By Dear Lagosians, let’s talk about growth with the fake pressure we see on social media.
Let’s be honest, when we hear the word “growth,” most of us immediately think of the soft life: salary increase, six-figure deals, soft skin, and soft work. But let’s not lie to ourselves, real growth in Lagos? It’s rough. It doesn’t wear a suit. Sometimes it wears okirika and carries a backpack on a bike at 6:45am.
But here’s the gist: growth is not always about where you’re going, It’s about what you’re becoming.
1. Growth is Waking Up Before Your Alarm (Sometimes Just to Worry):
That moment when your eyes pop open at 4:59am and your alarm is set for 5:00am. That, my dear, is growth. Not because of the timing, but because your body is aligning with purpose. You’re starting to take control of your day even if your boss still thinks your name is “urgent deliverable.”
“Growth is the uncomfortable friend you didn’t invite but you desperately need.”
2. Growth Is Saying “No” Without a 45-Minute Explanation:
Especially in Lagos where everyone wants to “quickly use your time.” Saying “No” to draining friendships, time-wasting WhatsApp groups, or yet another “let’s hang out” that leads to nowhere? That’s premium-level growth. Don’t be guilted into burnout.
3. Growth is Updating Your CV, Even When No One Asks:
Look, we know you’re tired. But there’s something about preparing yourself before the opportunity shows up that the universe respects. Update your CV. Learn something new. Polish that LinkedIn. Don’t wait until they fire you before you discover Coursera.
“Growth means investing in yourself, even when the returns aren’t instant.”
4. Growth is Resting Without Feeling Like You’re Lazy;
In Lagos, if you’re not “hustling,” they assume you’re unserious. But true growth knows that rest is strategy. If you don’t pause, your body will eventually press shutdown. So lie down. Sleep well. Recharge. Your destiny is not running away.
5. Growth is Realizing Peace is More Important Than Replying That WhatsApp Message;
Not every “Hi dear” deserves energy. Some people come to test your growth, not support it. The block button is part of your self-care. Use it with wisdom and frequency.
6. Growth is Surviving Lagos Traffic Without Swearing at a Danfo Driver;
This one is reserved for mature minds only. If you can sit in a yellow bus, get splashed by rainwater, hear someone blasting Fuji on full volume and still not lose your mind, congratulations. You’re growing!
“Sometimes, growth looks like keeping your mouth shut in traffic. Maturity is silent resistance.”
Final Word to My Fellow Hustlers
Growth isn’t glamorous. Sometimes it’s in the silence after rejection. Sometimes it’s in choosing yourself, walking away, or starting over. But one thing is sure: if you keep showing up, Lagos will eventually respect your hustle.
So don’t give up. Even if today you’re trekking from CMS to Obalende, your G-Wagon story is still forming. Let patience do its work.
Stay hydrated. Stay hopeful. And remember: you can grow and glow even if NEPA takes light.
From concerned Lagosian!