The Price of an Unyielding Work Ethic and my Journey to Balance

The Price of an Unyielding Work Ethic  and my Journey to Balance

My strong work ethic is something that, in the past, has been taken advantage of by many. I am intensely focused on delivering results, often to the detriment of my own health and family.

For five years at one Organization, I took only a single three-day break to bury my father.

I was back at my desk the Monday after both my traditional marriage and my white wedding. This wasn't because my boss denied me time off, but because of my ingrained mentality that I cannot rest while there is work waiting for me.

When my wife was in labor, I took her to the hospital at 4 a.m., returned home to gather her things, and by the time I returned at 5:40 a.m., she had already delivered our child. By 6:30 a.m., I had settled all the bills and left for the office, not returning home until 9 p.m. that night.

I recognize this drive is, in a way, a passionate sickness. The health effects of never resting are a topic unto itself.

I eventually channeled this energy into my own venture, registering a business with the CAC. However, progress stalled as I needed significant funding at least ₦30 million for a crucial trip to China and no institution would provide a loan without strong liquidity.

This led me to a seven-month stay at home period of intense study and personal growth. I vowed not to settle for less and discovered the two critical problems holding me back. I lacked a mentor, and I struggled with time management. I had the intelligence and strength, but not the guidance.

So, I took action. I enlisted my wife to manage my time, engage with a nice brilliant auditor to guide my career, and engaged with institutions like YALI to develop my entrepreneurial skills.

To all the young people, the professional world can be challenging and exploitative. We recently audited a company where employees rarely lasted a month due to an overbearing boss. Some employers terminate carelessly, believing people are desperate and disposable.

As for me, I have never been fired. I never allow a situation to deteriorate to that point. I will leave on my own terms before anyone can damage my record. My belief in my capabilities is unshakable, no matter how many times I fail.

Remember this, you are your own power and your own victory. Discover yourself, and never give that power away.

Until the moment when will shall dance in white Greater Grace.

Oyugbo Jonah Osagie 

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