11/07/2024
At 47 Years old, how much have I changed?
I recently turned 47 years old, and as usual, I took the time to reflect on my journey of personal transformations. It's remarkable to realize I've experienced three distinct milestones in mindset and a sense of success.
I will not delve into my early years but will focus on the period when I began to understand how I wanted the world to perceive me beyond the protection of my beloved parents.
The first milestone was centred around my physical appearance and projecting strength, a period I call the "fist and pocket" phase. This era, spanning from ages 17 to 22, was marked by an intense focus on fashion, hairstyles, physical fitness, and projecting a lifestyle of affluence. I meticulously curated my wardrobe, decorated my bike, kept my bedroom spotless, and only associated with a select few, making it a privilege for others to engage with me. I rarely smiled or spoke in public, emphasizing a tough exterior.
The second milestone emerged towards the end of the first one. I call this phase "being the greatest among others, the brain phase." During this period, my mindset shifted to striving for excellence in everything I did. I sought to know more, read more, and speak more languages proficiently than anyone else in my circle. I voraciously consumed literature, wrote poems and short stories, and learned to sing songs in English and French. I worked in a hospital with a mission to be the best, meticulously studying patient files, understanding diagnoses, and mastering medical interventions. This phase, peaking between ages 21 and 30, was characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
From age 30 to now, my mindset has undergone another transformation, this time taking a U-turn. Instead of focusing on being the strongest, I've become more conservative and less concerned with outward appearances. I keep clothes for decades, hide my chest and triceps, and feel a sense of guilt for not contributing enough to the world of knowledge despite my capabilities.
Instead of seeking personal enrichment, I now find power in gathering people around a cause. I call this period "natural growth and maturation, common success." The philosophy now is "soft is strong." Being softer and more approachable makes connecting with others easier. The more people I can collaborate with, the more confident I am in achieving goals and ensuring sustainability. I wish I had started with a focus on collaboration rather than competition. It's never too late, and I aim to make the most of this era. Let's see where teamwork and cooperation can take us.
Thank you, everyone, for all the beautiful messages and wishes on my birthday
Belthrand Habiyakare.
