Introduction
Life doesn’t always give us a clear map. Sometimes, it simply pushes us, and we have no choice but to move, one step after another. Have you ever felt that way? Like you’re caught in a whirlwind, unsure of where you’re headed, but somehow, you just have to keep going? That was me. My journey wasn’t straightforward, and it certainly wasn’t easy. But looking back, I realize that every twist, every turn, and every push led me to exactly where I was meant to be.
The NYSC Year: Searching for Clarity
During my NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) year, clarity seemed so far away. I was doing my best, trying to make the most of my service year, but as the months went by, I felt like time was running out. The closer I got to the end of my service, the more questions flooded my mind. What do I want to do? Where do I go from here? Should I learn a skill, start a business, or look for a job? And the most terrifying question: How long will I stay at my parents’ house?
The more I asked, the more overwhelmed I became. I didn’t have answers, and the uncertainty made me anxious. I didn’t know what I loved doing, and I certainly didn’t think I had any clear talent. I felt like I was just moving through life, pushed by the circumstances around me.
Starting Again at Home: A New Beginning
After NYSC, I returned home, ready to figure out what my next move was. Thankfully, my parents gave me peace. They didn’t pressure me to figure it all out immediately. I also had the privilege of having a friend who had a bit more experience with life than I did. He understood what I was going through and offered his support.
With his guidance, I updated my CV and started volunteering with an NGO. That decision became a game-changer. It gave me something to focus on, and more importantly, it kept me busy. I began to learn that clarity doesn’t come by sitting still; it comes when you start doing. My friend always said, “In doing, you find your purpose.” And he was right.
Finding My Feet Through Service
The NGO work became a turning point for me. The organization’s mission was to help young people discover their potential. At first, I didn’t even know what a community manager was, but I was willing to try. And that was the beginning of real growth.
I made mistakes, faced challenges, and learned a lot along the way. I learned how to pitch myself, how to write, how to lead, and most importantly, how to show up—even when I wasn’t feeling confident. Every part of that experience planted a seed in me. It taught me the value of service and how stepping out of my comfort zone could lead to incredible personal growth.
A New Phase: Teaching
After my time with the NGO, I helped a family friend who owned a school. My mom always said I was good at teaching, so I thought it would be a good fit. It was both stressful and fulfilling. I spent six months teaching and earning stipends. It was okay at first, but I soon felt drained. I knew it was time to move on.
That’s when I began my job search in earnest.
Discovering LinkedIn: The Power of Connection
I decided I wanted to pursue a career in HR, so I turned to LinkedIn—even though I had once thought it was “too serious.” Thankfully, the same helpful friend guided me through the process, and I attended a free training. I received one-on-one guidance that completely changed my perspective.
With a stronger profile and clearer direction, opportunities began to show up. Suddenly, I had options I hadn’t even thought possible.
My First Job – And Then Another
After months of searching, a friend recommended me for a job. I went for the interview and got it. Six months later, another opportunity came my way—another recommendation, this time for a role in a well-known company.
The funny thing is, I didn’t want to leave. Despite the challenges of the role, the low salary, and not always making ends meet, I loved the job. The new opportunity seemed daunting. It was in a different state, the role wasn’t clearly explained, and I was terrified. I cried. I felt confused. I didn’t want to go.
But once again, life pushed me.
And I’m Grateful for Every Push
Looking back now, I’m grateful for every push, every difficult moment, every challenge. It wasn’t easy, but it all led me to where I am today.
I’m bolder now. I have clarity about where I’m headed, and I’m content with the direction my life is taking. The opportunities I once feared have turned into blessings. And through it all, I’ve learned one key lesson: Life doesn’t always make sense at first, but there’s always treasure hidden in every season.
Instead of complaining about where you are or what you’re going through, stop and look for the opportunity within it. Because trust me, I found mine. And you’ll find yours too.
Conclusion: Embrace Life’s Push
My journey wasn’t a straight path. It had its ups and downs, twists and turns, but each step taught me something valuable. Every push, every uncertainty, and every decision I made helped me discover who I am and what I’m meant to do.
If you’re facing uncertainty or feeling lost right now, know that it’s okay. Embrace the push. Keep moving forward, and soon you’ll see the opportunities that were always there waiting for you. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.
This is my story—Praise Adeoti, finding purpose through life’s unexpected pushes. And the story continues.