Being fearful and timid can potentially limit progress, dreams and success. Growing up, life seemed so easy because I got virtually all I wanted under my parents roof. I was not exposed to the outside world, always indoors, had a maid and a chef. There came a time when I had to leave my comfort zone in pursuit of a higher education at the University of Lagos, Nigeria and I lived on campus. My dad left me with these words, “my daughter, I wish you the very best but you have to know only the strong, courageous and smart ones survive out there.” Little did I know how powerful those words were until I got my very first job as a Customer Service Representative at a bank in Nigeria. Taking care of myself and my bills made me realize what responsibility is all about.
I was naive, had low self esteem and lacked self-confidence which, of course, made my job so difficult and nerve wrecking to perform and almost led to my employment being terminated. There were two colleagues I admired so much, Dami and Jane. They were on top of their game, very smart and high achievers. Nothing ever seemed challenging to them. They handled every project with ease and our bosses always applauded them. They became my motivation in addition to recollecting my dad’s words of wisdom. I had no option than to be proactive and also looked forward to being applauded if not for anything, for future references in other organisations or promotions within the company. It was time for me to wake up from my slumber, come out from my fearful shell and believe in myself by being confident and having a positive attitude in all I had to do.
I became more dedicated to my job, more friendly to my clients, offered professional advice on the bank services without having to refer them to other colleagues like I use to, managed the telephone line system effectively as I always shyed away from it, welcomed clients as they entered the bank like never before and educated them on utilizing available access channels like ATM, online and telephone banking. I had that innermost satisfaction when my Bank Manager recognized my efforts and I was awarded the best customer service representative for three consequitive months. What a huge success! It seemed beyond the bounds of possibility that I could change to be this brave and outgoing person, which I am proud of today. I chose the path to success rather than being static.
The whole experience changed my entire view about life. Now I am no longer timid, I can approach and interact confidently with people, I love challenges, can take up tasks without giving up easily and come out with positive outcomes. I have a passion for excellence, putting in my best in whatever I do.
I believe in being courageous and bold. With hard work, dedication and the right attitude, success will be guaranteed.