Dear Valued Reader, how are you doing? This week, let’s step back from the usual discussions on personal finance. After all, before we can dive into topics like savings, budgeting, or investments, being healthy and alive is the first priority.
So, once again, how are you holding up? How are you navigating the difficulties and economic challenges gripping Nigeria? How is your work or business faring? Most importantly, how is your mental well-being?
These questions are critical, even though we may not always acknowledge their significance. Times are undeniably tough. Money is scarce and its value continues to erode. Many people are working harder than ever, yet the gap between income and expenses seems insurmountable. Inflation is relentless, diminishing purchasing power and making it nearly impossible to stick to budgets. At the market, no matter how frugal you try to be, you’re spending more and getting less. This is the harsh reality we’re all facing in today’s economy.
The current situation is testing everyone’s limits. Some people have considered extreme measures to escape their struggles, and unfortunately, a few have acted on those thoughts. It’s important to remember that whatever challenges you’re facing, you’re not alone. This hardship cuts across demographics—affecting men and women, the wealthy and the less fortunate alike. Even those who seem to have it all are feeling the pinch. Truly, we are in an era where even the rich are not immune to financial pressures.
This brings us to the heart of today’s discussion: the importance of perseverance and resilience during trying times. Many are experiencing disruptions—whether due to the national economic climate or personal setbacks. Jobs have been lost, businesses shuttered, and livelihoods threatened. Such challenges can weigh heavily on one’s mood, health, and outlook, leading to feelings of helplessness, stress, and anxiety.
Despite these struggles, it is crucial to keep going. Resilience is the key to weathering storms. As highlighted by Lawrence Robinson and Melinda Smith in their article, “Surviving Tough Times by Building Resilience,” resilience is the capacity to adapt to loss, change, and trauma, which are inevitable parts of life. Building resilience allows individuals to better handle turbulent times and recover from setbacks.
Robinson and Smith note that resilient people often exhibit a greater tolerance for the emotional distress associated with adversity. “The more resilient you are, the better equipped you are to manage feelings of stress, anxiety, and sadness during tough times,” they explain. Resilience helps maintain a positive outlook and face uncertain futures with less fear, enabling individuals to navigate even the darkest days.
Though it’s difficult to see any silver lining during hard times, resilience can help you uncover hidden positives. For example, during a recent period when fresh tomatoes became scarce and expensive, many Nigerians turned to alternative ingredients such as cucumber, watermelon, golden melon, cabbage, and beetroot to prepare their stews. These innovative recipes have since gained popularity, proving that adversity can lead to creativity and lasting change.
Hardship can be a powerful teacher, offering lessons about yourself and the world around you. It can strengthen your resolve, deepen your empathy, and ultimately foster personal growth. Remember, resilience isn’t a fixed trait—it’s an ongoing process that requires effort to cultivate and sustain. Moreover, it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances.
As we navigate these challenging times, let’s hold on to hope and look forward to brighter days. You’re not alone on this journey. Keep pushing forward with strength and determination.
Wishing you love and positivity. Have a peaceful weekend.
