“Nigeria is a Blessed Country” is a phrase that is quite common to us, but mostly in words. And yes, it is true that Nigeria is blessed with immense resources in all aspects, most especially humans, and the Nigerians’ entrepreneurial spirit is known for incredible feats in diverse fields and societies globally.
Nonetheless, the common situations and circumstances that confront the ‘Everyday Person’ in Nigeria are a mystery to normal humans in many parts of the world. Surviving in Nigeria can be a crushing experience, particularly when you consider the pile of inadequacies, inequities, and widespread vices that the ‘Everyday Person’ encounters daily.
So who is the ‘Everyday Person’ in Nigeria? Regrettably, that phrase accrues to 95% of the people who live in Nigeria today. We are the 95% or more who are not immune to infrastructural deficiencies, political instability, security issues, and, most recently, inaccessibility to hard-earned deposits in banks, among other challenges. Thus, practically everyone in Nigeria has to ingeniously make sense of their reality and source for ways to survive with limited (unavailable) resources.
As my friend and business partner said a few days ago, ‘I make most mistakes when I have more’.
No matter where you are in the world, surviving with limited resources can be challenging. It requires resilience, open-mindedness, and determination, and it is possible, and adopting obvious tips such as:
Creating a Budget: Start by creating a budget to keep track of your income and expenses. List all your income sources and expenses, including fixed expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, and other miscellaneous spending.
Prioritizing Your Expenses: Ascertain your most important needs, such as food, water, shelter, and security. Make a thorough list of your needs versus your wants, and focus your resources on meeting your needs first. Determine if your wants are pressing or you’d rather save for later. In any case, ensure you don’t deplete your resources, except absolutely unavoidable.
Resourcefulness: Manage your resources and opportunities most efficiently. Repurpose items, avoid wastage by using only what you need, and find ways to reuse or recycle materials.
Developing New Skills: Being ready to LEARN is a profitable attribute. Learning new skills can help you become self-sufficient and make the most of the resources you have. DIY skills can save you money and reduce your reliance on vendors and artisans, and you can convert your skill into a vocation and earn from it.
Considering other income sources: Look for ways to earn extra income by starting a business or freelancing your competencies. Leverage your skills and expertise – from online sales to facilitating training programs or consulting for others.
Broadening Your Network: Expand your circle. Connect with others and share ideas and information. Broadening your network can help you access resources and provide additional support and referrals for your ventures. Explore volunteering
Keep Going and Stay Positive: The challenges can be discouraging when resources are limited, but sustaining a positive attitude and staying resilient is essential to finding solutions. Remember to celebrate your successes and keep moving forward.
Israel Adesanya, after his UFC Middleweight win on Saturday, 8th April, 2023, after 3 defeats by – Pereira, said, ‘Don’t stay down, stay focused, do the grind, and let your victory do the talking! “You’ll never feel this level (higher) of happiness if you don’t go for something (big) in your own life.”
Much Love, AA.
