You Need Bigger Problems

Here’s a question for you. Would you rather queue for fuel for three hours or brainstorm on a new jet propulsion engine?

If you live in Africa, you’ve experienced the fuel queues at Christmas. Winding lines. The police truck that heads straight to the pump. Guys by the roadside peddling adulterated petrol in jerrycans. Station attendants who are drunk on power, as they control access to the gate.?

It's a typical chaotic scene on the continent.

Yet, you willingly join the line because your kids need uninterrupted electricity. The weather has been crazy and everyone's grumpy because of the heat.?

Now, cast your mind to an alternative world.

You are spending the same three hours in an air-conditioned co-working space with your team.

You’re the co-founder of a venture-funded startup with colleagues who are badass programmers, physicists, and mathematicians. Your team is participating in the XPRIZE and you are excited by the prospect of winning. Even if your company doesn't win, your work will be on the world stage, opening up new opportunities for you.

So, back to my original question. Would you rather wait for fuel or work on a groundbreaking idea?

It's the same three hours spent solving problems. But while one problem drains you, the other energizes you.

In 2025, you will not run away from problems. But, you will work on bigger and better quality ones.

Your time will not be spent debating whether or not you should dig a borehole in your compound. Or if you should spend money on a pre-paid meter that ought to be free. You will no longer debate the sanity & character of your leaders or the "anyhowness" of institutions.

Instead, you will be obsessed with growing your business, spending more time with your family, increasing your influence, and broadening your impact.

This year will be a new season where you only go where you are wanted and appreciated. Your relationships will be enriching and your friends will match your energy.

In 2025, you will remember that your brain was created for wonders and your heart was designed to be very kind. Nothing will stop you from attaining your potential, because unusual doors will open for you.

At the end of the year, you will have shown the world what it's like when brilliance meets hard work and good intentions.

As we celebrate the New Year, I wish you a fantastic one. I am rooting for you.

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