"The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn." - Alvin Toffler.

Increasing your value is tied to what you have to offer which is your value proposition. Your value proposition determines the measure of your compensation.

People will only part with their money when they perceive and believe what you offer is of value to them.

Whether in the workplace, business space or social space value or worth is important and is a strong differentiator between those at the top and those at the bottom.

Here are 7 ways that you can increase your worth:

1. Upskill – Learn new skills
Your impact is measured by your skills and your worth is a measure of the skills you possess.

“If you don’t sharpen your axe,it will be harder to use; if you are smart, you’ll know what to do." Ecclesiastes 10:10

Any job requires certain skills and to do the job effectively the right skills must be acquired. You increase your value proposition by obtaining skills which are relevant to your endeavour, profession or business.

So how can I obtain new skills? The underlisted points will provide some ideas.

2. Organised Training

That task or job is only difficult because you don’t have the right tools. Training helps bridge the gap between what you currently know and what you need to know to the get the job done.

Organised trainings might be expensive but are useful because they are more structured and require that they are completed within a specific time. This can help address procrastination and deferment of development goals which is common in less organised set-ups.

Trainings are more flexible with on-demand training courses becoming more common. Sources such as LinkedIn Learning and Coursera, and Udemy provide a rich variety of both live and on-demand courses which can be completed from any preferred location and at any convenient time.

3. Personal Study

Personal study is one of the best ways of increasing one’s worth and this should be continuous, if not daily.

It is a productive habit to set aside a minimum duration each day for personal study.

I set aside 30 minutes minimum each day for study. Study could vary from reading books to watching informative documentaries or completing an online course.

Whatever your field of endeavour you should keep a personal study journal which contains your personal study on subjects beyond your day to day responsibilities.

4.Take on new challenges

There is no quicker way to learn than taking on something you have never done before. If one is not learning then one simply isn’t growing. Taking on new challenges will not only stretch you but will also make you realise what you are capable of doing.

Here are some tips on how you can take on new challenges:

Take on a new hobby. Learn a musical instrument, learn a new language, learn dance, take writing lessons etc
Volunteer to do something new, something different. Volunteer with a charity or a political organisation depending on your preference.
Offer to take on more work at your work place. This shows that you have initiative and the capacity to do more and could lead to you being promoted.
Choose to be a mentor or a mentee.

5.Travel

Travelling has a way of expanding one’s perspective beyond one’s locality.

Travelling is also a form of education. As you see and experience, you will be left with an unforgettable experience essential to your personal growth and value.

6.Network

The stronger your network, the farther your distance.  

You are as strong as your network therefore it is necessary to leverage on the power of having great networks. If you are conscious about building networks and relationships then a great network is inevitable.

Make it a point of duty to always connect with people who add value to you and who you can add value to in every situation.

7.Mentorship

"If I have seen further it is bystanding on the shoulders of Giants." Isaac Netwon

Someone said, ‘you are the average of the closest 5 persons to you’.  Who you associate  with will influence your value.

Your association influences the course and impact of your life.

It is recommended that at every stage of one’s life you have at least one mentor with regards to an aspect of your life.

http://myorchardbythestream.com/2018/10/06/how-to-increase-your-value

Dedicate to all my followers.

www.myorchardbythestream.com

“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.” - Alvin Toffler.

Increasing your value is tied to what you have to offer which is your value proposition. Your value proposition determines the measure of your compensation.

People will only part with their money when they perceive and believe what you offer is of value to them.

Whether in the workplace, business space or social space value or worth is important and is a strong differentiator between those at the top and those at the bottom.

Here are 7 ways that you can increase your worth:

1.Upskill – Learn new skills

Your impact is measured by your skills and your worth is a measure of the skills you possess.

“If you don’t sharpen your axe, it will be harder to use; if you are smart, you’ll know what to do.” Ecclesiastes 10:10

Any job requires certain skills and to do the job effectively the right skills must be acquired. You increase your value proposition by obtaining skills which are relevant to your endeavour, profession or business.

So how can I obtain new skills? The underlisted points will provide some ideas.

2. Organised Training

That task or job is only difficult because you don’t have the right tools. Training helps bridge the gap between what you currently know and what you need to know to the get the job done.

Organised trainings might be expensive but are useful because they are more structured and require that they are completed within a specific time. This can help address procrastination and deferment of development goals which is common in less organised set-ups.

Trainings are more flexible with on-demand training courses becoming more common. Sources such as LinkedIn Learning and Coursera, and Udemy provide a rich variety of both live and on-demand courses which can be completed from any preferred location and at any convenient time.

3. Personal Study

Personal study is one of the best ways of increasing one’s worth and this should be continuous, if not daily.

It is a productive habit to set aside a minimum duration each day for personal study.

I set aside 30 minutes minimum each day for study. Study could vary from reading books to watching informative documentaries or completing an online course.

Whatever your field of endeavour you should keep a personal study journal which contains your personal study on subjects beyond your day to day responsibilities.

4.Take on new challenges

There is no quicker way to learn than taking on something you have never done before. If one is not learning then one simply isn’t growing. Taking on new challenges will not only stretch you but will also make you realise what you are capable of doing.

Here are some tips on how you can take on new challenges:

a. Take on a new hobby. Learn a musical instrument, learn a new language, learn dance, take writing lessons etc
b.Volunteer to do something new, something different. Volunteer with a charity or a political organisation depending on your preference.
c.Offer to take on more work at your work place. This shows that you have initiative and the capacity to do more and could lead to you being promoted.
d.Choose to be a mentor or a mentee.

5.Travel

Travelling has a way of expanding one’s perspective beyond one’s locality.

Travelling is also a form of education. As you see and experience, you will be left with an unforgettable experience essential to your personal growth and value.

6.Network

The stronger your network, the farther your distance.

You are as strong as your network therefore it is necessary to leverage on the power of having great networks. If you are conscious about building networks and relationships then a great network is inevitable.

Make it a point of duty to always connect with people who add value to you and who you can add value to in every situation.

7.Mentorship

“If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants.” Isaac Netwon

Someone said, ‘you are the average of the closest 5 persons to you’. Who you associate with will influence your value.

Your association influences the course and impact of your life.

source: www.myorchardbythestream.com

woodfrank:


My brother, I need your help. Please pm me your email. Thank you

Hi, I am happy to help. Please use this link to contact me: https://myorchardbythestream.com/contact/

Ebi4life:
I discover I can teach in my church sunday school easily and people are really captivated with little or no preparation. Also I am always happy teaching people what they don't know about. I need ur advice.

Hi, I am happy to help. Please use this link to contact me: https://myorchardbythestream.com/contact/

“What is my purpose in life?”

This is probably one of the most asked questions in the journey of self discovery.

Everyone is born with this question hanging over them and some never find out the answer sadly. It does not matter what your age is, it is never too late to discover what your purpose in life is. For some, purpose is easily identified and for others it may take a number of years and failed attempts before they find the elusive answer.

I believe purpose is a journey and not a destination. Also, what you enjoy doing is an indication of your purpose. Your purpose is the why to what you enjoy doing.

The answer to this question lies at the centre of one’s life. If identified, everything else will align.

Our friends, career or business choices, hobbies, social life etc are all linked to the answers to this questions. Rick Warren’s book, “The Purpose Driven Life”, posits that when you discover your purpose you become focussed on what matters spending less time on distractions – Your life becomes more productive. (I would strongly recommend this book if you have not read it).

In his book, Understanding the Purpose and Power of a Woman, Myles Munroe of blessed memory said “When purpose is not known, abuse is inevitable”.

In addition to focus and productivity, discovering and understanding your purpose also brings great joy. You begin to enjoy your life as you spend more time doing what you love doing and embrace your uniqueness.

In a previous post, How to identify what you are good at, I identified passion as one major indicators of purpose. I would like to add 3 questions you should ask yourself (and others) which can help anyone identify their purpose.

1.What can I do with minimal preparation?
This refers to something that comes naturally to you. Something, such as a task or activity, which when called upon you can do without spending hours, days or months in preparation.

For example, I love to teach people. I am able to teach or speak about topics which I have prior knowledge of with minimal preparation. As a matter of fact if I am woken up from sleep suddenly and asked to teach on a topic I know something about, I am able to deliver with reasonable impact. I can’t boast of such ease with other activities such as say singing.

In the example above, I can identify that I have a purpose to positively impart the lives of others which is expressed by teaching others.

2. What do people find most intriguing about me? (What do others keep coming back to me for?)

This is an indirect indication that others have identified what you are great at doing and this is linked to your purpose. This may be related to soft skills like guidance and counselling, confidence, encouragement etc.

I recently requested feedback from friends and family by asking a simple question, “In one word, how would you describe me?” and the answers were very informative!

3. What do you do and time passes by without you realising?

Please don’t say ‘watching TV’ or ‘sleeping’ or ‘playing games on Xbox’.

This simply means you are enjoying what you are doing and you are having fun doing it. It means it is easy and comes naturally to you. They are indications to what your purpose is.

Lets see some examples.

I enjoy being a parent. My purpose is caring for others.

I enjoy fighting the cause of the less privileged. My purpose is to fight social injustice.

I enjoy Photography. My purpose is to discover the beauty in nature and share this gift with the world.

I enjoy feeding the poor and taking care of the homeless. My purpose is to alleviate the impact of poverty.

I enjoy teaching and writing. My purpose is to educate, inspire and motivate others.

Conclusion

Understanding our purpose is a key which unlocks our unlimited potentials. It brings happiness and fulfilment in life. It is never too early or too late to discover purpose. Have you identified what your purpose is? Can you commit to spending time to discovering your purpose? I would really love to hear your thoughts and help anyone who needs help in discovering their purpose.

www.myorchardbythestream.com

Most people want to identify what they are good at. Here's a short write-up on how.

Some of us were fortunate enough to be superstars from childhood. But most of us were not so fortunate.

We were put down a specific path in life. Our parents took us through a regimented lifestyle. Our lives revolved around, say, the golf course, music lessons, swimming classes etc. Little wonder we turned out to be excellent at these.

Tiger Woods was introduced to golf before the age of 2 and beat his father at golf when he was 11.

Beyoncé won her first singing talent contest at age 7.

Some of us were not so lucky. Even at age 30, we have not the slightest idea of what we are good at. We begin each year with a fresh passion, a new idea. We tell ourselves ‘this is the one I am good at’ but before long we lose steam and interest. This might not be for us after all.

We can’t all be great golfers or musicians or bloggers.

We all have different paths in life. Our paths are as different as our finger prints – no two are alike even on the same hand. Even twins born within the same womb have different paths in life. The question, and the point of all this, is ‘how do I identify what my path is, what am I good at?’. It does help when our parents help us by identifying certain traits and natural tendencies, like an ear for music, and directs us appropriately.

I believe that we were born with a distinct music playing in our soul. A common theme that resonates everywhere we go and in whatever we do. Something that makes our heart beat faster, something that evokes emotion in us. That thing that we can do with minimal preparation. This is our natural gift or talent. We were born with this. It does not matter how small it might seem. You might have a great smile – this could be your gift to the world.

Have you identified what you are good at and are making the most of it?

https://myorchardbythestream.com/2018/08/21/how-to-identify-what-you-are-good-at/

14 In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. 15 So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. 16 To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” 17 His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”[c]

John 2:14-16 NIV

The typical African

Three lone survivors were stuck on an island after their plane crashed. An African, a Chinese man and a Brit. They had no way of communicating to the outside world and all they had was their wit. The African man prayed day and night for a miraculous rescue, the Chinese man wrote prayer verses, packaged them well with the materials at his disposal, sold them to the African man in exchange for whatever piece of technology he had. The Brit swore at the weather and blamed the government for not preventing the crash. Needless to say, the Chinese, putting together technology eventually reached out for rescue.

To illustrate the psyche of the African further, let me continue with a description of the relationship between desire and results. The road to results and success is a journey. For the purpose of this write-up, it begins with a clear picture of our desired destination fuelled by purposeful action and ends with the desired results. Agreed, it is more complex than that however, the longest process in the equation is the process of purposeful action.

You see, when you want to get fruits, you plant a seed. But you just don’t plant a seed and go to sleep, you nurture your seed, watering it and taking out weed until it becomes a tree and bears fruit.

This is where the typical African struggles. For some reason, he believes he is exempt from this process. He is therefore mesmerised by promises of instant results for little or no effort. Whoever or whatever means that provides this shortcut; religion, bribery, fraud, a clergyman, robbery, magic gets his devotion – even worshipped as his god.

As an African in the diaspora I have had a few experiences with the locals which puts the African psyche in perspective. One of such was when I was taking driving lessons to become a qualified driver. Yes, you are required to pass a theoretical and practical driving test before you hit the road driving. The results are safer roads with little or no traffic accidents. The other day, there was a news report of a car hitting a child. It rarely occurred and when it did it made the news. In contrast, I remember years ago travelling on a bus overnight in my home country in Africa. I have never seen so much prayers made for safety. Back to the point I was making, the driving instructor, who was a local, told me that he had lost count of the number of people of African origin who tried to take much less than the recommended number of lessons before sitting for their actual tests. We just like to ‘wing’ it.

We just don’t like the process. We want to eat the fruit, but we don’t want to tend the seed. Therefore crusades, prayer nights and promises of ‘breakthrough’, ‘prosperity’, ‘favour’, ‘miracles’ and ultimatums to the expiry of hardship taglines resonates so well with us.

The typical African Christian

Having understood the psychology of the typical Africa, let us look at the typical African Christian. He is most likely born into a Christian family. He is introduced at a young age to Church and all its beliefs and doctrines but never really understands the rudiments of the religion. He is taught that the purest and quickest way to success is the Christian religion and in comes the prosperity doctrine. He is introduced to the doctrine of prosperity where it is God’s will for him to prosper. But to enter into this Kingdom of prosperity, he must sow seeds, not work smarter or harder, but sow financial seeds, into the coffers of his Church. The source of this seed is not material to the act.

He is taught that if he ‘sows’ financially, he will reap success, health, good fortune, favour and breakthrough. He does not have to do anything at all, just sow. His idea of Christianity becomes transactional; to get what I want I must pay for it. He does not realise that Christ has paid the ultimate price for all that he is chasing and his only duty now is to seek after God’s kingdom. He does not understand grace.

He detests all other shortcuts to success but indulges in them every now and again when his ‘faith’ fails to give him the results he is after. Soon he begins to confuse faith with magic. He forgets about the scripture that says, ‘faith without works is useless’. Sooner or later he is disappointed, he has attended many night vigils, sowed many seeds but the results are not forthcoming he realises he has been conned as the mist of religion dissipates. This religion is not working, this ‘god’ is not alive. Some, most even, attribute this inconsistency to something else and their devotion is stronger (see cognitive dissonance theory) – I have not used all my faith, I have not sown enough.

He goes after the gift and not the giver.

Having no semblance of a healthy relationship with the giver of all good gifts, his relationship is parasitic. He will pray, all night and day, for success but he will not work. The ‘wolves-in-sheep’ clothing have exploited this trait, merchandising water, holy oil, t-shirts, handkerchiefs etc. He cannot see that he is a white-washed version of the African traditionalist. He will pay a handsome fee for a prophet’s vision or a pastor’s prayer but he will not pray himself. He does not understand that he has as much access to the throne of God as the pastor or prophet. Not unlike Simon the sorcerer (Acts , he is willing to pay for quick and easy power and miracles and the prayer houses are making the most of this business opportunity.

His religion is not about charity, he is not in Christianity for the good of others but for himself. It is a transaction; my money, my devotion, my time in exchange for my prosperity, my protection, good fortune, good luck, breakthrough, deliverance and social security. He has not understood the wisdom behind Matthew 6:33. He is not taught that the only requirement to be a beneficiary of Abraham’s blessings is faith. He is not taught how to access these blessings by faith and works, he is always the first and loudest to shout “I receive it”. My friend, go and work.

He is a ‘Christian’ but is not Christlike in his lifestyle.

Sunday after Sunday, there are queues of testifiers telling people about the ‘miracles’ of promotion, favour, good fortune they have received as a result of the seeds they sowed. It is a closed loop, starting with them and ending with them. He does not realise that even non-Christians get promoted and get choice jobs without seating for interviews. It is not seed sowing that made way for them. It is a principle of diligence that even the Bible takes note of; “Do you see people who work skilfully? They will work for kings and not for lowly people”.

The rise of ‘Pastorpreneurship’

In a country like Nigeria, the streets are littered with ‘churches’ and prayer houses. There is religious symbolism everywhere you turn. Megaphones, loud-speakers blaring constituting noise pollution. ‘Pastorpreneurs’ springing out church branches daily. Their pews must be filled, their bank accounts and pockets too. How do they bring them in, they offer breakthrough, special water, oils, blessed regalia and all sorts.

In 2 Peter 2:3, Peter wrote of fake men of God saying “In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money but God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed.”

On Giving

Sowing and giving is not the singular and only formula for success and prosperity. Neither is prayer. First world countries are prosperous not because their people spend more time in religious places than in factories. Prayers are not answered because we ask amiss (James 1). Any prayer that does not lead you to act is mere wishing and akin to magic.

One biblical principle worth highlighting is the principle of ‘bi-obligation’. This is the principle behind faith and works, religion with love, spiritual gifts with love, tithing and giving to the less privileged, righteousness and holiness, grace and holiness. The list goes on. One simply cannot be complete without the other.

Worship or Magic

My first foray into giving was at a very young age. Having a very logical mind even at the age of 10, giving was about putting in X and getting back X+Y. I gave and tallied the return on investment meticulously. This was a magical way of multiplying whatever monies I was gifted.

After all, I was taught ‘give and it shall be giving back to you…’. I did not understand that Jesus gave everything and became poor so that I will be rich or the Corinthian Christians who gave to Paul and his work so much that they became poor. I could not accept that if I truly gave there was a risk of not getting a financial return. But the exploiters will not tell you this. They will rather prey on your greed – the conman is being conned.

Giving is an act of worship. I recognise that all I have, has been given to me by the Giver of all good gifts. Worship, therefore, is an act of reverence that involves placing on an altar something that costs you something before God. Abraham worshipped God by placing Isaac on the altar not expecting a reward back but in faith and obedience. He brought his spoils of war to God in thanksgiving for victory and protection (Genesis 14). Giving is an act carried out by a mature Christian. It is a thing of the heart done out of personal conviction and revelation. It is not to be coerced (See 2 Corinthians 9).

God, I believe, is most interested in our heart. Our relationship with him and our neighbours. In the New testament of the Bible, there is a description of God’s expectation of giving and it is this – when you are at the altar about to give and you remember someone you have wronged you are to hold off on your giving till you have settled scores with that person. This plainly means that He values more highly our relationships with fellow men than our money. Without the right heart, the act of giving can be abused.

Faith vs Law

Legalistic (Old testament) giving was meant to keep the system going (Deuteronomy 14). A part of new testament giving is still required to keep the system going for example some genuine clergy men do the work full time.

Quoting Malachi 3 has done more harm than good to the body of Christ. Threatening people with curses only appeals to the emotions and the traditional nature of Africans. It is plain wrong and patronising. People begin to give out of fear and not love for God or their brothers. Whatever happened to ‘perfect love casts out all fear’?

It becomes compulsive giving. Tallies are kept and people who are not seen to be giving are guilt-tripped and guilt ridden. They begin to attribute misfortune to their not giving or withholding what is God’s. “Tithe given to God is a blessing and when it is withheld it is accursed.”

What happened to Grace? Does it all not belong to God? Romans 6:14

We give because we love (John 3:16). We do not give because it is mandated or we expect something in return. If your giving is legalistic, i.e., because it is mandated, please make sure you adhere to the other over 600 laws in the old testament and while you are religiously paying 10% make sure you observe all the other numerous forms of tithing.

A Revolution is coming

John 2:14-16

This prolonged and over-flogged debate has very little to do with tithing. It is the birth of a revolution. Religion and our leaders have not given people the results they want and deserve.

There is a sieving process going on, a cleaning process even. The real stuff is being separated from the chaff. For too long, the Church has been used as a market place but in these last days Christ is cleaning up his Church. He has brought out the whips. Both buyers and sellers will be met with His judgement.

What do I do?

Go back to the foundations. Whatever side you are on the argument be convinced for yourself.
Be teachable. Open yourself up to correction, leading and teaching by the Holy Spirit.
The Last days are at hand. Sit up.

1 Peter 3:15 “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”

http://myorchardbythestream.com/2018/08/19/why-this-debate-is-not-just-about-tithing/

Here are some tips for preparing for interviews:
1 Identifying the need: Every job advert is really a cry for help! The employer has a need and is looking for someone to help them meet that need. Believe it or not, it is not charity - they are not looking for someone to make rich.
The opportunity here is to clearly identify what that need is and also clearly link your skills and offerings to meeting that need. If you cannot match your skills and experience to the need (aka job description) then there is no point applying for the role in the first place. However, beyond the job description, as not all employer needs are clearly articulated, is the real (which is often more important) need. During the interview, you must be able to demonstrate that you are competent and able to meet those needs based on your demonstrable skills and past experience.

2.Know your worth:
They need you as much, if not more than, you need them.
After you have identified the need and clearly understood and demonstrated how you can meet them, you need to know what you and your offerings are worth.
Websites like Glassdoor provide salaries for different roles and industries.
The dreaded question "What are your salary expectations?" could be asked and "I work for free" is not a viable response. It's best to give a range and this should be a fair, neither greedy nor overtly modest, estimation of what you are worth. You can read about how to increase your worth here How to increase your worth – Part 1.

3. Research the Role and Company
Questions like these should be considered when doing your research:
What is the organogram like? Who are my colleagues and who will I be reporting to or who will be my reportees?  Use Linkedin but make sure you use it in stealth mode.
What is the company culture?
Pace (fast-paced or slow-paced and laid back). Family orientated or they would like you to have no work-life balance for example.
Culture of blame or guilt? Open or closed door policy, approachable leadership?
Will I have all the tools I need to effectively and efficiently carry out my job, delivering stellar results?

Benefits and compensation: What are the additional benefits? Bonus, holiday pay, private medical care, childcare vouchers, staff nursery etc, international rotation/staff placement, mentoring, car allowance, phone allowance, training?
Location: easy commute, relocation required, parking availability, proximity to bus/train station or airport?

4. Practice tough interview questions
One can simply not be over prepared for an interview. The stars may align and it might turn out to be a walk in the park but what happens if it does not turn out that way?
Glassdoor also provides a collection of interview questions by company. Tough Interview Questions and Answers also provides questions and answers to touch interview questions.

In conclusion: Smashing that interview is a great feeling. To get that feeling requires a certain level of preparation. This list is not exhaustive but provides a minimum.
Source: www.myorchardbythestream.com

If, like me, you woke up today to the thought of the futility of certain endeavours my message to you today is that you don't give up.

To the one starting a business, pursuing a dream of financial independence - don't give up.

To the one trying to lose weight, putting in the hours working out and the results don't seem to measure up to the effort - don't give up.

To the one who is trying to keep their home and relationship together - keep praying, don't give up.

To  the one who is trying to get a job - keep applying and don't lose hope...

Continued here: https://orchardbythestream./2018/04/22/why-you-must-not-give-up

This is very wrong!

I'm just here to say that the pictures were taken at University of Aberdeen. I remember the Library and the street near Elphinstone hall. I am an alumni of the great university.

Hope you guys get a positive response from the government.

We all have different marks on the worry scale. While how little some people worry is in itself worrying (pun intended), some others worry like they studied the art of worrying till university level.

I remember once being worried at the thought that I would not get enough sleep and that in itself kept me awake (insert smiley face here).

Worrying is one of many responses to current or imminent situations. Mostly unfavourable situations.

While the two extremes of the worry scale are concerning the 'worriers' seem to be the group with the least health benefits.

While I do not profess to have the solution to worrying neither have I overcome the monster called worry, I have learnt some simple and obvious truths over the years. For instance;

99% of the things I worry about never happen...

continued here: https://orchardbythestream./2017/05/16/so-i-worry-a-lot/

This post really resonated with me even after 12 years since my 1st degree
The op is exactly on point as regards going to lectures!
I had always been ahead of my mates in school. For example, by the time I was in SS1 I was already doing SS3 Mathematics (thanks to Further Mathematics). At some point I stopped studying and was using other students to practice (when they ask me to teach them!). I started getting cocky.
Fast forward to 100 level. I was blazing! My first GPA was 4.55, hot!. Decided to start skipping lectures. Next GPA was 4.52, still hot. Let's sleep during lectures. I still had some residual knowledge and intelligence. 200 level 1st semester GPA dropped to 4.4 or something, CGPA was still in 1st Class so no worries and the 200 level, 2nd sem I had 4.1 or something, WTF I used to sleep in the hostel during lecture time during harmattan I studied alot but op is right I didnt fully understand what I read.
By 300 level, I had dropped to 2.1 and then I almost gave up and I started to notice girls
400 level, I attempted a come-back but by then it was too late. I graduated with a 4.29 CGPA. I can never forget that number because I know I had the potential to make a first class.
My young folk in the house. My advice is that you attend lectures o! Yes, education is not everything but if you are going to school do it well or drop-out.
BTW, I have a blog Please check it out. Follow and like. I have one or two words of encouragement that can help you get on in life and avoid the mistakes I made. https://orchardbythestream./ or @orchardbythestream on IG and FB

Opportunities are boundless to the one constantly seeking opportunities.

In the end we will be judged not by the risks we did not take but the lives we did not change when we had the opportunity to.
The mind is an amazing and powerful organ. Like a Polaroid camera, it can only develop negatives (eventually into pictures) it has captured.
A long time ago, God made a promise to a man called Abraham. The promise was simple; “Look as far as your eyes can see of the stars in the sky. These will be the number of your offspring”. There was one small issue.

The man, Abraham, and his wife, Sarah, were long past the age of child-bearing. To cut a long story short (and if you want to know what happened in between see the Bible or just google it ), the man eventually had offspring.

What we can achieve is only limited by what our minds can conceive.
See more here: https://orchardbythestream./2017/05/08/as-far-as-the-eyes-can-see-short-read/

"So much depends on reputation...guard it with your life" - 48 Laws of Power

Whether you own a business or as an individual, it is important that you are known for something - that you stand for something. This is the value you as a person, brand or business provides to others. Now, let me explain why.

You are probably the only one who really and truly knows who you are and what you are fully capable of. Other people can only have perceptions of you. They can only assess your capability based on their observations of you.

These perceptions are either consciously or subconsciously re-inforced by you. The perception people have of you can be used to your advantage. You can control how you want to be perceived.

The best brands are those that have identified ways they want to be perceived and do everything to make sure only these are projected.

Here are a few reasons why you should be known for something:

1.What you are known for, hereafter referred to as your reputation for individuals and brand for businesses or both, speaks for you in your absence.

"This action is not consistent with Jack. I have known him for a long time now and I am certain he could not have done this." Ever said something along these lines in someone's defence?

2.You can only be remembered for something different and unique. Your strong reputation or brand can do this for you.

Quality, punctuality, well-mannered, helpful, resourceful, knowledgeable, great sense of humour, these are some positive vibes we consciously or subconsciously project and what we can easily be remembered for.

3.Your brand or reputation can be monetized. How? Let me explain.

See more at: https://orchardbythestream./2017/05/01/how-to-increase-your-worth-part-1/

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” – Lao Tzu

We can give 1001 reasons why we cannot, for example;

Start that journey
Write that book,
Start that fitness program
Start that business
Relocate
Love somebody or
Break that bad habit.
All our excuses could seem plausible.

Are they really?

I think that the real reason why we don’t take action is more closely related to our lack of conviction on the new course. It is not yet a ‘life or death’ matter.

We still have alternatives. We will continue to give excuses until we no longer have alternatives.

You see, until one has a more compelling reason to take action, greater than the comfort of the status quo, no motion, or action, will occur. Unfortunately, this valley, between comfort and lack of it, is where many reside in their lives. This is where the ‘comfort zone’ is. This is the valley of indecision.

One very common excuse people give is the ‘I don’t know where to start’ excuse. While this could be a cogent reason sometimes, it’s not always the case.

It is not our duty to know where or how to start. It is our duty to decide to start.

No one was born an expert at whatever they do. There was, and will always be, a process of learning.

So start where you are, with what you have. This is good enough.

See more here: https://orchardbythestream./2017/04/28/take-that-leap-of-faith/

We’ve all got 1001 things to do in a day. I certainly do!

For example, I work a 9-5 and after 5 I write, read, be a father, be a husband (together with running all the errands), prepare for talks or lessons I may be giving at the weekend, make and receive calls, the odd DIY…the list goes on.

Let’s face it, strict to-do lists and calendars are good but when your hot water system packs up in the middle of your day that’s the end of your to-do list.

Something I’ve started to do recently is to make the most of my ‘loose time’.

This is time when I’m alone (the rest of the family are soundly asleep and for some reason I can’t sleep!). I will, for example, write or read or fix that broken lamp. Loose time could also be time when a planned activity can no longer be carried out within the allocated time (for example your bestie cancels coffee on you).

The wisdom about consciously allocating your ‘loose time’ to some productive activity is that if you don’t, you will subconsciously use the loose time for some ‘unproductive’ activity. I’ve got nothing against Netflix or box sets but they sure do eat a lot of time!

See more here: https://orchardbythestream./2017/03/23/another-post-about-productivity-short-read/

Some of us were fortunate enough to be superstars from childhood.

We were put down a specific path in life. Our parents took us through a regimented lifestyle. Our lives revolved around, say, the golf course, music lessons, swimming classes etc. Little wonder we turned out to be excellent at these.

Tiger Woods was introduced to golf before the age of 2 and beat his father at golf when he was 11.

Beyoncé won her first singing talent contest at age 7.

Some of us were not so lucky. Even at age 20, we have not the slightest idea of what we are good at. We begin each year with a fresh passion, a new idea. We tell ourselves ‘this is the one I am good at’ but before long we lose steam and interest. This might not be for us after all.

We can’t all be great golfers or musicians or bloggers.

We all have different paths in life. Our paths are as different as our finger prints – no two are alike even on the same hand. Even twins born within the same womb have different paths in life. The question, and the point of all this, is ‘how do I identify what my path is, what am I good at?’. It does help when our parents help us by identifying certain traits and natural tendencies, like an ear for music, and directs us appropriately...

See more here: https://orchardbythestream./2017/04/23/how-to-identify-what-you-are-good-at/

"All things are created twice" Stephen R. Covey, 7 Habits of highly effective people.

The journey to the next level begins first with a clear vision of the your destination.
One must know the destination in order to navigate their way there.

The mind is arguably the most powerful organ a man/woman has. Within the mind great ideas and visions are birthed. It is first in the mind that the thought is conceived, cultivated and action is birthed. Action leads to results.

What is your next level? A promotion, career progression, marriage, children, graduation?

Whatever your next level is, the universe (can be referred to whatever your religion, belief or creed calls it) demands that you clearly define what it should deliver.

This vision can clearly crystallise into succinct goals, SMART goals as some would call it. These are practical, specific, measurable, time-bound steps to be taken by you which lead to your overall objective or your next level. For example, if you next level is to get promoted within the next 12 months then some of your goals could be to:

1.Obtain skills that will make you function effectively on the level you aspire to.
2.Look for projects that will stretch and showcase your dormant skills.

It is the start of a new year and an excellent time to outline the goals for every area of our lives. Visualize them and write them down.

We all have the capacity to #achieve great things.
The only limits are those we impose on ourselves. We can achieve whatever we want if we #believe.
Let no one tell you that you can't. You can do anything you put your heart and might into.



Instagram:@orchardbythestream
Email:orchardbythestream@gmail.com

sk8erBoy: Right. I will begin by saying hard work pays no matter the sphere of life. It pays to have good grades in School - it simply opens a world of opportunities. Luck is when opportunity meets preparedness. Which means you can have good grades but if you are not prepared for the job market you might search for a while. I know people who made first class and got ovearseas scholarships and jobs immediately they finished school and I also know first class graduands who are still job searching.
I got admission to study my course of study on the merit list because I had a very good WAEC result and my jamb score was 206. My second jamb score was 235 which gave me admission to study pet. eng which I declined because I was already well into first year for Chem. Eng. As a result of hard work I managed to secure 2 scholarships as an undergrad. I finished with a strong 2.1 (4.29/5), served with a bank and was offered a job so I was'nt in the job market. I then tried to go abroad (wetin engineer dey do for bank) and got declined the first time. I saved for two years, tried again and here I am. I started applying for jobs from day 1 of starting my Msc course ovearseas - my motivation was to make a first class and get two job offers by the time I graduated. I started a job a week before I graduated and attended a number of interviews - I was relentless. I have changed jobs twice overseas (about to change job again) and I have never been in the job market.
I am still relentless because the ultimate working life is to run your own business. In the main time, I am taking steps to get there. I firmly believe in God's favour but He will only help those who work hard. I'm happy to mentor younger folk; ochescoolbox@yahoo.com

A number of genuine folks have gotten back to me. Keep it coming. Happy to help.

Right. I will begin by saying hard work pays no matter the sphere of life. It pays to have good grades in School - it simply opens a world of opportunities. Luck is when opportunity meets preparedness. Which means you can have good grades but if you are not prepared for the job market you might search for a while. I know people who made first class and got ovearseas scholarships and jobs immediately they finished school and I also know first class graduands who are still job searching.
I got admission to study my course of study on the merit list because I had a very good WAEC result and my jamb score was 206. My second jamb score was 235 which gave me admission to study pet. eng which I declined because I was already well into first year for Chem. Eng. As a result of hard work I managed to secure 2 scholarships as an undergrad. I finished with a strong 2.1 (4.29/5), served with a bank and was offered a job so I was'nt in the job market. I then tried to go abroad (wetin engineer dey do for bank) and got declined the first time. I saved for two years, tried again and here I am. I started applying for jobs from day 1 of starting my Msc course ovearseas - my motivation was to make a first class and get two job offers by the time I graduated. I started a job a week before I graduated and attended a number of interviews - I was relentless. I have changed jobs twice overseas (about to change job again) and I have never been in the job market.
I am still relentless because the ultimate working life is to run your own business. In the main time, I am taking steps to get there. I firmly believe in God's favour but He will only help those who work hard. I'm happy to mentor younger folk; ochescoolbox@yahoo.com

I have been interested in any news about Dino because I happen to know his wife's family reasonably well . But I'm not here to take sides. This is my take on the issue:
The African adage says "there is no smoke without fire". This suggests that there must have been 'red flags' of domestic violence and infidelity even while the couple were courting. Could she not have picked these up? She probably did but went ahead with the marriage. Dino was a student activist in ABU Zaria, aren't we all aware of the darker side of student activism? So what was the attraction to him? My guess, which could be wrong, is power and the prospect of more of it; being married to a prospective House of Rep. member - but "power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely". The dude is power drunk.
There is no justifiable reason for domestic violence, rather domestic violence is a justifiable reason for separation. The man in question, who makes the headlines for the wrong reasons, feels comfortable using his wife as a punching bag however one must ask - could his wife be provocative? Why has she condoned this behaviour for so long? The most humane answer would be for the sake of her children but then the scars of a weeping mother on the psyche of a child is more indelible than growing up in a single parent home.
Now, if the allegations are true then Dino must face the full brunt of the law albeit watered down and largely corrupted in Nigeria. The Fabiyi family should not only sue him but get international women rights NGOs involved and a very good lawyer. She should not just divorce him and be silent, she must get compensation from him and secure the future of her children in the process.
And the lad should be silent about corruption in Nigeria until he puts his house in order...and to the pro-Dino's, please don't use Dino and Madiba in the same sentence. Do not insult the memory of a great statesman. There is no basis for comparison.

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