Each year teaches you something new about yourself, others, and the life you’re building. For me, 2024 was a year of seismic shifts—both the kind that crack the foundation and the kind that build something unshakable. This year took me across continents, into life-altering ceremonies, and through deeply personal growth. Here are the top lessons I’ve carried into the final stretch of this year, each one deeply personal and born of experiences that have stretched me in ways I didn’t see coming.
1. If you want marriage, marry late; you’re not as mature as you think.
Marriage is beautiful, but it’s also a mirror that shows you the cracks in your soul. This year, I married the love of my life—first in a bustling traditional Nigerian celebration in New York, then in a heartfelt western ceremony in Nigeria (I know, I know LOL). I’ve learned that waiting isn’t just about finding the right person; it’s about becoming the right person. Growth takes time, and maturity isn’t a destination—it’s an ongoing process. Let time do its work.
2. Family isn’t only by blood. Friendship isn’t only by proximity.
Traveling to India for a friend’s wedding and celebrating our own cultural union in New York reminded me of the profound power of chosen family—the people who intentionally stand with you during life’s most significant moments. Reflecting on our family in Nigeria and Trinidad, who traveled great distances to be with us on our special day, reinforced that family is about love, investment, and shared purpose. But also, reflecting on our friends who couldn’t be there makes me realize that presence isn’t always physical. Sometimes, love and connection show up in messages, calls, and quiet acts of support from afar. True friendship transcends both proximity and circumstance, thriving on depth and unwavering care.
3. People will surprise you for better and for worse.
This year has been full of plot twists. Some people showed up in ways that left me speechless with gratitude, like the cohort of creatives I met in South Africa who inspired me to push my boundaries. Others taught me that loyalty and intentions don’t always align. Both types of surprises have been invaluable. The good ones reminded me of the beauty in humanity; the tough ones taught me discernment, boundaries, and how to keep my peace in the face of disappointment.
4. Life is owed to no one; enjoy the little moments.
Life is fleeting and unpredictable. Whether it was sharing quiet moments with my husband, experiencing the vibrancy of a Nigerian marketplace, or savoring Caribbean sunsets in Trinidad, I’ve learned to cherish the simple joys. These moments aren’t fillers; they’re the essence of a life well-lived. Waiting for the “big” things to feel happiness is the quickest way to miss out on everything that’s already good.
5. It will feel uncomfortable to be yourself; be yourself anyway.
From stepping into design cohorts in South Africa to restructuring my family’s school in Nigeria, I’ve spent much of this year stepping into spaces where I didn’t feel “enough.” But every time I leaned into authenticity, it was like the world exhaled with me. You’re never too much or too little for the places you’re called to occupy. The discomfort is worth it.
6. People aren’t used to being covered by love. Love them anyway.
Love, real love, is rare. I’ve come to see that many people aren’t accustomed to being truly seen, forgiven, or embraced without conditions. Covering others with love can feel like vulnerability, but it’s also transformative. Love stretches you, humbles you, and leaves you better than it found you—even when it’s not returned the way you hoped.
7. A soft life is driven by purpose.
A soft life isn’t about luxury, though that’s nice when it comes. It’s about alignment. This year, I’ve leaned into the idea that a life of ease comes from knowing what matters most to you and having the courage to prioritize it. Purpose continues to anchor me as I juggle marriage, business building, coaching, running our primary schools in Nigeria, international travel, and the possibility of moving to a new continent. When you’re anchored, life feels softer—even in the storms.
8. Contentment is the goal.
Joy is beautiful, but contentment is the steady state that sustains you. It’s waking up and knowing that what you have—and who you are—is enough. This year, I’ve worked to separate contentment from complacency. Being content doesn’t mean you’ve stopped growing; it means you’ve stopped striving for things that don’t truly matter.
9. Aliens are indeed here. We’ve been here.
Okay, this one is a little cheeky, but there’s truth in it. There’s so much we don’t know, and that’s humbling. Whether we’re talking about literal aliens or the ways we’re all just trying to navigate this strange, wonderful planet, the message is the same: Stay curious. The unknown is not a threat; it’s an invitation to explore.
10. Your dreams are worth exploring at any age.
This year, I’ve given myself permission to dream again. I’ve learned that just because something hasn’t happened yet doesn’t mean it’s too late. Dreams evolve, and so do we. Wherever you are in life, your dreams are valid. They’re worth the time, the effort, and the faith it takes to bring them to life.
2024 has been a year of lessons that have shaped my path and clarified my priorities. What about you? What has this year taught you? I look forward to 2025. Let’s grow together!
