their eyes.
Eventually, they would let me have what I wanted to purchase at the fee I haggled for.
As a teenager, it’s at that point I started realising the power of commonality.
As unfair as it may be to an outsider, it's the way of the world.
In an economy where resources to satisfy all human needs are limited, where everyone who applied for a job can not be hired, where scholarship opportunities are highly competitive, and more, you owe it to yourself to build your opportunity edge.
As you prepare for the New Year 2024, remember this:
Opportunities are not just found; they are built through a combination of preparation, mindset, and strategic actions.
Where do you want to grow?
What are your targets for the New Year?
What do you need to do to build opportunities?
Building opportunities often require learning new skills and/or honing existing ones.
It demands expanding your network and/or investing in existing ones.
It requires being seen or heard for what you are good at even if you are a Grade A introvert.
It expects that you step out of your comfort zone even if you don't totally know what lies ahead. No one does anyway, so you are not alone.
More importantly, it requires that you are aligned with your interests and passions.
It might not make much sense in a world where doing whatever best legally pays to meet your needs, wants, and responsibilities is the order of the day. But if you want to have a sense of fulfillment each day, building opportunities around your passion and interest is a proactive approach to your personal growth and development.
No time invested in building an opportunity is a waste.
Seize it!
Stay BAKE!
Awesome! Thank so much for BAKING.