Umar had been working in a tertiary hospital since finishing secondary school as a ward assistant. He was very brilliant but had been orphaned at the age of ten when his parents died in a fatal road traffic accident. He and his younger brother were raised by their uncle, a kind man but a peasant farmer who could not afford to sponsor their tertiary education. Determined to improve himself, Umar worked to earn a living and ease the burden on his uncle.

He was always cheerful and went about his duties with dedication. Curious and observant, he learned as much as he could on the job. He also taught himself how to use the computer through an old system left in the ward for patients' recreational use. Soon, he discovered free online courses, began taking them, and mastered several skills. Eventually, he enrolled at the National Open University of Nigeria and earned a degree in Business Administration.

Umar particularly loved entrepreneurship and dreamed of financial independence so he could also help others. For the past two years, he had been saving 60% of his salary through a contribution scheme, volunteering to be the last recipient in November. His plan was to use the lump sum as capital to expand a small business idea he had been nurturing. He was excited about his future and grateful to be alive, working steadily toward empowerment and self-reliance.

Salisu, on the other hand, had a very different story. Sponsored through school by his parents, he graduated from the University of Maiduguri with a second-class lower degree in Public Administration. Yet, he remained at home, bitterly frustrated that his parents had not "fixed him up" with a good job befitting his status as a university graduate.

He spent his days complaining, lamenting Nigeria's job market, and blaming everyone for his misfortune. When his father suggested he join him at the Monday Market to help sell caps, Salisu was appalled. How could a university graduate sell caps in an open market? he thought. Not even in a shopping mall—haba Mallam! This, to him, was unacceptable.

Throughout 2024, he remained idle, grumpy, and resentful—convinced that his problems were the government's fault. He believed that the only solution was for the government to employ all graduates and pay them comfortable salaries. He saw no personal responsibility in shaping his own path.

Perspective Makes All the Difference

Human beings are wired differently, and our outlook determines how we interpret the events around us. Is the glass half-full or half-empty? It depends on perspective. While we may not be able to control the external circumstances around us, we can always control our attitude and mindset.

Every month, and especially every new year, presents an opportunity to reset, take stock, and pursue new goals. But if we remain trapped in endless complaints, refusing to work hard or embrace a growth mindset, we will only reinforce frustration and failure.

Conversely, when we focus on what we can do—by developing ourselves, acquiring new skills, and adding value—we set ourselves up for progress. We may get better job opportunities, create our own, or simply grow in confidence and fulfillment.

The Power of a Growth Mindset

This is not to ignore the harsh socio-economic realities of our country—far from it. But even in difficult times, we can choose to unleash our best potential. By continuously developing ourselves, nurturing human relationships (because no man or woman is an island), and looking for ways to advance our goals, we cultivate hope and resilience.

In the meantime, give your best to whatever task is currently before you—whether it's selling caps in the Monday Market or working as a ward assistant. Dignity and progress come from effort, not from titles.

So, as this year unfolds, ask yourself: What seeds are you sowing for your future harvest? Your emotional wellness depends on your choices. The power to shape your tomorrow lies in your hands.

Dr. Jibril AbdulmalikTribune Article for the column "Your Mental Health & You"Thursday, 23rd January 2025
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