Courage
You must take a sip out of this cup.
I’ve been feeling like a coward lately.
And it’s funny because people probably look at me and think I’m brave, but I’ve been thinking a lot about courage lately.
Not the loud, performative kind.
Not the kind people post online.
I mean the quiet kind.
The courage that forms within you when your life starts asking more from you.
The courage to accept that you deserve bigger things.
The courage to dream beyond what you were taught to settle for.
The courage to become someone different from the version people are used to.
And honestly?
I think society, family, and even our upbringing can slowly drain courage out of us.
Sometimes it feels like generational conditioning.
A silent voice that says:
don’t dream too big
don’t want too much
don’t make people uncomfortable with your ambition
Lately, I’ve realised I’ve been struggling with courage in different parts of my life.
Especially the courage to let go of things that no longer feel good for me.
The courage to fully accept the season I’m currently in.
One thing I’m struggling with right now is enjoying my apartment.
And I know that sounds strange.
But I think the stress that went into getting it overwhelmed me so much that I haven’t fully allowed myself to enjoy it.
Sometimes I also carry guilt, like my decisions caused stress for someone else.
So instead of celebrating myself, I shrink.
Meanwhile, I see other people celebrate their wins loudly.
And maybe I should too.
Because I deserve it.
I’m also scared sometimes to fully say out loud that I run a design studio full-time.
Because there’s still this stereotype around creative work.
Like you’re not serious.
Like it’s not a “real” career.
Like you’re just trying things instead of building something meaningful.
But recently, while reviewing my expenses and income, I realized something:
What I made in the first quarter of this year is almost equivalent to what I made last year working full-time.
And for a moment, I just sat there.
Because maybe this thing is real.
Maybe I’m actually building something.
Another thing I’ve been questioning lately is the difference between hard work and smart work.
My back hurts from sitting too long.
And I’m not even in my 30s yet 😭
I’m starting to realise that money isn’t only made through exhaustion and overworking yourself.
I believe wealth can also come from:
smart systems
proper investments
intentional work
Not just endless labor.
But unlearning that mindset is hard.
Sometimes when I rest, I feel guilty.
Like I’m being lazy.
Like I’m not doing enough.
But I think awareness is the first step.
And maybe becoming better starts with noticing the patterns first.
Enough about me, let’s talk about Hover 🤍
Our campaign for the Pad drive officially kicked off last week, and I’m honestly so happy with the progress so far.
If you missed our campaign video, please check it out.
The support has been incredible.
We’ve received donations from people I’ve never even met before, and every single contribution reminds me that Hover is moving in the right direction.
This week, we’re pushing even further.
And yes… I’m still expecting you 😭
You can donate, volunteer, or simply share the campaign.
Our target is 500 pads, and ₦1,000 provides menstrual care for one girl.
So yes, you can donate as little as ₦1,000 and still make an impact.
Link to Donate
Link to Volunteer
Thank you for sticking with me.
With love,
Ojuolape from Hover Africa 🩶