Annette loved early morning runs, the wind in her hair, her heart pumping; adrenaline coursing through her veins. Observing the world come alive; the slow transition from night to day, the sun slowly waking everyone up with its warmth was a ritual she treasured. More importantly, running was also a precious opportunity for introspection, allowing her to clear her mind and strategize for the day ahead; evaluating how far she had gotten with her goals. That euphoria she experienced after a run was second to none.
Reflecting on 2023, Annette felt a sense of accomplishment. A few deals in the bag, professional and personal goals smashed and more importantly as she looked at her watch, I’m beating my target and hitting a new milestone! “A great way to start my very busy day,” she thought.
I need a new pair of trainers she thought to herself, as she ran past “Runner dude” with his eclectic choice of fluorescent pink trainers. She exchanged a nod and a chuckle with him, amused by his colourful footwear choices.
The smell of Mama Salifa’s hot cinnamon sugar-coated buns wafted through her nostrils as she jogged past her stall. Ladle in one hand, Mama Salifa expertly dropped the creamy dough into the hot oil with the other. Beckoning at Annette to take a break at her stall, so she could fatten her up with her delicious buns because she wanted Ali her son to marry her. It was a running joke between the two of them. “Not today ma, you have done well,” she yelled, smiling and turning slightly. Her legs still pounding the tarmac in quick succession, in rhythm to Burna Boy’s “Focus” playing through her air pods; the cold, dry harmattan wind hitting her face.
All of a sudden, she felt a distinct sense of being elevated. She seemed to be soaring towards the clouds and for a split second, was able to see the rust gathering on top of Mama Salifa’s stall. It was a welcome respite from the rigours of hitting the tarmac incessantly.
Moments after, she began to descend, lower and lower until she landed with a resounding thud on the floor. There was a pop, followed by the most excruciating pain she had ever felt in her life. Annette woke up to see the concerned expression of Mama Salifa, ladle still in one hand, batter slowly trickling down her dark plump arms. Runner guy was knelt beside her on the phone it seemed, as he glanced worriedly at her and then down the road. She was only for the first time, noticing his features. His angular chin, pursed lips, crooked nose and the kindest eyes she had ever come across. Could he be the one her mum said would sweep her off her feet? She tried to get up and again felt the worst pain she had felt in a long time.
Goal Setting
Goal setting does not have to be boring. There are many benefits of having a set goals to work towards. Setting goals helps stimulate behaviour, guide your focus and help you sustain that momentum in life. Here are ten benefits of personal goal setting:
- Clarity and Focus: Define priorities and objectives for a clearer direction.
- Motivation: Find inspiration and purpose in pursuing meaningful goals.
- Measurable Progress: Track and celebrate achievements, making progress tangible.
- Enhanced Decision-Making: Make decisions aligned with objectives.
- Increased Productivity: Promote efficiency and productivity with structured tasks.
- Personal Growth: Overcome challenges for development and increased confidence.
- Time Management: Organize time effectively to allocate resources for goals.
- Resilience: View setbacks as temporary obstacles, fostering resilience.
- Improved Well-being: Achieve goals for satisfaction and well-being.
- Direction in Life: Establish a roadmap for life, especially valuable in uncertain times.
In life, there will always be highs and lows. One moment, things seem to go according to plan and then suddenly, life throws a curveball, forcing you to slow down. You may get frustrated, but don’t be disheartened. You may need to pivot, modify your strategy or completely change direction. Perhaps you simply need to take a pause and prepare for the next big thing.
What matters most is that you continue to persevere, take stock and evaluate, not forgetting the learnings and growth that you have experienced in the process. Through it all, ensure you enjoy the ride this year has to offer and be sure to finish strong according to YOUR terms; remembering Stephen Kellogg’s wisdom: “It’s better to be at the bottom of the ladder you want to climb than at the top of the one you don’t”. Be mindful of your inadequacies and strive to become a better version of yourself.
May this year 2024 bring kindness to you as you continue to be kind to one another.
My best,
Yosola Afemikhe