MORE – POSITIONING | COMPETENCE
Wande Coal had just released one hit album when Federal Polytechnic, Ede offered me admission into the department of Civil Engineering. I was on the merit list of 11 candidates and was happy I had gained admission. “My shame shame has ended,” I said to myself. My friend – Christopher hadn’t seen his name on the admission list for Architecture department but he was confident he would see his name when he get to the school. To him, there must have been a mixed up. That wasn’t bad a thought for someone who would later graduate with a CGPA of 3.64/4.0 in same school and department.
We were connected to a bros that carried us in his luxurious vehicle. He blast Wande Coal’s songs and we smiled at ourselves. Home away from home, we thought. Seriously, it really was home away from home as we were well taken care of.
I didn’t have Chemistry in my O’level results, but I thought it wouldn’t matter as other science subjects would suffice. I received the shock of my life during screening, when the departmental screening officer said, “Olatunde, you don’t have Chemistry. You can’t read Civil Engineering.”
Oh Lord, where art though?
And as you may think, I lost the admission. I thought Chemistry wouldn’t matter, but it happened to be the “more” I needed to gain admission that year. I didn’t have “more”. I bid Federal Polytechnic, Ede bye.
“More” is the quantity added to that which exists. “More” is a proof there’s been a measure before a quantity is added. To excel and surpass ordinary, “more” is required. More is extraordinary.
“More” is bespoke.
For one, “more” is learning new skills, for another it is starting a new endeavour or going back to school.
Know your “more” and go for more. “More” exceeds minimum standard.
That’s why businesses create, innovate and scale.
The unique thing about “more” is, it is bespoke. Someone’s “more” is another’s undoing. You can’t copy others’ “more”.
Seek to know your “more” and follow through on getting it.
Not having “more” could be dangerous. It is why continuous learning is core for anyone who wants to thrive.
Have you ever waited long in a queue, it got to your turn and you realised you weren’t qualified?
You had a measure of what was required, but still not qualified.
That was the case of those 5/10 virgins. They had what they thought was enough.
It’s not enough to think what you have is enough, you must have “more” and be sure your “more” can carry you.
It’s terrible to get to the crossroad only to realise you aren’t fit for the journey. God no go shame us.
Happy weekend.
© Iyanuoluwa Olatunde