Young and Ambitious: The Blueprint for Transforming Your Legacy.
Moses G Kebaso, (CPA,K)
Group CFO | Chief Financial Officer | Finance Director | Group Financial Controller | Vice President Finance | Global C-Level Leader | Innovation & Strategy Director | Non-Executive Director | Head Global FP&A
In today's world, where information is at our fingertips and opportunities span the #globe, being directionless is not just a setback—it's a choice. We live in an era of unprecedented technological advancement, where #knowledge is more accessible than ever before, and global networks offer limitless potential for #collaboration and growth. In such a landscape, the excuses for stagnation, mediocrity, or aimlessness have all but vanished. For young people, especially those who do not come from a background of wealth and privilege, the stakes are even higher. There is a pressing responsibility to harness these #resources not only for personal advancement but also to uplift their #families, #communities, and future generations. To continue a cycle of missed opportunities, complacency, or lack of direction is to resign oneself to a narrative that has already been written by others—a narrative of limited #horizons and unrealized potential.
You are at a pivotal moment in history. The ability to redefine your future—and the future of your #lineage—lies in your hands. But achieving this transformation will not happen by chance. It requires a deliberate, strategic approach, rooted in a #mindset that embraces continuous #learning, #resilience, and #innovation. It demands the courage to step outside comfort zones, challenge the status quo, and set a new course. The question then is not whether you can make a difference but whether you will #choose to rise to the occasion. The #world is full of #possibilities, but it also rewards those who are #proactive, #disciplined, and intentional about their #goals. If you are willing to take bold steps, to think differently, and to act with purpose, you can not only change your own destiny but also inspire a legacy of #success and prosperity for those who follow. Your journey begins with a single decision: to refuse to be another link in a chain of mediocrity and to commit to a path of #excellence and impact. This is your call to action. Your potential is boundless, and the world is waiting for the difference you will make.
1. Redefine the Narrative: From Survival to Success
For many of us, especially those who come from less privileged backgrounds, life has always been about survival. Our parents and grandparents lived in a world defined by #scarcity. Resources were limited, opportunities were rare, and survival was the primary goal. Their lives revolved around securing the basics—food, shelter, and safety. This survival mindset was necessary and often the only option available. They had to be #resourceful, resilient, and tough, just to get by. But times have changed. The modern world offers unprecedented access to #resources, information, and opportunities. We have #tools and #technologies that our predecessors could only dream of. Yet, despite these advancements, many of us are still trapped in a survival mindset, focusing only on meeting our immediate needs. This is a limiting perspective that keeps us from achieving our full potential. It’s time to redefine what success looks like for ourselves and future generations.
"Your mindset is your most valuable asset. Cultivate a mindset of abundance, possibility, and proactive problem-solving. Aim not just to survive, but to thrive, innovate, and lead."- Moses G Kebaso
Shifting from a survival mindset to a success mindset requires a fundamental change in how we view ourselves and the world around us. Success is no longer just about putting food on the table; it’s about creating opportunities, building wealth, and contributing to the #growth and prosperity of our communities. It’s about setting goals that go beyond the immediate and aiming for a #future where we not only #thrive but also help others do the same. A success mindset is rooted in abundance, not scarcity. It sees possibilities where others see obstacles. It embraces proactive problem-solving and innovation. This shift in mindset requires us to stop thinking like victims of our circumstances and start seeing ourselves as creators of our own destiny. It means believing that we have the power to change our lives and the lives of those around us.
Oprah Winfrey grew up in poverty, experiencing numerous hardships, including abuse and family challenges. Despite these obstacles, she did not just focus on surviving but aimed to thrive and make a significant #impact. She built a media empire, became a billionaire, and used her influence to create opportunities for others. Oprah redefined her narrative, showing that one's background doesn't determine one's future. Today, she's known for her #philanthropy and efforts to educate and empower underprivileged communities.
"You may choose to look the other way, but you can never say again that you did not know." — William Wilberforce
2. Be the Catalyst for Change
If you cannot be the first to create wealth in your family, strive to be the first to change the way your family thinks about #wealth, #opportunity, and #success. True change begins in the mind. It is not just about acquiring material wealth; it’s about shifting the intellectual and #cultural landscape. It’s about challenging deeply ingrained #beliefs that limit growth, opportunity, and prosperity. Often, we inherit a mindset that sees wealth and success as unattainable for people like us. These beliefs become self-fulfilling prophecies, passed down from one generation to the next. To break this cycle, you must be willing to question these inherited beliefs and replace them with a mindset that embraces possibility, #innovation, and growth. Be the person who introduces new #ideas, who challenges the status quo, and who inspires others to think differently.
"Change begins with you. Be the catalyst for a shift in thought patterns. Inspire those around you to adopt a mindset of growth, learning, and innovation. Influence is a powerful form of leadership." - Moses G Kebaso
Being a catalyst for change means taking responsibility for your own growth and setting an example for others to follow. It means stepping out of your comfort zone and being willing to fail, #learn, and try again. It requires #courage, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. When you change your mindset, you not only change your life but also the lives of those around you. Your #influence can inspire others to break free from limiting beliefs and strive for greater success.
Elon Musk has consistently been a catalyst for #change across various industries. His ventures like Tesla , SpaceX , and SolarCity have revolutionized electric vehicles, space exploration, and solar energy, respectively. His Starlink firm providing high-speed internet around the world is now becoming a major player in internet provision in #Kenya and in few months #Africa . Musk challenges traditional norms, pushing for sustainable energy and space colonization, showing that significant change often begins with someone willing to disrupt the status quo and think differently. By not only creating wealth but also changing how society views sustainability and innovation, Musk embodies the principle of being a catalyst for change.
"The future depends on what you do today." — Mahatma Gandhi
3. Invest in Continuous Learning
We live in an #age where knowledge is more accessible than ever before. The #internet has made it possible to learn almost anything from anywhere. Yet, many people still choose to remain ignorant, believing that what they know is enough. This mindset is a recipe for stagnation. The world #rewards those who are #hungry for #knowledge, who seek out opportunities to learn, grow, and improve. As a young person, you have a responsibility to #invest in yourself. This means going beyond formal education. It’s about acquiring practical #skills, gaining real-world experience, and continuously expanding your knowledge. Pay for that online course to learn a new skill. Attend workshops that challenge your thinking. Find mentors who can offer guidance, #wisdom, and support.
"Knowledge is power, but applied knowledge is transformational. Commit to lifelong learning. Be curious, be open, and be relentless in your pursuit of growth."- Moses G Kebaso
Learning is not a one-time event; it is a lifelong journey. It is about staying #curious, being open to new ideas, and constantly pushing yourself to be better. The more you learn, the more #valuable you become. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions, solve complex problems, and create innovative solutions. It is the key to unlocking your full potential and achieving lasting #success.
When Satya Nadella became CEO of 微软 , he emphasized a "learn-it-all" #culture over a "know-it-all" culture. Nadella's commitment to continuous learning transformed Microsoft, focusing on #cloud computing and #AI innovations, leading to substantial growth and renewed relevance in the #tech industry. Nadella's own learning journey and openness to new ideas set an example for others, proving that #continuous learning can drive personal and organizational #transformation.
"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." — Benjamin Franklin
4. Build Relationships with Intent
In an increasingly #interconnected world, relationships are no longer just a nice-to-have; they are essential to personal and professional success. However, the true value of #relationships lies not just in knowing many people, but in cultivating meaningful connections that foster growth, collaboration, and mutual support. Building relationships with intent means approaching every interaction with a mindset of both #learning and #contribution, rather than just what you can gain. It's about quality over quantity, nurturing bonds that are based on #trust, #respect, and shared values. To build these kinds of relationships, seek out individuals who inspire you, challenge you, and support your #ambitions. These are the people who will push you to think bigger and do better. They are your #mentors, #peers, and #role #models. Surrounding yourself with such positive influences will elevate your mindset, motivate you to strive for #excellence, and encourage you to take bold steps towards your goals. On the other hand, distance yourself from negativity, cynicism, and mediocrity. These will only drain your energy, diminish your #aspirations, and hold you back.
Your network is your net worth. Build relationships that add value to your life and to others. Be intentional about the company you keep and the energy you surround yourself with.
Building intentional relationships also involves contributing to others' success. #Offer your #support, #share your knowledge, and #celebrate others' #achievements. By doing so, you create a culture of reciprocity and goodwill, where everyone thrives. This approach not only enriches your network but also establishes your #reputation as a valuable and trusted ally.
Sheryl Sandberg , former COO of Facebook and author of Lean In , is known for her commitment to building meaningful professional relationships. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, networking, and mutual support, especially for #women in the #workplace. Her efforts have not only advanced her career but have also helped to create a community that supports women’s leadership and success globally. Sandberg’s approach to relationships demonstrates the power of intentional networking and mentorship in achieving career success and societal change.
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"Surround yourself only with people who are going to take you higher." — Oprah Winfrey
5. Reject Mediocrity Relentlessly
In a world that is increasingly competitive, mediocrity has no place. To settle for mediocrity is to accept a life of unfulfilled potential and missed opportunities. It is to blend into the background instead of #standing out. Mediocrity is often the result of #comfort #zones, where people settle for "good enough" instead of striving for the best. But in today’s rapidly evolving environment, good enough is simply not enough. Excellence should be your standard in everything you do, whether it's your work, studies, or personal development. Excellence demands that you go beyond what is required, to think creatively, and to continuously improve. It means being meticulous about details, taking #pride in your work, and never settling for less than your best. This commitment to excellence will not only set you apart from the average but also position you as a #leader in your field.
"Mediocrity is the enemy of greatness. Never settle. Push yourself to exceed expectations, to innovate, and to lead with excellence." - Moses G Kebaso
Rejecting mediocrity requires a mindset of constant growth. Always ask yourself: How can I do this better? What more can I #learn? How can I exceed expectations? By relentlessly pursuing excellence, you cultivate #habits that lead to #long-term success and build a reputation for being #dependable, innovative, and #exceptional.
Steve Jobs ' pursuit of excellence was a driving force behind 苹果 ’s success. He was known for his relentless attention to #detail and his desire to create products that were not just good but excellent. Jobs rejected mediocrity in design and functionality, which led to the creation of iconic products like the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook. His high standards and unwillingness to compromise quality set Apple apart from its competitors and established the brand's reputation for #innovation and excellence.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." — Aristotle
6. Take Ownership of Your Future
Your future is not something that happens to you; it is something you create. Taking ownership of your future means recognizing that your success is your responsibility. It requires an active and intentional approach to life, where you make choices that align with your goals and values. This means setting clear objectives, making plans to achieve them, and taking deliberate actions every day that move you closer to your vision. Ownership is about accountability. It’s about acknowledging that while you may not be able to control every circumstance, you can control your response. It means not making excuses or blaming others for your situation. Instead, find ways to change it. This proactive approach empowers you to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and shape your destiny.
You are the architect of your destiny. Take responsibility for your life. Be proactive, be accountable, and make things happen.
Owning your future also involves taking risks and being willing to fail. Failure is not the end; it's a stepping stone to growth. Each failure brings valuable lessons that bring you closer to success. By taking responsibility for your life, you position yourself as the architect of your destiny, capable of overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness.
Before becoming one of the best-selling authors in history, J.K. Rowling was a single mother living on #welfare. Despite numerous rejections from publishers, she took ownership of her destiny, persisted with her writing, and eventually published the Harry Potter series . Her story is a powerful example of personal accountability and resilience, showing that taking responsibility for your future, regardless of your current circumstances, can lead to #extraordinary outcomes.
"The best way to predict your future is to create it." — Peter Drucker
7. Create a Legacy of Impact
True success transcends personal achievements; it lies in the positive impact you have on others and the world around you. Creating a #legacy of impact means using your talents, skills, and resources not just for your own benefit but to uplift, #inspire, and #empower others. It’s about making a difference, no matter how small, in the lives of those who come into contact with you. Legacy-building is not just about financial success; it's about #leadership, service, and commitment to a cause greater than yourself. It's about being a mentor who guides others, a leader who drives change, and a role model who inspires action. By focusing on creating opportunities for others, contributing to community development, and supporting initiatives that drive positive change, you build a legacy that outlasts your time on earth.
"True success is measured by the positive impact you have on others. Build a legacy that inspires, empowers, and creates lasting change."- Moses G Kebaso
Your legacy is defined by the #values you live by, the #relationships you nurture, and the impact you have. Every action you take and every decision you make contributes to the #story you leave behind. Strive to build a legacy that reflects #integrity, #compassion, and a #dedication to making the #world a better place.
Nelson Mandela’s legacy goes far beyond his presidency of South Africa. His commitment to #justice, #equality, and #reconciliation left an indelible mark on the world. Mandela's work to end apartheid, his efforts to promote #peace and forgiveness, and his lifelong dedication to human rights continue to inspire generations. Mandela’s legacy is not just in the policies he implemented but in the lives he touched and the #global movement for #human #rights he helped to advance.
"You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you." — John Bunyan
Rise to the Challenge
As a young person in today's world, you stand at a crossroads with the potential to shape not only your destiny but also the future of those who will follow. This opportunity is both a privilege and a responsibility. In a rapidly changing world, passivity and mediocrity are no longer options; they are paths to obsolescence. The challenges you face are real, from economic disparities to societal #pressures, but so too are the opportunities. With access to vast amounts of information, technology, and networks, you have the tools to overcome these obstacles and carve out a legacy of impact and success. The world is not looking for followers but for leaders who dare to #dream big, #take #risks, and push the boundaries of what is possible.
Rising to the challenge means embracing the courage to be different, to question the status quo, and to forge a new path. It requires a mindset shift from survival to success, from complacency to continuous growth. It is about being intentional with your actions, proactive in seeking #knowledge, and relentless in the pursuit of excellence. This is your moment to be bold, to innovate, and to inspire others. Whether it's in your career, community, or personal life, let your actions speak volumes about your commitment to greatness. By choosing to lead with purpose, you not only change your own story but also light the way for others to follow, creating a ripple effect of positive change that can span generations. The world is waiting for your #contribution—rise to the challenge and make it count.
Malala Yousafzai, the youngest #Nobel #Prize #laureate, rose to the challenge after surviving a gunshot wound inflicted by the Taliban for advocating girls' #education. Instead of retreating into silence, she became a global advocate for education and women’s rights. Malala's #bravery and commitment to her cause, despite the threats against her life, exemplify the courage needed to rise to the challenges of our time. Her work has impacted millions, inspiring young people #worldwide to stand up for their rights and pursue education.
The future is yours to create. Make it one of purpose, prosperity, and impact.
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2 个月Great advice!
Asset Management /Business Development/Retirement planning and training/ Relationship management
2 个月Such a well written piece and extremely informative.