Overcoming challenges and achieving success through self-motivation
As we navigate the journey of life and confront its myriad challenges, the need for self-motivation becomes increasingly important. The ability to inspire oneself to pursue goals, overcome obstacles, and strive for personal growth is a skill that proves invaluable as we mature. This is especially evident for individuals born and raised in developing parts of the world, where the landscape may present numerous hurdles. In many developing regions, access to resources and opportunities can be limited. But being self-motivated opens up a world of possibilities. For instance, someone from such a background might harness their inner drive to pursue education relentlessly, even in the face of financial constraints. This commitment to self-improvement can be a transformative force, creating opportunities for scholarships, mentorship, and skill development.
Additionally, self-motivation empowers individuals to seek out unconventional paths and explore opportunities beyond geographical constraints. A person driven by a desire for betterment may leverage online platforms, connect with global networks, and engage in self-directed learning. In today’s interconnected world, such initiatives can lead to exposure to diverse perspectives, opening doors to international collaborations, job opportunities, and educational experiences that transcend the limitations of one’s place of origin. Self-motivation also plays a pivotal role in resilience and adaptability. Individuals who cultivate an internal drive are better equipped to face setbacks, learn from failures, and persist in the pursuit of their aspirations. This resilience becomes particularly crucial when navigating unfamiliar territories in other parts of the world, where cultural differences and societal norms may pose challenges. Ultimately, self-motivation serves as a guiding force that not only propels personal growth but also facilitates the exploration of opportunities that transcend the boundaries of one’s upbringing.
Recently, someone inquired about why I continue to publish and review papers for academic journals, even though I am no longer affiliated with academia. My response to this question centers around the concept of self-motivation. Both Farooq Kperogi and Moses Ochonu have been instrumental in supporting my various applications, be it for jobs, admissions, or other opportunities. Notably, it was Farooq Kperogi who first highlighted my self-motivated nature in a reference letter. In a reference, Moses Ochonu also acknowledged my self-motivation, which, according to him, prompted me to attend conferences at my own cost. During my one-year mandatory national service in Lagos, I attended a conference at the Geological Society of London in Burlington House, and I covered the expenses personally. Subsequently, upon relocating to London for a master’s degree program in petroleum engineering, I took advantage of my residency in the city to attend numerous conferences at Burlington House at a considerably reduced cost.
During my Ph.D. journey at Cranfield, which commenced in April 2015, I encountered a unique challenge. After perhaps a month or two, my initial supervisor relocated to another university, leaving me without guidance for an extended period. I chose not to follow my supervisor to his new university because of my strong affinity for Cranfield. Despite this setback, when a new supervisor was eventually assigned, I was called for a progress review after only a few weeks. While I could have cited the lack of supervision for several months as a reason for not meeting the review’s expectations, I chose to rise above it. On the day of the progress review, I not only met but exceeded the panel’s expectations. Their report acknowledged my self-motivation, emphasizing that the absence of a supervisor did not impede my progress. This marked perhaps the third instance where the term “self-motivated” was attributed to me, prompting a heightened awareness of this attribute. Since then, I have intentionally and deliberately embraced self-motivation as a guiding principle throughout my Ph.D. and life in general. I attribute much of my success to this quality and advise young individuals to prioritize self-motivation in the pursuit of their ambitions. Being self-motivated means consciously and intentionally driving oneself toward goals and aspirations.
Being self-motivated means having the inner drive, determination, and initiative to pursue and achieve goals without relying solely on external influences or rewards. A self-motivated individual is propelled by an internal desire to succeed, a personal commitment to continuous improvement, and a strong sense of purpose. This intrinsic motivation is characterized by a passion for the task at hand, a willingness to take on challenges, and the ability to persevere in the face of obstacles. Self-motivation involves setting and working towards goals independently, driven by a genuine interest in the task rather than external pressures or expectations. It often goes hand-in-hand with qualities such as discipline, resilience, and a proactive mindset. Self-motivated individuals are capable of maintaining focus, managing their time effectively, and overcoming setbacks without the need for constant external validation or supervision. This trait is particularly valuable in various aspects of life, including personal development, education, and professional pursuits. It allows individuals to harness their internal resources, stay committed to their aspirations, and cultivate a sense of accomplishment that comes from achieving goals driven by their own intrinsic motivation. Overall, being self-motivated is a powerful quality that empowers individuals to take charge of their lives and make meaningful contributions to their personal and professional endeavors.
In reflecting on my personal journey and the pivotal role that self-motivation has played in overcoming challenges and achieving success, I urge the Nigerian youth to embrace this empowering quality as they navigate their own paths. The stories shared earlier illustrate how being self-motivated can pave the way for accessing better opportunities, especially for those born and raised in developing parts of the world. The ability to persist in the pursuit of education, seek unconventional paths, and adapt to changing circumstances can be transformative, transcending the limitations imposed by geographical constraints. As I recount instances where self-motivation was the driving force behind my academic and professional pursuits, it underscores the notion that this quality is not just a personal attribute but a strategic approach to navigating life’s complexities. The Nigerian youth should recognize that self-motivation goes beyond academic achievements; it is a mindset that propels personal development, resilience, and adaptability. Whether facing setbacks or navigating unfamiliar territories, the intrinsic drive to succeed becomes a guiding force that empowers individuals to persevere and thrive. Being self-motivated is not a luxury but a necessity in a world filled with challenges and opportunities. As the youth of Nigeria aspire to achieve their dreams, cultivating this internal drive will not only open doors to better opportunities but also equip them with the resilience needed to surmount obstacles. Embracing self-motivation is a powerful investment in personal growth, education, and professional endeavors, allowing individuals to take control of their destinies and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
January 9, 2024
