When Life Gives You Lemons: Lessons for life's journey

I’ve often wanted to put my thoughts down in writing—a way to reflect, teach, inspire, and encourage. Perhaps this is my shot at that. Today, my mind turns to a pivotal moment many of us have experienced: KCSE results are out!

I remember that electric feeling, a mix of excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty. My dad, ever hopeful, expected my name to be on the newspapers, firmly believing I was destined for greatness. I thank God for him and his unwavering belief in me. Do you remember how you felt in that moment? For some, it was elation. For others, fear and doubt. Minds racing, dreams hanging in the balance, wondering, what comes next?

Chasing Dreams and Making Lemonade

At that age, I thought a lot about the "coolest" career paths, the ones that would secure a bright future and uplift my family. Yet, reflecting now, I wonder why I didn’t consider entrepreneurship or business as equally respectable options. We often follow what society deems successful, but success comes in many forms. Funny how perspectives shift over time.

The truth is, no matter the effort we put in, the outcomes aren’t always what we hoped. Some achieve their dreams; others face disappointment. Yet, there’s something so inspiring about the resilience of the human spirit—the ability to take life’s lemons and make lemonade.

To those who have just finished high school, here’s my advice:

1. Be Resilient: Roll with the Punches

Life won’t always go as planned. You might face challenges and detours. But in every circumstance, find a way to adapt, grow, and thrive. Life is a journey of learning and perseverance.

2. Think About Financial Literacy

Every coin matters. If I had started investing even a small amount eight years ago, my current bank balance would tell a very different story. Start early. Learn about money market funds, savings, and investments. Financial freedom doesn’t come overnight, but small, consistent steps make a world of difference.

3. Feel the Feelings, But Your Friends Really, Really Matter

Your friends can profoundly influence your life’s trajectory. A single decision, made in a split second, can shape your future. Surround yourself with people who inspire, challenge, and support you.

4. Embrace Responsibility and Honor Your Family

Responsibility might seem daunting at times, but it’s a sign of growth. Your parents are the foundation of your story. Honor them and love your family. Help out at home and carry the load together. You’ll thank yourself later.

5. Rest, Reflect, and Grow

It’s okay to rest. Watch a movie, take a walk, or just pause and breathe. Life isn’t a race. There’s so much growing up ahead, and while you may feel uncertain now, this foggy, fuzzy phase is where real growth happens. You’re forming, evolving, and understanding the world in a whole new way.

Mistakes Are Part of the Journey

You’ll make mistakes—ones that will seem glaringly obvious in hindsight. That’s okay. Give yourself grace. Learn, grow, and keep moving forward. Education matters, but it’s not the entire picture. Life is a mosaic of experiences, lessons, and resilience.

So, whether your KCSE results brought joy or disappointment, remember this: make lemonade. Use every opportunity, every challenge, and every triumph to shape a life you’re proud of. Life will throw plenty of lemons your way, but with resilience, courage, and faith, you’ll make them into something sweet.

Here’s to the journey ahead!

Same vid on TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMkPgTv4B/ You can share your thoughts there too :).