Take Your Time: The Tagline Of The Wise Fellow

Wow. We are in the month of NOVEMBER, and as I thought about what to write, the phrase “Take Your Time: The Tagline Of The Wise Fellow” flashed through my mind. It’s interesting how thoughts come together to bless people’s lives.

Life is full of choices, each bringing either positive or negative results. It’s often said that life is like a buffet, where you choose what you want to “eat”. In other words, making the right choices requires critical thinking.

We must be intentional about becoming the person we’re meant to be. In pursuing our life goals, it’s essential to be patient. In my opinion, patience is the power to wait until a desired goal is achieved.

If you view life as a race, it can lead to hasty, unwise decisions. For example, on the highway, I see people risking their lives over trivial things, such as feeling challenged by a car passing them. In that moment, their mindset shifts to a need to prove themselves. They speed up to overtake the other car, driven by competition. This mentality, constantly seeking validation, can lead to tragic outcomes —sometimes even an untimely death.

Friend, TAKE YOUR TIME. Life is not a race. Just because others are running doesn’t mean you have to as well. Are you truly prepared? Have you gathered the resources needed to take you to the next level?

Wisdom teaches us that even if you have the capability, taking your time to weigh options, make adjustments, and remain within your limits should be your priority. Don’t shorten your life due to societal pressure.

Be yourself, or else the images on social media may lead to unnecessary pressure. Know who you are. You are not in competition with anyone.

Stay in your lane. Run at your own pace. Going at your own pace doesn’t mean a lackadaisical attitude; it means doing what will bring happiness to you and your loved ones.

Don’t relocate just because others are. Don’t pursue greener pastures in a new country when you have the resources to succeed where you are. Sometimes, a business trip might be a more beneficial decision.

Please don’t misunderstand me on relocation. Exposure is valuable, and we all need it from time to time. However, your decisions should not be based solely on others’ actions. Look within yourself and ask what you genuinely want to achieve.

TAKE YOUR TIME. Change your thought patterns. You are not in competition with anyone. Allow others to run or fly ahead, but, like the tortoise, build a resilient shell to withstand challenges and be unique in your field.

What’s the moral lesson? Many people lead fake lives, often misleading others into believing they have “arrived,” when, in reality, they are living on loans and facing overwhelming debt. Secretly, financial services pursue them for payments, and they face potential legal consequences. What a deceptive lifestyle! Who are they trying to impress?

To maintain a stable life, I encourage you to follow these suggestions:

1. BUCKLE YOURSELF WITH PATIENCE
The power to wait is not wasted. It contributes to long-term success and happiness. Waiting allows for growth both professionally and personally. Taking time to cross-check facts before making major decisions can shield us from shame and regret. When tempted to act impulsively, think of the possible consequences.

2. WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY?
Self-evaluation is a habit everyone should develop. Reflecting on personal goals, values, and what truly matters helps you make choices aligned with your desires rather than yielding to societal pressure.

3. BE YOURSELF
Avoid comparing yourself to others or measuring your worth by material possessions. Everyone’s journey is unique, and comparison can lead to unnecessary stress, a loss of motivation, and self-doubt. While you can be inspired by others’ success, stay content with your true self.

4. LEARN FROM THE TORTOISE
In my book, The Noah’s Ark, I expand on the resilience of the tortoise. It can live over a century, thanks to its modest and persevering nature. The tortoise’s strong shell protects it from external threats, a symbol of resilience we can adopt in our own lives. This resilience allows us to face challenges without feeling pressured or intimidated by others.

5. PRACTICE FINANCIAL DISCIPLINE
Spending money to impress others or keep up appearances makes little sense. Money is a resource that should be budgeted, saved, and spent wisely for a secure future.

6. VALUE HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
Racing through life in pursuit of societal standards can strain relationships with family and friends. Nurturing healthy relationships is essential; prioritize time with loved ones over status or material success.

7. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
In recent times, mental health issues have been on the rise. As a social scientist, I know that illnesses can stem from various sources, but neglecting rest and personal well-being contributes to many health challenges. We often get so busy chasing money or unhealthy pursuits that we end up burned out. Blocking out time for yourself each year is crucial for your well-being. Life is precious — let’s value it.

The writer is an academic, visiting lecturer, leadership consultant, author, and the lead pastor of Wordsprings City Church, Kumasi – Ghana.

 

Source: Dr. Patrick Owusu