Evans Akpo

Everything will shift again soon, not because it’s a new year, but because of your decision.

As there is a shift, we have the advantage to welcome the inevitability of change, knowing it’s essential for growth. It might not be clear initially, but most changes prove valuable in hindsight, pushing us to evolve. So, take a moment to ground yourself.

What you have today might transform into a memory by tomorrow. Life is unpredictable—people and circumstances flow in and out, and it doesn’t slow down for anyone. In an instant, the calm can turn to chaos, altering life’s course in ways we can’t foresee. Small, seemingly insignificant choices can shake our world like a seismic event. Entire lives are reshaped, for better or worse, by unexpected moments. This constant flux, like the unpredictable turmoil we witness around us, is a reminder that everything is transient.

No matter how good or bad your current situation is, it will change. That’s the one certainty. So, accept it, breathe deeply, and stay present. You are exactly where you need to be at this moment. Life has its seasons, and each challenging step is part of the journey. Keep giving your best effort, and don’t force what isn’t meant to be. When the time is right, everything will fall into place naturally.

“We are born ‘human,’ a label both simple and profound, yet we often lose sight of this essential truth. We cling to limiting labels – overweight, divorced, diseased, rejected, poor – like a snowflake clinging to a branch, forgetting its origins in the vast, ever-changing sky. These labels, however, are merely snapshots, fleeting reflections of a moment in time. Our true essence, our humanity, transcends any temporary state.

Just as the caterpillar transforms into a butterfly, we too are constantly evolving, shedding old skins and embracing new possibilities. We will face challenges, make mistakes, and experience setbacks. But these experiences, like the seasons, are integral to our growth.

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela

Forgive yourself for the missteps, the moments of doubt, the choices that led you astray. These are not failures, but valuable lessons, the stepping stones on your path to self-discovery. Embrace your imperfections, for they are the very essence of being human.

Once you embrace your inherent worth, you’ll discover an inner strength and resilience you never knew you possessed. You’ll navigate life’s transitions with grace, letting go of what no longer serves you and embracing the unknown with curiosity and excitement.

Celebrate your journey, acknowledge your progress, and remember that your humanness is your greatest gift. It is within this shared humanity that we find connection, compassion, and the courage to keep moving forward.”

One idea I frequently emphasize to students is the importance of taking action now. Submit that job application, put in the effort for your coursework—stop waiting! That’s the real lesson here.

It’s not too late, but you must get started. You don’t need to have everything figured out to take the next step, but you do need to take that next step to start figuring things out. As you push forward, remember: it’s far better to be exhausted from taking small steps forward than to be tired from waiting around, doing nothing.

The truth is, if you wait for the “right time” or until you feel 100% ready, you’ll be waiting your entire life. Take this to heart now. Too many people wait too long to live their best lives—waiting all day for 5 PM, all week for Friday, all year for the next holiday, and all their lives for passion and happiness. Don’t be one of them!

Keep reminding yourself that new paths are forged by walking, not waiting. Confidence doesn’t come before taking the next step; it builds as you move forward. Progress comes from action.

This is your year. Now is the time—it’s your turn. Put your heart and soul into what’s in front of you today.

Insist on Pouring Your Heart and Soul into Everything You Do

There’s a profound difference between empty fatigue and gratifying exhaustion. As you step into this new season, aim for the latter. It’s easy to fall into the trap of waiting for a spark of passion or a new opportunity to ignite your enthusiasm. But the truth is, passion often follows action, not the other way around. If you want more fulfillment, don’t wait—start now. Put your entire heart and soul into whatever is in front of you at this very moment.

Not tomorrow’s plans or future possibilities—focus on today’s tasks, opportunities, and interactions. Whether it’s a workout, a conversation, or a project, approach it with full commitment. The present moment is where passion grows and satisfaction thrives.

In the grand scheme, purpose is the reason for your journey, and passion is the fire that lights your way. Believe that each day is an opportunity to live with intention and enthusiasm. You already have so much in your life worthy of your dedication. There are people and situations around you that need your energy and focus just as much as you need them.

You carry an immense well of potential passion within you, waiting to be unleashed. Don’t wait for perfect circumstances or the “right” time. Pour your heart into what’s in front of you right now, and watch as extraordinary things unfold because of your dedication. When you fully immerse yourself in your present, the future takes care of itself in the most beautiful ways.

Given how the year went fast, I realized I was answering almost every question thrown my way. Some were genuine inquiries that deserved thoughtful responses. Others? Well, they were questions I had already answered, just asked differently. This made me reflect on the importance of setting boundaries—not to shut people out, but to protect my time and energy.

Boundaries aren’t bad; they’re your guards. They help you focus on what truly matters. Upholding your boundaries is a way of valuing yourself. And when those boundaries are tested, remember this: sometimes, the best response is silence. There’s no need to waste your words on negativity or frustration. Your time is precious—don’t spend it on things or people that drain your peace. Carry on with grace instead.

But here’s something else to keep in mind: not all toxic situations stem from bad intentions. Sometimes, it’s people who genuinely care for you, but their needs or way of navigating life inadvertently force you to compromise your well-being. They’re not bad people, but they may not be the right people for your daily circle.

You can’t sacrifice yourself every day for someone else. It’s okay to create healthy space for yourself in 2025. Whether that means stepping back from a job, a relationship, loving someone from a distance, or saying no to obligations that feel heavy—you’re allowed to prioritize your happiness. You deserve peace, and setting boundaries is how you make room for it.

As the year continues, it would be great to embrace Growth Through Subtraction.

When you identify what nourishes your soul and brings you joy, give yourself permission to make space for it. If time or energy feels scarce for what truly matters, it’s a clear sign to let go of what doesn’t. Subtracting the unnecessary creates room for growth, clarity, and fulfillment.

Every time you let go of negativity or clutter, you make room for positivity and progress. It’s worth reflecting: if life feels overwhelming, begin simplifying. Release habits, relationships, or commitments that no longer serve you. Growth often comes from letting go of what once felt indispensable but no longer aligns with who you’re becoming.

Life’s transitions show us the power of adaptability. We outgrow what we once held dear and embrace unexpected joys. Pause often to honor your journey — the challenges you’ve faced and the strength you’ve gained. Each step forward deserves acknowledgment so you can keep moving forward with grace.

When the pain of holding on outweighs the fear of letting go, it’s time to release and embrace what’s next. Let go. Grow. Thrive.