Life After Graduation: A Journey of Purpose, Service, and True Success

16 Jun 2025 Leave a comment

by Evans Akpo in Uncategorized Tags: , , , ,

Photo by Danielle De Angelis on Pexels.com

Graduation is a powerful milestone—the closing of one chapter and the exciting, sometimes uncertain, beginning of another. As you step into life beyond the classroom, it is natural to ask: What comes next? How do I find success? How do I live a life of meaning?

One truth I want to highlight is this: life after graduation is not immediately a polished diamond. The path ahead will have its share of rough edges—challenges, rejections, setbacks—but also moments of acceptance, growth, and unexpected victories. Every challenge you face will shape you, refine you, and prepare you for greater strength and wisdom. The journey is not always easy, but it is worth it.

Two powerful books offer timeless guidance for this new phase. In Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek, we are reminded that the greatest leaders are those who put others first. Sinek paints a vision of leadership rooted in service, empathy, and trust. As you enter the next phase of your journey—whether starting a career, continuing education, or contributing to your community—remember that true success is not about personal gain at the expense of others. Instead, it is about lifting others up even when you are climbing your own mountain. When you build circles of trust, protect, support, and encourage those around you, you not only lead—you inspire.

Similarly, in The Measure of a Man, Sidney Poitier reflects on what it means to live with integrity and honor. His life teaches us that the true measure of success is not fame, wealth, or recognition, but the character we build through both acceptance and rejection, through both triumphs and trials. As you move forward, you will face obstacles and hear the word no more than you might expect. But each rejection will guide you closer to your purpose. Poitier reminds us that what matters most is the courage to stay true to your values and to walk your path with dignity.

Life after graduation will test you—but it will also reward you. Stay committed to kindness, service, and strength of character. Choose to be the kind of leader who eats last, who uplifts others, and who measures success by the lives you touch. In doing so, you will not only succeed—you will thrive.

Congratulations on your achievement. Your future may not be easy—but it will shine brighter than any diamond, because it will be built by your hands, your heart, and your resilience.

The Enduring Value of Wisdom in Leadership

11 Jan 2025 Leave a comment

by Evans Akpo in Uncategorized Tags: , , , ,

Benjamin Franklin’s profound observation, “The Doors of Wisdom are never shut,” underscores the timeless significance of this invaluable human trait. Wisdom, a multifaceted virtue, transcends mere knowledge. It encompasses a deep understanding of human nature, a nuanced appreciation for both the potential for good and the capacity for evil, and the ability to apply this understanding to navigate the complexities of life.  

True leaders, those who guide and inspire others, must cultivate wisdom as a cornerstone of their character. This involves a multifaceted approach:

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  • Intellectual Acuity: Wise leaders possess sharp minds, capable of critical analysis and informed decision-making. They draw upon a vast reservoir of knowledge and experience to navigate intricate challenges and anticipate potential consequences.  
  • Emotional Depth: They possess a profound understanding of human emotions, demonstrating empathy, compassion, and a genuine respect for individual differences. This emotional intelligence fosters strong relationships and encourages collaboration.
  • Collaborative Spirit: Wise leaders recognize the power of collective intelligence. They actively seek the input and perspectives of others, fostering a culture of open communication and shared responsibility.  
  • Proactive Engagement: They are not passive observers of the world; they are active participants. They constantly seek new knowledge, adapt to changing circumstances, and build meaningful connections with individuals and organizations.
  • Self-Reflection: They possess a deep understanding of their own values, motivations, and limitations. This self-awareness allows them to lead with integrity, humility, and a genuine desire for personal and professional growth.  
  • Aspirational Vision: Driven by a strong sense of purpose, they strive to create a better future for themselves, their organizations, and the world. They pursue goals that align with their values and contribute to the greater good.  

Queen Elizabeth II serves as a remarkable example of a leader who embodied these qualities. Her long reign was marked by wisdom, particularly her astute observations on the complexities of human nature. As she eloquently stated, “Some cultures believe a long life brings wisdom. Perhaps part of that wisdom is to recognize some of life’s baffling paradoxes, such as the way human beings have a huge propensity for good and yet a capacity for evil.”  

Prudence, a crucial facet of wisdom, involves making sound judgments and choosing the most effective course of action. As the philosopher Thomas Aquinas observed, prudence acts as a guiding principle, informing the application of other virtues such as courage, compassion, and justice.  

Foresight and caution are hallmarks of prudent leadership. Wise leaders meticulously consider the long-term ramifications of their decisions, avoiding unnecessary risks and prioritizing sustainability.

Warren Buffett, the renowned investor, exemplifies prudent leadership in action. His investment philosophy emphasizes long-term value and eschews speculative ventures. His modest lifestyle and unwavering commitment to philanthropy further demonstrate his wisdom and his focus on creating a positive and lasting impact.

In conclusion, wisdom is not merely an intellectual pursuit; it is a cornerstone of effective leadership. By cultivating intellectual curiosity, emotional intelligence, and a deep understanding of human nature, leaders can navigate the complexities of the modern world with grace, integrity, and a commitment to the greater good. As Benjamin Franklin so aptly stated, “The Doors of Wisdom are never shut,” inviting us to continually learn, grow, and strive for a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Embrace Uncertainty

29 Mar 2024 Leave a comment

by Evans Akpo in Uncategorized Tags: , , , ,

Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels.com
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels.com

In a world inundated with constant noise and distractions, the notion of selective indifference emerges as a beacon of clarity amidst the chaos. This radical concept, explored by Mark Manson in “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck,” challenges us to reassess our priorities and embrace a mindset of intentional disengagement. While society often glorifies the pursuit of endless stimulation and validation, Manson advocates for a counterintuitive approach—one that empowers us to selectively allocate our attention and energy to what truly matters.

Manson’s insights find resonance in the works of esteemed psychologists and philosophers, who further illuminate the transformative potential of selective indifference. Psychologist Carl Rogers, known for his pioneering work in humanistic psychology, emphasized the importance of congruence—the alignment between one’s inner experiences and outward behaviors. Rogers believed that genuine self-expression arises from a place of authenticity, where individuals have the freedom to choose their responses to external stimuli (Rogers, 1961).

Similarly, existential philosopher Viktor Frankl, in his seminal work “Man’s Search for Meaning,” delved into the depths of human suffering and resilience. Frankl proposed that amidst life’s adversities, individuals possess the power to find meaning and purpose through their responses to challenges. He famously remarked, “Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom” (Frankl, 1984, p. 86).

Drawing inspiration from these luminaries, we are invited to cultivate a discerning awareness of where we invest our mental and emotional resources. By exercising selective indifference, we liberate ourselves from the tyranny of external expectations and societal pressures, reclaiming agency over our lives. As psychologist Albert Ellis aptly stated, “You largely constructed your depression. It wasn’t given to you. Therefore, you can deconstruct it” (Ellis, 1999, p. 67). Through intentional disengagement from trivial concerns, we pave the way for profound personal growth and inner fulfillment.

Accept Responsibility

28 Mar 2024 Leave a comment

by Evans Akpo in Uncategorized Tags: , , , ,

Black Headed Gulls, Daventry Reservoir by Stephen McKay is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

In “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck,” Mark Manson underscores the significance of accepting responsibility for one’s own life. This principle revolves around the idea that individuals have the power to shape their reality through their thoughts, decisions, and actions. Rather than attributing blame to external circumstances or other people, Manson advocates for embracing accountability as a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment.

Accepting responsibility entails acknowledging the role you play in creating your own experiences and outcomes. This means refraining from making excuses, playing the victim, or shifting blame onto others. By taking ownership of your choices and their consequences, you reclaim agency over your life and become the architect of your destiny.

For example, consider a scenario where someone consistently arrives late to work and blames traffic for their tardiness. Instead of externalizing responsibility, they could accept accountability by recognizing that their failure to leave home earlier contributes to their lateness. By acknowledging this truth, they empower themselves to implement solutions such as adjusting their morning routine or finding alternative routes to work.

Moreover, accepting responsibility fosters a mindset of proactive problem-solving and continuous improvement. Rather than dwelling on past mistakes or dwelling on external factors beyond their control, individuals who embrace accountability focus on identifying constructive solutions and learning from their experiences. This mindset shift enables them to navigate challenges more effectively and adapt to changing circumstances with resilience.

In personal relationships, accepting responsibility strengthens trust and fosters deeper connections. When conflicts arise, owning up to mistakes or misunderstandings demonstrates integrity and sincerity. For instance, if someone unintentionally hurts a friend’s feelings with thoughtless remarks, taking responsibility and offering a genuine apology can repair the relationship and prevent further harm.

Ultimately, accepting responsibility is a foundational principle for personal development and self-actualization. It empowers individuals to transcend victimhood, seize control of their lives, and pursue meaningful growth and fulfillment. By embracing accountability, individuals unlock their potential to create positive change and live authentically aligned with their values and aspirations.