31/10/2024
**DON’T JUMP ON EVERY OPPORTUNITY**
When I was in my 6th year of medical school in 2016, I had this relentless desire to do more with my time. It was a slow year, and if you're familiar with the UNZA system, you know it could sometimes be slower than expected. Eventually, I applied for a full-time job at an NGO and guess what? I got it! The interviewer, who was also a doctor, suggested I take a gap year to gain work experience because the role was full-time with a fieldwork component. He insisted it would be advantageous and give me a headstart for my future.
While it sounded exciting on paper, it wasn’t the right decision. As a government-sponsored student, there was no guarantee that I could return after a gap year, so I politely declined. Looking back, that job seemed like an opportunity that could solve my immediate financial needs, but it would have derailed my path. Instead, I spent that year working on Copper Rose Zambia , doing community work, volunteering with international organisations, and building a network. I can proudly say it paid off.
Today, I see many ambitious young people with endless energy—sometimes to the point of feeling like they might explode! I've also seen young people constantly changing sectors, from health to agriculture to finance, simply because they’re not willing to wait for that promotion or growth opportunity. While job changes can boost your net worth, shifting directions too often can prevent you from building real expertise and achieving the "big" things you aspire to.
Just because an opportunity comes your way doesn’t mean you have to take it. Think about how it will benefit you long term, and focus your energy on what truly matters. Trust the journey, take the long view, and prioritize growth over speed.
Have you ever faced a tough decision between taking an exciting new opportunity or staying the course? How did you decide, and what was the outcome?
📸 : Menstrual Hygiene Session at Lubombo Primary School, Mazabuka, 2016
