There is a popular quote that goes, “Nothing is free, even in Freetown.” Many of us have developed the habit of wanting things instantly, expecting results without investing the necessary effort. It is even more troubling that people often attribute success solely to luck, forgetting that luck is merely preparation meeting opportunity. Those who are ready, disciplined, and willing to pay the price are the ones who truly benefit.
There is an adage in my locality that says, “You didn’t tap the palm tree, yet you expect the palm wine to drop into your mouth.” This simply means that one cannot reap where one has not sown. Some people console themselves with the thought, “If I don’t do it, someone else will.” What they fail to realise is that we are products of both our actions and our inactions.
The present generation has been exposed to a softer version of life. They are less accustomed to stress, persistence, and multitasking. Technology, AI, and even parents who go the extra mile without demanding accountability have created an environment of comfort. While convenience is not inherently bad, this lack of responsibility does little to prepare young adults for the realities of life. More concerning is the fact that these same individuals will soon become parents. One cannot help but wonder what values they will pass on and how they will instil discipline and resilience.
Unfortunately, we live in a world where many put in minimal effort yet expect extraordinary results. It is worth noting that even religion, often described as the opium of the people, sometimes reinforces this mindset. People pray for “small work and big money.” While it is understandable that no one desires unnecessary hardship, desirable outcomes require the right inputs. You cannot plant cassava and expect to harvest maize. The level of effort, perseverance, and dedication one invests ultimately determines the quality of the results achieved.
This is not to dismiss the role of luck entirely. However, another challenge facing today’s generation is emotional maturity. Many Gen Z individuals struggle to maintain meaningful relationships without sabotaging them. Emotional regulation and the ability to build genuine connections appear increasingly rare. The prevailing “me-first” syndrome often undermines deeper human bonds.
