As we slowly move towards the middle of 2025, we must continuously equip ourselves with the right mindset and tools for growth and success. Here are my five practical tips to help you scale up for the rest of the year—personally, professionally, and spiritually. Let’s dive in.

1. Know Your Self-Worth

Your self-worth is the foundation upon which others will base their valuation of you. If you undervalue yourself, people will inevitably mirror that perception. Embrace your value unapologetically and set the right boundaries.

Understand this: when you place an appropriate value on yourself, you might lose some friends and gain a few enemies. But here’s the good news—your life will flourish because you’ll separate the pretenders from the genuine friends. Authenticity and respect will follow when you prioritize your worth.

2. Differentiate Acquaintances, Colleagues, and Friends

Not everyone in your life belongs in the same category. Take time to identify who falls where and act accordingly.

Acquaintances should not have unrestricted access to you or your dreams. Colleagues are part of your professional sphere but not necessarily part of your personal life. Friends—real friends—are the ones you can trust and share your vision with. Protect your inner circle by ensuring it’s not based on convenience but on true connection and alignment. Be intentional about who you let into your life.

3. Set Lofty Goals

“The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough,” said Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Take this to heart as you map out your year.

Write down your dreams and visions. Turn them into actionable goals that follow the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. What’s the worst that can happen? Even if you don’t hit the bullseye, you’ll still grow beyond your starting point. The key is to keep striving and never settle for mediocrity.

4. Be Informed

As the Yoruba saying goes, “Info ni ẹ̀yán fi ń fò,” which translates roughly to “Information is what helps you soar.” In today’s fast-paced world, information is your lifeline.

The difference between success and failure often lies in access to the right information. Position yourself strategically to stay informed. Read widely, network intentionally, and stay curious. Knowledge is power, and in 2025, it’s your key to navigating challenges and unlocking opportunities.

5. Seek Wisdom

In a time when scepticism about religion is widespread, let me clarify: you don’t need to believe in a particular institution, but acknowledging a higher power is in your best interest.

As I often say, I’m not a religious man, but I am a man of faith. I firmly believe in the existence of God. Wisdom comes from seeking divine guidance. Pray, meditate, and remain open to inspiration. When you align yourself with higher wisdom, your path becomes clearer, and your decisions more impactful.

Remember, it’s okay to ask questions. Nobody knows it all, and seeking advice or clarification doesn’t diminish your value. It’s a sign of strength and humility.

Wrapping Up

Embrace your worth, guard your relationships, dream big, stay informed, and seek wisdom. As you move forward, know that the tools for success are already within you. Harness them, and excel.

Enjoy your journey. Shalom.