'Oladimeji, what informed the idea of having this newsletter?' a lady I met recently asked, and my face was a mask of gentle smile.
From the doorway of my intuition, I knew it would be taxing to perfectly explain what stimulated this initiative, so I obliged her to wait for the first edition of this newsletter. This first edition will be insightful on how this newsletter was idealized and what it seems to achieve.
On reaching back home on that chilly evening, I sat on my table and found myself lost in thoughts. I did reflect on my journey so far, but I knew that I am still far from my destination and this is just my preparatory stage of climbing the hilltop. Moreover, the little steps I have taken thus far are measured by the footprints of lessons, from which one can draw insights, to shape one's personal journey as a youth, recent graduate or undergraduate.
THE REFLECTIONS
I reflected on how I transitioned from a boy who was not the brightest amongst his colleagues in Junior Secondary School, to becoming a boy who against all odds, wrote his General Certificate Examination (GCE) as a trial, upon completing his S.S.S 1. Yet, aced all his papers at a very tender age.
On the other hand, I reflected on how despite facing physical challenges that almost blighted my study, came out distinctively to establish a new academic record, in the 37 years establishment of the Lagos State University.
Similarly, I reminisced on how I moved from knowing nothing about the SDGs – upon gaining admission – to becoming an SDGs champion by establishing the foremost student-led academic platform in Nigeria. Excel Minds Academic Group – an organization that caters for the academic welfarism of over 10,000 members. I was also a pioneer executive of the first campus-led SDGs movement in Nigeria. Need I say more?
Also, I remembered how – prior to graduation – I pondered on how I could advance my Management Consulting career (a lifelong aspiration). But my bravery almost got crippled by some preconceived notions, assumptions and fear of how difficult it is to break into such field. I laughed at myself and sighed with relief when as at the time of writing the first edition of this newsletter, I now intern as a Management Consultant with KPMG – one of the top advisory firms in the world.
Surprisingly, I envisioned how in my second year in the university (2017), I courageously took a bold step to start a relationship with a perfect coral whose glance tames my heart and makes it thrill for joy. And how I have been in a relationship ever since then, without my emotional affection hindering other aspects of my life. Literally, it has been four years since the bolt remains tightly fastened (hahaha).
I pictured my social life – my love for the likes of Olamide, Davido, Wizkid – and how I was able to relate so well with everyone in my surrounding, irrespective of their social dispositions.
Profoundly, I visualized how I was able to build a personal relationship with God and how His grace made me take giant strides. Funnily enough, at some point, there were speculations like: 'Shotunde is an atheist.' Smiling was a way of responding to such claims. I guess that would also be discussed at some point in this newsletter.
Finally, I reflected on how despite coming from a financially disadvantaged background, I was able to get everything I needed at my finger tip. Quite paradoxical, you will say!
THE CRUX
After dwelling on the fertile land of my imagination, I resolved within me that there were some things I did differently that ushered in all of these. There were some hacks I employed that enabled me create balance. There were decisions I took, challenges I surmounted and values upon which I premised all my life upon.
I looked around with curiosity and I discovered that rarely do we have students, recent graduates or youths living a balanced life. People seem to have a challenge with 'maintaining a balance.' Often, they forget that in our contemporary world, versatility and intelligence are crucial factors for having a balanced life.
Therefore, it was compelling for me to leverage my personal real life experiences to provide valuable insights on how my target audience can live a life of all-round excellence. A life that is not seen as lopsided. After jerking back to reality from my deep thoughts, I did thank God for the inspiration to idealize and put this newsletter initiative to fruition. The name came afterwards – REALITIES with OLADIMEJI SHOTUNDE, EFRN.
MISSION: My mission is to expose undergraduates, recent graduates and youths to contemporary skills and personal competencies that should be harnessed, towards having a balanced lifestyle and a seamless strategic repositioning into the real world of work.
VISION: My vision is to see Nigerian Undergraduates, Recent Graduates and Youths become better equipped with life skills, needed for a balanced career.
Moving on, I charge you to walk this journey with me, every Saturday, by 6am. As we make each other better positioned for all of life's realities, gimmicks and shenanigans. Discussions will revolve around academics, community service, relationship with the opposite sex, social life and the industry.
CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK: Are you ready to take that bold step towards becoming a rounded personality?
NEXT EDITION: What is the first step towards becoming a rounded personality?
I am so happy to have you on this newsletter. Cheers to better days ahead full of express accomplishments.
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If not me then who ,
Though it might not seem easy but I am sure we will all scale through ,
My first week in lasu the only thing I was hearing was BGS here ,BGS there at the mention of your name I just feel happy without a particular reason .
You are more than an inspiration ,May God continue to increase your knowledge.
Shotunde,you always dazzle my mind.
This newsletter is thrilling.
I was like "how could you have stopped there!"
Anyway I eminently anticipate for the next edition.
Thanks for being part of my building process.