Page 238 - The Administrator - A Startling True Story of Politics and Deception_Neat

226 | N. PAUL ONUZURUIKE

Like you and Usher Raymond, I thought “I had it bad.” Imagine walking
barefooted in the forest amidst bugs, preys and at times, decaying animal remains --
including those of humans. Through it all, he endured, persevered, and ended up in
a neighboring country where he assumed a temporary identity.

Truth be told, every day we are confronted with situations in life which force
us to make choices, including harsh decisions. Although some of these choices are
easy -- some can be tough and heart breaking -- like choosing to break up or get out

of a toxic relationship, leaving a job that’s not a good fit or even detrimental to your
well-being, or moving away from a town, city or state to pursue your passion. Despite
everything -- always remember -- your current situation doesn’t define you: Your
career is essentially a job, not your life. No matter where you are in your career, it

behooves you to explore, identify and nurture your passion. Make the time from your
busy schedule to identify your passion, that one thing you’re passionate about; then
pursue it by investing the appropriate amount of time, energy and whatever
resources you have. Yes, it’s not going to easy; if it were everybody would be at the

top and successful. Again, anything worth having is worth investing the time, energy
and money (if you had any saved).

Do something! Yes, roll your sleeves and get going. You can do it; the furthest

distance -- in the words of HRH Onuzuruike II -- “begins with the first step: one foot
after the other.” Don’t just take this lying down. Invest time and energy digging and
exploring that one thing -- passion -- that burns in your heart. Something unique and

satisfying that you are willing to put in the time, energy and resources to see it
materialize even when you’re not getting paid. Whatever it is -- you will know -- it’s
your passion because it is both engaging and consuming to the point that you find
yourself immersed in it even without remuneration: Compensation -- salary, wages
or commission -- or remedy that is presented to an individual for work or services

performed, including gift of materials such as landed property.