“I can picture it now, where I grew and me playing in the cage where I used to play. To see what I’ve achieved and where I’ve been, the countries I’ve seen, tournaments I’ve played in, players I’ve played against, it’s incredible.”
This quote by former English footballer Ashley Cole (@theofficialac3) sums up an example of what is possible when you believe and work hard towards your goals and dreams.
22 (twenty-two) years ago when I was searching for journalism jobs online some friends laughed at me saying I was going “nuts.”
They laughed because as a young refugee, I did not have the training or experience in journalism, and they did not see the potential in me either.
It was very discouraging.
But I believed in my abilities and that it was possible for me to use my passion for writing in a positive way – and on a global scale.
So I pressed on and never gave up on that dream.
Then the largest [multilingual] soccer website in the world appointed me as its correspondent for the entire African continent.
I worked hard and made the best of that opportunity.
It was an accomplishment that set the stage for what would become a lifelong journalism career, where I would write to inspire and uplift people.
As Ashley Cole said, “It’s incredible.”
You, too, can choose today to pursue your dreams with all you’ve got regardless of the “noise” or challenges and believe it is possible.
One day you might just reflect back on what an “incredible” journey you’ve been through and be proud of yourself for embarking on that journey and not giving up.
It’s never too late.
