MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY WITH DAN: Overcoming Adversity
“Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors” — African Proverb.
Another Monday is here. Today, I conclude the series I started last week on ‘Adversity.’ As I shared in my earlier post: Adversity is a difficult or unpleasant situation; an unfortunate event or circumstance; a condition marked by hardship, calamity or distress. Adversities are part of life. We all encounter tough situations, challenges, difficulties and at times, life-threatening moments. It is very easy to get caged in the self-pity, life is not fair, or ‘why me?’ traps. When we do this, we fail to recognize the opportunities for wisdom and growth that accompany adversity. The sooner we realize this, the less we will all struggle with the ‘why me’ mentality, self-defeating mindset and unproductive thoughts. People react differently to adversity.
People choose different routes when faced with adversity. Some people turn to alcohol and drugs, stealing, or physical violence. Some people even consider suicide. Why do some people’s life fall apart in the face of adversity? While other people thrive regardless of the adversity they come against? Is it genetics, luck, destiny, determination, resilience or willpower? Growing up from a poor family, I struggled with poverty and hardship. Michael Jordan said “Obstacles (Adversity) don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”
TIPS FOR OVERCOMING ADVERSITY:
*Accept that adversity is inevitable in life. Remind yourself that adversity is part of life. Accepting adversity, helps you overcome it.
*Have an optimistic Mental Attitude. Your thoughts frame the triumphs or tragedies of your life. A positive and winning mindset is essential. You must realize that adversity is not designed to derail you, but to develop you.
*Build Your Internal Resources. Before adversity knocks on your door, work on developing resilience, emotional strength, courage and discipline.
*Build Your External Resources. Build a support system of family and friends. It’s important to surround yourself with positive people who are supportive and encouraging.
*Read Stories Of Successful People. Reading the stories of other people who have been where you are and found a way out or over or through it, will give you the hope and inspiration you need to get through your adversity.
*Get Help! Don’t confront the adversity alone. Get help from people who have the experience and knowledge you need to get through tough times.
*Make Positive Confessions And Affirmations. Say the right things. Avoid negative self-talk.
As we go forward in the week, remember, “Adversity is never a roadblock, but a hurdle, that once cleared puts you one step closer to achieving your desires and dreams. To your success!
Read MoreMOTIVATIONAL MONDAY WITH DAN: Adversity – Friend or foe?
It’s another Monday again and the start of another week. May the new week bring out the best in you. Today, I begin a two part series on Adversity. It’s my hope and prayer that it adds positive value to your life as you strive to achieve good success. Adversity is a difficult or unpleasant situation; an unfortunate event or circumstance; a condition marked by hardship, challenges, calamity or distress. We all experience it in one way or another – large and small. They present themselves to us throughout our lives. While some people struggle with poverty and financial problems; some face difficult health problems; others have challenges in their marriage or with their children; some experience loneliness or unfulfilled hopes and dreams. Adversity are hurdles on the track of life. Each hurdle you clear, takes you one step closer to realizing your potentials and reaching your dreams. Adversity is never easy or fun, but can be the launching pad to significance and success.
List Of Some Famous People With Well-Known Adversity to Success Stories:
*Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison before he became the first democratically elected president in South Africa.
*Pastor E.A. Adeboye the Head of RCCG overcame extreme poverty to become one of the most successful preachers in the world and one of 100 Most Reputable People on Earth.
*Abraham Lincoln failed in business, experienced depression and multiple rejections, was defeated eight times in elections before becoming the16th President of the United States of America.
*Born into a childhood of poverty and violence, Chris Gardner overcame homelessness to become a world-class stock broker and one of the richest African-American of our time.
*Albert Einstein didn’t speak until he was four years old.
*Kris Carr turned her cancer into a business of hope and healing.
* Franklin Roosevelt developed polio which eventually left him paralyzed from the waist down for the rest of his life. However, he went on to serve as Four-time President of the United States; becoming one of the most respected and memorable presidents in history.
*Overcoming a childhood marked by abuse and poverty, Oprah Winfrey has been ranked the richest African-American of the 20th century, the greatest black philanthropist in American history, and for some time the world’s only black billionaire.
These great men and women demonstrated determination, resilience, persistence, perseverance and tenacity to push past their adversities and succeed. If they could do it, surely the rest of us can muster the same courage and strength to overcome our adversities! Abraham Lincoln once said, “That some achieve great success is proof to all that others can achieve it as well.” Each of us has within the capacity to “bounce back” from adversity.
As we continue in the week, remember, “Adversity is never a roadblock, but a hurdle, that once cleared puts you one step closer to achieving your desires and dreams. To your success!
Read MoreMOTIVATIONAL MONDAY WITH DAN: Helping Someone Who Is Considering Suicide
In recent times, suicide has become a disturbing feature in our society. Youths are not excluded from this worrying trend. Nigerians that were once famously labeled ‘happy-go-lucky people’ now find suicide attractive. Suicide is the act or an instance of taking one’s own life voluntarily and intentionally. It is a tragic event with strong emotional repercussions for its survivors and for families of its victims. People of all ages, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status and physical capabilities are at risk for suicide. It can affect anyone, both the strong and the weak. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 1 million people die each year from suicide.
What Drives People To Take Their Own Lives?
It is said that for every successful suicide, there are ten men and women who attempt suicide. And for every one of those, there are ten who think of taking their lives, but do not. The leading cause of suicide throughout the world is untreated depression. Experts say 90% of individuals who commit suicide are experiencing a mental health issue at the time of their deaths. However, there are other causes beyond the realm of mental illness that could lead to a person considering taking his or her life. Here are some of the common causes of suicide:
Family History Of Suicide Or Violence.
*Drug addiction/substance abuse.
*Sexual or physical abuse.
*Death of a close friend or family member.
*Relationship problems e.g being in an abusive relationship, divorce or separation, ending a relationship.
*Failing academic performance and poor exam results.
*Unemployment or job loss, challenges at work.
*Social isolation and loneliness are massive contributors to why people take their lives.
*Terminal illnesses.
*Financial Problems.
Suicide Signals:
Helping someone who wants to commit suicide starts with recognizing the warning signs. From 50% to 75% of those considering suicide will give someone — a friend or relative — a warning sign. Speak up and seek professional help immediately if you think a friend or relative is considering suicide. Through understanding, reassurance, and support, you can keep your loved one alive and help him or her overcome thoughts of suicide.
Behaviors That Signal Suicide:
*Talking about suicide.
*Noticeable mood swings.
*Expressions of wanting to die or be killed; statements such as, “I wish I was never born;” “My family will be better off when I’m gone” etc.
*Hopelessness.
*Withdrawal from family and friends.
*Dangerous or self-harmful behavior.
*Getting affairs in order and giving away possessions. This might include visiting friends, family members and colleagues giving what sounds like a final goodbye.
*Acquiring items that provide the means to take their own life.
*Sleep Problems.
Helping Someone Who Wants To Commit Suicide:
The best thing you can do for someone who is considering suicide is to get professional help and intervention.
*Let the person know you care, that he/she is not alone.
*Listen. Let the suicidal person unload despair, ventilate anger.
*Be sympathetic, non-judgmental, patient, calm, accepting.
*Empathize and ask questions in a mild and sincere manner.
*If the person is not comfortable speaking with you, suggest a qualified third party such as a psychologist, doctor, spiritual leader/clergy or counselor.
There is no need to face life’s challenges alone. Whatever issue you may be facing today, remember, there are over 7 billion people in the world today. Someone out there is ready to help you. Have courage to ask for help. To your success!
Read MoreAyo Fadumiye Speaks On the spirit of Leadership at the SWLC
Pastor, author and principal consultant of Leadership Edge Consult, Ayo Fadumiye was the guest speaker at the Salimo-Wits Youth Leadership Training (SWLC) held at the National Library, Yaba, Lagos on Saturday 5th August, 2017. The theme for the August edition of the Salimo-Wits Youth Leadership training was ‘Spirit of Leadership.’ The training programme which commenced shortly after 1pm featured inspirational videos on “Lead India and motivational leaders”. The topic ‘Boss vs Leader’ was discussed during the Let’s Talk and icebreaker session by the participants.
The guest speaker Ayo Fadunmiye described the spirit of leadership as the spirit of self-discovery and self-mastery. In the words of the speaker, “Life becomes relevant when you discover your gifts and sharpen your skills”. He charged the youths to pursue excellence and cultivate the right association. He stressed the need for the participants to read books and attend seminars that would help them discover their gifts and talents. This was followed by presentation of certificate of participation and consolation prizes to youths who entered for the the Salimo-Wits Essay and Entrepreneurship Competition.
The President and Founder of Salimo-Wits Foundation, Ambassador Dan Ekoko enjoined the participants to shun vices such as terrorism, kidnapping, cultism, internet crime and look within to discover their true selves. He urged the youths to desist from grumbling and complaining, rather contribute their quota towards making Nigeria a better place. The programme was concluded with photo session and departure at 4:10 pm. The SWLC training is the signature training programme of Salimo-Wits Leadership Initiative; organized three times a year for in-school and out-of-school youths.
MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY WITH DAN: Prepare, Reflect, Evaluate and Plan (PREP).
Welcome to a brand new week. It’s a wonderful week. Great opportunities awaits you. No matter the results you have achieved in the first half, whether good or bad, pleasant or unpleasant; the second half can be better. You can still achieve the goals you outlined in the start of the year. Personally, one of my big secrets as a business person is that I always look behind and ask myself, ‘What did I do wrong yesterday?’ ‘What wrong choice did I make yesterday?’ and ‘What I’m I doing right today?’
I usually take what I’ve learned from the past, especially failures to develop a blueprint for the future. Always I, advice my mentees to do what I call ‘PREP’ – Prepare, Reflect, Evaluate and Plan. I teach them to make reflection a daily, weekly and monthly habit. Successful people are always learning and reflecting on the past to draw lessons that would enable them accomplish desirable results in the future. As a successful entrepreneur, I reflect on every aspect of my life, and from this habit of reflection, I am able to devise success strategies and continuously improve on my achievements.
It’s vital to reflect on your activities in the past weeks and months, reflect on what you’ve been doing right, what’s working and what isn’t. It’s often said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. To make the rest of 2017 better, you must do things differently. An important part of doing things differently is to review the past months and learn from it.
Here are some useful questions to reflect on:
What were your major achievements in the past six months?
Did you accomplish all the goals you set for the first half of the year?
Did you have any significant milestone?
What were your biggest challenges and problem areas within the past months?
What major lessons did you learn?
How would you apply the lessons learned to achieve better results in the months ahead?
What are you particularly grateful for in the first half of the year?
Looking backward and going forward, what will you do differently?
How will you respond to challenges in the months ahead?
Will you give up at the first sign of difficulty or will you press harder?
At the end of 365 days, will you create a long list of excuses for doing nothing with the opportunities the second half will inevitably present to you?
So here’s the big question: ARE YOU READY TO CONQUER THE REST OF THE YEAR? The difference between the first half of the year and the second half of the year is what you do in the rest of the year to achieve your goals. May the rest of the year be your best of the year. To your success! #MotivationalMonday #DanEkoko
Read MoreSalimo Youths Participates In Walk Against Drug Abuse And Illicit Trafficking
Drug abuse is one of the most serious health problems. Besides damaging health, it has several side effects such as economic loss, antisocial behaviour such as stealing, violence and crime besides social stigma and overall downfall of the society. The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed on June 26th every year to raise awareness about illicit drug abuse and trafficking. Peoples, communities, and several organizations across the world celebrate this day to make people aware and indicate the dangers of drug addiction and illegal trafficking.
As part of its commitment to youth development and empowerment as well as creating a promising future for the next generation of young Nigerian leaders, Salimo-Wits Foundation participated in a walk organized by Christ Against Drug Abuse Ministry (CADAM), a faith-based non-governmental organization committed to ensuring individuals, families and communities are free from the scourge of drug abuse and addiction to commemorate the 2017 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the theme: Are You Drug Free?
The walk aimed at sensitizing and raising public awareness on the dangers of drug abuse and illegal trafficking commenced from the Murhi International Television located Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja, Lagos and culminated at the CADAM office on ACME road, Ogba Ikeja, Lagos. Other participant’s at the walk included the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), selected secondary schools in the Ikeja environ, youth oriented NGO’s and individuals concerned about the alarming increase of drug use amongst the youths in Nigeria.
Youth Empowerment: Excelling In Times Of Recession.
Salimo-Wits Leadership Initiative hosted the SWLC training on Saturday 18th March, 2017 in Ijemo, Ojo Local Government Area, Lagos State; with the theme ‘Exceling In Times Of Recession.’ Arrival and registration of participants at the venue started about 12:20pm. The program commenced at 1:12 pm with opening prayers and rendition of the National anthem. A short video titled: “Beyond Limits” attracted different contributions and comments from the participants. The first Training session was facilitated by Ambassador Daniel Tega Ogomigo. He started his by defining learning as the bridge between ignorance and knowledge. He described recession as a global issue. He said that overcoming recession requires a change in mindset and perspective. The speaker shared the story of Kunle Soriyan and Nick Vujicic, to inspire the participants. He outlined the strategies to overcome recession. He advised the participants to be determined, choose the right association and make no excuses.
The main speaker Ambassador Ewere Kingsley commenced his presentation by describing recession as a difficult time in the economy of a nation. He explained that recession is a time when people are unemployed. The speaker urged the audience to see recession as an opportunity for promotion and advancement. He rounded off by urging the participants to take responsibility and commit themselves to service. On behalf of the President Founder of Salimo-Wits Foundation, Ambassador Owoyemi Emmanuel encouraged the participants to utilize the information gained from the program for their personal transformation. Talent display by various upcoming acts: Ekatte Show, comedian Sholexy Baba, Poetic Andrew and Fame Dance Squad performed to the admiration of the audience. Lucky participants won free recharge cards and leadership books. The March Edition of SWLC Training was concluded with Photo session at 4:10 pm.
The SWLC training is the signature training programme of the Salimo-Wits Leadership Initiative; organized three times a year for in-school and out-of-school youths. The rebranded training for 2017 will be hosted in various LGA’s & LCDA’s across Lagos State.
MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY WITH DAN: 10 Commandments Of Mental Health.
Another week is here again. I’m looking forward to a great one. I hope you are? In the course of last week, I saw a sticker somewhere with the inscription: “There is no good success without good mental health.” which inspired my post for this week.
So, you may ask: What Is Good Mental Health?
Mental health is an expression we use every day. But, the term ‘mental health’ is frequently misunderstood by many. ‘Mental health’ is often used as a substitute for mental health conditions – such as depression, anxiety conditions, schizophrenia, and others. One definition of mental illness is a dysfunction within the brain that negatively affects someone’s thoughts, emotions, and/or behaviors and interferes in his/her ability to live a full life in society Mental health is much more than a diagnosis. Its overall psychological well-being—the way you feel about yourself and others as well as your ability to manage your feelings and deal with day-to-day life issues and adapt to change.
Mental health is not a fixed condition. It’s not something a person does or does not have. We can take charge of our mental health and move it up toward a state of psychological and emotional wellness. Having a diagnosable mental illness is outside someone’s control. On the other hand, good mental health, is something that people have the ability to control—to work for and achieve.
“We Don’t Grow When Things Are Easy; We Grow When We Face Challenges.”
Life stressors, challenges and problems are everywhere. Nobody is immune and sometimes these stressors, challenges and problems make us feel awful, worthless and helpless. They can negatively affect our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviors. However, no matter the nature of the bad and challenging times, we can all take charge of improving our mental health and wellbeing.
Taking care of your mental health is vital to your success, your dreams—and to your happiness. It is just as important as taking care of your physical health. You must be proactive in protecting and preserving it. Here are the “10 commandments of Mental Health” to help you maintain a good mental state, cope and thrive in the midst of stressors and challenges.
#Think positively; it’s easier.
#Cherish the ones you love.
#Continue learning as long as you live.
#Learn from your mistakes.
#Exercise daily; it enhances your well-being.
#Do not complicate your life unnecessarily.
#Try to understand and encourage those around you.
#Do not give up; success in life is a marathon.
#Discover and nurture your talents.
#Set goals for yourself and pursue your dreams.
Take care of yourself! You have the power to take positive steps right now to improve your resilience and emotional health. Don’t wait until you are in a crisis. Don’t wait until tomorrow to Safeguard and make your mental health a priority. Start today! To your success!
#MotivationalMonday #MentalHealthMatters #DanEkoko.
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Motivational Monday With Dan: Preparing For The New Year.
I welcome you to the start of the year. It is going to be a phenomenal year for you. The New Year is gradually unfolding. This is the time when most of us reflect on the past year and make all kinds of resolutions for the New Year. Proper preparation and planning at the onset of the Year allows success to come easier and gives a superb head start. Personally, I usually take what I’ve learned from the past year to develop a blueprint for the New Year. I never fail to set aside the beginning of every year to do what I call ‘PREP’ – Prepare, Reflect, Evaluate and Plan.
To make 2017 better than your previous years, you must do things differently. An important part of doing things differently is to review the past year and to learn from it. Here are some questions to ponder:
How well did you do in 2016?
What were your major achievements?
Did you accomplish everything you set out to do?
Did you have any significant milestones?
What were your biggest challenges and problem areas within the past year?
What major lessons did you learn?
How would you apply the lessons learned to achieve better results this year?
Did you procrastinate often in the past year?
What are you particularly grateful for in the past year?
Looking backwards, what will you do differently this year or will it be the same as last year?
Will you look back at the end of 365 days satisfied with your efforts or will it be regrets that you didn’t do enough?
How will you respond to challenges in the months ahead?
Will you give up at the first sign of difficulty or will you press harder in the face of adversity?
Will you allow your fears to determine the level of your success and achievements in 2017?
At the end of 365 days, will you create a long list of excuses for doing nothing with the opportunities the year will inevitably present to you?
So here’s the biggest question: ARE YOU READY TO CONQUER 2017? The year is full of opportunities to learn, grow, create, innovate and succeed. Maximize it! May 2017 be your best year yet. To your success!
#MotivationalMonday #MakeTheYearCount #DanEkoko
Salimo-Wits Foundation Offers Hope to Students.
The 2016 career guidance week for students of the University of Lagos, organized by the counseling unit of the Students affairs office has come and gone but the students who took advantage of the program will never forget the impact of the salimo-wits foundation. Aside the gift items presented to them, students were offered opportunities to display their leadership ability through an open competition that offers mouth watering cash prizes and business take off grants. The President of the salimo wits foundation Mr Dan Ekoko, represented by Mr Sunny Ikhioya, a member of the board told the students that the foundation aims at empowering them and developing the next generation of Nigerian leadership. Addressing the students Mr Dan Ekoko said. ” I am delighted to announce to you that salimo wits foundation will work with you as a partner and as a friend- providing you the training, the tools, the networks, guardianship, mentorship and other support required to actualize your business ideas, your life dreams and ambition”. Over a hundred and fifty students registered to be part of the salimo wits dream for the nation and opportunities for registration are still open online.
Other members of the board present are; Mr Roland Eyetu, Mr Kingsley Ewere, Mr Emmanuel Owoyemi, Mr Vincent Prosper and the program officer Mr Akin Adelakun. The foundation’s vision is “building leaders and berthing change with global impact.” while the mission is stated as follows; “To redeem the future of our nation by investing in today’s youth through value, principle and character based training, to create a social network platform that will help like minded people seeking a change in our nation and to plan and organize youth based programs, to undertake transformational programs and projects that will improve the living standards and well being of the people both local and international”.Several gift items including books on leadership and drug abuse were given out free of charge to the students. Salimo Wits have many programs that will benefit the youths, all of which can be assessed on their website. http:vanguuardngr.com/2016/10/unilag-organises-competition-students/
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