A Gentle Reminder that We are Human

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in the relentless pursuit of goals, success, and career advancement. We set targets, chase deadlines, and immerse ourselves in business strategies, often losing sight of the one thing that truly defines us; our humanity. Today, I want to take a step back from business-related articles and remind us all that, before anything else, we are human.

In our professional lives, we often wear different masks—manager, entrepreneur, analyst, consultant. These roles, while important, can sometimes overshadow the essence of who we are. We become so focused on outcomes and achievements that we forget to nurture the very core of our being—the human spirit that craves connection, compassion, and understanding.

But what does it mean to be human? It means recognizing that beyond our titles and responsibilities, we are individuals with emotions, dreams, and vulnerabilities. It means acknowledging that we are all in this journey together, navigating the complexities of life with our own unique struggles and triumphs. Being human is about showing empathy, practicing kindness, and extending a helping hand to those in need.

As technology advances at lightning speed and business demands increases, it’s easy to forget to pause and reflect on what truly matters. But it is in these moments of reflection that we can reconnect with our humanity. We can remind ourselves that our worth is not solely defined by our professional accomplishments, but by the way we treat others, the relationships we build, and the positive impact we make on the world around us.

Let’s take a moment to remember that our colleagues, clients, and even our competitors are human too. They have their own stories, challenges, and aspirations. By embracing this perspective, we can foster a work environment that values collaboration over competition, understanding over judgment, and support over criticism.

In our personal lives, we often find solace in the simple joys—spending time with loved ones, enjoying a quiet moment in nature, or pursuing a hobby that brings us happiness. These moments are a testament to the fact that, at our core, we are not just workers or professionals, but beings with a profound need for connection and meaning.

So today, let’s step away from the spreadsheets, the meetings, and the never-ending to-do lists. Let’s take a deep breath and remind ourselves of the beauty of being human. Let’s reach out to a friend, offer a kind word to a stranger, or simply take a moment to appreciate the world around us. In doing so, we not only reconnect with our humanity but also inspire others to do the same.

As we move forward in our professional journeys, let’s carry this reminder with us: we are human first, and it is our humanity that will guide us to success not just in business, but in life.

Kind Regards,
Olamiji Akeredolu.