Published via Ecency

Life in Lagos, Nigeria, offers a wide range of experiences. From crowded streets to a bustling population, let's explore how life here can teach us something valuable. Charles R. Swindoll once said, "Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it." In this blog post, we'll examine everyday situations in Lagos, such as marriage, work, finances, relationships, and love, to emphasize that what occurs to us is less important than how we respond.

IMAGE DESIGN ON CANVA BY ME

Understanding the 10/90 Idea

Every day, Lagosians contend with issues like traffic jams, the quest for affordable housing, and maneuvering through this sprawling city. These are things that "happen to us," but what truly matters is our reaction to them. It's not solely about the traffic but rather how we respond – whether we choose frustration or maintain composure – that influences our state of mind.

Before the reconstruction of Oshodi into a top-notch international market, traffic could be exasperating. Nevertheless, Lagosians have a knack for staying composed. They often listen to music or engage in conversations with fellow commuters, making the most of their time in traffic. They recognize that it's not just about the problem at hand but how they perceive it. Instead of giving in to anger, they strive to remain patient and find ways to make the most out of the situation.

How Resilience Matters

In Lagos, securing a good job can be a challenge, and life can be demanding. Financial problems and relationship issues may arise. These are situations that "happen to us," but Lagosians exhibit resilience. They comprehend that it's not solely about the problem itself but rather how they respond to it. They don't readily give up. They persist, learn from their mistakes, and explore fresh opportunities. It's not only about facing difficulties but maintaining perseverance and determination that bolsters their resolve.

Making Our Own Choices

Lagos is teeming with prospects for personal and professional development. Nevertheless, it's also a place where external pressures can lead to stress. The 10% pertains to what's transpiring around us, while the 90% is determined by our actions. We can opt to confront challenges, acquire knowledge, and take command of our reactions.

Taking Control of Our Reactions

In a sprawling city like Ikeja, Agege, or Mushin, numerous decisions must be made. Occasionally, people may feel compelled to conform to certain expectations due to security concerns, but Lagosians are aware of their ability to make choices. They select what best aligns with their interests. It's not merely about external influences but the decisions we make and the control we exert over our lives. Lagosians are resourceful and experienced; they don't easily succumb to external pressures.

Finding Positivity

Life in Lagos can be fast-paced, but it's also vibrant and enjoyable. Maintaining a positive outlook is crucial. The 90% entails opting for hopefulness over despondency, discovering joy in small moments, and cherishing the good times, even during challenging periods. Lagosians excel in this aspect by embracing the city's culture, savoring street food, and exhibiting friendliness.

Moreover, Lagosians are adept at staying positive. They focus on life's brighter aspects, like spending quality time with friends and indulging in street food. They comprehend that, even when life presents difficulties, happiness is a choice. It's not just about what's occurring but how they opt to perceive the brighter side of things.

Stories of Triumph

In Lagos, numerous narratives highlight individuals who overcame adversity. These tales underscore that it's not exclusively about the issues themselves but how they were tackled. For instance, some Lagosians initiated small businesses in crowded markets and worked diligently to make them prosper. Others transformed challenging relationship periods into opportunities for personal growth. The essence lies in persevering and uncovering ways to surmount obstacles.

Lessons in Purpose and Meaning

In Lagos, people seek purpose and meaning in their lives. They recognize that life's fluctuations offer chances for development and enlightenment. Concerning relationships and love, Lagosians don't merely allow events to unfold passively. They actively seek wisdom from their experiences and strive to uncover deeper significance in their connections with others. It's not solely about the occurrences but how they infuse these experiences with meaning that holds importance for them.

What I've Learned as a Lagosian Myself

Life in Lagos, Nigeria, teaches us a critical lesson: our reactions to life's occurrences are what genuinely matter. Everyday incidents like traffic, work, and relationships demonstrate that it's not about what takes place but how we navigate it.

In every circumstance, we hold the power to shape our own course. Life might furnish only 10% in terms of circumstances, but our 90% response can convert challenges into accomplishments and setbacks into stepping stones toward our aspirations.

Whether we find ourselves in Lagos, New York, Mumbai, or any other locale, we should embrace the Lagosian spirit: resilient, tenacious, and unwavering when confronted with life's trials. Embrace the 90%, for within it lies the key to a life brimming with contentment and boundless opportunities.

Lagosians have embraced this perspective, and it's a lesson applicable to us all, irrespective of our geographical location

Thanks for reading my blog