ALSO BY WOLE SOSANYA

Little Details Big Shift

LITTLE SHIFTS

DailyReading for Personal Growth

Volume 1

Little Shifts Series

Copyright 2015 by Wole Sosanya

First Published in UK as an ebook, free to download and distribute.

The right of Wole Sosanya to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by him in accordance with sections 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988.

Book cover by Ana Maria Villanueva

Author's Note

In the words of late American author and motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar, 'People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily.'

This eBook is a collection of motivational posts I sent to a group of people daily in 2012 and the words remain relevant and applicable to everyone keen on personal growth and personal responsibility. This is the first series of the book, Little Shifts that encourages little steps and changes over a longer period to achieve a lasting, sustainable personal growth. Changes in life (even if you don't do anything) are inevitable but personal growth is optional. It will be worth your while to steer life changes to your advantages, towards your personal growth. Like the popular saying, we grow in our struggle - only if we dare grow through the process and not allow life to just happen.

I hope this book will be of help to anyone interested in personal growth and stir you up to love your life and make the most of it. One of my favourite writers Jeff Goins said recently, 'Don't think so much about what could have been instead look at what is and try to make the most of it.' This ebook can support you to make the most of what you have as you read it daily.

January 1

Talk Is Cheap

I was meditating yesterday, preparing for the New Year. My mind raced quickly through January to December last year and concluded that there were so many things l could have done differently for better results. My commitment is to ensure l do at least three constructive things that will contribute positively to my purpose and future this New Year. One of them is daily journal blog which was reformatted to this ebook

Its New Year's day, We (my family and I) just woke up after the wonderful Watch-Night Service and my daughter said something profound and I wondered: did she just say that? Oreofe (she was seven years old at the time but so mature, full of words and always wanting to play the big sister.

We were potty-training Joshua and my wife, Toyin coined a slogan for him: 'Big boys wee wee in the -' his response will be: 'Toilet'. As he settled down to eat his cereal on the bed, my wife said, 'big boys wee wee in the' and Joshua responded 'toilet'. Immediately, Ofy said to her little brother: 'You always say that but you don't do it!' That's true because Joshua most times still finds it difficult to know when he needs to visit the toilet.

I realised that this is what we do most times even as adults; we don't do what we say! TALK IS CHEAP.

Quick reflection: there are so many things l said l would do last year but did not. Being ACTION oriented requires self-discipline. This is my New Year lesson, l will follow through all l set out to do daily. Remember, the future does not happen suddenly but daily.

Little Shifts:

1.Think about things you said you would do last year but never got round to.

2.What were the reasons you think they were not carried out and what could you have done differently?

3.List three things you would like to commit to and accomplish this year.

4.Prove to yourself that you can commit to something for a long time. Every day, do something towards the goals.

January 2

Your Prescription Is Ready

It's quite amazing; it's the second of 365 days in this year already. The holidays are over, it is time to roll-up your sleeves and get back to serious work. Never think there is still time. This is what you said all through last year and the days were spent without any attempt to move on or change things. It's so easy for us to make

excuses for not doing what we set out to do or what we know we ought to do. Or maybe you're suffering from the 'l-will-do-it-tomorrow' syndrome; you are living in self-denial. I suffered a lot from this wide-spread disease last year. I have summoned courage to take my prescription from yesterday, the first day of the year. Guess what? I'm feeling a lot better already after a dose of ACTION. You reading this is a sign that the symptoms are easing-off gradually. You don't need to make an appointment with your doctor to get this prescription. You have it stored in your soul; look for the one with the label description: ACTION.

I was chatting with a dear friend yesterday (New Year's Day) and we were discussing the need to take action. This is what he said, 'God asked me to list my regrets and let's start fixing it. Many times we regret actions we didn't take and some we took wrongly'. You may want to list your own regrets or actions you did not take last year and begin to work on them, one at a time.

You can make this year your best ever. The choice is yours. I'm off to take today's dose of my prescription

Little Shifts:

1.What prescription do you think you need this year?

2.What do you need to start fixing in your life one after the other?

January 3

Too Much, Too Little

I am sorry that l have to remind you that today is the third day of the year. We have 362 days left. Time is ticking; it waits for no one. You can't stop it, store it or carry it over. Now, enough rattling about time!

In the build-up to the New Year, l stumbled on an Italian proverb that got me thinking about being focused. It says, 'Often, he who does too much does too little.' The truth of the matter is that we are too distracted. Distracted from our goals, purpose, tasks, family, responsibilities and studies... the list is endless. If you are like me, you will have so many files opened or minimised on your laptop by the end of each day, trying to do so much at the same time. Eventually, l end up doing so little, with many uncompleted tasks because of divided attention.

It is not just enough for us to take an action, but a focus-oriented action is required. A CONCENTRATED EFFORT to achieve a specific goal or target. Science has proven that concentrated sunlight through a magnifying glass can set paper on fire. Focused effort is that powerful. Give it a try; focus on each issue or task one at a time and you will be amazed at the quality of the result.

Little Shifts:

1.What will help you be more focused with your actions?

2.How can you cut out or reduce preventable distractions?

3.Always remember to do what's necessary and important to the task at hand.

January 4

Closed but Reopened!

I was watching the news and a subsequent documentary on Stephen Lawrence's murder last night and I was moved close to tears. Despite all the evidences available to them at the time of the crime in April 1993, the Met Police were unable to convict the five suspects.

There were a series of mistakes and errors committed on the case by the Met Police that the authority admitted later. The prime suspects were prosecuted twice but acquitted and freed. The British Law even protected them at the time, which means they couldn't be charged and prosecuted again for the same case. The Lawrence family, despite the verdict, did not give up seeking justice for their son. I learnt he was to study architecture in the university. What a promising young man whose life was cut short prematurely.

The family did not waver in their pursuit of justice. It was 18 long years of sorrow, bitterness, helplessness, grief, disappointment but finally justice and truth prevailed. Don't give up on what you believe; the process may be hard and tough, but your conviction and faith will keep you going. The case was reopened like a cold case and new evidences were discovered.

In the process of their campaign for justice, many positive things happened to them: they met with the Prime Minister and several cabinet members; they met with Nelson Mandela who supported their cause and spoke openly on their behalf in London. They were also honoured by her Majesty Queen of England with an OBE; the father spoke at different seminars, and schools, creating awareness against knife crime. There is a HARVEST IN EVERY SEASON OF LIFE. See beyond that situation; something positive can happen in the mess.

Little Shifts:

1.What did you believe in before but gave up because of obstacles?

2.What do you think you can do differently today?

3.Always remember, there is something good in the mess. What could it be for you?

January 5

Don't Chicken Out

A friend recently sent me a story of a man who built a successful business but suddenly lost everything. The company was drowning in debt; he was depressed and could not face or bear the change. He finally convinced himself to commit suicide. As he prepared for his final moment, he decided to take one last walk to his favourite park and just enjoy the view of nature.

He sat next to an old man on the bench just south of the park. The old man started a conversation with him; he was not interested but he did not want to be rude. Out of frustration, he began to tell the senior citizen about his business and life's failure. The old man allowed him to finish his story without interrupting.

The old man in response said he is a very successful wealthy businessman but the only regret he has is not having a child he could pass the multi-billion company to. He told the young man he liked him and would be happy to hand over his successful business venture to him based on one condition; 'go and turn your business around, make it profitable in one year and my business empire will be yours.'

The once depressed, suicidal man was so happy and shook the elderly man's hand as a sign of sealed agreement. Adrenaline was rushing through his system; he left the park with great motivation and immediately set the ball rolling. He called all his creditors; made a deal with them, restructured the business. Exactly 12 months from his meeting at the park, he managed to turn the supposedly dead business into a profitable one.

It is quite amazing how good news or prospects can change things for you and in you. I believe the depressed businessman woke up every day of the process, motivated because of the promised fortune. Zig Ziglar once observed, 'People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily.' Don't lose sight of your purpose in life, you have something to live and die for. That's your purpose? When you seem defeated, look towards your purpose and pick yourself up. You need the right motivation daily. And that's the main goal of this book.

Little Shifts:

1.What have you given up or what are you about to give up because it failed?

2.If you have all the resources, how can you turn the result around?

3.What you may lack is the motivation; the problem is not the failed job, marriage, or business. What can motivate you to action?

January 6

One Amongst Many

There is a question that has been playing in my head for a few days now. And it seems everything this year will be dependent on the answer. I guess you may identify with the question as well, especially in your pursuits this year. It will help you chart a clear direction. There is nothing like knowing where you are going, and what you are doing. It breeds a higher level of confidence in you.

Yes, the question: What is the 'one thing' that, if achieved, could change your life dramatically this year? The 'one thing' that could make this year the best of your life so far? I know there are so many things you would love to happen but you only need to figure out one thing that will have a huge impact upon every aspect of your life. It's a serious mental exercise. One of my favourite authors, Brian Tracy said, 'There is never enough time to do everything, but there is always enough time to do the most important thing.'

As you pray and strategise for this year, ask yourself, what is the 'ONE THING' or the MOST IMPORTANT that can cause a ripple effect and affect my whole life positively? Your answer is what you need to focus your effort on. Your focused action should be on that 'one thing'.

Little Shifts:

1. List seven things you would like to do this year that can dramatically change your life

2. Out of the seven, narrow it down to three most important.

3. Out of the three, narrow it down to the one that can affect the others.

January 7

The Ideal Condition

Seasons are part of our lives. Irrespective of global warming and its impact, we will still experience all the seasons in a year. The duration may be short compared to the average time-frame but you will surely experience it. People living in Europe will tell you they prefer to have summer all year. Winter can be very harsh but that will not stop daily activities.

Unfortunately in life, we associate and blame a change of seasons for our failures and inadequacies. I once heard a preacher say, "you don't fight a season, you flow with it." Every stage in life has its challenges but that should not stop you. I started writing my first book during the most difficult time of my life in 2009. Dirk Benedic said, 'If we wait until our lives are free from sorrow or difficulty, then we wait forever and miss the entire point.' You probably have waited too long for the ideal condition before you make a move. I don't mean to disappoint you, but the ideal condition will not surface. Do what you have to do.

Helen Keller, born 1880, became blind and deaf at 19 months when she contracted an illness described as 'an acute congestion of the stomach and brain'. She became the first deaf and blind person to earn a B.A degree. She was a successful author, political activist and lecturer. A deaf and blind person! Don't let what you can't do stop you from doing what you can do.

Little Shifts:

1. What have you always wanted to do that you are waiting for the ideal time to do?

2. What will be the ideal time? Describe ideal.

3. What can you do to make now ideal?

January 8

Not Time To Stop

Do you realise a week has been spent already out of the 52 we have in this year? That's how the weeks will go by unnoticed. Don't be caught unawares! We all need to stay focused to achieve anything meaningful this year.

Looking back into last year, you would have experienced success in one area of your life. I believe one of the best ways to have continuous breakthrough in life is to build on your success. Don't sit on it.   
All the great gadgets and technology we use today are a result of continuous improvement. Building on the last discoveries and innovation. The first apple computer was the greatest of its time. But can you compare it to an iPad tablet or the Mac notebook? I recently watched a documentary posted by Microsoft on YouTube about the future technology. You will be amazed. Today's tablets and iPads will become child's play.

There is so much yet to be discovered even in your life. Who would have imagined that the caterpillar can be transformed into a beautiful butterfly? Don't plateau on your last discovery or success. Thank God and rejoice for your last breakthrough but don't sit on it. Move to the next one. We all can always aspire to break our own records.   
Little Shifts:

1. What was your last great accomplishment?

2. Do you consider it to be your best and think there is no need to try anything new?

3. What's one thing you would like to improve on in your life? Focus your energy on that one thing.

January 9

You Are Not Out Of Reach

I woke up with thoughts of compassion and the love of a father. It's so strong and full of mercy. What would it be like if our world was full of compassion?

Everyday I learn life's lessons from my two 'profs' (my kids), Ofy and Josh. I may be really cross with them for being naughty one minute, and the next minute, we are cuddling and playing again. This just reminds me of the love of God. Every one of us is a child of God, whether you believe in His existence or not.

Today, you may be out of God's will because of your naughtiness but guess what? You are not out of HIS REACH. He is always ready to help us back into His will for our lives. Like the prodigal son, you can return home. God has sacrificed so much for us not to let us go our destructive ways. I can't stand watching my 'profs' put themselves in a vulnerable position that could hurt them. I scream my head off to help them avoid such situations. That's the love of the father, my friend. It protects, preserves, prevents, and promotes.

God loves you and wants to be your father forever. You may be out of his Will but definitely not out of his Reach! Have a great day.   
Little Shifts:

1. Would you consider yourself out of reach or in God's Will?

2. What can you do to get back into the Will or remain in the Will?

3. How will you know that God loves you?

January 10

Be Prepared

A great man was about to die and his protégé, Adele, spent his last moments with him. 'You have been a great mentor and the father that l never had", Adele said to the man. He looked at the dying man and asked, 'What would be your last word of wisdom to me?' Helpless and struggling to breathe, he summoned his last strength, looked at Adele and said, 'Everyday, opportunities are either coming or leaving your way. No opportunity is ever lost! That's because someone will always take the one you missed.' After he finished the statement, he passed away.

Everyday presents opportunities, but only the prepared seize them. You don't wait for the opportunity to prepare yourself. Opportunities maximised moves us to the future we desire. Muhammed Ali, when asked about his training regime, said: 'I hated every minute of the training, but l said, don't quit, suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.' Food for thought!

I'm preparing myself as the man in the picture of my future; best-selling author, successful businessman and of course servant of the most High God, helping many to discover their purpose in life. Who do you see in the picture of your future? Begin to prepare to be that personality. People around you may think you are crazy. Never mind! Remember, 'Greatness can take a lifetime but can be achieved in a moment.' Don't miss your moment because you are not prepared.

Little Shifts:

1. Can you remember one opportunity you missed because you were not prepared or equipped for it?

2. Can you describe the person in your dream?

3. How can you prepare to be that person?

January 11

What You Want Vs What You Need

I was chatting with one of the young people in our church just before Christmas and he said Christmas was just an excuse for people to spend money they don't have. I agreed with him to some degree. I wanted to buy myself a new suit for Christmas and l asked myself, 'Do l really need a new suit?' Sincerely, l didn't need one, so l didn't buy one. What you want is not what you need. Don't allow your want to become a need.

Only spend your money on your core needs; the essentials, not on what you can do without. Remember the way you spend your money is the way you spend your life. Your time is your life. You exchanged your time for the money you get by way of salary or profit from a business. Hence, your money represents a measure of your life spent on good cause.

Learn the act of saving at least 10% of your income for investment purposes instead of spending it on things you can do without. The ancient land of Egypt saved 20% of all the produce of the land during the boom for seven years to feed the nation for the next seven years of recession (famine). Think about it. You will be amazed at what a reserve can do in the days of shortage.

Little Shifts

1. Can you list three things you bought recently that you can do without?

2. What was the motivating factor that encouraged you to buy those things you don't need but want?

3. How much can you save regularly to build up a reserve? You can start saving today!

January 12

Find Simplicity

It is quite amazing how you can collect and build up junk and clutter in your apartment in 12 months. This we do unconsciously. March 2012 makes the 8th year since we moved into our current house; I sometimes ask myself, where did all the boxes and bags come from?  
My daughter's room which also serves as the guest room was filled with bags, boxes and clothes. In plain language, it was full of clutter.

After two days of massive clear out; painting, fixing a bigger wardrobe to store away clothes and bags, repositioning of the bed, l was amazed at the result. I couldn't believe it was the same room! It now looks bigger, a lot tidier and presentable. That's what reviewing, re-inventing, renovating, repositioning, reconditioning can do for you and your situation. In Albert Einstein words, 'Out of clutter, find simplicity.'

All the work in the room was initiated after a quick discussion with my wife a few days before on what could be done to give the room a 'facelift'. Before you give-up on that situation, I encourage you to speak to someone who cares about you and seek their wisdom. You have not exhausted all options available to you just yet.

Little Shifts:

1. What baggage is clogging up your life?

2. What would you like to do with them? How can you simplify the clutter in your life?

3. Could you do with some reviewing, re-inventing or repositioning?

January 13

Hotel Beds

Have you ever noticed something about hotel beds, especially across Europe and America? They seem better and more comfortable than the ones at home. Though, we have not gone on a family holiday in recent times, the highlight for me during our holidays most times is, l get to sleep, if allowed, all day. I do not even bother about breakfast. There must be something about those beds!

Ironically, bad habits are like a comfortable bed; they are easy to get into, but hard to get out of. It's so easy to develop habits - especially bad ones - but so difficult to break free of them. Bad habits have ruined lives and destinies, cut short purposes and limited potentials. It usually starts out as an unarmed action, just indulging oneself. The negative impacts on lives build over time and become a great giant to contend with.

Don't be ruled and controlled by bad habits. Rather be controlled by good habits. The only way to fight and stop a bad habit is to replace it with a good one. Nicotine inhalers (resembling a cigarrette) was developed for smokers determined to stop smoking. You need something else to replace the old habit. OLD HABITS DIE HARD!

Little Shifts:

1. What is (or are) that old bad habit(s) you need to get rid of?

2. What can you replace it (them) with?

3. What's that new bad habit you are building right now that you can put an abrupt end to?

January 14

Aren't you tired?

Growing up in Africa, we were taught to accept things as they were without question or changing the status quo. On my last trip to Nigeria in Africa, my friend was really pleased (and l was as well) that they had constant supply of electricity for three days. I thought: this should be a normal thing. Abnormal has been accepted as normal and normal accepted as a privilege. What a way to live!

I was not surprised with what happened in Nigeria in January 2012. The nation, with one voice is saying, 'Enough is enough.' Enough of mismanagement, corruption, incompetence! Whatever you can tolerate, you can't change. The nation couldn't tolerate the mismanagement anymore, hence calling and campaigning for change.

This is what happens in our personal lives as well. As long as you can tolerate something (even though you know change is required), you will live with it. When you can't tolerate it anymore, then you will swing into action. Don't wait until the doctor says your weight is posing a big threat to your health and well-being before you start daily exercise and give attention to your diet. Do something about it! Let us have a 'preventive approach' to life and everything we do.

Little Shifts:

1. What have you been tolerating in your life that requires a radical change?

2. What do you need to do to stop the harassment over your life?

3. How can you prevent such from ruling your life?

January 15

Privilege to Choose Consequence: Denied

Life is full of decision making and choices. We were made with free-will; this means we get to freely make our choices in life. Unfortunately, we don't have the privilege to choose the consequences. You can choose to marry anyone you like, live in any part of the world, work anywhere you want; you should also be ready for any consequence (whether good or bad) as a result of your choice.

I read the story of a beautiful young lady who married an immigrant against her culture. She really loved her new family; was introduced to God and she loved it. Unfortunately, tragedy struck, she lost her father in-law, brother in-law, and finally her husband. It was not a favourable season for this family! The mother in-law evaluated the situation and concluded there was nothing left to live for. She finally decided to return back to her home country.

The interesting part of the story is this young lady was bent on following her mother in-law to her country. She was fully aware that she would be treated as a stranger, possibly not get anyone to marry again and jeopardise her future. She was ready to face the consequence. All she wanted was to continue to experience the Love of God she was introduced to. Can you imagine the prospects she left behind? Eventually, her faith was honoured; she got married to one of the wealthiest men in the country and had a son that eventually played a huge role in liberating his people and human race from shame, sorrow and lack.

Remember, you can freely make your choices but cannot influence the consequence.

Little Shifts:

1. List three choices you have made that you wish you had the privilege to choose the consequence of?

2. What would you consider in future before you make decisions and choices?

January 16

Do It Right or You Will Do It Over Again!

An old adage says, 'If you don't have time to do it right, you will have to make time to do it over again.' This has made a huge impact in my life and affected most things l do. The only way to avoid wasting resources is to do and get things done right from the start. I don't think anyone has the luxury of losing time or resources in fixing what could have been done right.

The young adopted prince of ancient Egypt missed the timing of his purpose to deliver his people from the oppression of the king. This miscalculation & pre-mature move cost him forty years of his life. There are many things that l could have done right but in a bid to save money, I ended up spending more.

I was fond of buying cheap grass cutters for our garden, I realised they stopped working after using them twice or thrice. As they are without an insurance cover, I usually end up buying another one. I eventually bought a more durable one with an insurance cover. It is still functioning well after four years! I have saved more in getting it right, even though it was expensive initially.

Whatever you do, let excellence, quality be your goal. Excellence is not an act but a habit. You can develop it.

Little Shifts:

1. List three things you could have done right in the first place but ended up repeating over and over?

2. What do you think you could have done differently?

3. How can you prevent this attitude in your life?

January 17

What Are You Buying?

In every good organisation, there are key performance indicators that are set out every year. These guide the quality of their deliverables, measure and appraise their performance in a financial year. They will enhance growth and improvement across the organisation.

I believe the same should be encouraged in our personal lives. We should not live our lives without checks and balances. What you cannot measure or appraise cannot grow or improve. There is always a need to review the way we live our lives and see areas that need improvement. This will sure help us have a continuously improving life. A life which is un-examined is not worth living.

Life is serious business and should be treated as one. This is the only chance you have to live your life. You won't have another life to experiment on or seek to implement what you have learnt from your first life. THIS IS IT! Whatever it takes, make up your mind you will work to achieve it.

Lillian Dickson said, 'Life is like a coin. You can spend it anyway you wish, but you only spend it once.' What are you buying with your life? Think about it. 'Winners compare their achievements with their goals, while losers compare their achievements with those of other people' Nido Qubein

Little Shifts:

1.What would you say you are buying with your life?

2.Do you have performance indicators guiding your affairs?

3.What goals/performance indicators would you like to set for your life?

January 18

Worry Don't Work!

We all are guilty of one thing, especially when things around us are not favourable just yet. We WORRY! Some of us worry until we become so sick, weak and really tired. Worrying does not take away tomorrow's troubles; rather it takes away today's peace. I am not saying we should be complacent with what is happening. We should be concerned and seek advice, help and support but not worry. Being human, we can have feelings when things go wrong but we don't need feelings to have us. Some worry because of what people say or think about them. I will conclude that it is in human DNA to worry in the face of uncertainties. You are afraid, scared, anxious, agitated, and restless. These emotional expressions are not good for your health.

Joyce Meyer gave a good description of worry. She said, 'Worry is like rocking in a rocking chair all day; it keeps you busy but gets you nowhere.' Worry is the most unproductive activity you can engage in. Worry does not solve or get the job done. The same energy we use to worry can be channelled into praying about the situation and seeking Godly wisdom on how to deal with the situation. You worry because you don't know how things will turn out, it's beyond you to fix, out of your control. A dear friend once said to me, "We worry because we are out of balance." Worry don't work, work don't worry.

Little Shifts:

1.What's the trigger factor for your worry?

2.List three things you have worried about but that eventually didn't happen?

3.How do you think you can deal with your worry?

January 19

Don't Walk Away, Run!

I remember the outbreak of swine flu across the nations about three years ago. It all started in a small farm in the Philippines. In a few weeks, it had spread to Europe and America. Many deaths were recorded as a result of this outbreak. It spread across quickly because of holiday makers to the Philippines at the time. They had contact and brought it home.

Just the same way you should avoid contact with someone with swine flu, you should avoid contact with someone with negative attitude. Don't walk away from people with negative attitudes - run from them. It's very contagious and deadly. Negativity will shoot down your faith, confidence, motivation, determination, and vision and make you vulnerable.

You need people with positive attitudes around you, people who speak positive and encouraging words into your life. It will help your self esteem and confidence to go for gold against all odds. I could not have pulled through the most difficult phase of my life if not for the positive people around me. When life takes an unexpected turn on you, you need a good and positive support system to pull through.

Remember: don't walk away from people with negative attitudes, run from them.

Little Shifts:

1.List three people you may need to run away from because of their negative attitude?

2.List three ways negative attitudes have affected you?

3.List three people you need to connect with or spend more time with because of their positive attitude and approach to life? Speaking positive words irrespective of the situation.

January 20

Never a Good Reason!

There is always an excuse for failure but Mark Twain said there is never a good reason. It's so easy to associate failure of business to lack of capital, recession or loss of a relationship to the other person's behaviour. It's still not a good reason. I lost a huge amount of investment funds during the last economic recession that left the property industry in a disaster. I blamed the bank that pulled out on the funding, blamed the recession...because it was a very lucrative deal! In all of these, it still does not make it a good reason.

It was difficult to swallow! That's reality. Failure is part of the success process. Just as pain is part of exercise to keep fit so is failure a part of success. Let's stop making excuses, but accept it as a learning process and build on our setback. It may be difficult to get back on your feet, but the secret is never giving up. Try again! If the next attempt didn't work out, keep trying until you achieve your goal. Setback becomes a foundation on which success is built. That's where I am, on my next attempt to achieve my goal. You are not alone in the process. Remember, being defeated is often a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you have failed at before?

2.List one or more things you have failed at initially but turned around as a success story?

3.How did you overcome and make a success story?

January 21

Daily Delivery

I went to our local city centre last week Wednesday and saw the new Nike advert campaign with Mo Farah, the world 5,000 metres champion. The inscription on the billboard reads: 'Don't dream of winning, train for it.' (It was handwritten, I guess by Mo).

There are too many dreamers in our world today that are not ready to pay the price to make the dream a reality. Dreams will remain dreams, a picture without action! I love dreamers that take action. I am a dreamer with action! I have a clear picture of the future and have started training for it. This is part of it. Many spend too much time dreaming of the future and never realise that a little of it arrives every day. A little of your dream arrives daily depending on what you do.

The secret is to get started! Mo Farah dreamt of being a world champion. Every day he trained, a little of the dream was delivered without his knowledge. The dream did not just happen when he won the 5,000m at the World Championships in Daegu, South Korea in September 2011. There was a build-up! There is a popular saying; 'Champions are not made in the ring, but recognised and honoured.' Champions are made in the training gym.

Zig Ziglar in his book, Born to Win said, 'Being a winner is much different from having the potential to win. Everybody has the potential; it's what you do with that potential that really matters.' Give your potential an opportunity to see the light of the day. Work your potential! Work your dream! Work your mind!

Little Shifts:

1.List three top things you need to be doing daily to achieve your dream.

2.Which of the above are you not committed to daily?

3.How can you work your potential into reality?

January 22

Unwrap The Gift!

Last Christmas, our church gave all the children and young people gifts. The gifts were arranged under the big Christmas tree. Two weeks after Christmas, l realised that there were two gifts with the same name on them left in the technical department area. One of the young people left his gifts in church, un-opened. Interestingly, that's what we do to our natural gifts and talents sometimes. Someone once said, 'Everyone is gifted - but some people never open their package.'

We sometimes look and get carried away by other people's gifts without discovering our own and developing them. We all have gifts and abilities; the difference is how we use them. One of the greatest minds that ever lived, Albert Einstein said, 'Everybody is a genius but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that's its stupid.' You have a gift that makes you unique. Discover and develop it.

A developed gift is always rewarded. It will open unusual doors for you. Can you imagine that a Prime Minister or the US President requests a prisoner be invited to the White House to solve a national problem? That's what happened to Joseph in ancient nation of Egypt. 'A gift gets attention; it buys the attention of eminent people.' (Proverbs 18:16) Continue to develop your gift and ability, and one day, it will get an eminent person's attention and place a huge value on it.

Little Shifts:

1.List three gifts you have

2.Are they still wrapped or unwrapped?

3.What or how can you develop any of the above gifts?

January 23

Change Fear

It's so amazing how things are changing in our world. If you don't keep a tab on things, your new gadget will soon become obsolete. It's a changing world and only people who are flexible and willing to change their thinking and ideology will be relevant. I don't have to send this inspiration note in the post to you which will take at least a day for you to receive. Rather, you are able to read it the moment l click send from my phone (and of course, at no extra cost).

Charles Darwin, a British scientist said: 'It is not the strongest species that survives nor the most intelligent, but the ones most responsive to change.' Don't fear change, change fear! 'Who moved my cheese' is a great and funny book which l recommend; it can help you with change management. I understood that dinosaurs would still be around today if they had embraced change and made necessary adjustments.

Don't be caught unawares; what are the changes happening that could affect your career or profession? How can you embrace the change? You will be amazed how further technology development will affect all our lives in near future.

Don't fear CHANGE! Change FEAR!

Little Shifts:

1.List three reasons why you fear change?

2.What are the changes happening that will affect what you do currently?

3.How can you embrace the changes? What adjustment do you need to make?

January 24

Weapons of Destiny Destruction

In 2009, l started a research on leadership landmines. I could not stand hearing disappointing story after story about respected leaders in politics, business, sports, and even the church. The list is unending! It was an eye opener for me. I kept asking myself: 'What hope does my generation have?' What's the problem with being a leader? Does your personal life and family have to suffer at the expense of your leadership responsibility?

This is my conclusion: there are three things that are always ready to ruin your life whether you are a leader, businessman, pastor, bishop or follower. Irrespective of your background, intellect or beliefs, these three things will always try to get you down: Power, Sex and Greed. Yes! These three things are weapons of destiny destruction. Ask Tiger Woods, he will have so much to tell you. He won no title or medal in a whole year after his infidelity saga.

Please, don't be trapped and increase the rising statistic! Watch and pray. You will not know what you are capable of doing until you find yourself in the situation. If you can't trust yourself, don't put yourself in any vulnerable situation. Many promising and respected lives have been destroyed because of power, sex and greed.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list one experience you have in the past with any of these weapons?

2.What are your strategies or boundaries in place to deal with the three weapons?

3. How can you deal with the threat or urge of any of the weapons?

January 25

Nothing to Lose!

I read a funny Chinese proverb recently which it's absolutely accurate. It says: 'He who asks a question is a fool for five minutes; he who does not ask a question remains a fool forever.' For some reason, people always think asking questions is a sign of lack of intelligence. Nobody wants to be seen as a fool but one of the secrets of negotiation is your instinct to ask! Ask! If you don't ask, it will be very difficult for you to receive. It's a universal law. Even God the creator of heaven and the earth said, 'Ask and you will receive.'

Ask about whatever you don't know! It's a sign that you are willing to learn. No one is an epitome of knowledge. Every day we all learn. Sometime in 2010, I went to a building merchant to order timber joists and rafters that l needed for a building project. The original quotation off the shelf was £4,500. I requested to speak to the manager to seek further discount. To my surprise, l had a further discount of £1,000 off the original quote. That's quite amazing! Just by asking! W. Clement Stone said, 'If there is something to gain and nothing to lose by asking, by all means ask.'

Don't be afraid to ask. At worst, the response will be NO! Don't be discouraged by it. What if the answer is YES? Remember: ask and you will receive.

Little Shifts:

1.List three reasons why you are afraid to ask

2.List three things you wish you had asked that could have changed the result you had

3.What three things will you ask now especially when you don't have anything to lose?

January 26

You Are Your Thoughts!

There is nothing in life that the Bible does not teach about. The best business principles are documented in this great book of life. Everything you need as a person to be effective is well documented. One of such great insights is: 'As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.' In other words, your actions are a direct result and evidence of your thoughts.

All our actions and reactions are controlled by our thoughts. Your action speaks louder than your words. You can't say you love someone and treat them without respect. Love is expressed in action. Even though l don't tell my wife l love her every day, (I know that is not good enough) my actions do show l love her and will be willing to go an extra mile for her.

Watch what you think about; very soon you will act it out unconsciously. Let your actions speak to someone today that you care. Put a smile on someone's face today.

Little Shifts:

1.List out three things you didn't intend to act on, just thought about but which eventually affected your actions.

2.In what way can your actions reflect what's in your heart?

3.List three ways in which you want to improve your actions to reflect your good thoughts and intentions?

January 27

Life's Precious Machine

Think about this phrase: 'Just as water reflects your face, so your face (or your life) reflects your heart.' This is deep! They are the words of King Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived. In simple language, your heart is very key to living a quality life. You need to take good care of your heart physically and spiritually.

Medical studies show the importance of the heart and what it does: pump and distribute blood round the body system. We can't afford for the machine to stop working for a second; the light will be switched off.

Above all things, keep and guard your heart with all diligence, for everything you do flows from it. Guard your heart jealously from any contamination. Expose your heart to quality materials, encouraging words, thought provoking meetings that can keep your heart effective and efficient. Also take care of your heart physically; by daily exercise. Don't let your heart stop on you. Make it work effectively. Don't allow fatty food to clutter your heart. Guard your precious life machine.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you are currently engaged in or allowing in your life that stand as a threat to your heart physically or spiritually?

2.What can you do to eliminate the above list?

3.How do you guide and protect your heart physically and spiritually?

January 28

Change the Direction, Change the Destination!

One of the greatest achievements of the United Kingdom is its road network and transport system. It's so robust and effective. With a map, visitors can easily navigate their way round the cities. Before l started driving, l could connect buses to any place in London no matter how far. But one needs to be careful not to jump on a bus going the other direction to your destination.

Jim Rohn, personal development expert once observed, "You cannot change your destination overnight, but you can change your direction overnight." Travelling on the M1 North will never take you to Colchester, no matter how fast you drive. Until you change your direction south and navigate your way back to the A12. It will definitely take longer, but the joy is in knowing you are headed in the direction of your desired destination.

The prodigal son in the bible realised he was heading into disaster if he continued to travel on in that direction. He made up his mind to change his journey's direction and pay the price (he was willing to lose his sonship) to end both his life and journey well. Please ask yourself this question: 'Will this direction I'm currently travelling take me to my desired destination?' If your answer is no, no matter what it will cost you, please change your direction.

Little Shifts:

1.List three ways in which you have to change the direction of your execution to achieve your goal?

2.What's the journey you are on now that you know you need to change your direction but lack the courage to do so?

3.What will be the benefit of reaching your desired destination and not just any destination?

January 29

I Would Believe Until I See Proof!

Sometimes, I find it difficult to understand how human minds handle advice and instruction. It's so difficult to convince a chain smoker to stop or reduce his bad habit. But the same person will swing into action very fast if his doctor says, "you have three months more to live if you don't stop smoking."

Our minds have been trained to believe doctors and accept their advice, diagnoses, and prescription. It's so easy to believe a person rather than the creator of everything, God. A royal official or better still, a Member of Parliament sought Jesus in the Gospel according to John to come and heal his son who was ill.

Jesus just declared to him, 'Go, your son will live.' The man took Jesus at his WORD and departed. He believed what Jesus said because he had confidence in Jesus' ability and authority. We believe the doctors because we have confidence in their knowledge of medicine. Why do we struggle to believe God on HIS WORD? Blessed is he that believes (without seeing anything physical), there will be a performance of what was promised. I dare you to believe God and HIS WORD; it will change your life.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you found difficult to accept or believe until a professional gave you the same advice on them

2.Why do you believe and trust professionals, especially doctors and accept their words as final?

3.How can you train your mind to believe when there is no proof?

January 30

The Unveiling Moment

One of the best ways to really assess yourself on the stuff you are made of is in the face of challenges, difficulties and contradiction. It's so easy to praise God when everything around you is going on well. But what do you do when things are not going as planned? Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyse you; they're supposed to help you discover who you are. They help us reveal ourselves.

A Philosopher once said: 'Circumstances do not make the man, they merely reveal him to himself.' I remember a funny Sunday afternoon after a powerful church service. The car park of this particular church was 'jam-packed'. In order to drive out of the car-park, the cars in front needed to leave. All of a sudden, we started hearing arguments and exchange of abusive words.

These were the same people who just left a powerful service. The offence just revealed the stuff both of them were made of. Their minds were yet to be fully renewed and transformed to handle offences properly.

Every day is an opportunity to invest in and develop ourselves to handle and face challenges better. You can determine how you respond to any circumstance.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you discovered about yourself in the face of challenges and difficulties

2.What's one thing you discovered and are really embarrassed and ashamed of?

3.How can you stop surprising yourself?

January 31

Climb Over Your History

Sometimes, it may be difficult to get your family or relatives to believe in your dream; especially if it is a new terrain and no member of the family or village has accomplished it before. This was exactly what happened to the biblical character, Joseph. No one could relate to his dream in his family. It's quite easy if there is a doctor in the family and you say you would like to be a doctor. The dream will be welcome!

Don't allow anyone to stereotype you because of your background, education standard, and belief. History is powerful, but don't be bound by it! You can be the difference! You can be a pacesetter! Set a new record or history. No black man or woman had ever lived in the White House before President Obama; that's the history!

As Jesus' ministry begin to expand, people found it difficult to accept him as the messiah or even a prophet. The teachers of the time said: 'Can anything good come out of Nazareth? Go and check, you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee. These are all valid facts, but should not be the reality.

You can defy the odds. Don't be limited by valid facts and your history. If it is your purpose, go for it! When you fulfil your purpose, the same people will thank you for it. Many lives' survival and fulfilment are tied to your purpose. Go for it. Climb over your history to touch your destiny!

Little Shifts:

1.List three things your background, history or valid facts have discouraged you from, without any attempt.

2.What do you think you could have done differently?

3.What's your history or background holding you from attempting right now?

February 1

Dig Your Heels In

Welcome to February, the second of twelve months. I believe it's appropriate at this point for us to assess what we did and did not do in January towards achieving our goal, moving gradually to our desired future. Remember, a little of the future we desire comes every day, depending on what we do. There is no more time to waste. Dig your heels in; you are in it to win it! It's too early for your faith and confidence to be defected or deflated. You are in this New Year to make a difference in your life. For once, taste what it means to win! Achieve a goal! Work on your dream! Build a new brand! Explore different possibilities.

One of my virtual business mentors sent me an email about his conversation with a millionaire he meets with twice a year to exchange ideas. This is what his friend had to say about the main key to success: 'People just can't focus on something long  
enough for success to happen. They're too scattered and they miss the first key to success: focus and concentration. Without this, the journey is so much harder.'

I encourage you to stay focused on your main goal this year. Don't be one of the dreamers without action.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you are supposed to achieve this year but you're yet to start on

2.List three things that distract you from being focused

3.What do you need to do to stay focused in the next eleven months?

February 2

Imagination Free

I found out that one of the best ways to illustrate is by using pictures. Our mind can easily relate to pictures. It seems more tangible. When a story is narrated, your mind can picture the character, setting etc. That's the power of imagination. Imagination sparks ideas and ideas rule the world. You can only operate, rule and reign as far as you can see. And you can only see as far as you can think.

A preacher once said, ''we all have pictures of the past hung in our homes. What about the picture of the future?'' Many of us have not thought about 5 years, 10 years, or 20 years time! Where do you want to be? What does the picture looks like? That picture will help you identify your destination when you get there. So, you are living a deliberate life because you have a defined destination. Set your imagination free. Let it work with God's Spirit in your life to create the future. Days of leaving our life to chance are over!

What you see can be achieved. God saw light in the darkness and He spoke light into existence. It takes you seeing it before you can call it into existence. Think about it.

Little Shifts:

1.Where do you see yourself in 20 years if you continue like you are today without changing anything?

2.What would the picture of your desired future look like if you had to paint it now?

3.What do you need to be deliberate about to achieve the picture above?

February 3

Capital isn't scarce!

One of the main reasons why most of us will not do what we have been dreaming about is lack of capital or funds to start. I share your sentiment. But the fact is, you don't need capital to start walking or working on your dream business, career etc. Money never starts an idea. It is the idea that brings the money. Sam Walton, founder of Walmart USA said, ''Capital isn't scarce, vision is.'' How true and profound! The problem is not the funds but vision. You will be amazed at how many people are willing and ready to support a just cause! Willing to support a vision they can embrace and identify with.

Obama did not have the required financial base to campaign for the office of the US President. He offered and presented a vision to the people of America and many, in their millions supported the vision and donated towards the vision. There has never been anything like the amount of money raised during his campaign in America's political history. VISION! There is always a PROvision for every vision, especially if it's God given. Don't be discouraged because you lack funds; step out purposefully and allow the law of attraction to work for you.

Little Shifts:

1.List three ideas you have shelved for lack of funds

2.Which of the above ideas can you develop enough to attract provision/ financial backing?

3.When you have dreams, you need goals!

February 4

Ten Years' Surprise

There is a popular saying that knowledge is power. I believe that knowledge alone is not enough. Learning and applying the knowledge is the KEY! It is impossible to seize an opportunity you don't know of. The world is becoming a small global village, and everyday learning and seeking information is vital to our effectiveness and sustenance.

Learning is like eating and drinking. You need to learn everyday to maximise your potential and know what's available to you.   
Don't be narrow-minded! Expand your mind, read materials that can be of benefit to you (if not today, tomorrow). I subscribe to Success Magazine and l have the opportunity of reading what's happening around in the business and technology world. I keep myself updated and inspired reading featured stories. Charles Jones said, 'You will be the same in the next ten years except for the books you read and people you meet.'

When you stop learning, you start dying gradually. It's a matter of time. Don't let your mind die while you are still living. Just the way you feed your body, feed your mind with quality materials. Charles Scribner said 'Reading is a means of thinking with another person's mind; it forces you to stretch your own.'

Little Shifts:

1.List three books you have read in the last three months

2.List three books you wish you had read in the last three months

3.What can you feed your mind this week? Don't let it die within you.

February 5

A Letter Away From Danger

Our lives are fully of emotions. Everything we do is mostly dictated by our emotions. There are positive emotions and likewise negative ones. Joyce Meyer said, 'The most dangerous negative emotion is ANGER.' It's amazing to know that anger is only one letter away from DANGER! Anger, if not properly managed, can sometimes lead to dangerous and disastrous situations.

One of my mentors said that the only reason he chooses not to be angry is because it saps energy out of him. It's so true! When I'm angry with Josh and Ofy, l am not very nice! I'm tensed instead, as if I just lifted something heavy. It's not healthy. I am devising other ways to deal with it. This is one of them: 'When angry, count to ten before you speak. If very angry, count to one hundred' - Thomas Jefferson recommended it.

When you are angry, you can be out of control and do something you would not like or regret later. So don't make any permanent decision when you are angry. It will be your emotion that's in control.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you recount three occasions when you were angry?

2.Can you list at least one decision you made when you were angry which you can reverse?

3.How do you handle or manage anger?

February 6

Worthless Experience

It's so easy to look at someone who just made a mistake or repeated a mistake and think, 'What's wrong with him? What was he thinking? When is he going to learn and stop making the same mistake?' Hey, we can all spot someone else's mistake or shortcoming. Please don't be quick to judge such a person. Sit where they sat before you say anything. Mistakes are proof that you are trying, willing to make it work.

Dave Ramsey, the Entreleadership guy said, 'Making mistakes and learning from them is crucial to winning.' I have made many mistakes in my short life and l know l will still make more. The lessons l have learnt from my mistakes are of great value, I probably would not have learnt the same great values in an MBA class. Some people boast of being perfect, void of any mistake in life. I guess maybe they have not tried something new! Henry Ford said, 'Those who never make mistakes work for those of us who do.'

I believe mistakes are inevitable but it's one thing to make mistakes, it's another to let your mistakes make you. Let's learn from our mistakes; otherwise the experience will be worthless. Make every mistake count towards something good in your life.

Little Shifts:

1.List three mistakes you have made in life and the lessons learned

2.List one mistake you made and you wish you had learned from or made it count towards something worthwhile

3.How can you prepare for mistakes?

February 7

The 'Good Anger'

On February 4th, l shared with you about anger. Many sent their comments and it was encouraging and informative. Well, l can now say we have 'good anger' and 'bad anger'. The one already talked about or we all talk about is the 'bad anger'. Having another close look, l realise we can actually profit from 'good anger'. You can be angry with yourself and fuel your determination, passion and perseverance.

You can be angry for a just cause. I guess the current revolution going on in African nations' governance is fuelled by anger. Citizens are angry and tired of mismanagement, corruption, deception and lack of duty and care. Jesus was angry when He got to the temple and discovered it had been turned to a market place. He drove every trader away, cleaned out the temple and re-established the true purpose: 'My house is house of prayer'

You can be angry with yourself and re-establish some purpose that may have been abused in your life. Be hard on yourself and profit from it. Get angry: lose some weight! Get some exercise! Get fit! It's all for your good.

Little Shifts:

1.List three occasions when you were angry for a just cause

2.What was the result of a 'good anger' you had recently?

3.How can you encourage more 'good anger' in your life?

February 8

The Enemy that's good For You!

There are some things in life you can't use up or exhaust the supply. The more you use, the more you have. One of these things is CREATIVITY. Maya Angelou, American actress and author said, 'you can't use up creativity.' The more you use, the more you have; it's magical! Creativity stimulates new ways of doing things. Creativity can never survive in the field of mediocrity!

Creativity is the enemy of status quo! Creativity will never plateau! It's a 'thinking out of the box' experience. Our world today needs creative-minded people. We need to change; not for the sake of change, but because the method is outdated! Be creative with your life, relationship, job, ministry, group, business. I read this story last month; this was an interview question to get a job: 'You are driving on a heavily rainy day, you stop at the bus-stop, and three people are waiting, desperate for a lift.'

'Unfortunately, you can only help one of them. The first person is a good friend who saved your life some years back, the second person is an elderly woman who urgently needs a lift to the hospital for medical treatment, and the last is a pretty lady who is your dream wife. Who will you help out of the three?'

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you wish you could be creative about

2.How can you encourage creativity in your life?

This was the creative answer that got the job: 'The guy gave the car key to his friend to take the elderly woman to the hospital while he stayed at the bus-stop with his dream wife.'

February 9

Someone Knocking At the Door

All of us have at least one thing in our lives that we consider a weakness. It started out as a small habit that has grown to a mighty tree that cannot be uprooted easily. Personal development experts would advise you to major on your core strengths in life and play down your weakness. I do not agree totally. Yes, major on your strengths in life, give them full expression but see how you can deal with your weakness. If not dealt with now, the 'monster' may surface later in life and destroy everything you have built, given your strength and full expression.

We will always be tempted in the area of our weakness. Temptation in your area of strength is a waste of time. A few days ago, l read the story of Jesus and Judas again at the scene where a woman came and poured an expensive perfume on Jesus. (By the way, the cost of the perfume was a year's wage). It was said at this point that Judas had been stealing the ministry's money. I asked myself, does it mean Jesus did not know that Judas had a weakness with money handling, or better still, that he was a thief? He did! He gave him the opportunity to confront his weakness once and for all and be delivered. Unfortunately, it destroyed him. Same with Samson! 'Opportunity may knock only once, but temptation leans on the doorbell.'

Let's seek God for help and confront our weaknesses once and for all. Set yourself free from your inner 'demon'.

Little Shifts:

1.List three occasions when your weakness knocked at the door of your success story.

2.List one area of weakness you need to do more work on.

3.How can you protect yourself and your victories from the ruin of your weakness?

February 10

'I Can't Eat Dead Things'

Focus was our subject of discussion in our church in January. One of the speakers gave a great description and attributes of an eagle. Eagles are birds in a class of their own! If you are not careful, you can mistake a vulture for an eagle. They are different birds. Eagles fly alone at a very high altitude. They have strong vision, can focus 5km away and target their prey. The most interesting and striking thing for me about the eagle is: they don't eat DEAD things (unlike Vultures). They feed on living animals.

That's commitment, dedication, discipline, focus and determination towards high standards and values. They are not interested in left-overs. They will hunt and sacrifice to get something fresh, not outdated or used! Just thinking, what if an eagle was unable to get a fresh animal for food in a day? It would rather go hungry than feed on dead things.

Think about it! Many times we have compromised our standards, values and beliefs just because of a temporary condition. I encourage you today to set a high standard of values for yourself, be hard on yourself. You will enjoy the fruit in the near future.

Little Shifts:

1.List three people you walk with that have affected your life either negatively or positively

2.List three life standards you live by

3.List three life standards you wish to live by

February 11

Guilty, Yet Loved

Today is a perfect day to talk about my mother. It's her birthday today. I could not have asked for another mother in a million existences. Indeed, she denied and sacrificed everything for me and my sibling to have the best in life. I learnt early in life the importance of determination and perseverance from her.

Crystal Middlemas said, 'Love, like a river, will cut a new path whenever it meets an obstacle.' Love is that powerful! No matter how tough the obstacle may be, love will find a new path. Love is tough and enduring. I have enjoyed unfailing love in my life. One such love is the unfailing love of my mother. Let someone know how much you love them; reassure them that you will be there in joy, pain, celebration, thick and thin. makes this world a better place to live in. Be an extension of love today. That's the totality of Jesus and His message. Everything He did was motivated by love and nothing else. Love can and will restore a broken life that everyone has given up on. A woman was caught in adultery and the custom was to stone to death such a person. Love from Jesus restored the woman. He condemned the act but was careful to show her that she could make amends and live a new life. Love will always look for the best in people, and offer second chances.

Little Shifts:

1.List three people you wish you gave a second chance, maybe things could have changed

2.List three people/ things you are willing to give another chance by loving them even though you do not approve of what they do

3.How can your love redeem someone today? How can you show you genuinely care about the person?

February 12

The Biggest Devil!

I received a news update early this morning that Whitney Houston was found dead at a hotel room in Los Angeles a few hours ago. What a great loss to the music industry and a sad story! Towards the end of her career, it was publicly reported she was struggling with drug addiction; she admitted to using marijuana, cocaine and prescription drugs.

At the peak of her career in the 1980's and 90's, Houston was the 'golden girl' of the entertainment industry and one of the world's best selling artists. She won 2 Emmys, 6 Grammy awards and 22 American music awards.

In her infamous interview with ABC's Diane Sawyer in 2002, she said, 'THE BIGGEST DEVIL IS ME. I'm either my best friend or my worst enemy.' Towards the end of her career, her lifestyle took its toll on her stunningly powerful voice which became raspy and hoarse.

What lesson can we learn from her today?

Little Shifts:

1.Your destiny is pre-determined but you can destroy or abort it prematurely by your decision and will

2.Your marital decision can either make or break you

3.Talent is not everything; you need self control & self discipline

4.It's important to finish strong; it's not how you start but how you finish your journey

5.Drugs and a bad companion will destroy your life and destiny

February 13

Hire Your Weakness

There is an old adage that says: 'two heads are better than one.' Bill Gates, when asked about the success of his company, said: 'Our success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginning.' The benefits of partnership outweigh its disadvantages. More strength and energy will be required to complete a task by a person compared to when two people share the task. Same task, less energy required from both parties and possibly a better outcome.

Partnership in every area of life is great, especially if you have the partner that fits. We all have weaknesses. One of the factors that helped Obama to win the presidential election was the right partner he chose to run the campaign with. He hired his weakness (foreign policies was not his strong point).

That's the beauty of marriage. Unfortunately these days, couples are competing with each other instead of complementing each other. The main intention of God when he created marriage was for FELLOWSHIP. Many have their own intention and agenda today. An American reality star got married recently, and divorced after 72 days of being married and of course 'cashed-in' through media coverage and divorce settlement.

In any areas that you are weak, find someone that can help you and develop a relationship with the person. In business, hire someone that is strong in the area where you are weak.

Little Shifts:

1.List three areas where you wish you had hired your weakness.

2.List three areas where you need to hire your weakness now.

3.List three people you know who hired their weaknesses and are better off

February 14

The Four-Letter Word: L O V E!

One of the most powerful words (that can be expressed) in this world is LOVE. Irrespective of what people think or believe, today is set aside to show someone how much you care about them. Well, if that's not for you, it's okay. For me, it is! It's my wedding anniversary and I have been married to the same beautiful woman for 8 years. It seems like just 8 months ago. What a perfect day to reaffirm my unfailing love for my 'beautiful one.' That's what l call her. I love you and l will always do. Thank you for been there for me and the 'profs'.

Please know this! 'To the world, you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world...and that's the power of love.' Show someone true and genuine love today. You may be the world to just one person. Your love and care to that person matters a lot.

Let someone experience the true essence of love through you this season. It may just be a call, a note, a message, a flower or a visit. It does not have to cost the world. Be an example of true love.

Little Shifts:

1.Who is that one person for whom you may be their world?

2.List three people you can show kindness and genuine love to in this season.

3.An expression of love to someone that least expects it is fulfilling and rewarding

February 15

Great Acts = Small Deeds

My first book focuses on the little things of life that we pay less attention to which make huge impacts on our lives. Everyone wants to do big things but unfortunately (or fortunately as the case may be) 'small' has become the new big. Lao Tzu said, 'Great acts are made up of small deeds.' If you add a little to the little and a little to the little, the little will eventually become big. The master of little things is the champion of great things.

I watched a documentary about a 31 year old man who lost 400 pounds of weight out of 650 pounds in 6 years. His personal trainer helped him lose weight by doing simple (or little) routines that built up over the 72 months of consistency. You can achieve the big things by starting from the little things that can morph. You need to be thinking about big things while you're doing small things, so that all the small things go in the right direction.

What you need to turn that marriage around is just focusing on little details that matter! Little details that matter in your career, business, spiritual life... Identify the little things and you are on your way to achieving great things.

Little Shifts:

1.List three little things you wish you had done few years back

2.List three little things you need to be doing that will accumulate to big things in few years or months

3.List three little things you need to be doing now in your career or family/ relationship life

February 16

What's Your Legacy?

As many that are close to me know that today is my birthday. I am very grateful to God for the gift of life and unfailing love from my family and friends. Join me to bless God for His faithfulness over my life. Reflecting on today, l made a fresh commitment to fulfil my purpose in life. I am conscious of lives whose destinies are linked to mine. By God's grace, I will not 'SCREW UP'.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said: 'It is not length of life, but the depth of life.' My desire today is to continue to have and build on the depth of my life to effect and make positive contributions to my generation. I have a mandate to be a blessing by sharing simple words of life and wisdom.

I will spend time today with myself to rekindle dreams and purpose! I want my life to count in this generation and generations unborn. I don't want to get to the end of my life and realise that l just lived the length of it. I want to live the width of it as well. 'It's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.' Abraham Lincoln.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you will or wish to be remembered for as your legacy.

2.How can you live the length and width of your life?

3.What can you do or start today that will get you a better ending or better story at the end of your life?

February 17

Finish Well and Strong!

I woke up one day last year and said these words repeatedly to myself until l got the gist. 'I may not start well, but l will finish strong.' Our starting point in life is not as important as the finishing line. Where we end up eventually in life is crucial and should be handled with a sense of maturity and responsibility.

Les Brown, renowned motivational speaker said in one of his meetings: 'You don't have to be great to get started, but you have to get started to be great.' Don't allow your messy past to stop you on your journey to greatness.

Rahab, a prostitute in the ancient nation of Jericho desired to change her life. She must have tried many times to change; perhaps the more she tried, the more she found herself deep in prostitution. Until one day, when she offered to help some 'Christians' without collecting any fee. That was unusual; she usually got paid for her service. In return, she was introduced to God and her life turned out great. The 'black sheep' in the family eventually saved her entire family from destruction.

Remember, 'You don't have to be great to get started, but you have to get started to be great.'

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you wish you could change about yourself.

2.List three things you can start doing today that can overrule or overcome those three things you wish you could change.

3.What do you need to do to finish well in life?

February 18

4 Seconds Without...

It has been said that a man can live 40 days without food, 4 days without water and 4 seconds without HOPE! A man without hope is already doomed; a dead man walking. Hope affects your outlook on everything in life. Hope gives you confidence in the face of adversities and the challenges of life. It injects the intangible with the strongest desire and determination. Hope helps you deal with your doubts and limiting beliefs.

Hope links you to the future. If you lose hope, you have lost everything. What you hope IN will affect what you will hope FOR! Abraham was promised a child at the age of 75. The child did not materialise until 25 years later. The bible says, 'Abraham hoped against hope...' He defied the law of hope and hoped beyond human expectation to receive the promise. He had an unrealistic expectation that something great and good would happen along the path he had chosen. Hope will help you see the hope beyond you and make the best of every situation you find yourself in. Joseph was a servant; he dreamed of become a great leader someday. He was in prison, yet he still hoped to become an influential leader. That encouraged him to make the best of every situation. Don't lose hope on that marriage, job, career, and future. Consider the God who promised you a great future FAITHFUL. Remember: if you lose hope, someone else will find it.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you achieved because you did not lose hope.

2.List three things you are sticking your hope on the line for now.

3.What's one hope you lost and someone else found?

February 19

Up like Oxygen!

Money has become an essential part of our lives. We tend to worry when there is a shortage of it at any time. Les Brown said, 'Money is not everything but it sure is up there with oxygen' Money is neither good nor bad. It takes the form it's being used for. Money is not the printed paper you hold in your hands, but the value it represents. Do not value money any more or any less than it's worth; it is a good servant but a terrible master.

The way you handle your money will indicate whether money is a servant or a master to you. What you are willing to do at any cost to get money is a reflection of what it is, in your life; servant or master. The love of money (not money itself) is the root of all evil. Greed is a major problem in politics across the continent of Africa. Political offices have become family inheritance because of greed! Don't fall into the trap!

Little Shifts:

1.What can you say about your money, is it a servant or a master?

2.List three ways in which money has served you or you have served money

3.How can you overcome or tame greed in your life?

February 20

Why Look When You Can Create One?

One of the things that has made the American economy very strong for many years is the entrepreneurial spirit across the nation. Many identify problems in their local areas, and start to offer solutions for an agreed price. Unfortunately, we are trained in universities and colleges to seek employment after graduation rather than start a business, identify a problem and offer solutions for an agreed fee. The whole essence of attending college and university is to learn how to solve problems in our chosen field.

The richest people in the world look for and build networks. Everyone else looks for work. There is a huge difference between these two groups. Looking for a job is good, but don't plateau there. You can profit from your skills, talent and ability. What solution can you proffer to the needs around you? Francis Bacon said, 'A wise man will make more opportunities than he finds.'

Don't ever think you can't have your own business. Begin to work towards it. Start the research, question and sample people's opinions on what you've identified and propose to meet the needs.

Little Shifts:

1.What service or value can you add to people in exchange for money?

2.What problem did you learn to solve when you attended university? How can you give it a commercial value?

3.What opportunity can you create for yourself and people looking for opportunities?

February 21

Lead Yourself to Lead Others!

I am a student of leadership. I like to study the secrets, steps, skills and qualities required to be an exceptional leader. This is what l found out: it is easier to lead others than it is yourself; the toughest person to lead is always you. The best and productive way to lead is to lead by example. It's so easy to give instruction and preach but it takes extra effort and discipline to do what you ask or encourage others to do.

'Winning isn't getting ahead of others, it is getting ahead of yourself.' A true and exceptional leader / person has mastered and conquered self. That's my own qualification for leadership. You are ready to lead when you're willing to lead by example and you are ready to get your hands dirty with core responsibilities. The bible gave a good description of mastering yourself: 'A person without self-control is like a house with its doors and windows knocked out.' Hmmm! Don't be deceived; it's a house standing but not complete! The core components are missing. So, people living in the house will be prone to attacks and all sorts.

Figuratively speaking, build your house with windows and doors intact.

Little Shifts:

1.Why is it easy for you to lead others except you?

2.List three areas where you find it difficult to lead yourself.

3.What do you need to do to overcome the above?

February 22

The Reason and The Pain

There is nothing notable or worthwhile you want to achieve in life that will not require your full commitment. You may encounter difficulty in the process, but what will keep you going will be the reason, the goal; why you really want to achieve it. For the joy and victory that was set before Jesus, he endured the cross. Believe me, the death on the cross was not a sweet experience at all. Even the build-up to the cross experience was full of unbearable pain. Why did such man have to endure such pain? Because of the goal, reason and joy set before Him: to redeem humanity from the shackle of the evil one.

E Joseph Cossman said, 'Obstacles are things a person sees when he takes his eyes off his goal.' When you shift your focus away from the goal, all you will see are the obstacles, the pain of the process which will eventually lead to discouragement and disappointment. Always identify the reason why you are in the process. The reason must be strong enough to overcome the pains and difficulty on the way. Jesus had a second thought when he saw what he would go through to save mankind. But the reason outweighed the pain.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you achieved for which you overlooked the pain but focused on the goal.

2.List three instances where you allowed the pain to have the better of you and lost focus of the goal.

3.What is the main reason you always give yourself when you feel like quitting?

February 23

You Don't Deserve My Love!

The beauty of marriage is that there will be days and times your partner will not be lovable. This is because of what they did: careless comments, insensitive actions and irrational decisions they made. Despite all these, you still choose to love them. A Swedish Proverb says: 'Love me when l least deserve it, because that's when I really need it.' Love is a small thing that makes big things happen. Love can restore hope back into a life.

I read a true life story of a Christian couple. The husband worked outside town, so the woman handled and dealt with the affairs of their home (they had two kids). Because of the distance, their level of intimacy reduced drastically. To cut the story short, she got pregnant by their plumber who came around often to fix things around the house. When the husband knew, he went to see their pastor for counselling. The pastor was not sure what to tell him, but the man said something l can never forget in my life, 'I am willing to forgive my wife and accept the child as mine.'

Today, they are still happily married because of forgiveness and love when it was not deserved.

Little Shifts:

1.List three occasions when you didn't deserved to be loved yet someone loved you.

2.List three people who can benefit from your un-judging nature, your love today.

February 24

Retrieval Denied

There are two delicate things in life that you need to be careful how you use; both can make or break you in life, depending on how you use them. They both shape our world: TIME and WORDS! Don't use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved. When time is spent, it cannot be retrieved. When words are said, they cannot be retrieved.

There are some people who cannot forget what their parents said carelessly twenty years ago. Even though they have apologised, the words can't be taken back. It has done the damage already. Don't waste your precious time, don't be busy doing nothing. When it's spent, it's gone. It's not coming back. You might as well make most of your time and be productive. William Penn said, 'Time is what we want most, but what we use worst.' Speak words that give life, encouraging words, not words that can damage and ruin things.

Mother Teresa said, 'Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.' Kind words are short and simple. Why do we go through the stress of looking for hard yet destructive words? Words cannot be retrieved yet they have a lasting impact on lives.

Little Shifts:

1.List three occasions when you used some words but wished you could retrieve them.

2.List three occasions when you know you wasted your time doing nothing.

3.List three people you know kind words from you will benefit

February 25

Faith and Fear: Identical Yet Different

I love to collect thought-provoking quotes and statements. I read them every now and then just to challenge myself. One such statement l came across last year was by Dr Creflo Dollar. He said: 'Faith and Fear are both spiritual laws that work in the same manner but in different directions.' The way faith works is the same way fear works; both are developed by repeatedly hearing same or similar words.

Your faith is developed by repeatedly hearing the word of God, positive, encouraging and challenging words. It sparks a new level of confidence within you, an audacity of hope rises within you to believe the impossible and expand your expectations and horizons. Faith will deliver the tangible into your hands!

Fear on the other hand, is nurtured and developed when you continue to hear negative and discouraging words and the reasoning that questions the faithfulness and ability of the sovereign God. John Mason once said, 'Fear and worry are interest paid in advance on something you may never own.' Fear breeds doubt, and doubt leads to a loss of confidence. It is human to be fearful but you can deal with it based on your level of confidence in your belief and expectation.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things faith has produced in your life.

2.List three things fear has produced in your life.

3.Which one of the two is prominent in your life? How can you encourage faith more in your life?

February 26

Concentrated Strength

One of the most difficult things to do in life is wait; waiting for the fulfilment of a promise, for a job, a husband, a child... It is not an enjoyable moment in our lives, especially when the promised time to receive has passed. We can get frustrated sometimes, waiting endlessly when there's no sign that what we wait for will come to pass any more.

This is not a topic/ discussion Christians like to listen to. The bible says: 'After you have done all that is required of you to stand, still stand'...'Let patience have its perfect way so that you will lack nothing.' Many see waiting patiently as being dull or weak. Edward Bulwer-Lytton said, 'Patience is not passive, on the contrary, it is active; it's concentrated strength.' You are waiting, yet you're active! Patience is concentrated strength. I love that!

Don't put your life on-hold because you are waiting for a promise. Get on with your life, the promise will surely catch up with you. As a single lady, you are developing yourself to be the best wife anyone can desire while waiting patiently for Mr Handsome. I am writing every day, developing myself until the promise of becoming a best-selling author catches up with me.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you are waiting for and you seem to be losing your patience over

2.List three things you waited patiently for and achieved in the long run

3.While waiting, list three things you can do, or need to do to be ready for the promise

February 27

The Path of The Past

Our past experiences and background play a significant role in shaping our outlook on life. I have met many whose past has a strong hold on them and threatens their future and happiness. I know some past events can be unforgettable, but don't allow the past to jeopardise your future. Like Lyndon Johnson said, 'We can draw lessons from the past, but we cannot live in it.' You empower your past when you live in your past.

I listened to Joyce Meyer narrate how her biological father sexually abused her on many occasions.

What a sick and horrible experience. Today, Joyce Meyer has grown past her past. She decided to live for her future and not live in the past. She has turned her sorry story to an encouraging story. Decide to live for your future.

Little Shifts:

1.List three events in your past that you have outgrown which should have been a threat to your future.

2.List one occasion where you have empowered your past over your present.

February 28

What Money Can't Solve - Poverty

In one of my bible studies last year, l decided to read in detail the story of Joseph again and see what life lessons l can draw out from it. One of the statements, (lessons) that l got was: 'Poverty is not a financial condition, it's a mental condition.' Poverty is a mental issue, not a financial issue. When Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, an Egyptian top government officer bought him (today, that would be called human trafficking) from the slave market.

The next thing that was said about Joseph (apparently an illegal immigrant turned slave) was: 'But the Lord was with Joseph and he (though a slave) was a successful and prosperous man...' I find it difficult to comprehend! How can a slave be described as successful and prosperous? It's an issue of the mind, not the function of your bank account. You may not have all the money in the world and you can still be described as prosperous! It is a function of your mental condition. He was a slave but he had a prosperous man mentality. That of course guided him to his place of fulfilment.

Sharon Lechter, co-author of the Rich Dad, Poor Dad book series said, 'One problem money cannot solve is poverty.' I can see a lot of 'very poor' politicians in Africa, although they appear 'very rich' in the sight of men.   
Work on your mindset; it's not about where you are today, but where you intend to be.

Little Shifts:

1.List three people you know that you can describe as very rich not because of the cash or assets they have.

2.List three people you know who are rich in cash, yet are very poor.

February 29

Take the Chance

There was a time when l was searching for the true definition of love. What best describes this powerful word. Amongst many, l'd like to share this definition with you: 'Love means giving someone the chance to hurt you, but trusting them not to.' No relationship or love affair is perfect. As long as the parties involved are not perfect, the love is not perfect. When you love someone, you give them the opportunity to hurt or break your heart, but trust them not to.

God created human beings to be loved while he created things to be used. The reason why the world is in chaos is because things are being loved and people are being used. Many today don't believe in love because they have been victims of heartbreak and abuse. I encourage you not to give up on love. Don't relent on your search or discovery of true love.

For some of us whom love has been entrusted to, don't abuse the trust. Love is forgiving, tender, kind, trustworthy, overlooks things... My prayer and wish for you today is that you will experience true love in your life; it's transforming.

Little Shifts:

1.List three people who have entrusted their love to you and you couldn't avoid disappointing them

2.List three people you entrusted love to but who hurt you

3.List three people you entrusted love to but who never hurt you

March 1

Why Faith? There Are Options.

Happy New Month. Hey, two months down, ten to go in this year. How far have you gone with your plans and goals? Do you still think you have time? You don't; do what you have to do!

In my own opinion, one of the reasons why citizens of European Nations do not believe in the existence of God is because their government 'can' provide everything for them. If you don't have a job, the government will give you a benefit 'handout', weekly allowance. I remember a particular family that was featured in the national newspaper, earning over forty thousand pounds on annual benefits for sitting at home, 'caring for their many children.'

In some African countries, you have to believe God for water, electricity supply, protection, good road network, school fees for your children, rent. In the western world, all these can be provided by the government. So the citizens don't see any benefit of receiving Jesus as their Lord and saviour.

You don't need faith when you have options. Faith is born when the strength of man fails. God has shown the whole world that man's strongest system/economy can fail, but He will remain forever. Don't trust your future to any person or government that can fail anytime. Trust your future into God's hand; He has the manual of your past, present and future. He is dependable, reliable and trustworthy.

Little Shifts:

1.What does faith mean to you?

2.Do you trust God or the government with your future?

March 2

The Choice Is Yours

We complain and ask, 'God, but you knew it would not work out, why did you allow me go ahead?' I believe every one of us must have asked that question before. This is my answer: 'You have a will that God respects'  
God is sovereign and all knowing but He also gave you a free-will to make choices. His plan and purpose for your life are guaranteed but not automatic. You have to choose and walk in His plan for your life to enjoy the benefits of His planned future for you.

After the first man blamed God for the breakdown in his marriage, He decided not to choose anything for man anymore. Whatever you have, is your choice. God can only guide you; the final decision rests with you. Proverb 16:3 says: 'Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.'

When you surrender your will and commit all your works to God, He will guide you to make right decisions in life. He has a great plan and future for you.

Little Shifts:

1.How often do you blame God for things that happen in your life?

2.Compare the times you have gone your way to the times you have gone God's way; do you notice any difference?

3.Surrender is your best bet; will you choose to let Him take the lead?

March 3

Be Careful What You Create

I read this phrase in a book three years ago: 'All things are created twice.' At the time, I was preparing for the New Year. I took time off to go camping and to pray, read and position myself spiritually and mentally for the challenge ahead. That phrase 'messed up' my mind throughout the camping. '...all things are created twice; first in your thought (by the help of your imagination), then physically.'

As an architect, I would have designed a house in my mind, using my imagination before starting on the computer. There may be slight changes here and there from the original concept. Your thoughts are so powerful when at it's best. Someone said, 'If you realise how powerful your thoughts are, you would never think a negative thought.' You will never entertain any negative thought again, if you discover how powerful your thought can be.

Thoughts are the currencies that deliver tangible values in your future. Think right so you can buy correctly. You cannot stop thoughts from coming, but you can choose which ones you want to entertain. Dwell only on positive thoughts; things that are noble, just, worthy and precious.

Little Shifts:

1.Have your thoughts directly affected any occurrence in your life? List the thoughts and the occurrences

2.Do you habitually dwell on negative thoughts?

3.In what ways can you improve your thinking?

March 4

Excellence  
Excellence is something no one can deny; you acknowledge it when you see it. Irrespective of your background, race, or education status, you can attain excellence in everything you do. That's one thing no one can discriminate about. Either you know your stuff or you don't! The bible describes it as a spirit; spirit of excellence. It differentiated Daniel among from other wise men in the ancient land of Babylon.

Colin Powell, an American retired general, gave this advice many years ago: 'If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.' Don't wait to achieve excellence in big things. Rather, start the habit with little things in your life, with the little resources you have. That will create a good foundation and prevailing attitude towards excellence in big things. What's the state of your room? Your house? Your car? Hmmm, I'm guilty of that; the car!

It's a good virtue and habit we can develop and improve in our lives. It takes time, continuous effort and change. When you have it, it will become second nature, come naturally without struggling. You will not want to associate with anything sub-standard. Think about this: which areas of your life do you need to develop this habit?

Little Shifts:

1.In what little ways can you start to develop this habit?

2.A habit takes a while to form; stick with the practice.

March 5

Do Something Differently

There is a new program on TV that l love to watch on Mondays: 'Obese: a year to save my life.' The program is about a personal trainer who is on a mission to help obese (really obese) individuals lose weight and be fit within a year. On their first meeting, he assesses their daily routine and diet. Whatever happens to us, whether good or bad is in our daily routine. If you want a different result, do something different! It's that simple.

The personal trainer will then set a new exercise routine and diet plan for them. Two hours of different exercises five times a week. That's doing something different! It was so difficult for all of them at first but they got used to the new regime. Every day since 1st January, I exercise 15-20 minutes seven days a week, read at least one to two chapters in a book everyday and write at least two hours five times every week. If you want a different result, do something different!

Whatever result you want this year, work deliberately towards it. Don't expect to continue doing the same old things and get a different result. It is difficult to fill a bucket with a hole in it. A changed situation will require a changed life. Change requires action, not magic! Success is not an accident. Unfortunately, failure is not an accident either.

Little Shifts:

1.What are your desired goals in the different areas of your life?

2.What is your 'Modus Operandi'?

3.What do you need to change to get your desired results?

March 6

You're Accountable

At the end of last year, I was reviewing my finances and really wanted to prioritise what's important to me and my family. You will be amazed at what you will discover if you take a closer look at your finances; where and what you are spending your money on. The truth is, what matters to you most is what you spend your money on! It does not matter what people say. I spent at least thirty pounds every month on books and other resources that can help me to grow and develop. Some ladies have over fifty pairs of shoes and are still buying more. Hmmm.

Your spending pattern is a reflection of your values and where you are likely to be in ten, twenty years financially. Money is a resource God put in our custody. How you manage it will determine how much more He will direct your way or redirect away from you. Use the resource to be a blessing, an extension of God's hand to someone today. Give out some of those shoes and bags sitting idly in your wardrobe. What you have not used in the last six months - you don't need it. Bless someone that may need it. Have a great day.

Little Shifts:

1.What do you spend money on that you really don't need?

2.What do you need that you don't spend money on?

3.How will you adjust your budget and spending habits?

March 7

Why Are You Here?

Every one of us has a mission in life to fulfil. Every manufacturer makes a product with a purpose in mind. There is a special assignment, problem or task the product will perform or solve. So also God made you with a definite purpose in mind. You are not here on earth to add to the numbers. You are valuable in the sight of God, no matter where you are, what you are doing or not doing. You must be special for someone to decide to lay his life down for you. Think about it; what would make you lay down your life for someone? That person must be really special to you.

Richard Bach said, 'Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished. If you're alive, it isn't.' As long as you are alive, you have not finished your mission. Neither is it too late to identify and fulfil your mission in life. You will be remembered not for the number of your days but for the number of people your life blessed. If l die today (don't panic, my time is not now), even if you don't know me personally, at least you will remember me as the guy who sent you daily inspiration to keep you motivated and challenged.

You are here on earth for a reason. Find out the reason; there lies your true happiness in life. Have a great day.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you discovered your purpose in life?

2.If you haven't, how are you working towards discovering it?

3.If you have, how are you working towards fulfilling it?

March 8

From My Heart to Your Ears

Have you ever listened to someone and heard more than they said? You could hear their hearts echoing the unuttered words. Jesus met a woman by the well in a city on one of his missionary journeys. He requested water from the woman but she was stereotypical in her response. Jesus was only interested in striking a conversation in order to minister to her deepest needs. You will hardly see anyone openly talk about or seek help for their deepest needs.

Joyce Meyer said, 'You can always hear somebody's heart if you listen.' As she started to talk about herself, Jesus could feel the pain in her heart. The most effective way to reach out to people, especially for Jesus, is to minister to their deepest need. That will give you free access to their heart. The woman could not resist the breakthrough; she became the city's CNN just after a brief encounter with Jesus. Her life was transformed, liberated from the pain and shame of her past.

Be the catalyst someone needs to live and believe in their tomorrow. Can you see the hidden tears? Help someone today, this week and just listen. Look around, you will see someone burning to talk, looking for someone that will just listen and not criticise them. Be a listener today.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you listen, really listen to people when they talk?

2.Take the time to be kind to someone today, they may need it more than their next breath.

March 9

Hold On Tight

Franklin D Roosevelt, the 32nd American president once said, 'When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.' Meaning the end of the rope is not the end of the climb. Be creative enough to tie a knot at the end and hang in there for help. Rather than jump off the cliff and die, you are better off holding on to the knot. Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is to try just one more time. Just one more try may give the breakthrough you have been longing for.

Resilience, perseverance, focus, patience, belief, dream, passion and possibility thinking are all required at such a time and season. How long can you wait or persevere for? Job, the rich man of the East said: 'l will wait till my change comes' after he had lost everything, I mean everything he had ever laboured for: his children and a big business empire. What could be more depressing than that? Putting it in today's perspective, Richard Branson, lost everything, all his business interests (all Virgin Ventures) in a day! That's exactly what happened to Mr Job.   
That's food for thought. 'Just remember; when you think all is lost, the future remains.' Bob Goddard.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever given up on any situation and do you wish you hadn't?

2.Faced with the same circumstance, would you react the same way?

March 10

Courage  
Have you ever been in a situation where, you were full of fear but you still pushed ahead? Took action in the face of fear and anxiety? That's courage. Courage is taking action in spite of the fear or uncertainty ahead. Mark Twain said: 'Courage is not the absence of fear; it is control of fear, mastery of fear.' It is being afraid that you may not succeed, but stepping out in faith regardless.

Courage doesn't always roar, it is an inner strength that calms the external factors. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow. I will try until l succeed in my endeavours.' I remember reading about the time when Joshua was tasked with the responsibility of leading the children of Israel to the Promised Land. God had to encourage Joshua and said: 'be strong and be courageous...The journey will be rough and tough but you can pull it off, Joshua. Just be strong and courageous.'

As we progress in this year and our journey in life, I want to encourage you to be strong and courageous. The road may be long but you will get there! Remember that song, 'you will get there, you will get there someday...'

Little Shifts:

1.Those things that you're afraid to do, try to do them in spite of your fear.

2.Fear is torment; don't give in to it.

March 11

The B Factor

There are some things that cannot be stolen from you no matter what happens to you in life. One of such is the true blessing of God. Have you noticed something about the Jews? Anywhere they find themselves all over the world, the blessings of God follow them. They control, to a larger extent, the United Kingdom's economy. They are blessed people; there is nothing you can do about it!

Oscar Wilde had this to say: 'Ordinary riches can be stolen, real riches cannot. In your soul are infinitely precious things that cannot be taken from you.' Joseph was stripped of his coat of many colours by his brothers, but the blessing was not in the coat. His status was changed from being a son to a slave, but the blessing was not in the status or title. He was incarcerated but the blessing was not in his freedom. The blessing is upon your life. Everywhere Joseph found himself, whatever was committed to his care prospered. That's 'the blessing factor'. It can't be stolen!

You may have lost some things in life; 'the blessing' can restore double unto you. You need to know and have a relationship with God that gives the 'blessing'.

Little Shifts:

1.God's treasures are planted deep inside you; you are a blessing!

2.'The Blessing' restores, ask God for restoration of anything you've lost.

March 12

4 Seconds Without HOPE

It has been said that a man can live 40 days without food, 4 days without water and 4 seconds without HOPE! A man without hope is already doomed; a dead man walking. Hope affects your outlook on everything in life. Hope gives you confidence in the face of adversity and challenges of life. It projects the intangible with the strongest desire and determination. Hope helps you deal with your doubts and limiting beliefs.

Hope links you to the future. If you lose hope, you have lost everything. Abraham was promised a child at age 75. The child did not materialise until 25 years later. The bible says, 'Abraham hoped against hope...' He defied the law of hope and hoped beyond human expectation to receive the promise. Hope will help you see the hope beyond hope! Don't lose hope just yet on that marriage, job, career, ministry and future. Consider the God who promised FAITHFUL.

Little Details:

1.Have you given up on God's promises for you?

2.How can you remind yourself that God is faithful and true?

March 13

Change Your Crowd

There are so many people in each profession but only very few get recognised for their contribution to the profession. These are those who refuse to do easy tasks, easy research, easy operations and easy projects. They prefer new challenges; a new terrain or research into difficult areas. Your crowd, company, associates play a major role in your appetite for new landmarks. Jim Rohn, the renowned personal development expert said, 'Don't join an easy crowd, you won't grow. Go where the expectation and the demands are high.'

There is a circle of friends that always spur you into action while some will kill your motivation and have you settle for the usual, nothing more. You are designed for more. Change your crowd if need be! We all need encouragement sometimes to go for gold. When David was on the run for his life and hid himself at cave Adulam, desperate and needy folks joined him and he became their team leader. The stake was high, their needs was overwhelming. David worked with them for a few years and the same dejected folks became his great army of warriors. Why? The expectation and demand was high! Find the right crowd, associates, company that will always challenge you to do more than you did previously. Set a high standard and expectation for you and your associates.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you become complacent, satisfied with the status quo?

2.What kind of people do you surround yourself with?

3.Evaluate yourself and make changes where necessary.

March 14

Are You Blind?

You may be amazed to know that your situation is not the worst, no matter how bad it is. Just listen to the news, take a trip to a hospital's intensive care unit (ICU), a trip to the prison; you will be convinced that you are better off! A blind man once asked, 'Can there be anything worse than losing your eye sight?' Yes, losing your vision! You are better off losing your eye sight than your vision. Remember the story of Helen Keller I shared with you earlier this year? She was the first American deaf and blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. She was an author, a political activist, and a lecturer.

You can lose everything, but please don't lose your vision. If you don't have a vision just yet, please seek God's help. Your vision will keep you alive and strong in seasons of contradiction. If you already have a vision, what can you do daily to bring you closer to your vision? It's about life and fulfilment. Invest in your vision.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have a vision for your life?

2.If you do, how are you working towards achieving it?

3.If you do not, seek guidance and direction today

March 15

Faithful in Little

Stewardship is a powerful concept that we all need to understand. This will influence which resources will come our way and which won't. Whatever you have today is not yours; you were given by God to be a steward, custodian of His resources, an extension of His blessing.

Jesus loved to use stories and parables to teach in His day. Once, He was teaching about faithfulness in another man's business, even as an employee. At some point, most of us have been employees. After sharing the parable with the audience, he said, '...And if you have not been faithful in what is another man's, who will give you what is your own?' Luke 16:12

This question is loaded! Faithfulness in another man's business is required and necessary for God to commit new resources into your hand to start yours. In whatever or wherever you find yourself, stay faithful. Your promotion is linked to it. Remember Joseph; he was a slave, yet he was faithful and fully committed to his assignment. He was a prisoner, yet he was faithful and fully committed. In each phase, his level of commitment and faithfulness was undeniable. He was promoted not just for his gift, but also for his commitment, dedication and faithfulness.   
Do you desire to start something of your own in the near future? Then go the extra mile where you are currently; be fully committed and serve.

Little Shifts:

1.How are you handling somebody else's business that was placed in your care?

2.If you've been nonchalant, change today; your promotion depends on it.

March 16

'Impossible is Nothing'

I went to the studio yesterday to do some recording in the build up to the launch of my first book. I met James Graham; he came to help out with the recording. During the lunch break we got talking and he told us about his adventure during summer 2010. He (with his brother and two other friends) cycled from Bristol (United Kingdom) to Morocco (Africa) in 40 days. We were all speechless and stunned! Cycled from UK to Africa in 40 days? That's incredible, audacious, and requires a strong will. This was done to raise money for a charity he supported in Nepal.

He showed us pictures and described their ordeal along the way; they camped by beaches, and even though it rained for 2 weeks at a stretch and they didn't have proper shelter, they had to continue with their journey. They encountered different harsh and extreme weather conditions but were not deterred from achieving what they set out for. Did they at any point contemplate turning back? Yes, but they encouraged themselves and achieved their set goal. James' story inspired me to see new possibilities!

This is my submission today: nothing, (l mean nothing) is impossible, if only you will dare to step out courageously. Like Adidas said 'Impossible is nothing.' Build a right team that believe in you and your vision. They will make the journey enjoyable and worthwhile for you. Remember: you can't do life alone!

Little Shifts:

1. List three things you thought were impossible but have accomplished

2. List three things you consider impossible in your life now.

3. List three people you can engage or speak to who can help you accomplish the things that seem impossible to you right now

March 17

No Assumptions

Many times, what will see or hear is not necessarily what it is. Many relationships and families are broken today because of assumptions. We assume a lot of things and respond based on our assumptions. I try as much as possible to give the people benefit of the doubt. You never know; you may need to read that email again because you may have missed out some key words or wrongly interpreted what you have read.

Henry Winkler said, 'Assumptions are the termites of relationships.' Assumption comes naturally. You have to make a conscious effort not to fall into the trap. Our mind works at a very fast pace. When you assume, you have concluded even before you hear or have access to the full details. Let us learn to ask questions, especially in a husband and wife relationship. Ask him or her, why did you behave that way, or say what you said? Always ask! It's better to ask than assume. It will help your marriage and relationship. My dear friend, Emmanuel Utomi described assumption as the lowest form of knowledge. When you assume, now we know the level of knowledge you are operating on.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you given to making assumptions? If yes, why?

2.Have you ever made an assumption you wish you hadn't made?

3.What will you do differently next time?

March 18

Moments Matter

As I write, it is Mothers' Day; a happy Mothers' Day to all mothers.

I read this statement sometime ago in a book: 'Cherish the moments before they become history.' There are so many things we take for granted in life: our spouses, children, parents, colleagues, friends. Some things happen to us in life (especially bad things) to put things in the right perspective. Do you wonder why you are so nice and helpful to people outside your home? Could it be we have taken the ones at home for granted just because we see them every day, sleep on the same beds, see their shortcomings, weaknesses and faults?

No matter how cold or mean you are, if your doctor tells you that you have six months left to live, you will change your priorities. You will spend your time with your family and love ones, cherishing every moment, because that's what matters most.   
When you are given six months with the people you love, you won't squander the gift. You will cherish every moment of each day.

We should not wait till our health deteriorates, or we get bad news before we do what's right and ideal for our happiness and well being.

Little Shift:

1.Do you appreciate your family and loved ones enough? Do you tell them and spend time with them?

2.If not, in what ways can you improve your relationships?

March 19

Microwave Mentality

In the world today, everyone wants to be a celebrity, an overnight success. If you ask an average 13-16 year old in UK what or who they would like to be, most answers will be: a singer or a reality show celebrity. I'm not saying it is wrong or bad to be a singer or a celebrity; it's the mentality that you don't really need to do anything to achieve success that is wrong. Zig Ziglar said, 'The elevator to success is out of order, but the stairs are always open.' It's much easier and convenient to use the elevator instead of stairs! That's what's happening in our world today.

Success in any area of life is sweet, not just because of the benefits that come with it, but also because of the person you become. The greatest reward of success is not the money you make, but rather the excellent person you become in the process. If you are not transformed by the process, you will not have enough capacity to handle, manage and enjoy the benefit of success. That's why people get into all kinds of trouble when they suddenly find fame. Many things will be relatively available at their disposal: drugs, money, contacts, free sex etc...You would be shocked at what goes on in the corridors of fame and success.

Don't be a successful failure; the person you become in the process is more important than the benefits of success. Have a productive week.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you seeking a fast and easy road to success? You're only setting yourself up for a fall.

2.Take the time to learn the lessons in the valley; they'll make you a better person when you get to the mountain top.

March 20

Re-ignite!  
This may have happened to you before: you just attended a conference, seminar, or meeting and you are fired-up, highly motivated and inspired to make a change. I have come to realise that the fire will only last for few days if it is not properly annexed. That's why people attend conferences and there are no significant changes in their lives. It's not just enough for us to just attend conferences, we also need to make a conscious effort and decision to work the change our daily lives.

Be inspired not only for a moment but for a lifetime - CHANGE! I started the year with determination to work on my health and keep fit. I am inspired not only for the moment of New Year resolution but through the year and years beyond. It has now become a part of me. I have been inspired to develop a new healthy habit. My next goal is to work on my diet so that my 30- minute daily exercises will not be in vain!

You were inspired sometime ago to start something new, but you have stopped. I believe it is time to start again. Determination and discipline will be required to keep going. The willpower is there.

Little Shifts:

1. List three things that you started at one time or another but didn't complete.

2. List all the reasons why you gave up on them.

3. Determine to start again and stick with it this time.

March 21

Life's Tests

I was thinking about this sometime ago: in school, you are taught a lesson and then given a test. But in life, you are given a test that teaches you a lesson. Our minds have been conditioned to think that a test will follow every lesson, just to be sure we understand what we have been taught. But in life, it works the opposite way around. The test may be repeated several times until we have learnt the lesson, only then will we move to the next level.

We are faced with tests everyday; test of character, belief, patience, tolerance, perseverance, faith and confession. The outcome reflects where we are in each area. The beauty of the test is, when you are able to overcome or master the test, there is always a great reward that can affect your life positively. Remember Joseph with his master's wife. Can you imagine if he had had an affair with her and later became the prime minister? She could have blackmailed or exposed him. Don't get carried away in the 'heat of the moment'. It may cause you to do something that may haunt you or jeopardise your happiness tomorrow.  
Stay focused, pass the test that life present and move forward.

Little Shifts:

1. List three things you got the test for before the life lesson.

2. List three things you have learned from recent tests.

3. Think about the current test you are facing and what life lessons it may pass to you.

March 22

Give – The Right Way

Have you ever met someone who is just generous, and for whom it's so natural for to give? You will realise that such people are not giving to be recognised; rather they give because it has become a lifestyle. Most times, they do it in private; not for eye service but genuinely just to be a blessing, an extension of God's hand. Another interesting thing about generosity is: generosity doesn't give to receive, but is always rewarded by God. They give without expecting anything in return. That's a true giver. It is a gift God honours and respects.

It is a gift I will recommend for you to develop in your life. Don't wait till you have all the money in this world. You can be a giver with your little and limited resources. If you look around, you will definitely see someone who could do with a little help from you. The whole essence of God's resources is to be shared, to empower someone. Generosity is not limited to just money. You can be generous with your time, mentoring someone, helping someone to solve a problem or develop a concept. What do you have that someone can benefit from? Joseph was generous with his gift. He was ultimately rewarded with a client who placed a great commercial value on his gift. Selah! (Pause and think)

Little Shifts:

1.Do you give; not just money, but time, patience, whatever is needed?

2.Why do you give?

March 23

Love is Costly

There are some things you can't do in life without some action following, one such thing is love. Amy Carmichael said, 'You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.' You can give without love; you can give a stranger money, help, support, or show kindness to them. But there is no way you can tell me you love someone without giving something. Giving is the core of love. 'For God so loved the world that He GAVE...' Love will cost you something; that's why it is love.

Sometimes, I wonder how a husband could claim to love his wife, yet abuse her physically and emotionally, showing no kind gesture whatsoever. That's not love, it's hatred. Your actions are proof. Love is sacrificial. What are you willing to sacrifice to save your love, show your love? Love is beyond feelings! Be careful when you say you love someone. Are you able to carry the responsibility that follows; giving without expecting anything in return?

You can't love without giving.

Little Shifts:

1. When you say you love, what do you mean? What does love mean to you?

2. How do you show people love?

March 24

Got A Blueprint?

I received an email from motoring.co.uk yesterday about some of the new cars just released or about to be released. The one that caught my attention was the new 4x4 Bentley. I don't know that much about cars, but I've always admired and known that the Bentley is one of few executive, truly luxurious cars. The price of a regular Bentley will buy you a detached house in the UK without a mortgage.

The interesting part of the story is that the new 4x4 Bentley was unveiled, but will not be rolled out until 2015. These are some of the features: powered by a 6.0 litre W12, top speed is in the region of 185mph, and the race to 62mph takes around 5 seconds (smaller engines might be available too, a 4.0 litre and a hybrid.) The interior - the rear armrest conceals a cooled wine compartment. Rear passengers choose from business mode that includes a keyboard and internet access, or the more relaxed arrangement with powered foot stalls, entertainment screens and drinks tables.

This is truly the power of vision and excellence in action. Do you have a clear picture of your life in 2015? Like a prototype you can work with? Bentley's vision has differentiated them from other brands of cars. They chose to be different, and they have a clear vision for their target market. Let us learn from this company. Your vision will set you apart from the crowd. It's just a matter of time.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have short term and long term goals?

2.How are you working towards achieving them? Do you have a clear plan?

March 25

Trust Him Enough to let it Go

I gave my son, Joshua, a few biscuits from the big pack and a few seconds later, I requested to have one of his biscuits. He refused bluntly. He had forgotten that I gave him what he had and l still had the big pack with me. It's quite interesting that that's how most adults react to God's resources at their disposal. What you have today is not yours; God commanded the resources to come your way.

Bishop Neil Ellis said, 'A faith that has not been tested is a faith that cannot be trusted.' Your faith and total trust in God will be tested before He can entrust you with real wealth and riches. Remember the biblical story of Abraham. He was asked to sacrifice the child he waited for 25 years to receive. The son that carried the promise! That was not an easy test of faith! There had not been any precedence on such experience; it was something new and peculiar to him.

Let's stop behaving like my son, Joshua, did. Whatever God requires from you, always remember that He gave it to you and still has tons in store. It's all for your own benefit. He wants to use it for your blessing! Don't struggle with His instructions.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you hold on tightly to material things?

2.Why do you think you attach such importance to them?

3.Whatever you have is God's, when he asks for it, surrender.

March 26

Decisions

It is very easy to obey when there are no other options. There can be no true obedience unless there is freedom to disobey! We are humans with free will. Have you ever wondered why a child will do just what you ask him not to do? The freedom to choose! We are free to make our choices in life, but we cannot choose the consequences.

I remember the first family. God gave them specific instructions on how to run the garden; what is allowed and what is not. But unfortunately, the first woman made the wrong call based on what she saw. Three things influence some of our decisions in life: the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life. She was a victim of the three; she was influenced by the serpent that wanted them to be uncovered and exposed!   
Be careful when you make decisions that will have eternal and lasting effects on your life and the people around you. It's not only you that your decision will affect, either positively or negatively. Proceed with caution. I've been there. A bad business decision I made affected everyone badly, not just me.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever made a bad decision that affected a lot of people?

2.What could you have done differently?

3.Remember that you can't choose the consequences of your actions; decide carefully.

March 27

Knowledge is Needed

One of the little things that has helped me in my journey in life is my inquisitive mind; I want to know and learn, especially from someone who has accomplished what I'm hoping to in life. I read biographies. One books that l read that helped me grow spiritually was 'Miracles' by R.W. Shambach, the American evangelist. It ignited a passion and an unusual faith within me in my early days as a Christian.

I remember reading 'God's Generals' and seeing the move of God just like those documented in the Bible book of Acts of the Apostles. Learn from the experts; you will never live long enough to learn it all by yourself. Buy books and read about what you want to achieve in life. The truth is this: someone somewhere in this world is living your dream. Your dream is their reality. I want to be a successful entrepreneur, so l read about successful businessmen that are living my dream.

You can achieve your dream; in order to become the best, you have to learn from the best.

Little Shifts:

1.Research people who are living your dream, and proceed to learn from them.

March 28

Direction

One of the greatest assets you can have in life is knowing exactly where you are going; having a blueprint. It will guide your decisions, actions, relationships and career path. The blueprint will influence virtually every decision you make in life. If you don't know where you're going, any road will be good enough for you. That's the problem with my generation. We join every bandwagon because that's what is in vogue.

Your life is not like your friend's life. You need to know where you are going! Otherwise, you will travel all through life without a clear destination or purpose. This will not make the journey enjoyable. Don't travel through life's journey miserably. You will find contentment and fulfilment in discovery of where you are headed. Discover your blueprint and stay on course; refuse to be distracted! If you continue steadfastly on the route, you will surely get there.

That's how the GPS navigating system works; it identifies where you are and where you are going. With this information, it charts a route for you. As long as you follow the directions, it will eventually get you to your destination. (But make sure you have an updated navigating system.)

Little Shifts:

1.Find out where you are headed in life and chart a course

2.Stay on course faithfully, and you will be rewarded

March 29

Tell Me No Lie

Sometime last year, on our way back home, my daughter was narrating what happened in school that day to me. Out of everything, she repeated a statement her head teacher made at the school assembly that day and it caught my attention. I asked her to repeat it and innocently, she did: 'Only the brave tell the truth; lies are for the scared!' Wow! One of the reasons why we don't tell the truth most times is that we are scared about the response, action or reaction we will get. The truth is simple, but heavy. That's why few people carry it.

I remember the biblical story of a prophet's protégé. A wealthy man just visited his master, seeking help for an issue in his life. He was healed and delivered. The prophet refused to collect any of the gifts he brought and sent him back on his way. Surprisingly, the protégé could not stand his master's 'ignorance' and 'generosity.' He ran after the visitor, lied to him and collected some of the gifts.

On his return, his master confronted him but he denied ever stepping out of the house. He was not brave enough to tell the truth. He got what he did not bargain for: leprosy! We may not be perfect but honesty is required. It should be our default.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you find it easy to fib?

2.The truth isn't always popular, but in the end, it is the best option; tell the truth and damn the consequences

March 30

Health is Wealth

A while back, we all heard about the sudden cardiac arrest suffered by Fabrice Muamba, a footballer with Bolton Football Club, during the FA cup tie. I was surprised when l heard that he was 23 years old at the time. This got me thinking: heart attacks know not age or size! You would not expect a very active young man to suffer a heart attack. It is a miracle that he is still alive today; his heart stopped for almost two hours while the paramedics tried to resuscitate him.

Please note this: functionality does not mean everything is okay. Muamba's heart had been functioning, but with defects, until he finally shut down that Saturday. Many of us are driving our cars with different warning signs on the dashboard but we couldn't care less as long as it still gets us from A to B. This is what most of us do to our bodies.

We pay no attention to it until everything shuts down on us. Please let us pay attention to our health. It's only the healthy that will be able to go to work!

Little Shifts:

1.When last were you at the hospital for a check up?

2.Don't take anything for granted; better safe than sorry.

March 31

Seasons Change

I remember the story of the bamboo tree. Unlike other seeds when planted, you will see the seed spring out of the ground after a few days. Bamboo seeds can take months to grow. When others have reached their harvest season, the bamboo is just beginning to find momentum.

Never write off a living soul, never write off yourself. Things may not be working for you the same way they're working for your friends or sibling. Your purpose and destiny in life are different. Most of us know Donald Trump, the American billionaire; do you know there was a time in his life when he was bankrupt? You could have written him off! There are 'bounce backs' in life.

I read the story of a young lady who came from a rich family. A promising young man approached her for marriage. She advised him to pursue someone from his own social class: 'You can't even afford my nail polish, not to mention my dresses or luxurious holidays'. After many years, they met at a shopping mall and this lady had not changed her attitude. They exchanged pleasantries and she boasted that she was married and her husband's annual salary was two million dollars. The husband finally joined them after a visit to the washroom. The husband said, 'Oh you guys have met. Honey, this is my boss, he's the one l always tell you about.'

How seasons can change! Don't write yourself off just yet; don't write off anyone still breathing!

Little Shifts:

1.Be careful how you treat people

2.No condition is permanent, as long as there is life, there is hope

April 1

Grow!

'April fool!' they say, but I will say happy new month. Can you believe we are in April already? It's the start of the second quarter. Whether we work and invest the days, time or not, they will still come and go. You can't store the unused time or days. Do something different, change your routine to maximise your time and opportunity.

To earn more, you need to learn more. Mental fitness is like physical fitness. I started daily exercise (jogging) on January 1st and day by day, I'm getting closer to being physically fit. It's the same way with our mental fitness. The more you read and learn, the more you keep fit and have an edge. A professional becomes a consultant in his/her field because of their experience and knowledge.

I challenge you to increase your earning capacity. You will surely be rewarded for solving greater problems based on what you know. Have a fruitful quarter.

Little Shifts:

1.Check your goal list; have you made any progress so far?

2.If not, there is still time; start work!

3.If yes, there is always room for improvement.

April 2

Are You on the Rat Track?

Sometimes, we can be very competitive. Men averagely are competitive in nature. That explains why most men love sports passionately. Have you ever witnessed men discussing the premiership (football league)? You would think we get cheques in the post for supporting the clubs.

But there is another kind of race or competition that we sometimes join unconsciously, especially if you don't know what you are here on earth for. It is the RAT RACE! Don't join the rat race; even if you win, you are still a rat! Rather, find a purpose for your life and give full expression to it. When you try to be like someone else, you have enrolled into the rat race. When you want your house to be like someone else's, you are on the start line for the rat race. Don't join the rat race but do join the PURPOSE race!

True happiness and fulfilment in life is found in deliberate and purposeful living. Discover your own identity and you will be recognised by others. What's your identity? Think about it. Have a great week ahead.

Little Shifts:

1.Check yourself; in what ways have you joined the rat race?

2.What can you do to get off the rat track and stay off?

April 3

Birds of a Feather

Humans are social beings; we were created for relationships. There is a part of us that longs for friendship and fellowship. That's why social networks are a big hit today; you love to connect, check what's happening in your friend's life, you like to update your friends about what's happening in your life. These are all good if you are in the right company.

Someone once said, 'you are a direct reflection of the five people you associate with most; and your income, attitude and lifestyle is the average of those five people'

I am very careful in choosing my close associates; because I will soon become a reflection of them. Take time to really think about this; who are your five close associates? Can you see their attitudes, income and lifestyle in yours?

In the study of eagles, l discovered that they fly alone; eagles only fly in the company of other eagles when they fly at a very high altitude. Who is in your company? You may need to sack some and recruit new associates.

Little Shifts:

1.Who are the five closest people to you?

2.Are they a good or negative influence? Make changes where you need to

April 4

Ideas

Ideas rule the world. Everything you see today started out as an idea! Nothing arrived ready-formed in its solid state. An Idea, when properly nurtured can evolve into a great product, concept or revolution. Apple computer ideas have revolutionised the technology industry.

As great as an idea can be, it can be short-lived! A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn. It can be stabbed to death by a joke or worried to death by a frown on the wrong person's brow. Be careful who you share your ideas with. My exercise time, prayer time and shower time are the times when ideas flow through my head. Some of those ideas never see the light of the day because of a comment or fear. Ideas need time to develop to their full potential; spend time to fully assess the 'what ifs'.

Never underestimate or be quick to discard any idea. Henry Ford had the idea of driving motor cars when everyone was riding on horses at the time. His friends made light of the idea. The Fedex founder submitted his MBA project and proposed overnight delivery of letters and goods across the nations. His lecturer and supervisor thought little of the idea and give him a D for the project. The rest is history! Keep nurturing the idea. It may be the real deal in the near future.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever discarded an idea and then saw it implemented by someone else?

2.Write down your ideas, don't make light of them. One of them may change the world as we know it!

April 5

One Good Turn

A couple of years ago, l was on a mission to really find my niche in life. I wanted more. I don't know if you understand the feeling where what you see inside you is totally different from your reality. It can be frustrating sometimes. I prayed, studied, researched, and listened to messages and speeches. At the end, this was what l got: 'To get what you want, help other people get what they want first.' - Zig Ziglar.

This is a principle that applies to every area of our lives. Do you want to build a great company? You can achieve this by employing people who need employment, getting them what they want and in turn you get want you want - a productive and great company. I am all out to help people in my life achieve what they want in life. I will sure be rewarded with what l want in life as well. What you sow, you reap in multiple folds. Start helping today and you will be rewarded greatly for doing just that.  
Little Shifts:

1.How can you help people in your life achieve their goals and dreams?

2.What problems are in your neighbourhood that you can solve? List them

April 6

Lose Yourself

When Jesus was crucified, he was crucified between two thieves. In His day, death by hanging on the cross was the worst and most humiliating way for anyone to die. Not only that, such a person became cursed! You would be amazed to know that we sometimes do the same to ourselves today. Fulton Oursler said, 'Many of us crucify ourselves between two thieves - regret for the past and fear of the future.' How true! The regret of the past is holding you back and the fear of the future is limiting you from lifting up your eyes to see a new horizon.

It's time to rescue your future from your past! Please note: l don't make light of what has happened to you in the past. My point is: it has happened, you can't change what happened, but with the right attitude, you can change what will happen. The regret of the past has developed fear for the future for many. Because your parents' marriage failed does not mean your marriage will fail. There is a great plan ahead for you; don't jeopardise it because of your 'regrets' and 'fears'.

Little Shifts:

1.Don't let the past hold you down and don't worry about what may lie ahead. Your future awaits; go for it!

April 7

How Big Are You?

Sometimes, I can't believe it when some things happen to me. I overlook 'big things' that should naturally make me angry but get mad over little things that do not amount to anything. I recently read a quote from Sydney J. Harris that made me think about my actions and reactions again. He said, 'If a small thing has the power to make you angry, does that not indicate something about your size?' I began to examine in more detail why I got angry.

Jesus, in the build up to crucifixion, was humiliated, abused and disgraced openly with thousands watching. He did not fight back or demand some respect. Rather, He was focused on His journey. He considered all as part of the process to get to His pre-ordained destiny. What a way to respond to events that happen in one's life! You may not have control over the event but you have control over how you respond. When you received a rejection letter, it was not stated in the letter that you must feel sad and depressed about the news. You chose to! Let nothing steal your joy and peace. Don't surrender it to any event in life.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you react to circumstances?

2.Do you need an attitude adjustment?

3.List three areas where you need to change

April 8

He Rose

As I write this, we are celebrating the redemption of mankind through the sacrifice of a Father and Son who love us so much. Today is also the celebration of God's power; when everyone thought that they'd seen the end, His resurrection power raised Jesus from the dead. That should encourage you today! Your situation may be dead but it is not over, because your father in heaven still has the same resurrection power.

In this season, it is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness. Be a problem solver, not a problem 'causer'. Don't just identify problems, be ready to offer solutions.

Jesus was willing to light a candle that would erase the darkness in our world. Don't lose sight of the whole essence of this celebration. Someone's life was involved. Don't make light of His ultimate sacrifice.

Little Shifts:

1.What does this season mean to you? What does it remind you of?

2.How can you be a light this season?

3.Remember: do not make light of the ultimate sacrifice; celebrate the reason for the season.

April 9

Everyday Deserves a Chance

How do you feel when you wake up on a fresh day? Do you see it as another opportunity to make things right or do you already feel defeated before even getting out of bed? Each day is another opportunity to start afresh, all over again. No matter how yesterday ended, today presents another opportunity to try again. 'Everyday is a new beginning. Treat it that way. Stay away from what might have been and LOOK AT WHAT CAN BE.' That was great advice from Marsha Petrie Sue.

Start again at your beginning. Change your strategy if it didn't work yesterday. Give yourself the opportunity to succeed. I guess this was Thomas Edison's approach after hundreds of attempts at trying the same thing over and over again. Pick yourself up today, challenge yourself! Tell yourself, 'It's my life, if l don't do it, no one will do it for me. I will take responsibility for my life.' How does that feel? Better yet, stand in front of a mirror and repeat those words. That's one of the best things you could ever do for yourself.

Little Shifts:

1.Have a positive attitude every morning; know that 'every breath you take is your Creator's confidence in you that you can do better.'

2.Max Lucado teaches that God has for each day, Grace-Oversight-Direction. Take His offer, and live every day to the fullest.

April 10

Forgive, for You.

Sometime last year, l wrote this phrase in my personal journal: 'Unforgiveness is holding on to your painful past.' There are some painful past occurrences that some of us still hold dearly in our heart. There is the general saying: 'Forgive and forget.' I think you can forgive, but you may never forget what happened. However, when you remember the event and still feel pain and resentment, you have not forgiven the offender. You felt betrayed and hurt because you didn't expect the person to treat you the way they did.

Can you imagine a father sleeping with his daughter? And not just once. It would be so difficult for her to forgive her father. That's exactly what happened to Joyce Meyer. Her father slept with her so many times; in the house, in the car! You will be shocked that such a barbaric, shameful act still happens today. You need to seek God's help and may need professional counselling to overcome such pain. You need to forgive and let go. If not, you will be holding yourself back. Someone once said: 'Unforgiveness is the act of taking poison and hoping someone else dies.' Don't poison your future with the root of bitterness and unforgiveness; let go and let God mend your heart. It will be a long, winding process, but you will be glad you did.

Little Shifts:

1.Is there any bad occurrence from your past that still hurts when you remember?

2.What can you do to move forward?

3.Is there someone you need to forgive? Forgiveness isn't always easy, but it's more for us (the offended) than for them (the offender). Let it go.

April 11

Truth

I believe there are levels in our relationships and interactions with people. It starts with when we meet people and there is a mutual liking. We seek to know them better, and this is where, whether we know it or not, our character is revealed. People begin to notice if you do what you say as promised, then they respect you. I struggle sometimes on this level. I am just learning to say NO to people's requests. I agree to do a lot of things for people and l end up struggling in achieving them.

Another trait is honesty. When you tell the truth, people trust you. This is the pinnacle of values in relationships; being able to tell the truth at all times. Honesty is a great value we can all develop and improve in our lives. People should not just like and respect you, but most importantly, people should be able to trust you. God doesn't expect you to be perfect, but he does insist on complete honesty. That's my goal and I'm working on it. You can make it your life-time goal as well.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you a man/woman of your word?

2.Integrity and honesty cannot be overemphasised. They're the hallmark of a responsible human being and a genuine child of God

April 12

Think 'Can'

Have you ever wondered why you sometimes keep thinking about a particular thing? If you're married, do you remember when you were wooing your spouse then or dating? Your thoughts were always on the person, that's why they were a very important part of your life.

James Allen said, 'You will become as small as your controlling desire, as great as your dominant aspiration.' How true! When you keep thinking about everything that is not working in your life, it will result in depression. Pure and simple! When you focus on what can be in your life, you will increase your capacity to see a new horizon and see new possibilities irrespective of your past unsuccessful attempts. If you think you can, you are right. If you think you can't, you are probably right. That was great advice from Henry Ford.

Do you think 'can' or 'can't'? The one you give more attention will reflect in your life soonest.

Little Shifts:

1.What do you think about?

2.Deliberately think only on positive things; you will see a difference

April 13

Give Up!

We all have heard this phrase over and over again either in church, at conferences, a parent's advice, friend's encouragement, wherever. I'm sure that at some point, you've heard 'Don't give up!' The phrase encourages us to stick with what we are doing or are involved in, even when it's not working or we have not seen the desired result.

Honestly, sometimes you may need to give up on something in order not to give up! Sounds contradicting, doesn't it? I will explain. On Easter Monday, we set out to drive from London to Paris for our family holiday; the kids would be visiting Disney Land for the first time. It was my first time driving to Paris as well. I drove to the Dover crossing easily without the use of a navigator. On crossing to the other side, while on the ferry, we decided to set our address in France onto the navigator. It would be another 3 hours before we got to our hotel. Then the unexpected happened; the navigator did not recognise the address or postcode. I panicked!

I decided to follow the road signs into the city only to realise after over an hour's drive that I had entered Belgium. I had to give up on that route and made a u-turn back to Calais where we started from. We eventually got to the hotel after 5 hours. In life, in order to start on a right direction for the right and desired result, you may need to give up that which is not working or whatever is taking you in the wrong direction.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you on a road that you know leads nowhere? Blind persistence will not get you your desired results

2.Do you need to make a U-turn? You can start again and do it right this time.

April 14

Try Again and Again

Life is full of 'wins' and 'losses'! You will win some battles, lose some and you keep going; you try again to win the next battle. Emmitt Smith said one time, 'I may win and l may lose, but I will never be defeated.'

This is what Michael Jordan had to say about his career: 'I missed more than nine thousand shots in my career, lost almost 300 games, 26 times I have been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed, have failed over and over again in my life, that's why l succeed!' All the losses helped him to succeed in his career. Failure is not a bad thing; it's all about perspective. It could be feedback to help you plan more strategically. It's not to stop you.

Make up your mind today that you will not be defeated. Tell yourself, l may lose, but will not be defeated!

Little Shifts:

1.Have you had some losses that have deflated you?

2.Would you be willing to try again?

3.You may not always get it right the first time; if you fall, get up and try again.

April 15

Free Your Mind

Henry Ford gave a huge task to his engineering team: to develop a motor engine that would be affordable for mass production for average families. The engineer kept coming back after several attempts; the assignment couldn't be achieved. Ford believed it could be done, so he kept sending them back into the workshop to continue the research and experiment.

Eventually one day, they had a breakthrough after hundreds of failed attempts. Napoleon Hill said, 'A positive mind finds a way it can be done, a negative mind looks for all the ways it can't be done.'  
Positive minds will always find a way to overcome any obstacles. It may require retracing steps, re-organising or trying other methods or approaches. Obstacles are there to be overcome.

Don't underestimate the creative power of your mind. Don't limit your mind; set it free. Stay positive, stay strong!

Little Shifts:

1.Where there is a will, there is a way. If you keep trying, you will succeed.

2.Don't restrain yourself, set your mind free

April 16

Who Are You, Really?

It is possible to deceive everyone around you but you cannot deceive yourself or God. It is easy to have a good reputation with people but you know you are not what you portray yourself to be. Your true self is who you are when no one is looking. What we do when no one is looking reveals the kind of person we really are.

There's no point in anyone being a public success and a private failure. I would rather be a private success and supposed 'public failure', because the private will eventually get rewarded openly and become public. And it can happen otherwise. No wonder the bible says that he that has rule over his life and spirit (self control and self governance) is better than he who conquers a city.

Let's commit to having successful 'private lives'. Let's live true, transparent lives; a 'What you see is what you get' kind of life. No camouflage! You will be respected and honoured.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you care an awful lot about how people perceive you? If you do, you will tend to become someone you think is acceptable when they are around

2.Your character is who you are in the closet of your room; take care of your character, and your reputation will take care of itself.

April 17

Vision or Goal?

Disney Land Paris recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. The doors of the theme park were opened to the public on 12 April 1992. We visited on the day of the anniversary, April 12th. This was the vision of one man, Walt Disney, who desired to build a theme park for children. After opening Disneyland California in the 1950s, he decided to build a bigger and better theme park in Florida. He died in December 1966, a year before Disneyland Florida was completed and opened to the public.

Your vision must outlive you. A vision that dies with you is just a goal and not a vision. Your vision must affect generations yet unborn. Generations that will only read your story and not know you as a person. My kids have no clue who Walt Disney is, but they identify with Disneyland, Walt's vision. Though Walt Disney is dead now, the vision is still alive and affecting many lives across the nations. It was recorded that 15 million people visited Disney Land Paris in 2009. (I will leave you to do the maths) We now have Disney resorts and parks not only in America but in Tokyo, Paris, and Hong Kong.

Vision also evolves; it's very progressive. He started with film production and as innovator in animation. His vision evolved and grew into theme parks, international fictional characters and a hotel business. In his life time, he received four honorary Academy Awards, won 22 Academy awards and 7 Emmy Awards. Your vision is more than what you can fulfil in your lifetime. It will outlive you.

Little Shifts:

1.That dream that you have, will it live long after you're gone?

2.If it won't, broaden your mind; don't be afraid to dream bigger.

April 18

Billion Dollar Idea

On getting to my hotel room on Easter Monday, exhausted and tired after 8 hours of driving, l logged onto the computer only to read the headlines on Yahoo! News, 'Facebook splashes out $1billion on Instragram.' I was shocked, amazed and interested to know how that happened.

Instragram is a mobile application that runs on iPhones, iPads and Android devices. It allows you to edit, improve your mobile pictures and share with friends and family. The application currently has over 30 million users on Apple's mobile system. What caught my attention about their story was that Instragram started only 15 months prior to Facebook splashing out $1billion on them. What a story! Mark Zuckerberg must have seen something that no one noticed. Bill Jones, founder and editor of Photo Argus said, 'The strength of Instragram is in its simplicity.'

What's that small (yet great) idea you have that you think is worth nothing? Instragram developed the mobile application and made it freely accessible to people. The number of registered users of this application attracted Facebook. Today, the founder and his seventeen-man team are $1billion richer.

You may be the next person with the $1billion big idea! The right idea with the right team is a winner any day.

Little Shifts:

1.Remember never to give up or consider your idea unimportant. It could change the world.

April 19

A Human Map

Something interesting and frustrating happened to me yesterday. I went to the Beijing Railway Station to request a train map as I planned my journey for today and there was only one window out of 80 serving English speaking customers. I joined the queue and waited patiently for my turn. Unfortunately, as the station staff realised that I wanted to be served in English, her attitude changed. 'Please, I need a train map' I asked her politely and calmly. 'No map, only ticket here' she said with an 'I can't help you' attitude, waving me aside to serve to the next customer.

Unfortunately for me, that was the only window that served English speaking customers. I tried another window and was referred back to her, the great 'Window 16'. I stood at the station helpless. I knew my destination; but only needed a map or an interpreter at that point.

Reflecting on this incident, I realised that many are in such situations in our lives. You know what you want, where you intend to go, how your future should look, a vision of a great future but you feel stuck! You need a map, and/or an interpreter to help you find your way. I encourage you today to look for someone who has done what you want to do or is experienced to help interpret or help you with your plan.

Trust me, I didn't give up, after 'merry-go-rounding' the station, I found someone who could help; he gave me a very small map, interpreted and planned my journey for me!

Little Shifts:

1.Do you know anyone who has done what you plan to do?

2.If you do, seek them out and ask their advice

April 20

God Is ...

Last weekend was not a good one in the world of football. An Italian footballer, Piermario Morosini 26 years old, had a cardiac arrest on the pitch while playing for Livorno. He was rushed to the hospital but later died. Something similar happened in London on March 17 when Fabrice Muamba, 24 years old, had a cardiac arrest. He received treatment on the field before being rushed to hospital.

It later came to light that Fabrice Muamba was effectively dead for 78 minutes while medics tried to restart his heart. The former England Under-21 international was given 15 electric shocks before his heart started beating again - two on the pitch, one in the tunnel, and another 12 in the ambulance. He has been discharged from the hospital. Similar situations, different results. And someone will tell me that God does not exist! This is clearly the hand of God at work. Muamba and his fiancée did not hide their faith in God. Even players (that don't believe in God) were all campaigning for prayer for him.

Two-weeks-ago, Dr Andrew Deaner, the cardiologist and Tottenham fan who leapt from his seat in the crowd and rushed on to the pitch to help the player, described Muamba's recovery as 'miraculous'. That's food for thought.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you perceive God?

2.Have you ever had an encounter that made you doubt God's presence or existence?

3.What can you do each day to remind the people around you that there is a God and show them the way to him?

April 21

Tourist Attraction

It seems each country has something unique to it; something tourists look forward to seeing anytime they visit. You can't say you have visited Paris, France without going to see the Eiffel Tower. As the Eiffel Tower is to Paris and the Tower Bridge is to London, so is Angel of the North to Newcastle.

As we visited the Eiffel Tower, I saw thousands of people queuing for almost an hour to get tickets to climb the tower. There is something unique and special about you, if developed and celebrated, that will make people appreciate the uniqueness in you. Just one value, skill, talent, story, attribute, message that is well developed! You don't need to dissipate energy to develop so many things. You can focus your energy on just one area that can launch you into your destiny, just like these tourist destinations.

Little Shifts:

1.What is your tourist attraction? What's unique about you?

2.If you have discovered it, spend time and resources developing it

April 22

What You Have To Do, Do Quickly

Many of us have fallen victim of the mirage of tomorrow. We put our trust in tomorrow and allow today to go by without any attempt to make the best of it. I have a piece of advice for you: 'Seize the day, put no trust in tomorrow.' (Horace).

Like the old saying, make hay while the sun shines. Let's cultivate the habit of maximising today and not waiting for 'tomorrow'. Pushing stuff till tomorrow saps energy and motivation from today.

Seizing the day will surely accumulate to an effective lifestyle. Stab the time killer in your life. Tomorrow is a promise, not a guarantee! Do what you have to do today. Make the phone call, the home visit, write the report, the business plan; take the training, the counsel and advice. Let's account for every tick of the clock.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you identified any time wasters in your life? List them

2.How do you think you can side-track them?

3.Procrastination can be overcome by developing a healthy work ethic. Just think: 'Would it be so bad if I do it right now?'

April 23

If It's Broken, Fix It

I saw a picture on Facebook over the Easter break that inspired a great message in my heart. It was a picture of an elderly couple walking together in a park holding hands. Someone asked them, 'how did you manage to stay together for 65 years?' The elderly woman smiled and answered, looking straight into her husband's eyes with genuine love, 'We are from a generation and time where if something is broken, we fix it not throw it away'. Hmmm, that's a simple but powerful lesson for so many things in life, not just for relationships.

We are too quick to throw things away in this generation. We don't have a repair culture. People who have a repair culture also have the maintenance culture. That's one great thing l like about the United Kingdom. They have a maintenance culture; you will see houses built in the 18th century still standing. Why? Because of maintenance. The roads are in good condition (except for Grafton Road in my neighbourhood!) because of their maintenance culture. They don't wait for potholes on the road before resurfacing. Every road resurfacing has a life span.

Let's learn from the old couple this morning; to fix and not to throw away easily (especially our relationships).

Little Shifts:

1.Do you give up on things or people easily?

2.We ourselves often require more than one second chance; be gracious and extend the same courtesy to others

3.If it's broken, repair, nurture, and maintain it. Then watch it spring back to life.

April 24

It Will Make You Free

There is nothing you can do to the truth! Many have attempted to silence or hide the truth. But in the process of time, the truth will always resurface; in our personal lives, nation, in anything. The truth is simple but powerful. It will always find its way out, will always prevail. The best thing to do is to align ourselves to the truth.

Emile Zola said something very powerful. He said, 'If you silence the truth and bury it underground, it will grow and gather such explosive power that the day it bursts through, it will blow up everything in its way.' How very true! I remember stories of politicians who covered up the truth about some past deed; in the process of time, the truth was revealed. There are countless stories of infidelity of celebrities and role models in our society! What was covered up, in the process of time, was uncovered. The truth cannot be buried; it's too powerful to be buried. I believe Tiger Woods would agree with Emile Zola's statement about the truth.

Don't let the truth destroy you. The truth is meant to set you free. Do what is right so you will not need to cover up your tracks.

Little Shifts:

1.The truth may not the popular or convenient. It may not even be the simple option, but it is always the best option. Always.

April 25

It's Not Over Until It's Over

I went to bed early yesterday so as to wake up about 2:30am (China time zone) to watch the Champion's League semi final match between Chelsea and Barcelona. Earlier in the day, someone asked my opinion about the match. I said Barcelona will win by 2-0 which will overturn one goal deficit from the first leg in London. I didn't think Chelsea could pull it off.

It was a match full of twists and turns; a silly action from the Chelsea captain earned him a red card. They were down to 10 men. At this point, I said, 'That's it. Game over! You guys have gifted Barcelona the final ticket.' Barcelona played 10-man Chelsea for almost sixty minutes without any breakthrough. Rather, Chelsea equalised their two earlier goals. This is the lesson: they knew they were short in numbers but they pulled together. The striker became a defender. The odds were against them. They knew people would have written them off at this point, but they didn't write themselves off just yet. They were willing to stretch it to the last whistle. They believed they could achieve the impossible.

You may be at a disadvantage right now, but don't write yourself off or give up just yet. Be determined and do your best. There is a just God that oversees the affairs of men. I must say the 'God of soccer' smiled on Chelsea yesterday. (I rejoice with Chelsea fans) He can smile on you as well and reward your toiling and hard work. Remember, it's not about the disadvantage, but what you believe can happen.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you at a disadvantage in any area of your life?

2.Remember: it is only when you stop trying that you have failed. Keep at it, don't give up

April 26

You Matter

Have you ever been in this situation before; you felt your contribution to an organisation or a group is not really needed or important? We assume sometimes our contribution is insignificant, just because we feel our task is not the core assignment or 'not that important.' Can you imagine if the little toes on your feet were missing? We sometimes feel what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But do you realise that the ocean would be less if the drop were missing? Think about it!

Your contribution to your organisation and family is important to their progress no matter how little or insignificant it seems. A cleaner in an office contributes positively to the overall success of that office. Whatever you do, put in your best; do it excellently. You never know who is watching. Can you imagine if Joseph did not put in the best in his 'servant assignment' and said, 'I'm not important, neither is my work. I'm just a servant in this house'

Well, that's something to think about. Your faithfulness in little assignments will lead you to your big break.

Little Shifts

1.Have you ever been or are you currently assigned to duties you consider insignificant or unimportant in the grand scheme of things?

2.'A single thread in a tapestry, adds up to the beauty of the grand design'. Whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your might.

April 27

Imagine

There are two dimensions in which we can operate in this world: Logic and Imagination. Albert Einstein said 'Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.' Imagination is a great weapon that businessmen, inventors and scientists deploy to achieve results. Imagination will help you to know what people will need in the next ten years, what could be the new trend in customer behaviour and thinking in two years' time.

We all have this incredible power of imagination but we all use it to different degrees and levels. It took a high level of imagination for Apple to come with the tablet series. That's looking into the future. You would be amazed at what's being prepared for the near future. Technology has revolutionised our world. Logic is simple and straight forward; imagination will always question the norm, tradition and introduce a new and better way.

Set your imagination free today and begin to enjoy the benefits.

Little Shifts:

1.Don't be afraid to set your mind free. The human brain and mind are capable of so much; put them to use today.

April 28

Role Model

You may be surprised to know that someone is modelling their life after yours; they want to be like you. Whatever you do will always have effects on others' lives. As a mentor, father, mother, brother, sister, leader, pastor, manager, coach, your life will affect people around you and those you lead.

Zig Ziglar said, 'Our actions and deeds affect other people, many of whom we will never know.' When I began to notice Oreofe shouting at her brother, Joshua, l realised that she must have learnt that from me. She would have assumed that shouting is the only way to get people to do what you want them to do or vent your anger. I had to consciously control myself and stop shouting when angry.

Whatever you do, someone is observing and copying, using you as an example. Don't be a negative example, rather be a positive one. Oreofe has picked up two good things from me too; reading and writing.

Have a great day full of positive actions; someone is looking up to you.

Little Shifts:

1.Whether you realise it or not, you are an example to someone; endeavour to leave good, clear examples to follow.

April 29

No Excuses

l learnt a lot during our family's short break in France. On the day we visited Eiffel Tower, we were just sitting by the park, enjoying nature and the kids having snacks. I saw a few people jogging round the park but to my amazement, l saw two elderly women jogging. I estimated the women to be in their late sixties, my wife even said early seventies! When I saw them the second time coming through to where we sat (they were jogging round the big park) I could not resist the urge to take a picture.

The reality is we don't have any excuse in life. If grandma is still jogging round the park, what is your excuse? This applies to every area of our lives. Divorce the spirit of excuses that has robbed you of many things in life. Kick yourself and walk in the unfamiliar terrain to get an unfamiliar result. You can achieve a lot if you dare try!

Little Shifts:

1.There will always be excuses or reasons why things won't work. The question is, will you get past them? Excuses are the tools of incompetence; stop using them.

April 30

Daddy Knows Best

I returned home on Saturday evening from my visit to China. I intended to stay 12 days but the airline decided to add another day for free (that's a story for another day). While I was waiting to catch my flight back to the UK, (I still had some Yuan – the Chinese currency - left with me) I saw a toy car that I knew my son, Joshua would love to have in his collection. Even as an adult, I loved the car; the sales advisor gave me a little demonstration at the airport. It has a remote control that can operate it from 50 metres away.

Joshua did not ask for the gift, but when I saw it, I knew he would love it, so l bought it. The bible says, '...If a father can give good gift to his children, not a serpent for bread, how much more your heavenly father in heaven?' There are so many things you wouldn't pray about, but God will bring your way because He knows it will be of great benefit to you, even if it is a 'challenge'.

When I finally got home from the airport, Joshua was asleep. He didn't have any idea that daddy bought him a nice gift. There are so many things God has brought into our life but we are not yet aware of them. So cheer up, when you wake up, you will see the good and perfect gift He has brought your way. Finally, one of Joshua's aunties who were around said, 'Oh, please don't give Joshua this toy tomorrow morning because he will be distracted and make a fuss about taking it to church.' That's so true. There are many things we have asked from God but haven't received because if we have them now, they could be distractions. He sometimes answers the prayer but delays the delivery. Your heavenly father knows what's best for you and He is always thinking about you.

Little Shifts:

1.We get anxious and we panic when God doesn't seem to be forthcoming or responding the way we want him to. Relax, he'll show up right on time.

May 1

Not How Much, But How Well

Happy New Month, it's the 5th Month of the year; time is ticking; wake up!

Many of us sometimes wait for or prefer to perform a big task. Because we feel, the bigger the task the better it is. What matters is not the size of the task, but how well we perform it, the quality delivered.

The biblical character, Joseph was fond of introducing excellence to every task given. If he was asked to sweep the floor, he would do it with a touch of excellence. If he was asked to cultivate the garden, excellence would be all over the garden when he was done. When he was in charge of the prisoners, a new order of excellence was introduced in the prison. Excellence can never be ignored! It will buy you an audience anywhere you find yourself.

I currently pastor a relatively small congregation, but we put a lot of effort and excellence in everything we do. We want to have impact beyond our locality. We will deploy all the tools excellently to achieve this goal.

Walt Disney said, 'Do what you do so well – and so uniquely – that people can't resist telling others about you.' Whatever you do today, irrespective of the size, do it excellently. It is the quality that will get attention, not the size.

Little Shifts:

1.Does the enormity or importance of a task determine how well you do it?

2.Be excellent in the small tasks; great things are only an accumulation of little things.

May 2

Goals and Plans

In the last few years, my goal in life has been clearer than ever before. I have a purpose to fulfil, and so do you. Every product is manufactured with a clear purpose to fulfil or a problem to solve. That's what initiated the process in the first place.

Brian Tracy gave clear and sound advice on goals and their achievements. He said, 'Be clear about your goal, but be flexible about the process of achieving it.' The first step is to be clear about what needs to be achieved: the goal. But most importantly, you need to be flexible and open about the method, process of achieving it. I had this idea of people receiving daily inspirational messages on their phones last year. I initially thought about developing a mobile application. But today, over two hundred friends, colleagues and family receive it daily via Blackberry messenger and Whatsapp.

Don't be rigid about the process. There are many available great ways to achieve your goal. Don't be close-minded.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you clear about your goal(s)?

2.List the ways you plan to achieve it/them

3.If things don't go as planned, be open to trying other methods

May 3

Be Consistent

One of the things that makes us ineffective in some areas of our lives is inconsistency. As a Christian, professional, business person, we will always come short of our true ability and potential if we are inconsistent. Joyce Meyer said, 'It's not the right things we do occasionally, rather it's the right things we do consistently that change our lives.' There is power in consistency. A little drop of water consistently falling over a period of time will fill a bucket. The drop on its own is insignificant, but when collected in a container, it becomes useful.

The 10-15 minutes daily exercise on its own may not have any significant change in your life but consistently over a period of six months will sure have burnt some calories for you. Let's apply this to every area of our lives. It is possible, if only you can restructure your activities. Introduce structure to your life and be disciplined.

Ask yourself, what are the right things l would like to engage in now consistently? Things that will move you closer to your purpose, to your peace and happiness in life.

Little Shifts:

1.Are there things you do inconsistently? List them

2.What can you do to foster consistency? Keeping at it will bring results.

May 4

Reason Outweighs Pain

There is nothing notable or worthwhile you want to achieve in life that will not require full commitment. You may encounter difficulty in the process, but what will keep you going will be the reason, the goal; why you really want to achieve it. For the joy and victory that was set before Jesus, He endured the cross. Believe me, the death on the cross was not a sweet experience at all. Even the build-up to the cross experience was full of unbearable pain. Why would he endure such pain? Because of the goal, reason and joy set before Him; to redeem humanity from the shackle of the evil one.

E. Joseph Cossman said, 'Obstacles are things a person sees when he takes his eyes off his goal.' When you shift your focus away from the goal, all you will see is the obstacles, and the pain of the process which will eventually lead to discouragement and disappointment. Always identify the reason why you are on the process. The reason must be strong enough to overcome the pains and difficulties on the way. Jesus almost turned back when he saw what he had to go through to save mankind. But the reason outweighed the pain.

Little Shifts:

1.Why do you do what you do? Have you identified the reasons for your goals?

2.The reason(s) will motivate you when the going gets tough

May 5

The Climb

Today is a landmark in my pursuit of Purpose and Significance; it's the day of the launch of my first book, 'Little Details Big Shift'. It has been a long time coming and finally, it's here. This will not be the last by God's Grace but just the beginning of a new journey. There are few other projects in the pipeline; I will keep you posted. Thank you for being part of the journey with me.

The late Nelson Mandela, the African Elder Statesman once said: 'After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.' No matter how many things you accomplish in life, there will always be another mile to cover. You can only get better as you reach for the next hill to climb. I love the lyrics of Miley Cyrus's song, 'The Climb' '...there's always gonna be another mountain...' Never stop pressing forward. There is still room for growth, increase your capacity for life and purpose.

We are living beings designed to grow and make new discoveries. A sign of growth in your life is when what you did yesterday no longer thrills you. Don't live on past glory; it's time to break new grounds, new revelations, and new business models.

Little Shifts:

1.There will always be something more to do, something more to achieve. Even if you've seen one to fruition, start something else. Never stop dreaming.

May 6

In Transit

The difference between your past and future depends on what you do during the transition. There is always a transition between the past and the future. The past could have been filled with disappointments, guilt, depression and low self-esteem, but the future can be the complete opposite. Everything depends on what happens during the transition. Many of us are in transit right now; everything we did or did not do counts.

The Past is where you learn the lesson, but the Future is where you apply it. So don't give up in the Middle as you transit through your present state.

We are too quick to forget the past and the lesson learnt from it. The lesson is to be applied to reach the desired future.   
Don't let the pain and disappointment of yesterday be for the 'fun' of it; rather profit from it. We have played the victim for too long. Things will not be the way they are unless you allow it.

Little Shifts:

1.Harrowing experiences of the past should not hold you down; you should rise from the ashes a different person. But now is the time, this is when the choices that produce the outcome are made. What are you doing with your lessons?

May 7

It Is For A Reason

One of the profound statements made by Steve Jobs was, 'Life is a series of unrelated events until we connect them.' How very true! What this means is that nothing happens by accident. You may not understand it right now, it may be painful right now; but it's probably the missing jigsaw piece in your puzzle.

I remember how l met my wife. She was in that town for just ten months. She came to study in my college but things did not work out and she had to leave. She was disappointed that she wasted her time and parents' resources, but life and destiny arranged that she would be in that town for a limited time just to meet the young man in her future. Nine years later, we got married.

Now she can connect the event to her life, purpose and destiny. The event at the time did not seem valuable, it was rather painful. Don't underestimate the event happening in your life right now. The value may be priceless in the near future.

Little Shifts

1.Have you ever had occurrences in your life that seemed insignificant at the time but turned out to be really important later?

2.Whatever you're going through now, live through it; God sometimes puts the pieces of our life's puzzle in the most unlikely places

May 8

Too Little, Too Soon

Have you ever been in a situation where your input was way greater than the output? You are putting so much effort on a project and the result is not a good reflection of your effort! The temptation is great to give it up and look for something else. Thomas Merton said, 'The biggest human temptation is to settle for too little.' I would like to add to the quote...settle for too little, too soon.

I read the story of Mr Darby, in 'Think and Grow Rich.' He bought a gold mine to dig and grow rich. The first car of Ore was mined and shipped to a smelter. The return proved they had one of the richest mines in Colorado. Down went the drills and the unexpected happened. The vein of gold ore disappeared. They had come to the end of the rainbow and the pot of gold had disappeared! In despair, he sold the lot to a 'junk' in the area.

The 'junk' sought professional advice on the project and engineering calculations confirmed that the gold ore/vein was just three feet from where Mr Darby and his team stopped. The 'junk' made millions from the field. Please don't quit too early; don't settle for little, too soon.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever quit something and later wished you hadn't?

2.Tenacity has its rewards; don't stop looking.

May 9

It's Your Responsibility

When someone carries out our responsibility or duties for us, it takes the pressure and stress off us. For some of us, the practise of waiting for someone to do what we should do ourselves has become a part of us. Taking responsibility is hard work, but it does reward greatly.

God has a plan for everyone living but we need to discover the plan. That's the only way we can benefit from it. Without the blueprint, His direction for your life will be meaningless. You will not be able to connect with the instructions or direction. God cannot direct you if you don't have a plan! Let me say that again. God cannot direct you if you don't have a plan! You have a part to play on your journey to destiny.

God has done His part, completed His before you were born. Seek to understand what you need to know and plan to work the plan.

Little Shifts

1.Do you usually wait for someone to do what you ought to do?

2.Even God won't move for you if you don't; get to work.

May 10

The Ideal Never Comes

What would you do if today was the ideal day you have been waiting for to start the business, family, course, new career, to start afresh?  
Guess what? The ideal day will never come! Sorry to disappoint you. Horatio Dresser said, 'The ideal never comes. Today is ideal for him who makes it so.' Today will be the ideal day if you make it. I believe in planning but most importantly, l believe in action. There are many business plans on the shelf today because of inaction.

Many multibillion dollar companies we see today, started from the basement, garage, dining table. I am currently working on an online venture, selling quality casual and executive shirts for men and women at an affordable price. Everything around me is not favourable to starting a new venture, but a seed has been planted; in few years, the brand will be across America, Europe and Africa.

Start what you have to start! The ideal day may not come; make today ideal for yourself.

Little Shifts:

1.How many ideas do you have that you think will do better if the conditions are just right?

2.List five ways in which you can start work on these ideas

3.Get to work

May 11

The Book and Its Author

Many of us have bought some books just because of the title, author or sometimes cover page design. You were drawn to the book because the design stood out. I once bought a book like that, The Simple Church; the cover page reflected the title, so simple and trendy. Thank God it was not a disappointment. A book will always tell the world its author's ideology and disposition to many things.

So you are as well. You are simply a book telling the world about your author. I believe everything about your life was written, fashioned and arranged in a book before you were born. God's thoughts, plans and purpose for your life are good: thoughts of peace, to get you to an expected end – the place of total fulfilment.

However, it will be difficult for you to fully maximise what has been written concerning you if you are not at peace with the author of your life. David, the psalmist said: 'l come in the volume of books that was written concerning me, to do your will, oh Lord.' I encourage you to renew your relationship with God; you don't have anything to lose but everything to gain.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you know your author? It's hard to reflect someone you don't know

2.Are you projecting the right image of our Lord?

May 12

'Hit-list'  
Accountability is one great value every sector and industry is looking for. It has become the top three in the hit-list of any sector. Everybody loves accountability but not everybody is accountable, answerable or responsible for their actions and deeds. Some believe it (accountability) will make them vulnerable and expose their weaknesses. We want to be praised and loved at all times. We are so wrong! Making ourselves accountable accords unusual respect and honour to us.

Many have abused the trust of their position. Corruption is at its peak in African countries today because there is little or no need for accountability and transparency. Joyce Meyer said, 'You can make yourself accountable, or you will be made accountable by the circumstances you create.' Whether as a leader of a company, organisation or even the leader of yourself, make accountability a priority in everything you do. Over time, you will be respected and promoted for your transparency, accountability and honesty.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you accountable and transparent?

2.How can you encourage accountability and honesty in your place of work or assignment?

May 13

What God Respects

Some of the greatest things about this world are the principles and laws that govern it. Irrespective of who you are, the law of gravity will apply. If you don't think so, try jumping from a 10-storey building. God have mercy! God, the creator of heaven and earth does not respect persons, but He respects principle. One such principles or laws is the law of sowing and reaping.

A small seed sown can become a forest in the process of time. This cuts across every aspect of life. Watch and be careful what you sow in life because the harvest is always much bigger! You will reap what you sow in a bigger portion. If you sow love, you will reap love in a bigger form. If you sow discord, hatred; you will reap it in good form. Pressed down, shaken together, running over - it will overtake your life.

I heard recently the story of a couple in London who showed an elderly woman kindness. She was crying, really disturbed by a busy city centre. Everyone was just passing by, minding their business (typical of the British).This couple stopped and helped her, ministered to her and took her to the nearest cafe for a cup of tea. They exchanged contact details. A few days later, the elderly woman called to thank them for their kindness and disclosed her identity. She confirmed that she is a mult-millionaire and pledged one million pounds at the start of each year to this couple. This will be credited into their account every 1st January. True life story! (This is the 21st century version of the 'who is your neighbour' parable in the bible).   
What are you sowing now? Whether good or bad, you will surely reap it in good measure.

Little Shifts:

1.What goes round comes round. Even though a return should not be our motivation for giving or living right, it's something to think about

May 14

Grow Slowly

One of the cultures l would like to know more about is the Chinese culture. Randomly, l read about them. Slowly but gradually, they are emerging as one of the world powers on the global stage. I read one of their numerous proverbs: 'Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still.' This, l believe must have propelled the incredible growth and progress their nation has experienced in the last 20 years. They have become a force in the economic and business world.

Ask yourself: when did you grow to this point in your life? You can't say precisely what day, because it was a daily and continuous growth. When Joshua, my son, was born, he was so small that l used to carry and hold him with one hand. The young man has grown now; I struggle to carry him for too long.

What you start or want to start, don't be afraid of growing slowly. There lies the opportunity to plan, prepare and sustain the growth. Desire and work towards growth in every area of your life every day. When you stop growing, you start dying gradually.

Little Shifts:

1.Ever heard the words 'Rome wasn't built in a day'? Well, nothing is ever built in a day; slow and steady always wins. Don't be afraid to start slow, make sure your foundation is right and tight.

2.Make little goals that are achievable in the short term, but make sure they build up to the fulfilment of the big picture

May 15

Stop Dreaming, Hammer Yourself

There are so many things in life that you need not pray for but work to get. You may pray for grace and strength; you will still need to DO what's required. One of the things I'm talking about is character! A great and uplifting virtue anyone should have. Henry David Thoreau said, 'You cannot dream yourself into a character; you must hammer and forge yourself one.'

There is no need to pray for character. Rather with all the resources and wisdom available, you work and develop it in your life. You can only build character in the face of situations and circumstances that will tempt you to compromise your standards, belief and values. Your stand will reflect in your decisions! You may choose to go against the flow, what's popular. Because being popular does not make it right.

Many lives have been wasted because of flowing with what's popular. It's not popular to keep yourself until you are married. In this 21st century, l know single ladies and guys who are not sexually active. It's a decision they are standing purposefully by. (You can call them or me 'old school,' it's okay). A man and woman of good and commendable character is trusted, respected and honoured in our world.

Little Shifts:

1.Waiting on God to magically do everything is laziness; the Bible says 'faith without works is dead'.

2.It is important to be true to yourself; crowd followers and people pleasers never do anything out of the ordinary. Don't be afraid to be different.

May 16

The Answer Behind 'No'

Life has a unique way of sending situations we are not prepared for our way. Life is not straight forward. There are many twists and turns on the way that make life interesting and full of adventures. We all love life when everything seems to be working perfectly well. Then life becomes undesirable when everywhere you step or look is filled with disappointment. It's all life. Publilius Syrus said, 'Anyone can hold the helm when the sea is calm.'

Life usually responds well to persistent people; those who refuse to take no for an answer. Generally, beyond the 'NO', there is always a 'Yes' if you look intensely, maybe in another direction or with another method. Life is not cruel! It may seem that way, but in reality, it is not! Embrace life positively; that's what you have. Seek God's help and make something good out of it. Life is too short to live it in bitterness, anger, guilt, disappointment and depression. Live real life. You can get it in Jesus. ...He came that you may have real life...

Little Shifts:

1.Do you turn back the minute you're turned down or told 'no'?

2.Only the aggressive get what they want out of life. Selah.

May 17

Know and Lead Yourself

I have realised that it's so easy to lead and direct every one other than yourself. The most difficult person to lead is YOU! You are a true leader if you can lead yourself. Lead yourself to do what you are supposed to do. We give ourselves excuses and cut ourselves too much slack. We want a comfortable, no-stress life.

I started 15 minutes daily jogging since 1st January this year. I made up my mind to disappoint inconsistency in my life. By February, I increased it to 20 minutes, March to 30minutes; now 40 minutes and l want to get it to 60 minutes by the end of the year. I need to lead myself if l want to be a true leader who can lead by example.

Lao Tzu said, 'Knowing others is intelligence. Knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength, mastering yourself is true power.' When you can master yourself, you will have true power to effect positive changes in your life and future. Enrol in a 'know yourself and lead yourself program'. That's where your effectiveness in life lies.

Little Shifts:

1.How well do you know yourself? Self-mastery is one of the most important keys to success.

2.If you have rule over your own soul, you are better than he who controls a city.

May 18

Jesus Saves

In the last few months, l have seen a series of documentaries on how lives have been transformed by the act of love and sharing the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. It is so remarkable to see a drug addict commit totally to Jesus; see a suicidal person change their mind about taking their life and give it back to God.

Please note this, 'Every saint has a past, every sinner has a future.' Yes, every saint you see today has a past; sometimes a horrible past of abuse, molestation, guilt, resentment, drugs and alcohol, insecurity, low self esteem, fear and anxiety, failure and depression. The most interesting part of the above statement is, '...every sinner has a future.' Irrespective of what you have done, or will yet do, you have a clear future waiting for you. Whatever you do today will determine whether you will live to enjoy the promised future, or not.

One of my favourite Bible stories is the one about Rahab, the harlot who became the great grandmother of Jesus. She negotiated herself into that great future. She was living a rough, sinful life and she knew it. When an opportunity arose to change her life, she grabbed it with both hands. She was prepared! Think about it. Never write off anyone just yet, remember your own story too. We all have a past and a future!

Little Shifts:

1.There is nothing unforgivable, no person irredeemable; no matter where you've been, there's sufficient mercy for every day.

2.We are only saved and separated by the grace of God, let us not look down our noses at people who don't have it right yet. Let us show them kindness and the way to the cross, just like we were shown.

3.How often do you share the gospel?

May 19

Keep Hope Alive

I remember the story of a young man in the bible. He was not that popular but his story is encouraging and challenging - you can be everything you can. You can turn rejection to a good thing in your life. This young man's name is Jepthah. He was the son of a harlot and his siblings drove him out of the house, never to have any part in their father's inheritance. All because he was born of a 'strange woman.'

This guy relocated to another city, but with a mission; to become a very strong and influential solder. Bertrand Russell said, 'Extreme hopes are born from extreme misery.' How true. The rejection fuelled the passion of that young man to make something out of his life. I guess he would have said to himself, 'I will not allow my background to affect my foreground'. Unfortunately for his siblings, enemies invaded their family and wanted to seize their inheritance. Guess who they called to help? Jepthah. They came begging for his help, asking him to be their captain, their team leader. What if he had made no attempt to invest in his life after the rejection?

Refuse to be defeated by rejection. You can turn it around for your good.

Little Shifts:

1.'When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.' Don't allow life's unpleasant situations to get you down and curled up in a corner in defeat. Get up and make the best that you can of your circumstances; things will turn around for you

May 20

Old Habits Die Hard

Many get frustrated when their quick fix, short term action is not getting rid of the habit they're trying to kick. You need to understand that you spent a while, maybe years developing that habit, so it will take more than just 4 weeks to fix it. You didn't gain weight overnight; you will not lose it overnight. Take any habit you practice, multiply it by 365 days, then multiply it by however long you have been involved.

You can break free from whatever bad habit you have built over the years but it will sure take time and it will require your commitment and consistency. You can't fix it within 4 weeks. I told you earlier in the year, a documentary l watched about a 31 year old American who weighed 650 pounds and lost 400 pounds within 6 years by regular exercise. Anything good takes time to build; don't be discouraged in the process. Enjoy the process because it will be worthwhile.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have any habit(s) you're trying to kick?

2.How long have you been on the road to rehabilitation and how is it going?

3.The key is to not give up. Keep at it and you will win.

May 21

Changed, Not Reduced

Many things will happen in the course of our lifetime that will change us, change our perspectives, change our outlook on life, change our career paths, change our beliefs, change where we live, how we live and who we live with. But in the midst of it, there is a tendency that these happenings may affect our self esteem. When you lose your job, when you're jilted and disappointed by your spouse, when you lose your home... These have the potential to make you feel low and inadequate. But remember, those events should not define you.

Maya Angelou, the American poet said, 'I can be changed by what happens to me, but l refuse to be reduced by it'. Change, yes, but refuse to be reduced by what happened to you. Never allow anything to reduce your values or self-esteem. Yes, l messed up, but there is a future ahead if only l can step out of the mess and get help to clean it up. Never allow anything to reduce your dignity and confidence in life. Many things have happened to me and my family that aimed to reduce us, but we are so determined to get back up!

Never allow people or your situation to look down on you. Lift up your head from the ashes and ruins and forge a new journey. Life is not over until God says it is over.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things that have happened and have changed you, for better or worse

2.You are not your circumstance; keep your head up.

May 22

Slow But Steady

I enjoy watching marathons and long distance races: five thousand meters, ten thousand meters. A slow but consistent pace is required. There was a dramatic finish in the ten thousand race at the just concluded athletic competition in South Korea. Mo Farah led the race all through until the last fifty meters when he was overtaken by another athlete. It was unbelievable.

Steve Farrar, the author of Finishing Strong (a book I recommend to any one serious about life, purpose and destiny) said, 'Life is a marathon. Long races don't require speed. They require grit, determination, and finishing power.' You may feel as though your mates are way ahead and they have left you behind. I have good news for you; the race of life has not ended yet. There is a popular saying, 'slow and steady wins the race'

Life is not about the speed, but consistency. You may think you are slow but as long as you are consistent, you will win the race of life.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever felt left behind?

2.Remember that it is not how long or how fast; it's how well. Move at God's pace and you'll get to his desired end for you, slow and steady.

May 23

The Night Season

Who would have believed or imagined that the dark night would ever lighten up? There is a time and season for every purpose. No matter how dark the night, somehow the sun rises once again and all shadows are chased away.

We may find ourselves in different situations in life where we don't see a way of escape. I have been there, where it seems as if everything has been taken away from you: your peace, joy, happiness, family, vision and dream. At this point, you will feel helpless and without motivation to live. That's the night season. I know of a great helper in such seasons; He's a very present help in times of trouble. He gives songs in the night season. When there is no reason to sing, He gives you a song. When there is no reason to dance, He gives you a reason. He is God, the creator of heaven and earth. He is the restorer of life, soul, mind and body.

I challenge you today to give him a chance to restore you not to where you were, but where you should be in His plan for your life. Though weeping may endure for a night, joy comes in the morning.

Little Shifts:

1.'No matter where we've been, and no matter how dark has been the night scene, there's always a morning for us who believe...' Are you in a 'night season'? Try Jesus; what more do you have to lose?

May 24

The Gift of Goodbye

People come into our lives for different reasons. We have a responsibility to discover the purpose why we met them. Without this understanding, we will be disappointed when they let us down. Each person on a London bus has a different bus stop. Some will get off on the way; few will get to the final bus stop/destination with the bus. Our lives sometimes are like buses; learn the gift of goodbye.

When you look back later, you will thank God that you lost that job; you would not have gotten your dream job or business if you still had it. You'll be thankful for the people who disappointed you, because they help you appreciate the people who will be there for you, in good times and bad. Those are friends that want to get to the final bus stop with you. Don't dwell on those who let you down, cherish those who hold you up. Cherish them today! Send them a text and appreciate them for holding you up, when you did not believe in yourself anymore, when you didn't have hope for tomorrow. That's someone worth cherishing today.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you identified the short term and long term people in your life?

2.Bishop Jakes says: 'When people want to walk away from you, let them walk.'

3.Appreciate the people who stay.

May 25

'Thank You' Day

Do you think about people who have supported you on your journey in life? Today may just be an opportunity to call such people and thank them for their support. Tell someone how much you appreciate their support in your life. None of us got to where we are today on our own. Many have come into your life as friends, family members, colleagues and neighbours. Some have left good memories and some left bad memories with us.

You may even need to call someone that jilted and betrayed you to say thank you, because if they had not disappointed you, you would not have met the right person for you. Remember the person that gave you your first job, first opportunity, first platform. Give them a call or send an email today. Send someone a thank you card.

I just want to say thanks to you, for allowing me to always be part of your day. You gave me a platform to be a blessing.

Little Shifts:

1.The bad helps us value and appreciate the good. Be thankful for everyone who has, one way or another, brought you where you are today.

May 26

Contentment  
I visited the Philippines last October on a mission to visit our church in one of the cities. It was a long trip, almost 24 hours; it was my first time travelling to Asia and we had a stop-over at Hong Kong. Lovely airport!

On arrival at Manilla, my host and his team were very happy to see me. It took another 2 hours to get to our final destination. The level of poverty in this part is very high but one thing I noticed was their contentment and happiness. They don't have luxury, but they are very happy people. I can't forget the happy faces (genuinely happy faces) that greeted me everywhere l went.

Frederick Keonig said, 'We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognising and appreciating what we do have.' If you are not happy before you get what you want, there is no guarantee that it will make you happy. If your happiness is based on things, when it's taken away, you will be the most miserable person. Be happy with yourself and where you are today.

Little Shifts:

1.Happiness is fleeting and circumstantial. But joy, joy arises from a content heart that is settled and at peace in the fact that no matter what life brings, no matter what it has or does not have, God is on its side, and His promises are yes and amen.

2.Pray for a joyful heart

May 27

How To Love

I have realised that what you don't have, you cannot give. No matter how hard you try! You can only give what you have, out of what you have, out of your depth. There are many things you can't fake in life. Its either you've got it or not. Such is God and Love.

Joyce Meyer said in one of her teachings, 'Love is not something God does, it is who He is.' God is love. That's why He gave His only begotten son to die in our place even when we didn't deserve to be loved or rescued from the pain and anguish of this hell. Love is not love until it is expressed in action. God is love and He wants to teach you how to love genuinely without expecting anything back.

If you want to learn how to love your wife or husband or children more, learn from love Himself, God.

Little Shifts:

1.God is the true source and model of love and life; His is the way.

May 28

It Takes Time

I read the story of Tommy Hilfiger last year. The brand was sold for a record price of $1 billion after twenty-five years of building it to a world known and respected brand. It all started like a dream, a vision to build a very strong brand in the fashion world. He achieved it, but it took time to build.

Every good thing takes time to build. Joseph Ross said, 'It takes time to succeed because success is merely the natural reward of taking time to do anything well.' Whatever good you want in life, it will take time to build. Don't be discouraged if you are not seeing the dividend of your labour just yet. This has encouraged me on my new venture to build a brand that will be well known in 5-10 years time across America, Europe and Africa. It will take time, determination, innovation and, of course, focus!

Continue to invest on that good cause; it's a matter of time. You will see the fruit soon. Up your commitment to the building process; the dividend and reward is always greater than what you put into it.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you investing in some projects that aren't yielding yet?

2.Tenacity and hard work are a winning combination; keep at it

May 29

You Are What You Eat

I was listening to one of my mentors' weekly broadcast this morning and he said, 'You are as strong as what you eat'. This is true literally and figuratively. Many of us see documentaries and charity organisation adverts on television soliciting for donations to feed children in Africa and third world countries. The pictures are always quite disturbing, showing weak and very sick children. Just because they are not getting the required dietary needs.

This is true of our personal development, spiritual, emotional and intellectual life. You cannot grow beyond what you feed yourself. What you don't feed will sure starve, stop growing and start dying. Feed whichever area of your life you desire growth and strength in. It will be a deliberate action not automatic.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you taking time to nourish yourself? And not just physically

2.What are you feeding on? You will produce what you ingest.

May 30

You Change Things Not Time

There is this philosophy in life that time will tell, or with time, things will change. But a friend, Akin Awolaja said recently, 'Time changes nothing; people do.' That's profound! It is not time that changes those situations but people around the situation. Giving your marriage and relationship time does mean, with time you or your partner will realise some things and make some changes that will ultimately alter the circumstance.

In the process of time, things happen, people change! Time will always present an opportunity to change things around. Work on that marriage in the process of time. Work on your health in the process of time. Work on your career and get the necessary training required in the process of time. That's how time changes things!

Little Shifts:

1.Is there anything you've left to time to solve?

2.Time passes, but if you don't take action, things will remain the same. You make the change; it's in your hands.

May 31

Money Cannot Make You Rich

Many attribute poverty to lack of money. Unfortunately, money cannot break the yoke of poverty. Poverty is a mind-set! Even if you have all the money in this world but have a poverty mentality, you will remain poor for the rest of your life. This will reflect in how you manage and what you spend your money on.

Harry Kemp gave a good description of a poor man; 'The poor man is not he who is without a cent, but he who is without a dream.'

Have you not heard of stories of people who won millions in the national lottery in the past, but today they are broke, battered and of course poor. Money can never make you rich! Having the right mind-set, exposition and resources will make your life rich. Don't pursue riches, but work to make your life to be rich. They are two different things. I will leave you to think about it.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you poor?

2.Poverty is not curable by riches, but by a renewal of the mind

June 1

What is Your Reason?

If someone were to ask you why you studied that course or married that lady, would you be able to answer without hesitation or doubt? Having a strong reason is always a great motivator in life. When you are discouraged, you can take courage and encouragement from the reason, it will spur you back into action.

Bev James, managing director of the Coaching Academy said, 'It is not where you begin, but why you begin that matters.' There is always a 'why' for every action. David was sent innocently by his father to check on his brothers at the battle front. Unfortunately, in the last 40 days of the battle, a giant had been harassing the Israelite army and everyone, including all the generals, had gone into hiding. David overheard the boasting of the giant, seeking a man to face him in close battle.

Unusual dissatisfaction grew within him and he volunteered to fight the giant. His brother tried to stop him but he responded: 'is there no cause?' He was saying 'If you are not tired of hiding and running, I'm tired; this does not represent our God well.' What is your strong reason? Go for it.

Little Shifts:

1.Why do you do what you do?

2.Your reason will keep you going when it gets rocky

June 2

Forgivers Unite

One of the defining moments in one's life is the day you get married. There are so many things that transpire that day, especially relating to purpose and destiny. Marriage is good but full of challenges. But the good news is that you can overcome all the thorns in the beautiful garden of love and marriage.

Ruth Bell Graham, wife of the renowned evangelist, Billy Graham said, 'A good marriage is the union of two good forgivers.' If you don't have the spirit of forgiveness, marriage is not for you. You will hurt yourself and your partner and if you don't know how to forgive, you will be the most miserable person. No matter how much you love each other, at some point you will be offended or feel offended, offend your partner; it's part of the process. You are not perfect and neither is your partner.

Your relationship/marriage is more important than the issue. Learn to protect your relationship. Your disagreement should not affect the relationship! You can be together forever, if you are willing to forgive. Like Jesus advised; you will forgive 70x7 times a day! That's 490 times. Be a forgiver!

Little Shifts:

1.Do you find it hard to forgive?

2.Remember that the relationship is more important than the problem; fix it.

June 3

Work Your Mind

Every day is not just an opportunity to live and improve or start all over again, it also presents opportunities to advance in your pursuit of purpose and business. Some are trained and paid to identify opportunities, those things an average person cannot see. Being able to offer solutions to a prevalent problem is a great opportunity for business. Unfortunately, we all run away from problems that could turn out as opportunities.

Robert Kiyosaki, author of 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' said, 'Great opportunities are not seen with your eyes. They are seen with your mind.' A well trained and developed mind will see and identify what the natural eyes cannot see. In the biblical story of Joseph, with his developed mind, he identified the king's dream to be a national issue and it presented a great opportunity. He positioned himself well to seize the opportunity even though he was not qualified to serve at that level. As a matter of fact, the position was created for that sole purpose; it did not exist before he interpreted the dream. Work and develop your mind to identify opportunities.

Little Shifts:

1.There are opportunities all around you, problems that require solutions. Train your mind to identify opportunities.

June 4

Are You Successful?

I am currently working on a project on the subject of success. In my own opinion, success is overrated. Many have gotten into serious mess/trouble all in the name of the pursuit of success. There are so many 'successful' but miserable people, they are unfulfilled and empty. Success is not money; money is just one of the by-products of success. Success is so much more than the money in your bank account. For me, success is total package. Not just one area. Success is not a champion in one area and a big failure in others.

Success is balance and balance is success. Success is true life fulfilment. You are not a true success if a generation cannot feel your impact, no matter how small or insignificant you think it might be. You will find true success when you major and focus on your purpose in life. Nelson Mandela believed in justice, equality and freedom. He may not have been the richest man in South Africa, but he is a true example of success. He fought for what he believed in; he did not waiver on his conviction. Many have reached a point where they can say they are 'successful', but cannot find balance for their life and family. That's not success, please don't pursue such a narrow view of success.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you measure success?

2.Is your success taking you away from your family or God?

3.Success is not lacking or deficient in any area; fix up any broken areas on your life

June 5

Positive Response

One of the greatest signs of freedom is in your ability to choose how to respond to situations and circumstances. Many times, you will not be blamed for what happened to you but how you responded. Our environment and world have conditioned our minds to respond in a certain way when certain things happen. For example, if you receive a letter of rejection; 'Sorry you were not successful on this occasion,' it's not stated in the letter that you should be depressed and unhappy about it. Our minds have been conditioned by our world to respond that way.

It is your response that takes away your joy, happiness and sanity not what happened to you. Show me a man that is happy and l will show you a man that has learnt to respond differently when bad things happen. A very wealthy man from the ancient east nations, Job, lost everything he had ever worked and lived for in just one day; the successful business and ten children. The Bible tells us that Job bowed and worshipped God when his servants brought the bad tidings to him! What a way to release the pain and anguish in your soul. Your emotion is your choice! You can relate with it better in 21st century. Can you imagine Richard Branson, the Virgin entrepreneur lost all his ventures, I mean everything in one day! How do you think he would respond? If you were Richard, how would you respond? It's tough!

Let's learn the art of positive response in all situations. Your response will determine what will happen next. Have a great day.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you respond to life's curve balls?

2.Though it seems difficult, you can choose to look on the bright side, you can choose not to give up or stop fighting. It is possible.

June 6

The Speech Centre

Dr David Cho, the pastor of the largest church in the world, was having lunch with one of the renowned neurosurgeons in Seoul, South Korea a few years ago. The doctor said they recently had a breakthrough in a research about the speech centre and nerves. With great enthusiasm, he said, 'the speech centre on the right side of the brain controls all the nerves of the body. The nervous system responds automatically to whatever instructions are given by the speech centre.' Dr Cho said calmly, 'I knew that'. 'How?' the surgeon asked in amazement. Doctor Cho replied, 'Doctor James, one of writers of the books of the Bible said that over 2000 years ago...'Death and life are in the power of tongue.''

Your tongue (the voice of the speech centre) can produce life or death, fear or faith, weakness or strength, guilt or freedom. What are you telling your nervous system today? Learn to speak life irrespective of your situation. Words are great material that many have used to recreate their worlds and designed the life they desired. You can do that by speaking the Word of Life and see your nervous system carry out your instructions.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you given to foul language or idle talk?

2.Everything around you responds to words, including yourself. Speak positive things into the atmosphere, speak positive things about yourself.

June 7

Conviction

It is always useful to have a conviction as to why you do what you do. I'm talking about having a reason, a strong reason. My strong reason for taking time out to write this daily blog is because l want to be a blessing to my generation. I believe these words are helping someone to have a fresh perspective, a fresh start and motivation to fulfil purpose. My strong reason for the daily blog is purpose. This is my drive.

Please, don't excuse yourself from progress; create reasons why you must succeed. Human minds work more effectively when there is something to relate to as reference point. Create a strong reference point and see your mind, thoughts and actions work in harmony. After a great accomplishment, create a reason to break new grounds. Never stop making progress.

Little Shifts:

1.As said earlier, your reason will keep you going when it gets tough. Create a reason. A strong reason.

June 8

The Mind Garden

I remember when we first moved to our house few years ago; a lovely, well maintained small house. The only 'challenge' at the time was the rear garden. It was kept low before we moved in. I guess because of our background, we were not gardening enthusiasts and we left it uncultivated. It overgrew over time and became a little jungle. Some of the weeds were as tall as l am. Eventually, we called in builders and redesigned it to become a more maintainable garden.

The human mind is just like that. Like a garden, the human mind should be properly cultivated. Otherwise, weeds will grow. The weeds and unwanted stuff will make the mind undesirable, unproductive and dormant. Cultivate your mind with the right and positive words, information and discoveries. Expose it to possibility thinking. You are first defeated in your mind before you are defeated physically. There is a battle in every realm to take control of your mind. Like the quote says; 'However or whatever controls your mind will ultimately control your life.

Don't allow unwanted stuff to take root in your mind. Make every effort to cultivate your mind.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you tend to your mind? List three things you do to enrich your mind daily

2.If you're going to be outstanding, it starts in your mind. 'Be not conformed...but be transformed by the renewal of your mind...'

June 9

Be Prepared

Jesus, in his teaching ministry while he was here on earth, shared simple stories and parables to teach values, virtues or principles. One such story he shared was that of the ten virgins who were waiting to meet the bridegroom. Unfortunately, the guy did not show up at the time they estimated in their plan. While waiting, they all fell asleep. Waiting can be very tiring! So many thoughts bombard your mind while waiting; will it work out, will it not? Will he marry me, will he not? Such exercise drains your strength.

In the process of waiting, five of the virgins ran out of oil for their lamps and had to leave the scene to go and get oil. While away, the awaited bridegroom showed up. I guess the other five, before they came thought, 'This guy may be late, let's prepare for the worst case scenario.' They had extra oil with them to use if the existing supply ran out.

Life generally is not straightforward. Our plans don't necessarily turn out exactly the way we expect. In our plans, we need to always make provision for unforeseen circumstances or situations that may be out of our control. I learnt this in a bitter way in business. There are so many things you can't control that will have huge impacts on your life, career, business... Make provision. Don't be caught unawares! What impact is technology having on your job? You need to be one step ahead at all time. Computers are fast replacing cashiers at supermarkets. That's sending signals to cashiers currently employed at supermarkets. What's happening in your own career path now? Think about it.

Little Shifts:

1.What do you do to keep yourself informed and on top of your game where your career is concerned? List them

2.How do you keep yourself prepared for unforeseen circumstances?

June 10

Total Obedience

One of the challenges of Christian living is complete obedience to God's instructions and admonitions. As far as God is concerned, He can accomplish great things with you, but you need to trust Him enough to obey and carry out His instruction. The proof of trust is belief and total obedience; 100% and nothing less!

Joyce Meyer said, 'Hear what others have to say, but listen to God.' I wish the great patriarch Moses had the opportunity to listen to this great advice. He was a man who spoke to God face to face. This reflects his close relationship with God. Unfortunately, he allowed what people (the Israelites, his followers) did to affect the implementation of God's instruction. This cost him not only his life, but also the dream of stepping into the Promised Land. Can you imagine if the director who delivered all the Olympic facilities (that were used during the 2012 summer Olympics games in London) suddenly died, a few days before the opening ceremony? That's exactly what happened to Moses. He laboured tirelessly to lead the children of Israel to the Promised Land, but He didn't enter it.

It's good to listen to what other people have to say, but be sure you are doing what God instructs you to do. Have a great day.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you totally obedient to God's instructions or do you choose which ones you want to abide by?

2.Do you listen to the voice of man over God's?

3.Do you grumble and complain about your leaders? Even though the leaders (as with us all) can choose how to respond to situations, do not be a stumbling block.

June 11

Smile!

Sometime in March this year, my wife was on the internet and she stumbled upon a picture documentary of Victoria Beckham: 'The Changing Faces of Victoria'. I am not a big fan, but l love the way she refused to give up her family even in the face of apparent unfaithfulness from her husband and huge media pressure.   
Anyway, my wife made a comment that struck a chord within me. She said, 'Oh Victoria has lost her smile' That caught my attention and l viewed the pictures as well. She was such a lively, smiley lady before. But now, it's always a cold face! A smile is a language everybody understands; it costs nothing but creates much. Irrespective of where you are or travel to in the world, everybody understands the 'Smile language'. You don't need an interpreter for that. If you meet a friend without a smile, give him one of yours.

'Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.' - Leo Buscaglia. Don't underestimate the power of your smile. Your smile is connected to your heart and emotion. A smile reduces pressure and stress in your life (that's my submission/prescription, as 'Dr Wole')

Little Shifts:

1.How often do you smile? It takes more muscles to frown than it does to smile.

2.A simple smile can turn someone's day around and light up a spark of hope; smile at someone today.

June 12

Finish What You Started

I wonder why our minds sometimes don't concentrate on one thing for long. We are easily distracted. This happens to me; I could be focused on my to-do-list for the day and all of a sudden remember that I need to send an email. That will lead to many things I didn't plan to do. One of the ways I've been able to deal with that is by writing down what l remember and dealing with things based on their level of priority after I finish what I've started. Let's learn to be finishers; push yourself, be hard on yourself. I can identify with you. Sometimes it can be a struggle if it's not a task you really enjoy.

Alexander Graham Bell said, 'Concentrate all your thoughts upon the work at hand. The sun's rays do not burn until brought to a focus'. Let's learn to cut out or minimise unnecessary distraction so we can enjoy the benefit of concentration on the job at hand.

Little Shifts:

1.Jumping from one task to another may make you seem busy, but leaving tasks unfinished does not show discipline. Prioritize, make a list and stick with it.

June 13

Me Time

I'd like to ask you a question this morning: are you truly living or just getting by? Margaret Fuller said, 'Men, for the sake of getting a living, forget to live.' This is a true reflection of most of us today. We are consumed with getting a living (which, by the way, is a good start) but forget to truly live. Nothing can give you fulfilment in life outside your purpose; what you are created to fulfil. Every product is created to solve a problem and that's where fulfilment lies.

The pressure of the society, career, and family can be so overwhelming that you hardly spend time with yourself (your 'ME' time). This time is key in discovering and reassessing your priority on what really matters. While pursing getting a living, I encourage you to create a workable system for you to live a fulfilling life. (You have to discover what gives you fulfilment)

This is one of the things that gives me fulfilment in life; you reading this short blog. That I can contribute just a little on your life's journey, inspire you to do more, be a better person.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you spend time with yourself? How much time do you spend alone?

2.Find something that gives you fulfilment and start doing it.

June 14

Cherish Moments

Some months ago, my wife and l were talking about when it was just the two of us. What we enjoyed, the memories! We also remembered when Ofy was born; the growth process, how cute and adorable she was (she is still cute and adorable, except she likes to play the big sister now). These are moments you can't afford to miss as parents; seeing your kids grow up. I can't imagine how my mummy felt watching me grow from a baby to a toddler to a boy, through teenage years and the day when I eventually I became a father.

Sometimes, you will never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory. Let us learn to cherish each moment in our life. Enjoy your singlehood now before it becomes a memory. Enjoy those moments spent with family. Every moment is special, cherish it! Can you just take a moment, take a deep breath and just enjoy the moment because it will not last forever.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you present? Do you have moments with your family?

2.Memories can't be traded for anything; create some with the ones you love.

June 15

Only the Strong Forgive

I'd like to share a thought with us today about forgiveness. Sometimes, or most times (I'm just trying to be honest) to forgive can be very hard and difficult. Have you ever heard this phrase before: 'I can't ever forgive him for what he did to me'? I know you have. You may have even said it before. Well, this is it. I understand that what happened was awful and terrible. But you can't continue to live your life like that. You are doing yourself a favour when you forgive. It's not about the other person but you.

See what Mahatma Gandhi said about forgiveness: 'The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.' You may need to step up and be strong. Not to forgive is a reflection that you are weak physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. It is you who needs help, not the person that offended you. You can be strong and let go. You forgive when you remember what happened and you don't feel any resentment, pain, guilt or disappointment towards the person or the circumstance. I encourage you to seek help and support if you need to. You need to learn the art of forgiveness.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you holding a grudge against someone or some people for what they did to you?

2.How does it make you feel to know that your grudge doesn't do anything to them? Doesn't remove a hair from their head?

3.Again, forgiveness is more for you than it is for the offender. Let it go.

June 16

Character Vs. Reputation

Most times we are very protective of our reputation and we overlook our character. Your reputation is what people think you are but your character is who you really are! Reputation can be coated and misrepresented but there is no way you can hide your character. It's a matter of time; just like a habit, it will display itself unconsciously, without any effort on your part really. Stop building your reputation; rather work and develop your character.

Abraham Lincoln said, 'Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it, the tree is the real thing.' You can get to the top by your charisma and your reputation, but you will need character to stay at the top. It's easier to climb to the top than it is to stay at the top. It's easier to get married than it is to stay married faithfully. (You know what I'm talking about)

It's easier to achieve your dream than it is to stay consistent and faithful living your dream. Let's invest in character building because that's who we really are. Character development always involves a choice, and temptation provides that opportunity.

Little Shifts:

1.Character keeps you in the places where charisma takes you. Character is like smoke; you can't cover it up for long. Work on who you really are

June 17

Criticism

There is something that some of us don't necessarily like. And no matter your position or profession in life, you need to develop yourself to accept it or see it in the light of what it's meant to achieve if it was delivered in good heart. Most times, we assume it's an attack on our personality. I'm talking about criticism. There is good (constructive) criticism and bad (destructive) criticism. Constructive criticism is meant to make us better, produce a better and ideal result.

Frank A Clark said, 'Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish a man's growth without destroying his roots.' Criticism has the potential to encourage growth or destroy it, depending on how and in what circumstance it was delivered. Let's cultivate not just the habit of criticising, but offering positive feedback or possible options to consider. Don't just identify the weakest link in the project, offer possible options available that can work better. Don't be critical in nature; learn to see the good in everything.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you critical of things/people? Criticism works best, that is produces desired results when it is delivered constructively

2.Do you cringe at the slightest criticism? You need to learn to sieve advice; take the good and ditch the bad. That way, you'll be better for it

June 18

Dream Again

Every day we live, we grow physically and every other area of our lives should follow suit. I believe we should and can grow into our dreams. They may seem unattainable right now, but with determination and the Grace of God, you can achieve your dream. Having a clear picture of the dream is a step in the right direction. We need to grow to the person in that picture.

However, there is danger when our yesterday seems to be better than our present state. Ike Reighard said, 'The day our memories become larger than our dreams is the day our soul begins to shrink.' You may need to dream another dream if your life's dream has been accomplished already. There is no room for complacency! Everything around us today is progressing, our life, dream and vision should not be an exception. It's a danger to live in past glory! There are new glories ahead, if you dare try. Dream another dream!

Little Shifts:

1.Have you achieved your life's dream?

2.Write down three new ventures you can start

3.You will never get to a point where it's okay to stop dreaming

June 19

Take Charge

When God created the first man, he gave him a responsibility. He gave him the responsibility of looking after the garden and managing it. He gave him his first assignment: to name all the animals. He was training the first man to take charge and be responsible for his actions and decisions. Being responsible or taking responsibility is a great virtue everyone should aspire to develop and maintain.

Les Brown, an international speaker said, 'Accept responsibility for your life. Know that it is you who will get you where you want to go, no one else.' You have a responsibility to yourself and if you fail in this, life will take charge and offer you whatever it deems fit. Tell yourself, 'this is my life, I will take charge of it'. You probably need to repeat it over and over again until it becomes real in your spirit.

Little Shifts:

1.How are you taking responsibility for your life?

2.Remember: life owes you nothing, and no one will hand anything to you on a platter; you have to work.

June 20

Take Responsibility

One of my favourite preachers was preaching and he said something in passing and l was stuck with the phrase for days. He said four simple yet powerful words that can change your thinking and mentality about what happened or will happen to you. They will cause you to step back and think again before you say a word about what just happened to you. Okay, enough with the suspense, this is the phrase: 'To blame is lame.' That hurts because most of us have blamed someone or something at one time or another for our situation.

This is the truth: when you blame others, you give up your power to change. Stuff will happen in life and you can choose to take responsibility, not to let the stuff define your life. Don't disarm yourself by stepping into the blaming world. It's easy and convenient. I will rather advise that you step up and stay in the 'take responsibility world' which will overcome whatever the real world throws at you. You are not a victim, so don't play one.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you play the blame game?

2.Taking responsibility enables you to effect a change quickly, learn and grow.

June 21

Possibility

Sometimes we need to be careful what we consider impossible in life. Records are being broken every day. Previously considered impossible feats are achieved by men and women who choose to see the possibility: 'How can it be done?', rather than accept impossibilities, let it spur us into an adventure of discovery.

Always remember, every great achievement was once considered impossible. So think about that before you consider giving up or conceding to impossibility. How can a lady that weighs 430 pound lose 228 pounds within 12 months by just exercising? Positive and possibility thinking! This is my conclusion: no mission or task is impossible, it could be difficult, but difficulty is a million miles away from impossibility.

That vision/dream is not impossible. I dare you to try and invest yourself in it. It may take a while, but you will be amazed at what you can achieve if you can stay on it as long as it takes.

Little Shifts:

1.Your thoughts rule your life; if you think it's possible, then it will be. If you think it's impossible, it will be.

June 22

A Worthy Example

A child is likely to follow his parents' lifestyle or career path. The area I live in is majorly populated with tradesmen. Ninety percent of the kids' dreams are to be tradesmen like their fathers (and that's okay). As grown-ups, many things we do today: behaviour, habits, personality, and thinking are shaped by our parents. It's more likely for a child whose parent smokes to develop the habit. I saw the other day a mother sharing a cigarette with her son. How interesting!

This is my advice to parents: live like you want your child to. You will be amazed by how your actions and inactions mould the life of your kids. Give them the best example at home before they are exposed to this world of different standards. A strong foundation will help them confront the pressure of this world and not be victims of the system.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you noticed traits from you that your children have picked up?

2.Do you live the 'Do as I say, but don't do as I do' kind of life?

3.The best way to make a lasting impression on a young heart, to teach them values is to live them out.

June 23

'Comparing Themselves to Themselves...'

One of the most dangerous yet subtle activities most of us engage in is comparing ourselves with another person or comparing someone close to you with another person. It is a very dangerous thing to do. We don't consider it dangerous because there is no immediate negative impact, so we feel it's okay.

Why should you not compare yourself to others? Because your journey is different from theirs. Your purpose is different from theirs. Your background is different from theirs. Your exposure and level of maturity is different from theirs. Your life is different from theirs. Please love and embrace YOU.

You feel like a failure because you keep comparing yourself to others. You always feel inadequate because you compare yourself to others.

You may be surprised to know that someone somewhere admires and craves the life that you are not happy with. Be original! You can never be good at being someone's shadow or copy. An original copy will always stand out of many copies. When you see it, you know.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you compare yourself to others? Do you use others as a yardstick for success or fulfilment?

2.Do you compare your children or employees to others? Doing that breeds envy and bruises self-esteem.

3.The Preacher says '...When they...compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding and behave unwisely.'

June 24

I Am Sorry

I believe half of the divorces that have occurred in this world could have been stopped if the people involved knew and understood the power of these three words: I am sorry. Especially if these words are truly said from the heart. Sometimes, people take each other for granted in different kinds of relationships. We are bound to offend each other. But we should not lose sight of the love, the reason why we are together in the first place.

You'd be surprised how far the words 'I am sorry' can go. Please, apologising does not mean you are wrong and the other person is right; apologising says that you value the relationship more than your ego.   
Also, it's a sign of maturity and respect. Saying you are sorry does not reduce your value, but accords respect and increases your value. Don't allow your ego or people's opinions destroy the relationship you have taken years to build. Reach out today; add those words to your daily vocabulary.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you find it easy or difficult to apologise?

2.Why do you find it either easy or difficult?

3.Apologizing can save everyone a lot of drama and heartache When you apologise, you are the 'bigger' person

June 25

Procrastination Vs. Patience

There is a thin line between patience and procrastination, and that thin line is action. Action is king! There is no negotiation about it. Many hide under the guise of patience when in reality, they are procrastinating. Patience is not passive but active; while waiting, you are active, doing something. You are implementing action plans, yet waiting for favourable results.

Procrastination on the other hand is passive with no action or motivation at all. Procrastination is no action, expecting a miracle! It could be the fear of the result you are likely to get or the energy and concentration required for the task. It is a 'silent cancer' that has the potential to steal, kill and destroy your dream, purpose and destiny. Get rid of its small cells before they become full blown; it can threaten the life of the future.

A dear sister once told me, 'I promise, no more procrastination after tomorrow'. It's very subtle and harmless initially. Until the impact is fully grown, you will not know what has been destroyed in the process. Ask yourself, are you truly waiting actively (patience) or are you just procrastinating?

Little Shifts

1.Can you tell the difference between procrastination and patience?

2.Which one are you doing?

3.If you are procrastinating, what action can you take to prevent it?

June 26

Life and The People In It

Life is very funny and you need to understand it. Otherwise, you will always be offended. I was listening to a preacher sometime ago (I don't remember who it was) and he said:

'When you are small, people ignore you. When you are growing, people criticise you. When you are big, people resent you'.

This is a true picture of what to expect in this life. When you are small, a 'nobody in your corner' (by the way, you are somebody) training, developing and disciplining yourself, no one will notice or talk about you. No one knows me today, or gives a toss about me. This is my small stage! When you begin to grow based on the seeds of sacrifice you have made over time, you will be criticised and described as an 'overnight success.' There is nothing like that. And eventually, when you are fully matured and big, you will be resented. You will have a lot of haters.

Put these in the right perspective and you will never be offended or put their words to heart.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you in any of these stages and have you experienced any of these reactions?

2.How did you respond?

3.It's not about what people think; it was never about them. Keep your eyes on the prize and keep moving forward.

June 27

Learning Is Fun

There is the popular saying: 'practice makes perfect.' The more times you try something over and over again, the better you get at it.

The fact that you tried and did not succeed at the first few attempts does not mean you cannot pull it off. I want to encourage you to develop this mindset about everything you do in life. I am not a natural writer or good story teller, but over time, I have and l am still developing the skill to be a very good writer, story teller and author. I know I still make mistakes or find it difficult to find the right words to express myself, but I know I will get there in the place of practice and coaching.

You can learn a new skill, it will only take your willingness, determination and of course your hunger to learn.

Little Shifts:

1.How hungry are you for knowledge?

2.Is there a skill you wish you acquire but you feel as if you may not be great at it?

3.Maybe some people are born with talent, but so what? Some other people worked hard and acquired the skill. Whatever you want to do, as long as you set your mind to it, you can do.

June 28

Attitude

William James, the father of American psychology and a trained physician said, 'The greatest revolution of our generation is the discovery that human beings, by changing the inner attitudes of their minds, can change the outer aspects of their lives.' A radical change or shift in our inner mind and thoughts will cause a radical change in our physical/outer life. Our mind was formed and developed by our background, environment and exposure. However, there may be a need to un-learn and relearn some basic values and principles. There will be a need to renew your mind with the word of TRUTH that will ultimately affect your mind positively.

W. Clement Stone, the American businessman who built a multibillion dollar insurance company said, 'There is little difference in people, but that little difference makes the big difference. The little difference is attitude.' Shape your attitude, you shape your future. No one can be successful with a bad attitude. Make the right choices and right adjustments.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever heard the statement 'Your attitude determines your altitude'? It's true; your attitude determines how far you reach in life.

June 29

Improvement

I have a question for you this morning: what or where is the largest room in the entire world? You may want to check the Guinness Book of Records, but the answer is not farfetched. The largest room in the world is the room for improvement. It may seem funny, but it's true. The room for improvement is never full, even if you just underwent a major improvement in your life. The room has a unique way of increasing its capacity to accommodate more improvement.

The day we stop improving, we start to deteriorate. Improvement is maintenance, reviewing and updating. It's all crucial in our lives. One great thing I appreciate about the British culture is their maintenance culture. My house was built in the 1930s and it's still strong and beautiful. Why? Because of improvement and maintenance over the years. There are so many listed castles and manor houses across the country built in the 18th century and that are still standing and used for good cause. Encourage this room in your life; you will be glad you did. Have a great day.

Little Shifts:

1.There is always room to do better, no matter how well you're doing in your life. Are you on point on your goal list? There's something to do better

June 30

Stick With It

A dear friend spent one year in Nigeria, Africa after living in the UK for over ten years. Amongst her many observations, she said this: 'It has become normal practise for married men to have extra-marital affairs and most married ladies have also accepted it as normal for their husbands to have relationships outside their marriage.' This is crazy! I am not surprised because abnormal things have been accepted as normal and what should be normal as strange. If you choose not to participate in bribery and corruption, you will be seen as strange and alien.

I've always said this, because it's popular does not make it right and acceptable. Ana Alas said, 'A true man does not need to romance a different girl every night, a true man romances the same girl for the rest of her life.' That makes you a true, real man. Be a man and stick with your choice. Stop comparing your wife to other women and make her your best. This also goes for the ladies. Let's make this world a better place to live.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you conform to the norms of society? Do things just because 'it's the way it's done around here'?

2.You can stand out, decide to be upright and stick with your decision. It may not be enjoyable or popular, but you will come out favoured in the end.

July 1

Second Half Prediction

I don't need to remind you that this is the beginning of the second half of the year. Six months have gone by already in the year. You really need to sit down and reassess and evaluate this year. Don't allow this year to go just like the previous years. You can do something different. The good news is that you can start focusing your effort from today. I love football; the drama, the skills, the tension, the surprises! Never be deceived by the score line in the first half. The match is not won or over until the referee blows the final whistle.

I remember a match between Arsenal and Tottenham in the premiership league. Arsenal (my team, by the way) was 4-2 up and four injury minutes were added to the full ninety minutes. Every Arsenal fan believed we had won the match, but surprisingly, Tottenham scored two goals within four minutes to draw and pick a point from that match.

Nothing might have happened in the last six months (first half), but you can change the score board. It will require your determination, resilience, focus and hard work. Robert Louis Stevenson said, 'Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.' Sow some hard work into this second half so that at the end of the year, you can truly celebrate yourself and the Grace and Mercy of God.

Little Shifts:

1.How has your year been so far?

2.How are you faring on your goal list?

3.There's still room to make good on your resolutions

July 2

Life Happens To Everyone

It's so easy to stick with or be a friend to people when things are going on smoothly. You would only know your true friends when you are down and almost out, when there is nothing you can offer them. Instead, they are giving. True friendship and lasting relationships are for life; looking out for each other in joy, pain, sorrow, fear, disappointment, victory and celebration.

The truth is, your best friends can leave you when you need them most, your wife or husband can decide to leave because he/she can't tolerate your short comings anymore. But there is a person I know that will always be there with you and in you if you have a relationship with him. He will never give up on you or me. He is God, the father of all creation but not saviour of all. Your relationship with Him is what determines whether he's your saviour or not.

People seem to have zero tolerance for failures and shortcomings, forgetting that life can happen to anyone. Life happens to everyone! We fall down and we get up. Many have not been able to get up back on their feet because of how friends and relatives have treated them. Remember: the wealthy business man from the ancient nation in the East, Job; his friends made him more miserable after he lost everything in a day. He could not find support or succour in them. You can be a lifting friend; it might be your turn tomorrow!

Little Shifts:

1.Are you a true friend or a fair weather friend? You sow what you reap; if you help people when they're down, you will receive help when you fall.

July 3

World Record Holder?

In the last seventy-two hours, three time Olympic champion, Usain Bolt has been beaten twice by training partner Yohan Blake in the 100m and 200m finals at the Jamaican Olympic trials in Kingston. This came as a shock to many athletic fans all over the world. It's always easier getting to the top than staying there. There is no room for complacency at the top or you lose your cutting edge. You cannot afford to relax on your efforts or else you will be overtaken and left behind.

Whether you are aware or not, someone somewhere is training really hard to take your spot. This story should encourage those who are training to take over at the top and those currently at the top. No one is undefeatable. Never believe that no one can do it better than you. Two-time Wimbledon champion, Rafael Nadal, world number two, was handed a shock second-round defeat by world number one hundred Lukas Rosol in a five-set thriller in the 2012 Wimbledon tennis championship. Number one seed Maria Sharapova was knocked out in straight sets by fifteenth seed Sabine Lisicki also. No effort will ever go unrewarded if you do not give up.

Keep up your effort to be better because there is always a pay day.

Little Shifts:

1.How are you training for your next level?

2.Luck is a combination of opportunity and competency. Keep putting in the effort. The opportunity will present itself.

July 4

Rich, But Poor

Two friends came to spend some days with my family few months ago; it was a nice fellowship time together. We had discussions, arguments, debates, we encouraged one another and of course watched different movies together, from American movies to African Mount Zion movies.

During one of our discussions, one of our friends said he had a friend that made a statement. I couldn't but ponder on the mindset of anyone that would make such a statement. It was a reflection of a shallow-mind, pride and immaturity. Guess you are wondering, 'So what's the statement?' Here it is: My friend's friend said, 'I can't deal with poor people.' Well, what a statement! She was fortunate enough to be born into a rich family. But she didn't understand the benefit and purpose of God's resources. Some people are so poor that the only thing they have is money.

You can have so much money and 'riches' in the sight of men, but still be very poor. Money will not solve the problem of poverty in someone's life. That lady just expressed how poor she was, and how she had been raised in poverty. Don't be rich and still be poor! Change your mind set about God's resources at your disposal. You are blessed to be a blessing, an extension of God's hand.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you treat the poor and less privileged? With disdain or kindness?

2.There is nothing you have that you were not given. And even if tides don't turn, you will have to answer to the Lord of both rich and poor. You were blessed to be a blessing.

July 5

Where Were You?

I remember the popular story of someone walking by the beach with God. He saw two sets of footprints; his and God's, but at some point, he started to see only one set of footprints. When he queried God about where God was at the time of just one footprint pattern, God said 'I was carrying you.'

When you are going through something hard and wonder where God is, remember the teacher is always quiet during a test. You may not feel him around you, but He is working in you. He will always create a situation in your life to show you a revelation. You need to be sick to know the true revelation of the healing power of Jehovah Ralpha. Your heart needs to be troubled to discover the true revelation of his peace, Shalom.  
God is aware of where you are today and most importantly, where you will be tomorrow, ten years, twenty years' time. Embrace His love in the difficult times. It may be painful, but it is necessary!

Little Shifts:

1.Are you going through a tough time where it seems as though God is absent?

2.He promises in his word that he will never leave or forsake us. He cannot lie, so hold on to the promise of his presence.

July 6

I Can Never Eat Grass!

One of the greatest things you can do for yourself in life is to know who you are, what you stand for and your value. Early in the year l shared the story of eagles with you, I said that they don't eat dead things; it's their life's standard.

I saw a picture somewhere where the king of the jungle had this to say: 'No matter the economy of the jungle, l can never eat grass. It's not pride, it's just who l am.' The lion has confidence in something: its strength and ability to provide its daily needs. Its unusual strength is a strong point and it always plays on its known strengths. Until you are able to determine who you are and what you stand for, everything that comes your way will appeal to you. If you are single and don't have a clear direction, every lady you come across or guy that approaches you will appeal to you. You should know that not everyone can be your wife or husband if indeed you know where you are going. Stop gambling with your life and future.

You will be respected and appreciated for your standard in life. Remember the lion, no matter what, it will not eat grass. Grass may be ideal for some other animal but not the lion.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you find just anything acceptable? Do you just go with the flow? This may be an indication that you have no direction.

2.Do you have a clear map of where you're headed?

July 7

The Big Breaks in the Small Things

The core message of my first book, 'Little Details Big Shift' is giving intensive attention to those little details of life that can eventually cause a massive shift in our lives, from your daily activities to your monthly schedule through to your yearly agenda. Mike Murdock puts it this way: 'The secret of your future is hidden in your daily routine.'

Many of us are waiting for the big breaks but the big break is in the little, seemingly insignificant breaks that we have every day. Whatever you want to be doing on a bigger scale, you need to be a master of it on a small scale. No success comes overnight! You must try the principles, techniques and methods in secret where nobody knows, hears or notices you. The big platforms only introduce to the world what you have been doing behind the curtain. That's what happens at the boxing rings; they showcase your training regime and skills. The big things are really about doing the small things well, daily and consistently.

Let's focus more on getting results each day. These accumulate over time to something big. Achieve something today that will contribute positively to your purpose, no matter how small.

Little Shifts:

1.Identify what you want to accomplish this year, and do one little thing every day that brings you closer to your goal. Success doesn't come overnight; it is a result of several days of doing the little things consistently.

July 8

Shake it off and Take a Step up.

I want to share a story a dear friend sent to me few months ago. Some of us might have read it before:

One day, a farmer's donkey fell into a well. The animal cried pitifully for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do. Finally, he decided the animal was old, and the well needed to be covered up anyway; there was no point in trying to retrieve the donkey. He invited all his neighbours to come over and help him. They all grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well.

At first, the donkey realised what was happening and cried horribly. Then, to everyone's amazement he quieted down. A few shovel loads later, the farmer finally looked down the well. He was astonished at what he saw. With each shovel of dirt that hit his back, the donkey was doing something amazing. He would shake it off and take a step up. As the farmer's neighbours continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up.

Pretty soon, everyone was amazed as the donkey stepped up over the edge of the well and happily trotted off! What's the lesson in this story? Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of our troubles is a stepping stone. We can get out of the deepest wells just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake it off and take a step up.

Little Shifts:

1.Use your problems and hard times life presents to you as stepping stones to success. Don't sit down and play victim, get up and make your situation work

July 9

A Simple Question

I want you to ask yourself a question, be sincere with yourself. Look inward and think before you answer the question. This has nothing to do with the superficial but the core of your life. This is the question: are you truly happy? This question is so simple, yet loaded. Are you happy with the quality of your life? Are you happy with where you are in life? Are you happy with your relationship with your spouse, parents or children?

The sign of unhappiness in any of the above could be that what you have is not measuring up to your expectation. You expect more, or you prefer something else. Take out time to reflect on the true cause of your unhappiness. What can you say truly is the reason for your unhappiness? You need to identify and seek help to deal with it. Life is too short to live most of it unhappy. You will not be doing yourself any favours doing so.

Little Shifts:

Amongst many things you can seek to find true and lasting happiness, please add this to your list:

1.Free your heart from hatred - forgive.

2.Free your mind from worries

3.Live simply and appreciate what you have

4.Give more

5.Expect less from people but more from God

July 10

Don't Pull the Trigger!

Sometimes, there are things we do in life that we don't think are wrong, especially when we believe it is right in our opinion or judgement. I'm guilty of this as well; sorry to disappoint you. I am not a saint! I am a project under construction in God's hand.

I would like to share with you Eric Hoffer's statement: 'Rudeness is the weak man's imitation of strength.' I want to argue and say not in all cases. My wife says to me several on occasions that I do sound rude on the phone when speaking to call centre customer service advisors. Maybe it's just me, but they can be annoying some times.

This does not excuse my rudeness (but seriously, it gets your queries dealt with promptly. I don't do it intentionally, but I just get frustrated with their narrow mindedness). Mr. Hoffer's statement puts me in a right perspective today. It is my imitation of strength, showing off my weakness as a person. I have serious work to do, to be calm yet assertive in such situations.

Definitely, I need to work on it. This may be a surprise to some who know me to be very polite, respectful and nice. I guess the Call Centre guys always press the wrong button with me. Let us work on areas that get us easily frustrated and becoming rude in the process. What triggers your rudeness and how have you managed to overcome it?

Little Shifts:

1.If it has been pointed out to you that something is not right, accept and work on it; don't insist that you know better or your reasons are valid

July 11

'I Just Became a Deeper Reader'

I read the story of Maya Angelou recently and I was really inspired and challenged. As an author, poet and speaker, Maya Angelou has shined a light on a world of prejudice, injustice and poverty unfamiliar to many Americans. She said in one of her books, 'If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude.' Her life story was a reflection of that statement.

Following a childhood of struggle and sorrow, including rape at the age of seven, Angelou was an unmarried seventeen-year-old when she gave birth to a son. But motherhood was the impetus for achievement. 'To improve myself and him and his life, I studied. I began to really be careful about what I was doing and how well I was doing it. I had always been a reader—I just became a DEEPER READER. I made a bee path to the libraries. I educated myself because I wanted him to have some answers. That was the greatest single impact on my life.' She said.

If you can't change where life has taken you, change your attitude and reproduce something worthwhile out of it. Remember, there is always a message in the mess.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you in a place or situation that you don't like?

2.Have you tried to get out of it and could not?

3.Decide to see it for what it truly is; a training ground for higher heights.

July 12

We All Need a Coach

I truly enjoyed the just-concluded Wimbledon 2012 games. I enjoyed the drama, emotions, new faces, and the twists and turns the two weeks brought to us. There were world-class skills and talents on display across the different categories.

These are some of the lessons I learnt from the tournament:

1. Your hard work, consistency, tenacity, sacrifice and belief will pay off one day if you don't give up. Andy Murray dreamt of playing in a Wimbledon final. The dream became a reality and he had to work harder, not just to play in the finals, but to win.

2. We all need a coach. All the players have great skills and talent, yet they still had coaches that worked with them, challenged them, helped them dig deep and brought out the best in them. If we are truly serious about winning some trophies in our lives, we need to engage coaches who can work and walk with us unto greatness and significance.

3. Never throw in the towel too soon. I have seen players who were down two sets but came back to win the match three-sets-to-two. Don't let your mistakes get to you. Focus on your strength and work it.

4. Don't bother much about the level of support you have. Some players were not popular or necessarily liked by the crowd but they still got the job done - they got on with the match and did well.

5. Enjoy the moment. It's your life. If you missed it, don't worry, there is another serve to make up for the miss. If you are knocked out, there is another Wimbledon next year. Just use the next 365 days to be better than you are now. Well, I'm on a search for two coaches in two areas of my life. What about you?.

July 14

What's the Driving Force?

For anything to move, there must be a driving force. Nothing will move from its state of rest unless force is applied (Newton's Law). In life, we get to a point where it will take a strong driving force to keep us moving or motivated! That's the reason that drives your life. We all need such a force. You need to have a strong reason that caused you to enrol on that course or else you may want to back out when you can't cope with the stress of assignment/project and family life.

The biblical character, David, a teenager at the time, was sent by his father to check on his brothers at the battle front. What he met at the battle ground was discouraging and disheartening. So, he volunteered to fight with the captain of the enemy. Even though he was not trained formally as a soldier, the driving force for him was to wipe away the shame and reproach of his people. He believed he served a big God that couldn't be limited or insulted.

Little Shifts:

1.What's your driving force? What's your strong reason?

2.Please develop one if you don't have it. It will come in handy in the near future.

July 15

Life: Trust Fund

Life is a gift; a privilege, not a right. You are here because God chose you to be, whether you believe in Him or not. You owe your life to your maker and creator. Life on earth is a TRUST; entrusted to your care and management. You will surely give account of what you did with the life you were given.

The more God gives you, the more responsible he expects you to be. God does not waste His resources. You were given to be an extension of His hand. You will be accountable, not just to God, but also to people around you. Your life is a TRUST; don't jeopardise the process! There are generations that have been selected to benefit from you as a TRUST, like a child's Trust Fund. Don't disappoint or let them down. That's how important the life you were given is. Someone somewhere, a generation you don't know, is counting on you to fulfil your life's purpose because theirs is linked to yours. What would have happened if Joseph in the bible didn't fulfil his purpose? A whole generation would have been wiped out! Think about it.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you live your life recklessly, as though it's yours and yours alone?

2.How can you prepare your life for those in the future, whose destinies are tied to yours?

July 16

So Close, Yet Far Away

A young man connected with me some months back and complained about how far God was from him. He said, 'I can't hear His voice, He seems so far away from me.' God was so close, yet far away. The truth is, we are the ones far from God; He is always near and available to develop an intimate relationship with us. When you love someone, you spend time with them and endeavour to speak to them every day. All these small actions reaffirm that you love and care about the person.

That's exactly what God wants to do. He wants to show His love to us like never before. He wants and values your relationship. The irony of the matter is, we are the ones to benefit from the relationship. Yet we are too busy to connect. You are as close to God as you choose to be. An intimate relationship with God is a choice, not an accident.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have a relationship with God?

2.If you do, how is it? If you don't, do you desire one with him?

3.How are you working on your relationship? Do you spend time with him? Do you long to be in his presence?

July 17

Life is About Relationships!

Relationships on every level are vital and key to our well being. I am a product of series of good and bad relationships. So are you. Sometimes, it's the relationships you have invested in over the years that will sustain and support you through difficult seasons of life. Gary Smalley said, 'Life is in relationships; the rest is just details.' That's very true. It is in the fine-tuning of the details that we offend ourselves, get disappointed and jilted.

Please note this: relationships are always worth restoring. Reconciliation focuses on the relationship, while resolution focuses on the problem. Let's learn and encourage reconciliation across many broken relationships. You can never live as an island, unless you are dead. Reach out to someone and reconcile that relationship.

Little Shifts:

1.Is there a relationship in your life that needs mending?

2.What steps can you take today to bridge the gap?

3.Remember: if God wanted you to live by yourself, he'd have put you on a solitary planet. Life is in relationships

July 18

Give, and It Will Come Back

Our world is governed by principles. Irrespective of your belief or background, the principles will work for you as long as you fulfil all the requirements. One of these principles is giving. The truth is: you can't have what you never gave! In every part of your life, whatever you give, you will receive back to your life in bigger measures. Whatever it is, give and see it come back to your life.

If you want love, give and show love and kindness to someone. If you desire people to help you, sow seeds of help along your journey and when you need help, many will rise up to help you. Ruth, a young lady in the bible showed unusual kindness to her mother-in-law and it was no surprise that a man was willing to go an extra mile to help her when she got to a new territory.

Always remember, whatever you sow in life you will reap in bigger measures, whether good or evil.

Little Shifts:

1.What seeds are you sowing?

2.The golden rule remains: 'Do to others as you would that they should do to you.'

July 19

Inside Out

I have noticed that we pay more attention to our outward appearance than any other thing. I appreciate that, because looking good is serious, good business. Go ask Mary Kay, she would confirm that. But I have an issue with a situation where people are more concerned with their outward life than the inward. The outward is what people see but that's not the totality of who you are. Your real YOU is the man or woman hidden behind the body.

What happens outwardly in your life is not as important as what happens inside you. I want to encourage you to invest in your real YOU. It's okay to buy new clothes and cosmetics but please don't leave your real YOU out of the investment. You can never lose out on investment in the real you. Clothes will wear out and go out of vogue, cosmetics will finish, but the investment in the real YOU will produce great dividends for you in near future. Think about it.

Little Shifts:

1.How much do you spend grooming the real you?

2.Get your priorities right; people may see your physical appearance first, but the physical effect will wear off after a few minutes.

July 20

I Want a Better Phone

I remember a time when l wanted to upgrade my mobile phone (the service provider offered the opportunity to pick three phones and compare their functionalities). Based on that, I could decide which phone best suited my personality or purpose. Indirectly, this is what we do sometimes in life. For example, you might find that you pick two of your friends and compare their lives to yours. This is an unhealthy exercise to do or engage in.

Most times we lose sight of what God has done in our lives - His blessings - and concentrate on what He is doing in another person's life. And before you know it, unconsciously you have set the table of comparison in your heart, ticking and erasing. Most times, the exercise ends up in envy. You prefer your friend's life.

Harold Coffin said, 'Envy is the art of counting the other fellow's blessings instead of your own.' Learn to count your blessings, and appreciate God for what He has done in the lives of your friends. It should be a point of reference for what He is capable of when you are in tune with Him. Your life is special to God and He will create your best life ever but He needs your cooperation on this task. Are you ready to work with Him?

Little Shifts:

1.Make a list of all that you asked God for this year

2.Tick off the ones He has granted

3.Make another list, of all that you didn't ask for but received. You have more than enough reasons to be content, thankful and trusting.

July 21

The Small Powerhouse

Can you imagine, as big as airports are, the operations (of landing and take-off) of aircrafts are controlled from small control towers. Planes can only land or take off when given the permission by the tower.

Our lives are no exception. We are largely controlled by our minds. You are firstly defeated in your mind before you are defeated physically. Rick Warren, pastor and author of Purpose Driven Life and Church books said, 'The battle for sin is won or lost in your mind. Whatever gets your attention will get you.' The battlefield of the mind can be very subtle, simple and decisive. When you are able to win the battle in the mind, you are on your way to winning the battle of life.

Nothing just happens. You didn't get into bed with another woman or man that you are not married to by accident! You lost the battle for control of your flesh and its lust over a period of time. Think about it. Whatever it is, we lost the control or battle in the subconscious but played out the actual drama physically. We think temptation lies around us, but it begins within us. If you didn't have the internal desire, the temptation would not have attracted you. Temptation always starts in your mind, not in circumstances. You will never outgrow temptation. It's not a sin to be tempted.

I pray for you, for grace to stand in the face of temptation and take control of your mind.

Little Shifts:

1.What does your mind dwell on? What manner of thoughts do you entertain? The Bible commands us to guard our hearts with all diligence, because that is the source of life.

July 22

Can't Talk About It

In life, sometimes in a bid to take control of what's going haywire, we complicate matters. In such moments, we tend to be vulnerable and very protective and we don't want to be seen as weak or inadequate amongst friends. We do not seek help or talk to someone about it. Please note this: Whatever you can't talk about is already out of control in your life.

Revealing your feelings and fears to the right people who can help, support and counsel you is the beginning of healing. Most times, we need a fresh mind and fresh insight, something different from the mind that created the problem. Problems grow in the dark and become bigger and bigger, but when exposed to the light of truth, they shrink. You don't have to walk this journey alone. I believe there is someone somewhere who will be willing to walk this journey with you.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you share your problems or are you afraid of being vulnerable? People who are secure in themselves are not afraid to be vulnerable

2.A problem shared may not be solved, but a listening ear takes some of the burden off your mind

July 23

Everything Is Beautiful In its Time

As human beings, we naturally expect some things to happen at certain times or stages in life. If those things don't happen, we begin to panic and loved ones begin to ask questions that we may not have answers to. For example, as a lady, in many cultures, you are expected to get married before the age of thirty. If that doesn't happen, questions will begin to fly at you from everywhere. This of course, usually causes unnecessary pressure that could be avoided if purpose and timing were understood.

God is never in a hurry, but he is always on time. When God wants to make a mushroom, he does it overnight, but when he wants to make a giant oak, he takes a hundred years. That's why He is God. He does and makes things happen based on purpose. He will always be on time in your life. You may think that you have missed out, but your time is yet to come, based on purpose.

Prophet Kim Clement said, 'Everything in its own time is beautiful; everything outside its time is ugly.' Don't go ahead of God or your purpose. Remember, God is never in a hurry, but he is always on time.

Little Shifts:

1.Make a list of all your expectations that you have become anxious about

2.Commit them to God in prayer, and ask for a patient and trusting spirit.

July 24

I've Gone Too Far

I've travelled a lot within the UK, and mostly driven. It can be very annoying when you discover you've been travelling in a wrong direction. Thank God for GPS systems. Even sometimes with them, you still miss your turning but the system will redirect you to the right route.

Speed is not an advantage when you are moving in the wrong direction; no matter your speed, you will never get to your desired destination. Maybe you are currently cruising on a high speed down a wrong route, and you know it. You lie to yourself and say, 'I've gone too far, l can't turn back.' Please listen to me; you are better off being late to your desired destination than getting to an undesired destination that will make you miserable for the rest of your life. You know the guy is not right for you but you are saying, 'Oh where am l going to start from if I leave him?' Wake up and smell the future. Stop falling for that lie. You have deceived yourself for too long. A broken courtship is better than a broken marriage.

Slow down, pull over to the hard shoulder, chart a new route to your destination and set out slowly and gradually until you gather enough momentum to speed off. Safe journey and l will see you when you get there.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you doing something that you know is wrong for you, but have refused to stop because of the fear of starting all over?

2.There's so much to enjoy in life; you cannot settle or be miserable. You can still make that turn around.

July 25

The Finished Work

You were uniquely created and fashioned by God. Your finger print is different and only unique to you. With over 7 billion people in this world, no one has a similar print to you, so you can't be mistaken for another person. Unfortunately, some of us would like to be somebody else. You can learn from them, but trying to be like them is an error and a slap on the finished work of your creator.

'What you are is God's gift to you; what you do with yourself is your gift to God.' - Danish proverb. Your uniqueness and personality is God's gift to you. However what you do with what you have will be a gift to God and humanity. Many have used their gift to make this world a better place to live in and put smiles on faces of thousands.

You are complete. Stop looking for completeness from elsewhere. Live the life you have been given; invest, build and manifest this great life you have the privilege to live. You will not have another life to live. This is it! Make the most of it.

Little Shifts:

1.List 3 things that are unique about you

2.Have you learnt to embrace and celebrate your uniqueness?

3.God made you the way you are for His purpose; thank him for it.

July 26

Everything is Around You!

Have you ever heard this statement, 'Everything you need is around you'? I bet you have heard it over and over again and sometimes, you ask, 'So where are they, if everything l need is around me? Where is the job, the financial breakthrough, the peace of mind, the happiness in my relationship, the business? Where? Let me help you today; this is it. Everything you need to be what you want to be is around you; it's the truth.

The person you need to meet will not be born tomorrow; the person is in existence already. What you need is already provided; you just need to discover them - the million-dollar idea, Mrs. Charming, the well-paid job, etc. Do you know that there are some positions that you will never see advertised? They're by referral. I read Richard Branson's book, Business Stripped Bare. He talked about someone he asked to come and see him in his house in London. He had always thought the man worked for his company because he always had sound ideas, only for Branson to realise the man was not even employed by Virgin. There and then, standing in his pyjamas, Branson He offered him a job and agreed they on a package and title for the position - some international strategy title.

J. Earl Shoaff said, 'Life never, ever withholds anything from anyone. All things exist in infinite abundance.' The resources will never run dry. There is more wealth around you now than you can handle. You need to open your eyes!

Little Shifts:

1.Pray that God will open your eyes to see opportunities around you, and the things that pertain to your peace, purpose and prosperity.

July 27

Failed, Yet Succeeded

A lot of people believe that failure cannot be associated with success. But unfortunately, l have not seen anyone successful in anything in life that has not failed at least once in that area. Michael Jordan said he failed so many times and that's why he succeeded. If you have a zero level tolerance for failure, you are not ready to succeed in life. I had my own share as an entrepreneur and l can tell you it can be very discouraging. You have to pick yourself up and try again, putting to work what you have just learnt.

Conrad Hilton said, 'Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don't quit.' That's the secret. You are knocked-down but not knocked-out! Keep moving, don't stop. You will eventually achieve success if you keep going, change tactics and strategies along the way, leave what's not working and concentrate on what's working. But, in all of this, you don't quit! You need to promise yourself that, 'I will not quit on you!'

Little Shifts:

1.Have you been knocked down by mistakes? Don't stay down, get up and try again. And if you don't get it the next time, get back up and try again.

July 28

No Battle, No Victory

It is quite interesting that we want to be victorious in every area of life without overcoming a battle or life challenges! We usually forget this: no battle, no victory. The most important of it all is not even the victories, but the process - the struggle for the victory that makes significant changes in our lives. You derive strength, power and encouragement through the process.

Mahatma Gandhi said, 'Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths when you go through hardships and decide not to surrender. That's strength.' We need such strength to go through life, not just to live life but to make something out of it.

The process is as important as the victory. Don't get so consumed with the victory that you miss out on the lessons and strength you can get from the process.

Little Shifts:

1.Life's journey is not about the finish line or the view from the mountain top; it's about the race, the climb. Those are the things that build you and give you special memories. Keep your eyes on the prize, yes, but don't forget to enjoy the journey, to experience the climb.

July 29

Success is Overrated

I am currently working on a project, and researching on the concept of success and the misinterpretations many people have. This is my initial conclusion - success is overrated. Many sacrifice the important things in life, those things that really matter, for a taste of what they consider 'success'. There's more to life than that.

There is something else I recommend for you to pursue in life, beyond and better than success. Success in itself does not do much for you. I recommend that you pursue SIGNIFICANCE instead. Darren Hardy, publisher of Success Magazine said, 'You can be successful but not significant, but you cannot be significant without being successful.' And the only path to real significance in life is service - service to or for a cause that can change and transform lives, and contribute positively to humanity. Commit to pursuing significance and success will pursue you whether you want it or not. It's that natural.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you rate success? What's your definition of it?

2.Does success in an area come at the expense of others for you?

3.How can you begin to pursue significance?

July 30

The Servant Is the Greatest

Jesus, in his teaching ministry gave an unusual teaching on leadership and greatness. He said, 'Whoever wants to be great must become a servant.' Greatness is in serving. His associates struggled with this concept. They started debating who the greatest among them was; they wanted to know who the team leader should be.

We serve God by serving others. Jesus measured greatness in terms of service, not status or skills. God determines your greatness by how many people you serve, not how many people serve you. The more people you can serve and reach out to, the more your greatness in life. The concept is also true in business. The more your service can reach and serve, the better your company.

Your greatness will be evident in your commitment to service - helping and reaching others with your gifts, talents and skills. Do you want to be a great leader? Be a great servant.

Little Shifts:

1.'If you're too big to serve, you are too small to lead.'

July 31

The Wall Needs to Come Down

I had a dear friend in college. We stayed in the same student hostel. She was a very soft, gentle-spirited lady. I got to discover this because we shared the same house with others and attended the same church. To many who didn't know her, she was proud, not approachable and too full of herself. The front she built to protect herself was mistaken for something else.

Jim Rohn, a personal development expert, said, 'The walls we build around us to keep out the sadness also keep out the joy.' What is the wall you have built around yourself that is keeping both the good and bad away from you? Building a wall to cover the abuse or guilt of yesterday will not get you the help and support you need. Building a wall around your broken heart will keep not only the bad guys away, but the good ones too. What you need is not a wall but a support to make you stronger to deal with the issue. I know it could be difficult sometimes - trusting someone again, letting someone into your life again after the nasty experience you had. But remember this quote by Marvin Sapp: 'Love didn't walk out on you, didn't mistreat you, didn't lie to you nor did it give you a STD. An individual did...' Don't give up on love because of what an individual did. You've got to try again with care and caution. Seek support and counsel.

Little Details

1.Do you have a wall that you put up? Why?

2.A facade or front cannot protect you

August 1

Conflict

One of your happiest days should be your wedding day; the day you decide to spend the rest of your life with your friend and mate. No one (well, I've not met any) goes into marriage with the intention of staying in for just for a few months or years. You declare and exchange marriage vows; '...till death do us part.' It's a school you enrolle into and you never graduate from; you keep learning about the act of living happily together ever after.

With my eight years experience in this school (I'm no more a rookie), I can tell you that all relationships go through stuff. However, real relationships get through stuff. It's not if you will have conflict but when you do, how you handle it. It is important to know that both of you have the same goal and purpose for the relationship. Views will be different because you are not from the same background. However, you need to agree on the best view or option. That's where the problem is; agreeing. No matter the issue at hand, always remember that you have a relationship and should not allow the issue to destroy that special relationship you have. The fact that I disagree with my wife doesn't mean I don't love her and vice versa.

Let's learn to separate the issue from the personality; don't attack the personality but the issue. Remember, all relationships go through stuff but REAL relationships get through stuff.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you married? How do you resolve conflicts with your partner?

2.Words are powerful; be careful how you use them, especially during disagreements

August 2

Pay Day

I don't know about you, but while I was employed, I looked forward to pay day. It was always a good day, no matter how depressed you were. Interestingly, we got paid on the 15th of every month, except times when the 15th wasn't a work day. It was so rewarding, I always had this 'I worked for it' feeling. I'm not sure if many can actually say 'I worked for that salary.'

Once, a dancing dog and her trainer (aged seventeen at the time) of six years, won Britain's Got Talent show with the price tag of half a million pounds. Yes £500,000! It's a reality show that showcases different talents across Britain; singing, dancing, just name it. I can't imagine the effort, time, and resources she must have devoted into training her pet to do those stunts. It's unbelievable! Whatever you are doing selflessly today, there is always pay day. Don't be discouraged and lower your standards or quit. A friend once said, 'If you do the right thing long enough, it will eventually pay off.' Keep developing that talent, gift, and skill, because pay day is just one day closer.

Little Shifts:

1.What skill are you developing?

2.Don't give up or bend to people's opinions; if you keep at it, your hard work will pay off eventually

August 3

Negative Motivation

Many people have or will suffer rejection at some point in their lives. Depending on how you handle the rejection, it can either leave you better or bitter. What's important is not the rejection itself, but how we respond. I remember the biblical story of the teenage boy, David. He experienced unconscious/subtle rejection from his family who should've looked out for him. He was forgotten when it mattered. He was not bothered about it; rather he was busy developing himself, his faithfulness, consistency, gifts and talents

Dr Mike Murdock said, 'Those who reject you often birth your greatest improvement.' Rejection most times is not negative, rather an opportunity to improve on what you have. JK Rowling, the Harry Potter author received many rejection letters before a publisher decided to give her a chance. As she received the (rejection) letters, she continued to fine-tune the original manuscript and work on other series of the book. The rest is history today. Rejection is not negative as we always perceive it to be. It is an opportunity.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you down because you have suffered some form of rejection or another? Try again; persistence always wins

2.What can you do to encourage yourself?

August 4

Good or Great?

Jim Collins said, 'Good is the enemy of Great.' Many of us are stuck at being good and unable to transit to the next level. We are satisfied with good because it is acceptable and above average. No matter how good something is, there is always a room for improvement. That's why I like mobile apps, always improving on the interface and functionality. Developing the application was just the beginning. The job is in the constant improvement of its efficiency and functionality.

My new campaign is doing little things over a long period to enjoy the great benefit. Stop losing your mind over great things but focus on little things that can become great. Napoleon Hill said, 'If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.' I love that; small things in a great way. That's quality over quantity! Whatever you do, place more emphasis on quality over quantity. Let your one room be a great one! Think about it.

Little Shifts:

1.What are great ways to do those small things?

2.What are you doing to ensure that you churn out quality in your work?

August 5

Default Growth vs. Growth by Choice

Some things in life are automatic while some are by choice. Rick Warren said, 'Growing older is automatic. Growing up is a choice.'  
Whether you like it or not, you will grow older; it's default! However, that you are growing older does not necessarily mean you are growing up. Maturity is not a function of age, but choices and exposure. Our world today needs grown-up people who will act with wisdom and take responsibility.

I remember the biblical story of one of the kings of Israel, Saul. He was God-chosen. Due to disobedience, his position was given to a teenage boy, David. When he perceived that his position had been given to David, he made assassinating David a full time job. He left the palace and his kingdom in pursuit of a teenage boy into the wilderness and he stayed there for many days on different occasions. That's really silly and immature. David had two opportunities at close call to kill Saul but he did not. Why? Because he was a grown-up.   
Make the right choices that will help you to grow up and not only get older.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you growing up or merely growing older?

2.How can you ensure that you are growing up, maturing?

August 6

Untie the Rope

On several occasions, I have been frustrated trying to untie or straighten a tangled rope or cable. Out of impatience, I may end up cutting it, which eventually makes it unfit for any purpose anymore. I believe with a bit more patience, whatever is tangled can be straightened up. This applies to every area of our lives. Don't be too quick to cut the tangled piece.

Joseph Joubert (JJ) said, 'Never cut what you can untie.' This simple truth is heavy and can deliver you from a heavy loss of relationships, jobs, career and businesses. Just a little more patience can get you the breakthrough to the puzzle. Remember, life itself is a puzzle. We try to put the pieces together and any that's out of shape or space is deleted until we get the complete puzzle. It takes a lot of patience to put the puzzle together in the right order. Don't be in too much of a hurry to fix everything.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you a patient person?

2.How can you stop making rash decisions because the situation seems tangled?

3.'...let patience do its work in you...that you may be mature and lacking in nothing.'

August 7

Built to Last

As an architect and building consultant, l enjoy getting my hands dirty. It's always my joy to see a new building built from scratch or a rundown property brought back to life. It's amazing what you can do with a distressed property. Time, money and the right skills will do the miracle. Time is required to build anything good and lasting. Jim Collins wrote a book titled, 'Built to Last'; it's worth reading.

Jim Rohn, the personal development expert said, 'Whatever good things we build end up building us.' It's so true. Whatever you invest your time, resources and energy to build will end up building you. It could be your family, the sacrifice you are making just because of your children today, or a new business. They all have a way of rewarding our faithfulness and consistency.

Little Shifts:

1.What are you currently building?

2.Don't relent on your effort. It will build you up in many ways

August 8

I'm Still Waiting

It's interesting sometimes how we have to wait for the fulfilment of God's promises in our lives. There are many instances in the bible where people had to wait many years to see the promise become reality. Abraham and his wife waited for twenty-five years. I always say jokingly, 'Don't complain until you've waited twenty-five years.' How easy can that be? I believe a lot of courage and hope will be required.

If you lose hope, someone else will find it. (That's my latest catch-phrase) Hope should never be thrown overboard even when the ship is capsizing. Hope keeps you focused, active and productive. Abraham hoped against hope! In plain language, Abraham moved beyond human hope. He still hoped when human hope had accepted that it wasn't going to happen. That's crossing hope's border. Please, don't be quick to lose hope and give up. If you judge the One who promised faithful, then wait for it. Though it seems as though it's taking forever, it will sure happen. Remember, if you lose hope, someone else will find it.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you currently waiting for the fulfilment of a promise?

2.How has the waiting period/process been?

3.What are you doing to encourage yourself in this period?

August 9

Same Boat, Different Place

I joined twitter in April 2012 and I saw a tweet feed on my phone. It is a great insight into the story of Jesus and his disciples when their boat was about to capsize because of the stormy weather. The tweet was from Paul Scanlon, Lead Pastor of Abundant Life Church, Bradford. He said, 'the storm on the lake wasn't for Jesus, but the disciples. Not everyone in the same boat is in the same place. For some it is a risk while for others, it's rest'; what an insight! You may be in the same boat but not in the same place.

The disciples were busy trying to rescue themselves while Jesus was busy resting. Same condition, different responses. This was based on their knowledge. Jesus knew He had authority and it was impossible for him to drown. What you know will lead you to a place of rest in the midst of chaos. Don't ever think you are in the same place with other people because you are in the same boat. Your knowledge, understanding, wisdom and revelation will distinguish you from the rest (That's if you know and apply what you know.)

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever had a 'same boat, different place' experience?

2.What are you doing to amass knowledge in the place that you are?

August 10

Email and Tomatoes

A member of my blog group sent this story to us earlier in the year. Just thought I should share it with us all. Enjoy!

A jobless man applied for the position of 'office boy' at Microsoft. The HR manager interviewed him then watched him clean the floor as a test. 'You are employed' he said.' Give me your e-mail address and I'll  
send you the application to fill in, as well as a date when you may start'. The man replied, 'But I don't have a computer or an e-mail address.' 'I'm sorry', said the HR manager, 'If you don't have email, that means you do not exist and someone who doesn't exist, cannot have the job.'

The man left with no hope at all. He didn't know what to do, with only $10 in his pocket. He then decided to go to the supermarket and buy a 10Kg tomato crate. He sold the tomatoes in a door to door round. In less than 2 hours, he succeeded in doubling his capital. He repeated the operation three times, and returned home with $60. The man realised that he could survive this way, and started to go every day. Thus, his money doubled or tripled every day. After a while, he bought a cart, then a truck, then he had his own fleet of delivery vehicles. Five years later, the man became one of the biggest food retailers in the US. He started to plan his family's future, and decided to have a life  
insurance plan. He called an insurance broker, and chose a protection plan. When the conversation was concluded, the broker asked him for his email. The man replied, 'I don't have an email'. The broker answered curiously, 'You don't have an email, and yet have succeeded in building an empire. Can you imagine what you could have been if you had an email?' The man thought for a while and replied, 'Yes, I'd be an office boy at Microsoft!'

Little Shifts:

1.No one qualification is the solution to your life

2.You may not have what they need, but you have all you need to succeed

3.'I'm closing all my mails and going to sell tomatoes' - Don't get caught up replying to emails and checking what your friends say on their Facebook/BBM statuses and leave the most important tasks/activities that will move you closer to your purpose or get you the promotion undone. This steals at least 45 minutes or more from you every day.

August 11

He's Prepared

God is all-knowing. He created everything and He knows what could go wrong at any time. A car manufacturer produces car spare parts because they know over time, there may be need to change any of the parts that are malfunctioning due to over use or accidental damage. It would not be a surprise to car manufacturer that the brake pad is worn-out.  
What you did or will do did not and will not surprise God, because He knew you would and he has made provision for anything you may possibly do or think of doing. All God wants is our sincerity in admitting there is a problem that needs fixing. His son, Jesus, paid the ultimate price. What needs fixing in your life and family today? Take it to God's workshop and He will do a comprehensive check and work a good work in you.

Little Shifts:

1.Have you ever done something that you felt is unpardonable and terribly disappointing to God?

2.There is no sin too great (except blaspheming the Holy Spirit) for God to forgive; all you have to do is confess and repent

August 12

Plan

Life sometimes is interesting. Some have early starts in life while some have late starts. The most important thing is to have a start and achieve what you were fashioned to fulfil in life. I bought a jazz album early this year and the artist, Kirk Whalum introduced his uncle, Eho who just released his debut album at age 79. Some achieve similar goals early in life, as teenagers.

No matter what you want to do or achieve, there is a need to prepare and count the cost. Abraham Lincoln said, 'Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.' What a great strategy. We can apply this to any area of our lives; it works! It is a proven strategy.

That's like having a business plan before actually starting the business; getting the right qualification for the field you want to be an expert in, getting the right counsel and advice before dating Jack (who may be a 'dog', excuse my language). You can never over prepare; it will save you time, money, energy and sanity.

Little Shifts:

1.How prepared are you for that place you want to go, that thing you want to do? 'Luck is just preparation meeting opportunity.'

2.How can you start getting ready?

August 13

A Little Extra

I have visited a few countries and stayed in hotels. One of the nicest experiences I had was staying in a (I think four star) hotel in Guangzhou, China. On arrival to the hotel, a staff member opened my taxi door, welcomed me and collected my bags from the trunk. The big reception door was opened for me; the front desk officer was very courteous, and helpful. The staff member collected my room card and led me to my room, still carrying my bags. I felt so special and I didn't pay out of my nose to stay there.

This is a simple but powerful principle; giving a little extra. Nelson Boswell said, 'always give people more than they expect to get.' I would love to stay in that hotel again when next I visit their town. We can apply this principle in many areas of our lives and services. Spending just a little extra to go beyond what is expected goes a long way in making people feel special about the experience. It takes so little to be above average.

I encourage you to always deliver more than expected. It will get you the promotion faster.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you go the extra mile or do you just do what is expected?

2.What extra, little can you add to your responsibility that can make it go above average, above what's expected of you?

August 14

Attitude

My new campaign and message to my world is, 'Elevate and pay close attention to the little things that matter in life.' They are little, don't cost but always produce big results, a big shift. W. Clement Stone, the American billionaire said, 'There is little difference in people, but that little difference makes the big difference. The little difference is attitude.' I have led teams in different times and circumstances and I can truly tell you, that little that makes Jack massively different from John is his attitude. Attitude is the sum total of your personality. I know who to call upon to get some certain tasks done.

Many talented and skilful people have lost their jobs and positions because of their bad attitude. Any day, anytime, I will pick good attitude over skill/talent. Attitude is everything. Some stink, not because of body odour but because of bad attitude. No one wants to be around them. You can't get along with anyone if you are so negative and self-centred, can't be corrected and you are unteachable, sorry; you can't go far in life.  
How is your attitude affecting your future? Maybe it's time to re-examine and seek help if need be.

Little Shifts:

1.How is your attitude towards work and life?

2.List three things you can do to improve your attitude

3.Do an "attitude check" often

August 15

Good Intentions

Good intentions without action are no good to anyone. Your good intentions for something or somebody should end up in action. That's all that matters. The intention is in your heart, in your little kingdom. The person can only benefit when you transform the intention to action. Tyler Perry, in his movie, Good Deeds said, 'The smallest good deed is greater than the grandest intention.' The grandest intention is worth nothing compared to the smallest good deed.

Don't tell me you had the intention to help me through my difficult situation but you did nothing when you had the opportunity. Amongst many things that helped David overcome his enemy, I consider Jonathan's good deed as the greatest. He could have sold him to his father. Rather, he sacrificed his position for his friend. Good intentions are good, but good deeds are best! Always help someone if it is in your capacity to do so.

Little Shifts:

1.How many good intentions do you have, how many things do you intend to do? List them

2.Beside each intention, list an action plan

3.Work your plan

August 16

For A Reason

Most times, when unfavourable situations happen, one of several things you will hear or probably say is, 'It happened for a reason.'   
And in most cases, it can be painful; job loss, death of a loved one, contract termination, exam failure. The hardest part about accepting the saying, 'Everything happens for a reason' is waiting for that reason to come along.

I travelled to China in April 2012 for 12 days. On my return flight to London, I had to catch a connecting flight from Beijing but unfortunately, my flight to Beijing was delayed for one hour and you would think they would delay that other one for us. To compound our problem, there was a very strong wind across the airport that made it so difficult for us to land. Eventually, we landed 30minutes before my next flight departure.

I missed that flight and I was talking to myself, 'God must be up to something to have allowed this.' I really wanted to be with my family and I hadn't had good food at all. I had been feeding on junk. I remember saying, 'maybe God wants me to meet someone that will give me the much needed capital for my next online venture.' Interestingly, I didn't meet anyone, neither was there a plane crash of the flight I missed. But something else happened when I was at the hotel; I was just reading Success Magazine and I had an idea for a mobile application. It was as if I had just won a jackpot. Maybe, just maybe, this was the reason I missed my flight.

In all situations, let's learn to thank God.

Little Shifts:

1.Even when you don't understand why, even when the reason is not readily available, learn to trust what God allows.

August 17

Who Are You?

I saw a statement some months ago and it got me thinking for a few days. I did an assessment to check if I have lived or am living the statement. The statement is so true of my generation today. I would say, a substantial percentage of my generation is acting out this statement either consciously or unconsciously. This is the statement; 'It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not.' We always want to be someone else, or to have something else; a better wife or a better job, a better family background. It's about being contented with what you have and working to have what you desire. But first, you need to love and appreciate the life that you have.

I remember the story of the Canadian athlete, Lauren Woolstencroft that I shared in my book, 'Little Details Big Shift'. She was born without legs and without an arm below her left elbow. What a disadvantage and disability, someone may say! With the help of her supportive family, she didn't sit back and think, 'Oh I am not a normal or complete child.' Rather they made the best of the situation. She has won seven gold medals in skiing, five won in a single tournament.

Friends, 'It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not.'

Little Shifts:

1.List three things that you think are holding you back

2.Beside them, list the ways that you can turn them around or make the most of them

3.Work your plan

August 18

For Your Good

This is another story a member of the blog group shared with me some months ago. Hope you enjoy it!

'The only survivor of a shipwreck who was washed up on a small uninhabited island prayed fervently for God to rescue him and every day he scanned the horizon for help but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements and to store his few possessions.

One day, after scavenging for food he arrived home to find his little hut in flames and soon there was nothing left. The worst had happened and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief and anger. 'God, how could you do this to me?' He cried. Early the next day he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island. It had come to rescue him. 'How did you know I was here?' asked the weary man. 'We saw your smoke signal', they replied.'

What would have happened if his hut never got burnt? Where would his 'miracle rescue smoke' have come from? It's easy to get discouraged when things are going badly, but we shouldn't lose hope, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain and suffering. Remember this the next time your 'hut' seems to be burning. It may be the answer to your prayer. It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God; for He is ever faithful. No matter how this year has been for you, never forget: God is too faithful to fail, hold on and keep the faith.

Little Shifts:

1.All things work together for your good if you love the Lord. They may not work separately, but everything ultimately comes together to make a whole picture of His plan. Hold on.

August 19

It Begins With You

In many nations and families today, there has been an overwhelming clarion call for change; change for better. Change for the good of the citizens or change so that every member of the family will be happy. Interestingly, change starts with the person campaigning for change. You are the change that your nation, your family or society needs. Change starts with you. You are the change the world is looking for. You may not be able to change the whole world all by yourself, but you can change your family. Changing the world or a nation starts from the little units. Wherever you go, contribute change to this world.

The level of corruption and lawlessness in African nations is unimaginable! It has become a cancer that is destroying any good that's left of the nations. The only cure for this epidemic is for every citizen to be the CHANGE we want. Be the first to say no to evil, lawlessness or bribery. That's the new culture we need to promote in our nations and society.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you can and should do to improve yourself everyday

2.What can you do to make your immediate environment better?

August 20

Impulse

It will do us a great deal of good if we just pause to think before taking an action in the heat of the moment. Because some mess created in a moment can take a lifetime to clear up or straighten up. If only we can take ten seconds to think of what the consequence of the action could be and who will or can be affected. I think it is an act of selfishness when a man or woman decides to engage in extra marital affairs. I don't care what your 'reasonable justification' for it is. You are just a selfish human being, period.

Despite the good record of Bill Clinton as former US president, the mess he created with the lady at the White House stained his reputation. Yes, his wife may have forgiven him, but the stain is still there. For not dealing with past issues, Tiger Woods created many problems that almost ruined his life and career that he had laboured and sacrificed to build. 'Just in the heat of the moment', King David in the bible created a similar mess that took forever to clear up. Let us pray not to find ourselves in similar situations, but most importantly, we have to discipline ourselves. Opportunities to create a mess will always present themselves.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you impulsive? Do you make decisions on a whim or in the heat of the moment?

2.What can you do to calm yourself, so that you don't say or do things you won't be able to take back?

August 21

Narrow It Down

There was a video posted on YouTube at the start of 2012 by Tyler Perry. In it, he encouraged us to narrow our focus on just one idea and work that just one idea because that idea will give birth to others along the line. All he (Tyler) wanted was to make plays/drama. He invested his time, energy and life savings on production of drama at the theatre. For the first two years, the results were not encouraging at all. The only people who came out to see his show were friends and family.

He was not discouraged, he continued to build, improve and develop the acts. Today, his premieres command over ten million dollars. He is the first American to own a personal studio where he produces all his movies.

Narrow your focus to one idea and make it work; pour your energy into it. Don't stop believing, no matter what people say or do! I'm building and improving my writing skills. Watch out for my bestselling books!

Little Shifts:

1.Ask yourself: what skill or talent can you focus and magnify?

2.What can you do to make it better each day?

August 22

Make It Plain

Goals are great because steps to achieve them can be identified. However, when it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the steps. Goals are dreams with a target date; they're specific, manageable, achievable, realistic, and there is a time frame. These transform goals from intangible forms to tangible. It would be unrealistic if I give my daughter (who is seven years old at the time of writing) a goal to learn how to drive.

Most of my goals for 2011 were achieved in 2012. I did not beat myself up for not achieving everything I set out to in 2011. I was willing to keep working on them until they were achieved. The time frame helps to keep us focused and not discouraged. Your goals need to be written down; having a mental record of them will not make it real for you to work on.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have a backlog of goals? Write them down

2.Be willing to keep working on them until they come to fruition

August 23

Picture of the Future

My favourite Bible story is the story of the teenager, Joseph. He was from an average household. I guess I can identify with his journey and the process he had to go through to live his dream. Many people change their dreams based on circumstance but not Joseph! His dream of becoming an unusual leader was real and alive all through those difficult moments of his life. Living dreamers are unstoppable; put them in a hole, they will create an opportunity to get out. The dream, especially if it is God inspired, will always speak for them even at the point of death.

Joseph's dream was just as real in the pit as it was in the palace. How real is your future? If you can't see it as tangible, issues of life will come and snatch it from you. All of us have pictures of the past hanging on our walls at home. (It reminds us of great memories) You will be welcomed by our big wedding portrait if you visit my home. What about the picture of the future? I recently finished designing a big frame representing the future of my family. Let's make it real. Keep it with you everywhere you go. Wake and sleep with the picture in view.

Little Shifts

1.Write down the things you want in your future

2.Put the writing somewhere where you can see it every time. '...That he may run who reads it...'

August 24

Ditch Normal!

With the pace of advancement and competition in every sector in today's world, doing the bare minimum or the normal standard may not be acceptable anymore. Almost everything that's standard is now viewed as mediocre. You are now required to go beyond and above the norm to have a chance. We all need to up our game and deliver more than the normal standard.

Someone recently filled out a job application and the recruitment officer replied that there were over 250 applicants for the same job. You will require more than the normal CV to stand out from the crowd. Competition in every area of life is getting fierce. Changing the status quo gives you the opportunity to be remarkable. Maya Angelou once observed, 'If you're always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.' Guess it's time to let go of normal and ditch the status quo.

Little Shifts:

1.Which areas of your life do you need to ditch normal?

2.In those areas, what can you do to go beyond and above the normal acceptable standard?

August 25

Stop being Mad!

There are many life skills we need to develop, to truly enjoy life in its fullness. I believe top on that list is the ability to wait. Not willing to wait or have the stomach to wait in life will only lead to frustration. I remember a profound statement my son made when he was five years old. He said, 'Waiting is boring!' Truly, waiting is boring. The secret is to do something worthwhile, interesting and important to you that you enjoy while you wait.

Unlike before, I can now wait for as long as it is requires. What changed? I came to a simple understanding that waiting is part of the process, the wait has its own purpose in the process

Instead of being impatient and mad while waiting, decide to enjoy it, do something in that time that may be useful to what you hope to do or achieve.

Embrace your waiting season. Make the best of it.

Little Shifts:

1.What is your disposition to waiting?

2.In the area you are currently waiting, what can you do to enjoy the waiting period?

August 26

Prime Time or Spare Moments

Here's a fact: we all have 24 hours in a day; nobody gets extra or less than that. That's the flat rate all over the world. You choose whatever you want to do with it; it's freely given. Unfortunately, the unused hours cannot be stored, reserved or carried over to another day. You either invest or lose it. Have you ever said this: 'I'm whiling away time - I've got more time than I know what to do with! These are moments that many have put into productive ventures. There is no time to waste; invest it into your future.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, 'Improve your spare moments and they will become the brightest gems in your life.' We all have spare time. I call these moments PRIME TIME. They are precious moments that you need to guard jealously. I read, write or brainstorm in my prime time. While I'm waiting for an appointment or flight, I make those boring moments productive and exciting. My 12-hour flight from China to London was like 3 hours! Why? Because I was busy writing the daily blogs and watched two movies. Let nothing steal your prime time.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have a lot of time to spare? Travelling time? In between appointments?

2.What can you do in those moments to make yourself better?

August 27

Make the Most of It

One of few people I enjoy having around to visit my family is my wife's cousin from Ireland. I always look forward to what she can create with whatever we have in the kitchen or fridge. She is a very talented chef.

She enjoys creating dishes from scratch with what she has and not what she hopes to have. Her creativity has earned her my respect and admiration.

Her approach and disposition to cooking can be applied to life. Some of us feel sorry for ourselves asking what could have been if we made a different choice or decision. Going on this journey of regret has always proven unproductive. Rather, I encourage you to take another journey; the "make the most of it" journey. Jeff Goins recently said on a podcast, "Don't think so much about what could have been instead look at what is and try to make the most of it." That's one of the ways you can develop your creativity and confidence.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you think of one area of your life that you wish you can turn back time and make a better choice or decision?

2.What can you do with what you have now? That's one way to unleash your creativity

August 28

Pursuit of What?

Everything we do in life has a pursuit at the centre of it. Old, young, rich and poor are all in this pursuit. It is the pursuit of happiness. We all search for happiness in different places and through different means that we think will guarantee lasting happiness.

If care is not taken, one may conclude that lasting happiness in life is impossible. Getting married, or being in a relationship, a new job, a new house, or buying a new car may bring happiness to your heart and soul but it will be short-lived. Does that mean, no one can be happy in their entire life? Absolutely not! You can truly be happy in the entirety of life. It is all about knowing what your happiness depends on.

C. S Lewis gave us a very good piece of advice on happiness. He said, 'Don't let your happiness depend on something you may lose.' If you place your happiness on something tangible, you risk the chance of losing it with your happiness. Link your happiness to something eternal and intangible.

Little Shifts:

1.What do you think is your source of happiness?

2.Does your happiness fluctuate with situations around you?

3.Can you think of something intangible you can be the source of your happiness?

August 29

Conviction  
It is always useful to have a conviction as to why you do what you do. I'm talking about having a reason, a strong reason. My strong reason for taking time out to write daily blog is because l want to be a blessing to my generation. I believe these words are helping someone to have a fresh perspective, a fresh start and motivation to fulfil purpose. My strong reason for the daily blog is purpose. This is my drive.

Please, don't excuse yourself from progress; create reasons why you must succeed. Human minds work more effectively when there is something to relate to as reference point. Create a strong reference point and see your mind, thoughts and actions work in harmony. After a great accomplishment, create a reason to break new grounds. Never stop making progress.

Little Shifts:

1.What is the "Why" behind your "What"

2.When everything is falling apart, is your "Why" strong enough to hold on to?

August 30

Second Chances

Life as we all know it is full of choices, decisions and second chances to try again. For some, it is their tenth second chance trying to get it right. Interestingly, every day we are privileged to be alive and experience, it is a second chance to be better.

There are tendencies for us to make choices carelessly because of the perceived opportunity for another chance to try again. Where we are today is a reflection of past and present choices. Be careful how you make choices in life. Some choices are final and you will never get a second chance. And for those already granted a second chance, be reasonable with your second chance. You may never get another chance to try again, give it all you have. Be careful what you do and the decisions you make. They will have effect on your family and love ones. Life is serious business; invest wisely and make yours worthwhile.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you approach making life defining choices and decisions?

2.How would you change your approach if you have the opportunity?

August 31

I Want to Be a Champion

Everyone wants to be a champion, a success at everything they do in life. I want to be a champion as well. But truly, what we have been called into is a battle/contest/challenge that we have to overcome to be champions. You can only become a champion when you participate in the contest of life. But the bitter truth is: every champion has lost battles/contests before. Every sport man/woman ranked number one today was once a number two or three, a shadow of the champion before. But through patience, consistency, focus and persistence, they are able to win the contest that matters.

The true champion loses many battles before winning the war. Life is like a boxing ring. Defeat is not declared when you're down. It's declared when you DON'T get up. Jack Dempsey said, 'A champion is someone who gets up when he can't.' Show me a champion, and I will show you a man that has failed many times. I've had my own share of failed attempts. I've won some, and lost some. But I'm not discouraged, I'm pressing on until I win the championship!

Little Shifts:

1.Don't be deterred if you don't win the first, second, third, fourth or fifth time. Life's races and battles call for endurance, long suffering and tenacity. Press on till the finish.

September 1

What Do You Have: Pillars or Caterpillars?

The people you have in your life are a big determining factor when it comes to where you can get to or not get to in life. Some are promoters, while some are just around to make sure you don't leave them behind. We are social beings - we naturally crave relationships at different levels. Many people have used this to their advantage by having the right people around them. There are some people in my life that God has blessed me with. These are vision helpers. They are secure and not intimidated. They offer help and support in any vision I want to give expression to. Over time, these people have added value to my life and pursuit of purpose.

What do you have in your life - pillars or caterpillars? Pillars will hold and support you, even in great storms. That's why they are pillars. Caterpillars have one sole purpose - to drain and eat you little by little until you have no strength to stand on your own. They may be friendly but deadly. Does anyone come to mind? Run from such people. Disconnect totally!

You can make great things happen with the right relationships. Be deliberate with whom you invite into your life as a friend!

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list three pillars and caterpillars in your life?

2.What can you do to reduce your exposure to the caterpillars?

September 2

He's Gone Quiet on Me!

There comes a time, a season in life, when it seems God is just unusually quiet on you. You don't seem to feel or hear Him like you used to. Everything seems quiet and you don't know the next step or action. I have a word of encouragement for you today: if you don't know what God is saying, go back to what He has said. What He said before, His last instruction, is linked to what he will say next. Take time to fulfil what He has said before - the clear word, revelation or instruction that was spoken specifically for you.

Another piece of advice: If you don't know what to do, do what you know to do. I have said this before, don't allow what you can't do stop you from what you can do. If you can't figure out what to do, just do what you know to do that has produced results for you in the past. It's better to be late than sorry. Remember, God is always on time (not in your time); he's never late in fulfilling His words and promises.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember a time when you didn't know what to do in a situation?

2.What did you do to overcome the situation?

September 3

Where is My Focus?

Focus is so powerful that you can use it positively or negatively. Unfortunately, today, many of us use this tool negatively and it produces negative effects on our lives. Whatever you focus on is magnified for optimum impact. We focus more on our 'not-working' circumstances. The more you focus on the problem without seeking a solution, the more you are doomed for depression. Brian Tracy once observed, 'Depression is thinking continuously on what is not working in your life.'

When you shift your focus on your circumstances, you will be overwhelmed. You will experience fear, anxiety and worry. I know you are asking, so what do I do?

Little Shifts:

1.Accept whatever has happened to you has happened. You can't turn back the clock

2.Forgive yourself and don't feel sorry for the rest of your life

3.Start afresh and give yourself the opportunity to make up for yesterday

4.Make the most of what you have to have most of what you need

5.Seek help and support. You can't do life alone

September 4

Praise or Criticism? Be Careful of Either!

Success in any area is sweet but I have discovered that if you press on for just a little longer, you will be amazed at what you can achieve beyond the initial success. Many people have not pushed past last year's success. The greatest enemy of progress may be your last success. Mr Covey said, "Good is the enemy great." There is a great beyond the good job, good family or good career you have currently.   
John Wooden said, "You can't let praise or criticism get to you. It's a weakness to get caught up in either one." Don't allow praise to stop you from pressing forward or criticism to stop you from trying again. You have the responsibility to give your life an opportunity to succeed. Don't deprive yourself of an opportunity because of what someone said or did not say. In the Bible, King Saul's reign was aborted because of what people said concerning him and the new hero of the nation, David. He allowed praise and criticism to dictate his action. He went astray, in the path of destruction.

Little Shifts:

1.What was your last achievement you are currently struggling to surpass?

2.What one area have you stopped trying because of what people said or saying? What do you think you can do differently now?

September 5

The Memories and My Dream

Every day we grow physically. Every other area of our lives should follow suit. I believe we should and can grow into our dreams. They may seem unattainable right now, but with determination and grace, you can achieve your dream. Having a clear picture of your dream is a step in the right direction. After that, you then need to grow to the person in that picture.

However, there is danger when our yesterday seems better than our present state. Ike Reighard said, 'The day our memories become larger than our dreams is the day our soul begins to shrink.' You may need to dream another dream if your life dream has been accomplished already. There is no room for complacency! Everything around us today is progressing; our lives, dreams and visions should not be an exception. It's a danger to live on past glory! There are new glories ahead, if you dare try. Dream another dream!

Little Shifts:

1.Can you compare your past with your present? Which one do you prefer?

2.Which area of your life do you think you need to work on to keep up with the progress you are making in other areas?

September 6

I Need Gold!

There is a Bible verse that says, 'Every good and perfect gift comes from God.' Another one says, 'The blessing of God makes life rich and adds no sorrow to it.' These are the words of God and truly He does not play with words or make promises He will not keep. That's one major differences between God and man. We sometimes make promises that we can't keep, but God is not like that. Please note: God can't give you a bad gift.

Whatever you have now is a good gift. Remember, when you need gold, you are given gold ore to refine. When you need a diamond, you are given a rock that needs shaping and polishing. Interestingly what you have may be the right raw material for the perfect gift you desire. I encourage you today to work on the raw material you have. Nurture that child, love your spouse unconditionally, go the extra mile in your current job, develop that business, that vision, and save just a little bit more. God doesn't always give things in their finished state.

I am currently working on and refining my raw material. I don't know how long it will take but I know that when the finished product is ready it will be worth all the sacrifice and labour.

Little Shifts:

1.What do you consider to be your raw material currently?

2.What do you need to do to refine it to become a perfect gift?

September 7

I Will Go to the Grave Empty

Late Dr. Myles Munroe, the renowned international speaker said many years ago, 'The richest place in the world is the graveyard.' Many people die with bestselling books inside them, without scratching their purpose at all. It would be a shame to realise what we could have done or achieved after death. There is no way you can convince me that you don't have a purpose to live and die for. No manufacturer will produce a product without a definite purpose or problem to solve. God (your manufacturer) created you for a purpose.

It is my goal to die empty. I don't want to have so much and deliver so little. I desire and pray to spend my life in empowering, helping and supporting people to shape their destiny and future. I encourage you today not to go to the grave full. Empty yourself to make this world a better place to live in. Touch lives one at a time. One at a time! In everything you do, look out for that one life you can impact positively.

Little Shifts:

1)If you were told today that you have 12 months to live, what would you do differently? What would make your bucket list?

2)You don't need to wait till then, start working on the list from today!

September 8

Ask Before, Not After!

There are so many things we do spontaneously, in the heat of the moment, that we live to regret later. I have learnt by experience that if I don't make a decision or make a move in the heat of a moment, I have nothing to lose. In fact, I have everything to gain. I encourage you to always ask yourself questions before you take steps, not after. It would save us hugely if we ran our actions and decisions by a reality filter. This would take great discipline.

Don't sleep with your colleague at work only to realise later that it's the most silly thing to do. Filter the action before flirting, because things don't just happen. There's always a process. The filteration process will help us see not just the short-term dangers, but also the long-term dangers. Most of us live our lives for the now. I would advise you to live your lives for the now with tomorrow in view. This will help filter your decisions as well. Maya Angelou said, "When you know better, you do better."

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you did in the heat of the moment that you wished you didn't do?

2.How can you prevent such repeating again?

September 9

Half-finished Tasks

If there is a habit I really need to deal with in my life, it is the habit of half-finishing tasks. I am typically very motivated about new tasks or responsibilities, but wane midway and towards the end. I get distracted or lose interest. Whatever good thing that's worth starting is worth finishing. There are so many books I've read halfway and never finished. I am supposed to be reading at least two books per month. Having a reading partner has helped in achieving this goal.

Half-finished tasks are not finished tasks. Keep these points in mind:

Little Shifts:

1.Always determine at the beginning that you WILL finish what you are about to start

2.Don't start too many things at the same time

3.If you find it difficult to juggle several tasks at once, focus your energy and thoughts on just one task at a time, then finish it before you move on to the next

4.Reward yourself for completing a task. That will encourage you to be a finisher

September 10

He is Not a Task Master

I woke up one morning with this thought: 'God will not ask you to give what you don't have.' Many times we think we don't have what God is asking of us. He asked Abraham for his son - that was a hard request. For you, He may be asking for your past to exchange it for a great future He has planned for you. God is not a task master. The interesting part is this, when He asks us for something, many times it is for our own good. He asked Abraham for his son and then later gave him a nation. He asks a seed from us and gives us forests and great harvests.   
Is God asking you for something? Are you struggling to let go? Until you realise that your life and everything you have is not really yours, you will struggle to let go. Everything is God's and He decides how and when he wants to use them. Let go and let God.

Little Shifts:

1)What sacrifice are you currently struggling to make?

2)What will happen to you if you let go the sacrifice?

September 11

Acts of Goodness

I want to share a popular Bible story with you. Many first learnt it at Sunday School. It's the story of Saul and David. Saul was king in Israel, but because of his disobedience and lack of total trust in God, David, a teenager was anointed to take over from him. All the events that began to unfold from the day David was anointed pointed to the fact that he would surely be the next king of Israel. This was also obvious to Saul the king.

To prevent this, Saul made several attempts to kill David so that his son Jonathan would take over from him. Unknowingly to Saul, Jonathan had already become very close to David. Saul crafted different plots to kill David. Eventually David left town and dwelt in the wilderness. Saul got the information about his new location. He pursued with the sole intention to kill David. On this occasion, like the other times, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but he chose not to; rather, he cut a piece of Saul's robe. He went away and called for King Saul and told him how he could have killed him.

Saul was ashamed of himself and confirmed that indeed, David was the chosen one. Another kindness (goodness) from David changed Saul's mission to kill to one of enthronement. That day was the handing over ceremony. David was enthroned into what he was anointed for by a simple act of goodness. Selah. (Please see 1 Samuel 24 for the full story)

Little Shifts:

1.Who do you think can benefit from your random act of kindness?

2.Kindness has a ripple effect, has a way of returning to you in multiple folds

September 12

The Hardest Job

There are so many hard jobs out there but which one would you consider to be the hardest? I don't think there is anything you do in life that does not require hard work and your determination to succeed.

Even a thief's job is hard work too.

But what is the hardest job? I believe doing no work is the hardest kind of work to do; it yields very poor returns!

Remember the biblical parable of a master who gave three servants talents - one was given five, another three and another one. A talent is equivalent to a year's wages. The servant with the one talent chose not to do anything with it; he went to bury it somewhere. I believe he felt he was given the least talent and was not ready to take risks to trade with the talent. That sounds like some of us that believe our own gifts and talents are of less significance, compared to our friends'.

I encourage you today to get to work and work your own talent and gifts. As you produce fruits, your capacity will increase to receive more. The guy with the five talents gained five more, and one more was given to him to make eleven talents for him to further trade with. The servants who worked their talents became their master's partners. They were promoted to the level of partners while the servant who hid his talent was demoted. That's the danger of no work.

Little Shifts:

1.What skill or talent do you have but think is insignificant?

2.How can you refine the talent to bless someone?

September 13

Be Careful What You Pray For

So many times, we pray/ask for things, but when we receive an answer, it is not always manifested in the ways we expect. If you pray for strength, the only way you can know if indeed you have been granted more strength is finding yourself in the face of trials and tribulations and pressing on without giving up. Your new strength would be manifested in the face of turmoil. When you pray for courage, God allows you to go through situations where you would need and learn to show courage.  
When you pray to walk in love, some great offenses are sent your way that test your love limits.

I remember my 30th birthday - I studied a few biblical characters (Jesus, Joseph and David) and what they were doing at the age of 30. I discovered they had something in common - their purposes and missions in life were inaugurated around the age of 30. I remember praying a prayer in that line, regarding my life's purpose, and the answer to the prayer was not funny at all; I am still recovering from it.

What are you praying for now? Are you sure you are ready for the answer? It may not be what you expect. However, eventually, the results will be positively evident in your life.

Little Shifts:

1.Ask yourself; are you ready for what you are praying for?

2.Answers to prayers don't always come the way we think it will

September 14

Your Disadvantage, Your Advantage

There is a popular Christian saying I love, 'Jacob was a cheater, Peter had a temper, David had an affair, Noah got drunk, Jonah ran from God, Paul was a murderer, Gideon was insecure, Miriam gossiped, Martha was a worrier, Thomas was a doubter, Sarah was impatient, Elijah was depressed, Moses stuttered and stammered, Zaccheus was short, Abraham was old, and Lazarus was dead; God doesn't call the qualified, he qualifies the called!'

Let me tell you the story of the living legend Lionel Messi.   
Whether you are a Barcelona Football Club fan or not, everyone admits that Lionel Messi is a delight to watch. Messi plays for Barcelona FC. He is a three-time FIFA World Player of the Year.

Many people believe he is one of the greatest football players the world has even seen. But Messi has not always been successful.

I read that at age ten, Messi faced a major threat to his future soccer career- he had a growth hormone deficiency. This deficiency would limit his ability to cope with the physical demands of football.  
Messi desperately needed growth hormones or he would have stopped growing at 4ft 7in but his father's health insurance was limited and couldn't cover the expensive treatment.

The story changed when Barcelona offered to pay for the hormone treatment in return for Messi signing to them, aged just 13.

Today, Messi is scoring, Barcelona Football Club is winning and both Messi and Barcelona FC are happy and successful. This story teaches us a few lessons.

Little Shifts:

1.Employers need to see the gold in their staff. In that physically-limited boy with health challenges was a star of the future. Invest in your staff

2.Your health challenge could seem to be a huge problem, but help is on its way

3.Nothing limits you. To date, Messi is relatively smaller than his mates. He could seem weak but he is still playing excellent football. You have no excuse

4.God compensates for your weaknesses. Messi is short. As a result he has a low centre of gravity. This makes it difficult for him to fall down easily. Messi has short legs, but they are fast too

5.Finally, don't make judgements based on today, consider the future

September 15

The Cost of Your Purpose

Most times, until we discover God's purpose for our lives, we start out doing different things. In the end, whatever we end up doing prepares and trains us for our lifetime purpose.

Akin A. Awolaja, a dear friend, wrote, 'Sometimes, you have to give up some things to focus on God's purpose and vision for your life. Never be afraid to obey God, no matter the cost, at the end you will be glad you did.'

Abraham at age 75 was given his eternal purpose and he stepped out from the known to the unknown. The move cost him almost everything - family, family inheritance, culture, etc, at a time he should have been thinking of retiring.

Don't be afraid to give up what's in your hand to focus more on God's purpose for your life.

Little Shifts:

1.What would you consider to be your purpose in life?

2.Can you describe it in a statement?

September 16

No One Ever Wishes For Problems

No one wishes for problems or difficult situations. But the reality is, whether we prepare for or anticipate them, or not, difficulties and challenges always find us wherever we hide. Ironically, in most cases, they present platforms for us to grow and be better, depending on how we handle or respond to the situations.

Most times, our first reaction to a problem is to wish it would just go away. Sometimes, we even try to blackmail God with our circumstances. You have to understand that whatever He allows, He believes we have what it takes to overcome, go through it unhurt and become better people. Remember, He promised that His thoughts towards us are of peace, not evil, to give us an expected end, the future we look forward to. So, whatever situation you find yourself in will never last forever. It has an expiry date.

Someone once said, 'When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; when GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.' Most times, He has faith in our abilities to navigate our way out of trouble. Let's embrace the challenges and seek help to overcome. You will overcome.

Little Shifts:

1.What's one situation you believe you don't have the strength to handle?

2.Challenges in life are opportunities to grow and build character

September 17

Steering Wheel, Not a Spare Wheel

An average person, whether Christian or not, has the impression that prayer is only offered to God when things are not looking good, when in desperate situations. In March 2012, one of Bolton's players, Fabrice Muamba, had a cardiac arrest during the FA cup match in UK. It was reported that his heart stopped for over one hour while the paramedics tried to resuscitate him. A massive campaign was launched all over the country to pray for him. I asked myself, so, who are we praying to? Perhaps the footballers and whole nation knew or believed there was a big God up there that could change bad situations and circumstances. When you only pray when you are in trouble...then you are in trouble.

One of my favourite quotes is, 'Prayer is not a "spare wheel" that you pull out when in trouble; it is a "steering wheel" that directs the right path throughout.' Prayer should be part of our daily lives; we should be seeking direction and guidance every day in prayer. Let prayer be the centre, the steering wheel of your life and you will never regret taking that decision. It helps you stay connected. Remember, prayer is a two-way communication between you and God, not one way.

Little Shifts:

1.What is your understanding and perception of prayer?

2.When was the last time you prayed?

September 18

The 'Giant' Is Keeping Something From You

In the biblical story of David and Goliath (which I love and often refer to), David found himself on the battlefield by accident. For 40 days, the giant, Goliath had been a threat and he had requested a man to come out and fight him. The army of Israel were so afraid of his stature and went into hiding. Their focus was the giant!

Bishop Tudor Bismark, the sensational preacher from Zimbabwe said, 'Stop focusing on the "giant". Focus on what the giant is keeping you from.' We need to learn to look beyond every giant in our lives and see what the giant is keeping us from. That habit (that has become a giant for you) is stealing your joy, peace and happiness. It's time to confront it and take back your joy! The pain, guilt and disappointments of yesterday (that have become giants) are robbing you of a better and fruitful future. See beyond the giant today. That's exactly what David did. Though a lot smaller in stature, with no military or war experience, he declared the sovereign power of the living God to take charge of what the giant had taken away from them.

It's not about your stature, status or experience; it has everything to do with your confidence in the power of God to overcome whatever represent(s) giants in your life.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things that currently represent giants in your life

2.What do you need to face these giants?

September 19

'Pencil Your Plans, Ink Your Vision'

A dear friend once wrote this phrase on his BBM status: 'Pencil your plans, write your vision in ink.' Such a simple statement, but fully loaded. Your plan is different from your vision. Your plan is the steps and actions you will take to achieve your vision. Your vision is definite, sure and constant. The plan can change overtime as the vision unfolds and you get a better understanding of the vision.

Plans evolve, visions progress. As you get a better understanding of your vision, you may need to change some of the action plans you have. This is why it is advisable to pencil it! It is easier to erase and rewrite than to not write at all. The vision needs to be in ink - specific, clear, visible and easy to read as you run with it. Tyler Perry started out with a vision to make theatre stage dramas. Today, he has a complete movie studio where he directs and produces his movies. Today, his dream has become reality. How? By being consistent and not giving up even when there were no good results to compensate his effort. It takes time to build something great. Don't stop too soon on your vision!

Little Shifts:

1.What is your vision, the picture of your future?

2.Reassess your plans; you may need to tweak them as you get better understanding of your vision.

September 20

Movement without Progress

I recently reread the biblical story of the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the Promised Land. The journey was initially meant to be for a few days but eventually took 40 years because they were wandering in the wilderness. There was movement but no progress. They were sweating like people working, getting money for their labour into their bank accounts, yet continually seeming to be walking in circles.

They did that for years, until God became tired of their insensitivity. He said to them, 'you have encompassed this hill for too long, now go north.' Just a clear instruction on direction put them out of 40 years of misery. That's what a clear direction can do for you. It will put you out of your misery and help you focus your energy and resources. It's such a fulfilling feeling to know where you are going and what you are doing will help you get there. I encourage you to seek a clear direction for your life if you don't know it yet.

Little Shifts:

1.Are you closer or nearer where you believe you should be by the end of the year?

2.Do you have clear direction? If not, whom do you think you can consult to get clarity?

September 21

It's Time To Start Refining

I remember a saying, that everyone is gifted but not everyone unwraps their gift to see the true value of it. Some use their gifts as decorations around the house. Some don't even believe their gifts are worth showing because of the perception that it's worth nothing. There is no one living today that's not gifted in at least one area.

It's only developed gifts from the raw stage that get recognised and rewarded. The process of developing your gift requires a lot of hard work - hours and hours of practising, perfecting and unwrapping the gift. No one is ready to pay for your unique gift in its raw form.

Refine your gift to international standards, and your location will not be a barrier. You will be sought after. Thank God for technology. No location is far away. You are just a click away. Position your gifts to offer value and you will be rewarded for the value. Joseph added value to Potiphar's business with his gift and he was rewarded with a triple promotion within a few months.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you identify at least one gift you are yet to unwrap?

2.What's stopping you from unwrapping the gift?

September 22

I Have A Dream But I'm Frustrated

I get frustrated seeing a lot of dreamers not able to live out their dreams. They are very clear on what they want out of life but they seem stuck and helpless. Having a dream or catching a dream does not automatically deliver the dream to you or you to the dream. That's just about 10% of the journey covered. The rest of the journey most times does not look like you are actually heading in the direction of your dream. There is something basic that we probably overlook.

Bishop A R Bernard said, 'If you have dreams, you need goals.' Our minds and systems work best when they are instructed with special and definite tasks to do. Purpose and deliberate attempts are required to make the mind work at its best. I never knew the right capacity of my mind until I began to give it specific tasks to be carried out or learnt.  
Thomas Gaines advised, 'It is good to dream, but it is better to dream and work. Faith is mighty, but action with faith is mightier.'

Identify and set goals towards achieving your dream. Joseph in the Bible set goals to be the best in everything he did. It paid off for him because eventually, by walking in excellence, his thirteen-year-old dream was realised!

Little Shifts:

1.What goals do you need to set towards achieving your dream? These are things within your control

2.If you can achieve your dream by yourself, it's not a dream but an ambition. You need others to truly achieve your dream.

September 25

The Centre Of Control

Everyone wants to believe in someone or something. That's the way we have been designed. There is a part of us longing to believe in something, something we derive our identity from.

What you hope IN will determine what you hope FOR in life. Simple!

The incredible late author and international conference speaker, Stephen Covey, said, 'Whatever is at the centre of our lives will be the source of our security, guidance, wisdom, and power.'

For people that believe in the sovereign God, they take Him as the source of their being, guidance, security and power. So also, many that believe in drugs as their god have their lives controlled by the substances.  
The question is: what is controlling your life? What's at the centre of your life? If you would allow me, I would recommend to you to ensure the sovereign God is the only one at the centre of your life. You can never go wrong on that. He has the road map to your future. Let Him guide, protect and instruct you.

Little Shifts:

1.What's always on your mind? Whatever control your mind control your life.

2.Do you like the direction your life is travelling? If not, maybe you need to slow down and reassess what's at the centre of it all.

September 26

I Still Know Who She is

A friend shared this story with me and I thought I'd share it

'It was a late Thursday evening, at about 6.00pm, when an elderly gentleman in his 80s arrived in my business office to make transactions. He said he was in hurry as he had another appointment for 6.45pm. I offered him a seat, knowing it would be almost an hour before his transaction would be finalised. I saw him looking at his watch and then decided that since I was not busy with another customer, I would attend to him. While taking care of his transaction, I asked him if he had another office transaction that evening, given his hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat dinner with his wife.

I asked about her health. He told me that she had been there for a while. She had Alzheimer's disease (a serious illness that affects the speech and memory centre of the brain). As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. I was surprised and asked him, "Why do you still go every time, even though she doesn't know who you are?" He smiled as he patted my hand and said, "She doesn't know me but I still know who she is."

I had to hold back my tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, I was speechless as I couldn't even mutter the service culture slogan, "Thank you, have a nice day". Then I thought, that is the kind of love we all must possess. True love is neither physical nor just romantic. True love is the acceptance of all that has been, will be and will not be.'

Peace is seeing a sunset and knowing whom to thank. The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything: they just make the best of everything they have. Life isn't about how to survive the storm but how to dance in the storm!

Little Shifts:

1.What do you hope to do differently after reading this story?

2.What does it take to love someone unconditionally?

September 27

Knowledge, Faith or Commitment?

There is a huge difference between what you know and what you act on. And there is a difference between what you act on and what you are fully committed to. Most people know that there is a God who controls the affairs of men, but not all have a relationship with him. Not all who have a relationship are fully committed to Him. Knowledge says He is able, Faith says He will do it, but Commitment says if He doesn't do it, I will still follow!

That's the epitome of any relationship and that's the level of relationship God desires from us. He wants us to trust Him blindly like the three Hebrew boys who were thrown into the fiery furnace for not denouncing their relationship with God in the face of life or death. We read the story in the Bible and just think, oh that's great. It was a very difficult position they found themselves in. But the truth is, they were willing to die to maintain their relationship with God their creator. That's commitment.

Little Shifts:

1.What's one thing you would have loved to be fully committed to?

2.What are the limitations or restriction preventing you from committing to it?

September 28

Your Emotion is Betraying Your Words

I believe you have heard this statement before, 'It's not what you say, but how you say it.' You can say you are sorry and not mean it. The attitude, posture and action behind your words matter more than the words.  
Maya Angelou said, 'I've learnt that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.' That's very important in communication. When you speak, your words strike a connection with the other person's emotion. The response you get is dependent on how their interpretation of what was said. True communication connects with your emotion and heart to truly deliver the message. Your words are the stars of your heart, they echo your heart and thoughts. I encourage you today to always represent your heart and thoughts well by the words you speak. You don't have to say anything if your posture will betray the message.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember one situation where your words had negative impact on someone else?

2.What do you think you could have done differently?

September 29

Honestly, I Prefer My Past

Have you even been in a position where you thought and accepted that your past (life) was way better than your present? I have. When you think about the good old days! The more you think about it, the more depressed you get about your present situation. Let me encourage you today, your situation will be better than the past you admire.   
Marcel Pagnol said, 'The reason people find it hard to be happy is that they always see the past better than it was, the present worse than it is, and the future less resolved than it will be.' Stop seeing the present as worse than it is. You can choose to be happy, moving forward. Don't allow the regret of yesterday rob you of today's happiness. Life has a way of knocking you down. You are not out until you refuse to get up. Many have been knocked down before and went on to win matches. Being knocked down does not necessarily mean you are weak or don't have what it takes to succeed. It just means you need to try again (until you get the principle).

Little Shifts:

1.'We may rise and fall, but we don't quit. Life's not a victory match, it's a pursuit.'

2.What can you do today to make tomorrow better?

September 30

Before You Change

I recently started watching a documentary series called 'My 600 lb life'; It focuses on people fighting for their lives because of obesity. Listening to their stories, I realised it's easy to get into that dark place in life.

In most cases, one event changed the course of their lives and they turned to food as a comforting friend. I watched a young man in his twenties fighting for his life. He was 800pounds (363kg) at the time the documentary was filmed. He turned to food because his father neglected him growing up and to compensate for that, his mother gave him anything he wanted. But in his words, he said, 'You have to know true despair before you're willing to make a change'. Being unable to walk, or do things for himself and the risk of dying forced him to seek help and change. We don't need to get to this point in life before we decide to change.

A little shift everyday over a long period can make all the difference.

Little Shifts:

1.What little changes can you make in your routine every day?

2.What will be true despair for you to commit to change your ways?

October 1

One Hand: What Do You See?

There are many things we have to deliberately and consciously engage in to benefit from. One of them is counting our blessings. You would be amazed at the results of taking time to reflect on your life. You would realise there are many good things in your life that outweigh the bad. There is more substance working in your life than not. When you begin to appreciate and value life more, you would not have any excuse not to make it a life worth living.

I read the story of Nicholas McCarthy, 23, in the London Evening Standard newspaper on 27 June 2012. He was born without part of his right arm and he was graduating from the Royal College of Music as the first in the history of the college to play piano with just his left hand. I can confidently say that's someone who sees more of what's working in his life than what's not working. If not, then why did he choose to be a pianist, of all professions? With just one hand?

Little Shifts:

1.What do you consider a disadvantage in your life?

2.After reading Nicholas' story, what do you think you can do with your disadvantage?

October 2

Involved vs Committed

I have a question for you this morning. Are you just involved in your life or are you committed? Being involved requires less from you than being committed. Being committed requires your life for your life to achieve something great for your purpose. Someone once said, 'The difference between being involved and committed can be compared to bacon and eggs: the chicken is involved but the pig is committed.'

So, try answering this question again: can you say you are truly committed to your life and purpose?

Your actions say it all.

Being involved does not necessary carry serious responsibilities or risks. When you are just involved, you would normally not have the privilege to make defining decisions. Rather, those decisions would be made on your behalf.

Whatever it is, I believe it is time for you to get committed and make your mark. It is time to make those defining decisions that could move your life forward.

Little Shifts:

1.At the moment in your life, would you say you are just involved or committed?

2.Based on your answer above, what do you think you can do to improve your position?

October 3

What Are You Standing On?

I watched a Christian movie, 'Courageous', just after this year's Father's Day celebration. The movie's purpose was to encourage, motivate and challenge men to be the man God created them to be. I recommend the movie to men and those that love them.

For one of the characters in the movie, the death of a daughter put many things into perspective for him, and he made up his mind to be the true father and husband to his son and wife respectively.

What got me in the movie was another man who had struggled to provide for his family; he lost his job as a labourer and was determined to get another. Eventually he got a better factory job and things turned around for good for his family. He was called in to the director's office and told he had been selected to be promoted to the role of factory manager, but on one condition - to always record less than what was delivered to the factory on every delivery. He was told to go and think about it and give his answer the following day.

Either answer, Yes or No, had its own implications. He summoned the courage and said he would not be able to lie about the delivery notes because it was wrong and against his beliefs and family values. He never knew it was a test of his integrity! The director was impressed and congratulated him on his new role.

Little Shifts:

1.Always stand on what's right and morally correct, you can never go wrong!

2.Can you remember a time when you had to choose between what's right and wrong

October 4

'Pre-cide' Before Decide

One of the most interesting types of people you could ever meet in life are those who 'pre-decide' on what they want to do, irrespective of what happens. A 'pre-decided' person's decision is so strong and connected to their belief.

I remember the biblical story of Daniel, a young man taken captive from Israel to the land of Babylon. He 'pre-cided' in the light of day before he decided in the dark of an irreversible situation. Check his story in the book of Daniel in the Bible.

In some cases, you can only overcome because you have 'pre-cided' on an issue before it ever happened. I encourage you to 'pre-cide' on matters that could violate your faith, belief, and value which may cause you to fail in life, or disappoint and let down the people that love, appreciate and look up to you.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you identify three areas in your life you have 'pre-cided' irrespective the situation?

2.What do you consider or should consider before making life changing decisions?

October 5

No One Has More Time

Has anyone close to you ever complained that there is not enough time to do things or they need extra time in a day? I bet someone must have said something similar to you. I know you have made similar complaints too. We all have 24 hours every day. They cannot be stored or reserved. You can either spend them or invest them. What we do in those precious 24 hours is what differentiates people. Our lives are a reflection of how we have managed our 24 hours daily.

The truth is, you will not have time for everything, but you will have to make time for things. You would be amazed at what you could do or accomplish in your 24 hours when you restructure your affairs. I restructured my activities this year and created 30 minutes for jogging and one hour for writing every day. Just sleeping or waking up one hour earlier can make all the time you need. Manage your time effectively and you will have an effective and productive life. Life and time are the world's best teachers. Someone once said: 'Life teaches us to make good use of time and time teaches us the value of life.'

We can create time for our families, purposes, destinies, social and community lives. Let's introduce structure into our lives.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you identify three important things in your life that you currently don't have time for?

2.How can you gain back two hours from your current busy twenty-four hours? Waking up earlier, reducing TV time, converting non-productive time to productive ones...

October 6

What's Your Craving?

Each time my wife was pregnant, she had some unusual craving for some foods. They were spontaneous and she had to have them. I remember her asking for barbecued chicken...but usually, she is not really a fan of chicken.

Someone once argued that hunger is proof of the existence of food, and thirst is proof of the existence of water.

Craving that dream of yours is proof that it exists. You get to a point in life where nothing else matters but God's plan and purpose that have become your dream. Dreams still come true. It takes determination and courage to live your life pursuing the dream you believe. It may not be a sweet experience all the way, but the craving for your dream would keep you going until the dream becomes a reality. Destiny is calling, don't allow the comfortable, lazy zone make you miss the call. Destiny may not call back or leave a you voicemail.

Little Shifts:

1.What's the craving that will not just go away?

2.Dream still come true. It may be longer that you imagined, stick with it longer.

October 7

Derailed Priorities

Have you ever wondered why we derail from our plans for the year (or even plans for the day)?

Joyce Meyer puts it in the right perspective for us and this is the truth: 'Priorities don't stay straight. We must always straighten them out.' So, there must be deliberate things we do continuously in order to get our priorities straight and in focus.

A dear friend said to me: 'Do you realise that even an aeroplane in flight loses some focus ninety percent of the time and needs the pilot to keep bringing it back on course? Knowing the plane will regularly be blown off course keeps the pilot alert.'

There are so many distractions (avoidable or unavoidable) in life that will make you lose focus unconsciously. Unfortunately, there is only little we can do about the distractions. These are a few tips for staying focused, from my friends:

Little Shifts:

1.First you need to admit there are distractions

2.Convert these to your advantage. Since they will always happen, expect them and make them work for you

3.Stay focused and deal with what matters most

4.You may need to re-prioritise the things you need to do over the things you want to do

5.You may need to learn to say NO to some requests

October 8

Who Has Many Fathers?

It's interesting that no one naturally wants to associate him/herself with failure - be it in the area of marriage or relationships, business, promise, contracts, etc. Someone said once, 'Success has many fathers, but failure is a bastard.' Ironically, no one ever succeeds without failing at least once. Failure is one of the ingredients of success. Your present failure can turn out to be your best success ever if the right support, mentorship and lessons learned are rightfully deployed.

It's no time to disengage from your failing venture. What failure needs to become a success is another shot and a lot of encouragement. In fact, someone close to you also needs that encouragement now. Help someone get back up. You will be glad you did.

Little Shifts:

1.In what area of life did you recently fail?

2.What can you do differently if you are to attempt it again?

October 9

The Enjoyment Is Stopping You

I was chatting with a friend last week and he said, 'It's amazing how people say they are tired but still enjoy the comfort and routine of their despair.' The truth is until you are tired and fed up of where you are, you won't have the push to change.

We can live our whole lives believing that we can't change the things we don't like about our situation. The day we see that for a lie, anything is possible.

I heard this line in one of the weight loss documentaries I

watched last week, 'Real change will never come from choices that are familiar and comfortable. You have to step out of your comfort zone to change.'

That's it. If you want to change, you will need to move out of your comfort zone

Little Shifts:

1.Which areas of your life do you need change?

2.What are you willing to do to change?

October 10

Can You Teach Me?

Knowing is different from understanding. Knowing is having the head knowledge, so it does not necessarily mean that you understand what you know - the core of the information. Having an understanding helps to benefit from what you know. Aristotle said, 'Those who know, do. Those who understand, teach.' I can only teach clearly what I know and understand. Many people do lots of things without understanding why they do it. Understanding gives you a reason.

Understanding gives you an in-depth insight that empowers and increases confidence. A coach has an understanding, while the players know their trade. Understanding helps a promising young person fulfil his/her full potential. Understanding helps us go beyond the face value of information.

In good educational systems, teachers are not just interested in wanting their students to know, they also want them to have a clear understanding of what they know. The approach is more hands on and practical. Let's progress from just knowing onto understanding. This can only happen by continuous learning and asking questions.

Little Shifts:

1.What can you truly say you truly understood and have profited from the application?

2.What do you wish you have a clear or better understanding of?

October 11

The Unseen Battle

One of the greatest things that shapes our lives and actions is our thought. Scientists and psychologists have estimated that we have between two to three thousand thoughts per day. This works out to about three every minute. Thoughts largely are either positive or negative. Be sure that both will come to you each day, but understand that you must decide which to dwell on and give more importance to.

Every thought is there to be developed. The fact that thoughts come into your mind does not mean you have to entertain every one of them. You can decide what you want to entertain or discourage. I don't know about you but suicide has crossed my mind before. Did l entertain, encourage or dwell on it? NO.   
Aristotle said, 'It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.' To put my own spin on it, 'It is the mark of a developed and renewed mind...'

Win the battle of the mind and you are on your way to winning the battle of life. Don't be a prisoner to your thoughts. Take care, take control of your thought life. Learn to sieve the positive thoughts from the negative.   
Little Shifts:

1)What are your dominant thoughts?

2)What do you think you can do differently to manage your thought life better?

October 12

What's Eating You Up?

I watched a new documentary series in early 2012 about obesity and how to get back in shape. It was titled 'Obesity: A Year to Save my life.' After a rigorous exercise and diet regime for 365 days, many participants shed at least half of their initial weights. Part of the process was to get into their pasts and see how they had stepped into the dangerous zone of obesity. Interestingly, most times, it was not what they ate that caused the obesity, rather, it was what ate them up.

For some people, what ate them was the sexual abuse and molestation they experienced and suffered as teenagers, and they found a safe haven in eating junk food.

The past has a strong hold on the emotions and psychology of a person. As humans, we tend to do anything (even if life threatening) to ease the pain of the past. Food, for some, is the easy and available option. What's eating you up? It's time to confront it. Stop running away from the real issues. Set yourself free.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have a pain of the past you are still masking with pain relievers?

2.Running away from the core issue will not allow you to enjoy the person you can be.

October 13

Opening at the Bottom

If you fell from the top of a tree or house while trying to reach for something at the top (assuming there's no injury), the only way to climb back would be to start right back from the bottom.

It is hard to start at the top. The bottom, on the other hand, often has many openings. Many people have ended their careers or businesses because they could not comprehend starting a business all over again. What makes you stronger is your courage to start all over again. The principle you deployed that promoted you to the top still has the latent power to promote you again. You just have to try again.

I remember the biblical story of the prodigal son. He thought he had lost his 'sonship' after he left home and acted immaturely. After he hit rock bottom, he decided to start all over again as a servant in his father's house. There will always be an opening at the bottom. That's an opportunity you can create for yourself.

Little Shifts:

1.Where have you falling that you don't have the courage to start all over again?

2.What do you have to lose if you start over?

October 14

The Short Cut May Be a 'Long Cut'!

I have never met anyone who doesn't prefer the easy way out in situations. However, I have realised that there is no substitute for hard work. Anything worthwhile in life will require your diligence and hard work. Even God, the creator of heaven and earth, worked for six days and rested on the seventh. You can work hard and smart and still have time to rest from your labour.

Sometimes, we hear some success stories and we think that they must have taken the short cut. Nothing is an overnight success. When l become a best-selling author, those who don't know my story will talk about the 'overnight success.' They would not understand that success is a combination of failure, hard work, determination, courage, and the grace and blessing of God.

Stop looking for short cuts, because there is none to your destiny and purpose.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember one time when you took a short cut but it ended up taking longer than expected?

2.Overnight success is averagely five to ten years in the making

October 15

Feeling Stuck?

We all, at some point in our lives, get stuck at a stage, where we are not sure of our next move that could signify progress or some form of upward movement in life. It's not always a nice place to be; it's rather frustrating.

I always feel stuck after two years of doing the same job, the same responsibilities without any room for change, improvement or innovation. I get bored easily with the norm. I get really excited with a new challenge, I like the feeling I get from facing the challenge, I see as something that can inspire my creativity.

The truth is, if what got you here is what will get you to the next level, no one would ever be stuck. Every day, every season presents new challenges and demands. Do you want to change your job? You may need to do something different from what you did the last time you attended an interview. The competition is fiercer now. You need something extra to give you the edge.

Feeling stuck is just a way your surroundings are telling you it's time to change something and face a new challenge. It may not be a new environment you need, it may be a new perspective and new goals to drive you forward

Little Shifts:

1.Where are you currently feeling stuck?

2.What needs to change? Environment? Perspective? Goals?

October 16

It's Just in My Character to Sting

My sister-in-law shared this story with me earlier in the year.  
'A scorpion, being a very poor swimmer, asked a turtle to carry him on his back across a river. 'Are you crazy?' exclaimed the turtle. 'You'll sting me while I'm swimming and I'll drown.' 'My dear turtle,' laughed the scorpion, 'If I were to sting you, you would drown and I would go down with you and now where is the logic in that?'  
'You are right!' cried the turtle. 'Hop on.'

The scorpion climbed aboard and halfway across the river, he gave the turtle a mighty sting. As they both sank to the bottom of the river, the turtle resignedly said, 'Do you mind if I ask you something? You said there would be no logic in you stinging me? Then why did you do it?'   
'It has nothing to do with logic,' the drowning scorpion sadly replied. 'It's just my character to sting!'

The wisdom from this classic is, be careful whom you share your life with. They are either adding to or taking away from you. You must carefully lean towards those who add value to your life rather than those who sting with their toxic attitudes. Life is too short for an experiment in bad company. Whoever walks with the wise will become wise but a company of fools heads for destruction.

Little Shifts:

1.Identify three people that are adding value to your life and three that are taking away from you all the time.

2.What do you need to do to increase the number of people that add value to your life?

October 17

The Test Is Necessary

In project management, there is an interesting role solely for testing the products or deliverables. This position is for people called testers. They have a responsibility to ensure the product is fit for purpose and resilience value is acceptable.

This applies to everything in life. You will never know the strength of something until you test it. Many of us have survived unimaginable circumstances only to discover our strength in adversity. Tests in life are never designed to destroy you like most believe. Rather the sole purpose is to show you your strengths, weaknesses and reveal what you are made of. You cannot fully know someone or yourself until you see the person in adversity and going through a test.

Embrace the test life is conducting on you. You will be better off.

Little Shifts:

1.What one test in life you can truly say it was for your benefit?

2.How did it help you to have a better perspective about tests in life?

October 18

In Your Pain

Life is tough and can have different degrees of difficulty at times, and we all will experience this at different levels.

Sometimes we think, 'if only I can get a new or better job, I will not have any issues any more', 'If only I get married, all my problems will go away'. I'm sorry to disappoint you, every phase in life has its own unique challenge. The richest people in this world have their own unique challenges totally different from yours.

I read a story few days ago of a mighty warrior whose family and entire community were taken captive while he was at the battlefront. On his mission to rescue his family and community, the warrior and his army met a young man fighting for his life because of starvation. They were compassionate to him and gave him food.

Interestingly, he was their clue to finding and freeing his people. He was part of the army that invaded their community, but was left behind to die by his master.

In your pain, adversity and challenges in life, don't be blind to people around you that are going through a challenge you are in a position to help. You never know, they may be in a 'position' to help you too in your struggle.

Little Shifts:

1.Despite your current situation, whom can you help with their own situation?

2.Never underestimate anyone you meet on life. There is always a reason for your path crossings at the time it does.

October 19

Same Situation, New Outlook

Everyone you see or meet has one or two situations they are currently battling or struggling with. It's just the part of life that toughens us for greater challenges ahead. Most of us get bogged down with the situation, waiting and hoping it will change so that we can move forward or make progress with our lives.

The truth is; your circumstance does not have to change for your story to change! Stop allowing your unfavourable circumstances rule and ruin other areas of your life. For example the fact you are still single does not mean you can't make progress in your career and get promoted.

I read the story of a prince who tragically became lame in both feet after the news of his father's and grandfather's death. As a Jewish tradition, lame people are not allowed in the temple, synagogues and the palace. The new king made enquiries about the former dynasty if anyone is left in that family that he can show kindness to. The lame prince was brought back to the palace; ate at the king's table and had many servants working for him. He was still lame, but the new break changed his story and outlook.

Little Shifts:

1.Which one situation have you be waiting to change before you can make progress?

2.With the situation, what can you do to change the outlook?

October 20

A Job for Every Problem

I have been meditating on a statement for a while. Now I have a fresh perspective on how we view the problems we engage with or see in everyday living. This is the statement: 'Everywhere there is a problem, there is a job.' A national organisation is screening for problem solvers that can offer sustainable advice and solution. A problem indicates that something needs fixing. And someone needs to do it, learn how to do it.

These days in Nigeria, well-trained and experienced security outfits/ companies are becoming very relevant and key to the safety of many organisations. A friend told me that airport scanning devices are now being used in some churches. Security has become a national problem that needs solution...that's a business and job for someone or a group or team. The biblical character, Joseph got an unusual reward for fixing a potential national disaster. Stop running from problems; instead, see how you can offer a solution. Be a problem solver at any level and you will never beg for bread.

Little Shifts:

1.List three problems you can see around you?

2.What could be the possible solutions to these problems?

October 21

Flat Tyre - Not Again!

Have you ever had a flat tyre while driving? Your driving becomes unbalanced. You become a hazard on the road. You need to reduce your speed and find somewhere to park to change the deflated tyre. Many people have sadly lost their lives because of burst tyres at top speed.

Someone once said, 'A bad character is like a flat tyre, you cannot go far without changing it.' Many promising lives have been destroyed, never reaching full potential because of bad character. If you want to go far in life and your purpose, you need to always check your character gauge and see if it needs refilling or complete replacement. Sometimes, we drive on low pressure gauge tyres because we never bother to check if they are in good working condition. We need to regularly check our character, more like a character MOT every month. I would recommend this book: 'Character Counts, Who's Counting Yours?' By Rod Hanley

Little Shifts:

1.List three things more than one person have highlighted or complained about following their engagement or dealings with you

2.What can you do to make the require changes in those highlighted areas?

October 22

Redefining Who You Are

A major influence on our self-esteem is our estimation of our self-worth. It may seem like a trivial issue, but many struggle with their self-worth which in turn has a knock on effect on their confidence and disposition to life. Not knowing who you are or having a good sense of self is a recipe for disaster because you will be chasing everything to validate and confirm an identity you think you have or are supposed to have as opposed to who you really are and what you are worth.

We look for self-worth in many places; titles, positions, bank accounts, family, jobs, children but our true and sustainable self-worth can only come from a life full of purpose and balance. When you know and walk purposefully, you become comfortable in your skin and confident that what you are doing is making a difference.

Ask yourself this question, 'if everything is taken away from me today - the job, the title, the position, my relationships, will I still know who I am?' If you have allowed things to define who you are or who you are not, it is time to redefine who you are with your purpose and value.

Little Shifts:

1.Beyond your position, title and status, how are you?

2.How can the person you are reflect in how you relate and treat others?

October 23

Close, Yet Far Apart

One of the most frustrating positions you can find yourself in is when your promise or potential does not match your current reality. You can feel stuck when what you see or perceive inside of you is not matching what you see outside or you're currently experiencing, especially if you are the only one seeing the better inner picture. When these two perspectives do not match, there is an overwhelming sense of failure that envelops your thoughts.

What do you do when what you see on the inside does not match what you see on the outside? I know many are in this position and not sure what they can do. It's important to know that having a better inner picture is not designed to make you frustrated but motivates you so that your potential can become your reality. As long as you keep trying, improving and developing yourself, then you have a chance.

Keeping the picture in view will reveal areas in your current reality that need work, change and improvement. Rather than spend your energy being frustrated, convert this energy into motivating yourself, be propelled and excited about the possibility of your potential becoming your reality.

Little Shifts:

1.How is your inner picture different from your current reality?

2.How can you become the person in your inner picture?

October 24

You May Need To Give Up In Order Not To Give Up

At some point in our lives, someone must have given us this popular advice, 'Don't give up' especially when you are tired and all your efforts are not yielding any positive results.

What you were not told however, is that not giving up may require you to give up something and start all over again intelligently. It may be accepting that your approach, strategies or plans are not working and you are bold enough to review and amend it as appropriate. Like the popular saying, 'Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting a different result.'

'Don't give up' is about consistency. Consistency is not necessarily doing the same thing all the time but improving on how, what, when you do what you do all the time. 'Don't give up' is about 'stickability' and sometimes, a fresh start! A fresh start in itself is progress.

Little Shifts:

1.What do you need to give up and start afresh more intelligently?

2.What do you need to be more consistent with?

October 25

The Many Names of the Future

I want to share this statement from Victor Hugo with you: 'The future has many names: for the weak, it means the unattainable; for the fearful, it means the unknown; for the courageous, it means opportunity.'

Whatever your own stand, whether you believe it or not, there is a future designed just for you. It is guaranteed but not automatic. God requires your cooperation and belief to take you to that pre-designed future.

You may not be weak physically, but you may be emotionally and psychologically because of the mistakes you made. You may even think nothing good can ever happen to you again.

Understand this: mistakes prepare you for the future just like failures prepare you for success. Disappointments prepare you for future appointments.

Little Shifts:

1)What do you name the future?

2)What have you learned from your past mistakes that will be valuable tomorrow?

October 26

Speed or Direction?

In this fast-paced generation, we are obsessed with speed, getting and receiving things the fastest way possible. That's why fast food restaurants will never be out of business. We seem not to be interested in the process rather we prefer to pay our way out of the process.

Speed is good only in the right direction. Direction is more important than speed. Many of us are so busy looking at our speedometers that we forget the milestone we are trying to reach. I would rather be in the right direction at a slow pace than go on the highest speed in the wrong direction. I'd only get to the wrong destination faster.

Always ask yourself, is 'this' taking me in the right direction? As much as we are all created for relationships, not all relationships are good for us. Understand the purpose and direction of each relationship before you invest in it.

This simple checklist can save you tons of heartbreak and disappointment.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you identify areas you would have prefer to have direction rather than speed?

2.Is your job, relationships, health, emotions taking you in the right direction?

October 27

Infinite Tomorrow

There is one habit I'm trying and working really hard at overcoming completely. It is shelving tasks that need completing today for another day. It's a nice way to describe procrastination.

Procrastination does not have good intentions for anyone contrary to what you may have believed. I'm good at doing some things immediately while some things I allow to drag and they end up taking me almost two to three weeks before I finally get them done. One of the lies I tell myself and always believe it (funny enough) is, 'There is still time, I can do it tomorrow, there is no harm' Forgetting tomorrow will have its own unique tasks to complete and that's how we postpone many important things in our lives to infinite tomorrows.

Procrastination kills dreams and visions gradually. A friend once said, 'Every day you postpone your fight, the battle intensifies and the strategy changes' One of the things I'm doing to overcome this bad habit is to identify the moment I decide to procrastinate and tell myself out loud, 'You are procrastinating and its bad for your life.' I tell myself the benefits of completing the task now and crush the fear or resistance holding me back from even attempting the task.

Little Shifts:

1.List three tasks you have postponed to infinite tomorrows

2.What can you do about these tasks today?

October 28

Where Are You?

Sometimes, when I'm having my 'me time', I get upset and blame myself for so many things. My head is filled with the 'what if' questions and 'I should have' comments. But this statement sets me free from myself: 'Don't be so upset about how far you still have to go; be excited about how far you've come!' Many times we get so bugged up about how far we still need to go, forgetting how far we have come. I do a lot of long distance driving and the way I keep myself motivated is to see how many miles I have covered already.

You may not be where you want to be but certainly you are not where you used to be. That statement summarises my life so far and I am grateful. I am not where I was two years ago and guess what? I will not be where I am now this time next year. What about you? Some are half way through their journeys, others are three quarters way through. Wherever you are, enjoy your life. Make it count with no space for regrets.

Little Shifts:

1.Look back to about a year ago and see how far you have come

2.The detours on the way are part of the journey and experience.

October 29

Born Out of Pain

One of my favourite teachers of the Bible, Rick Warren, said: 'Don't waste your pain, use it to help others.'

After four years of pain in the business world, I believe I am in a good position to help someone starting out in business. I wish I had someone to effectively mentor me through my own transition in business affairs.   
Anything done or born out of pain is real, practical and effective. The real world experience is slightly different from your MBA class.

My first book was born out of pain. You can check it out on Amazon: Little Details, Big Shift. I believe one of the ways you can turn your pain to gain is to use your experience to help other people. Your pain will be released and replaced with joy and a fulfilment that comes from knowing that your life is making a difference. Eventually, at that point you would be glad you went through what was a horrible and painful experience.

Little Shifts:

1.What past experience or pain can you help others with?

2.This will require your transparency and vulnerability

October 30

Why Count the Days?

Sometimes when we are expected or expecting to do something at a particular time or day, we tend to count down to the hour or day. It's worse if you're idle. You just keep looking at the clock.   
A waiting period can be frustrating. But I have a simple piece of advice for you from this saying: 'Don't count the days, make the days count.'

While waiting for that dream job, what could you do with your time? What trade or skill could you learn and develop? I have a friend who has an MBA and was working in a bank. Today, she has her own fashion design centre, designing and making clothes for people. She learnt how to design and sew in her spare time. What you do (or don't do) while waiting may be the key that will unlock (or lock) the next door you have been waiting for.

Little Shifts:

1.How can you make the days count while waiting?

2.What skills are required to have to unlock your next door of opportunity?

October 31

The Time is Always Right to Do Right

One of the revolutionary things Jesus did in his days was to get religious people to break away from hiding under the guise of religion and refusing to do what was right and acceptable. For example, in the Jewish culture, the Sabbath is the day of rest - you are not allowed to do anything. But Jesus broke their law and healed someone on the Sabbath. The hypocritical Jewish leaders at the time questioned him for healing on a Sabbath day. Jesus then asked, 'if their donkey fell in the well on a Sabbath day, would they not rescue it?'

Martin Luther King Jr said, 'The time is always right to do what is right.' There is no time restriction to seek justice and peace for humanity. We can all seek justice and peace for our families in our own little corners. The time is always right to do what is right and acceptable.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you want to do but thought the timing is not right

2.What impact will it have on you and others if you do them now?

November 1

Leader, Yet Servant

It's interesting that most people prefer to be served than to serve.   
Serving has a lot of lessons and trainings hidden in the process. Many people don't consider the position of serving someone or working for someone an honourable thing. When you are serving, it looks as though you are obscure, not visible. But that's not totally true. I see it as a period of training and learning your trade.

Every great person of worth and success has a reference point, a place of history where they served selflessly. You need to run away from anyone who claims to be an overnight sensation, whose origin of service you can't trace.

The question is, where and/or who have you served? In the Bible, Joshua was called the servant of Moses, not servant of God.   
I served under my pastor, Bishop Reuben Oke for seven years in Nigeria before relocating to the United Kingdom. Then I served another six years at the Europe headquarters of the ministry before I was given a responsibility to pioneer a branch of the ministry in my 'village' of Dagenham. I am ready for the next phase of my life...purpose is calling, I need to pick the call.

Little Shits:

1.Serving may not be glamorous, but it is rewarding

2.Can you list three people you know who served at a place and got honoured or promoted afterward

November 2

Normal Sucks!

I don't know if you have noticed that lately, normal doesn't seem to work anymore. Normal is not getting the desired result. Normal is just normal. Normal sucks! This affects every industry, and almost every area of life. People are changing the way they learn. Universities and colleges are changing the way they deliver lectures and studies. Technology has revolutionised many things we do in life.

Interestingly, you were not born to be 'normal' or just like everyone, no. You were born to stand out and do things differently. That's why I love Apple. They are not normal, neither are their products. And guess what? That's what everyone loves about them. They are different and 'weird'.

I don't want to be 'normal' and I don't wish you to be either. Normal is the norm, the accepted standard. Tyler Perry said, 'Live your life outside the box because when you die, you're going into one.' Funny but true. I've enrolled in the 'weird school', so don't be surprised or scared when I start approach things differently.

Little Shifts:

1.What are the 'normals' in your life that need to change?

2.What can you offer differently, the little extra that can make you to stand out in the crowd?

November 3

A Thief on Jesus' Dream Team

I am just pondering on how a thief got into Jesus' Dream Team. Jesus knows all things, and I believe He knew about Judas's weakness. My guess is that Jesus still chose Judas because he was creating a platform for him to deal with his problem of stealing. Unfortunately, it didn't work out. The habit grew worse.

Any issue not attended to promptly will become an issue of attention tomorrow. Issues are best dealt with at their infancy stage. Deal with your issues now before they become a problem.

Deal with your problem now before it becomes a difficulty. Problems not confronted can never be solved. Time in itself doesn't solve a problem; rather, acting timely and appropriately does.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list three current issues that need your prompt attention to nip it in the bud?

2.Can you list three current problems you have that generated from unattended little issues?

3.Can you reassess all the issues and problems above and formulate how to resolve each one? Ask for help if required

November 4

A Tale of a Happy Ending

Many people who have experienced bad starts to their lives and want to change things mostly ask: 'Where do I start from?'

When you think about the years, resources and efforts that have been wasted, you may not be motivated or encouraged to do anything anymore. The truth is, 'Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.' (Maria Robinson)

For what it's worth, you can decide to have a new ending. Your ending can easily be predicted from your daily life - how you spend your time and money. Everybody loves a happy ending. I love happy endings.

The beginning of a story is not always as important as the ending. I love the story of a lady in the Bible, Rahab. She was a highly rated prostitute and everyone in town knew her. I believe she knew where her life may have end up so she desired a new and better ending. She was unable to erase her beginning as a prostitute but she painted a new ending in the blank canvas she was given.

The owner of Mcdonald's started at 58; televangelist Joyce Meyer started her ministry when she was 40 years old.

Little Shifts:

1.What can you start doing from today that can contribute positively to a new and better ending?

2.Your beginning should not determine your ending

November 5

To Remain Poor is Your Decision

I first read this statement from Bill Gates few months ago, it hit me like a heavy hammer: 'If you were born poor, it's not your mistake, but if you die poor, it's your mistake.'

This is hard to swallow but it is true. We don't have control over where we are born but we have control over what we do.

No amount of money can make you rich. I once read the story of a rapist who won £4.5million in a national lottery four years ago. Now he is back on the benefit system. Money can't make you rich! The biblical Joseph was a slave, yet it was testified of him that he was prosperous! This is where it all starts. Your mind set. As an employee or business owner, if you spend everything you earn or make, you have a poor mentality. In simple language, you are poor.

Little Shifts:

1.What are the habits you have developed that we help you towards or far from financial maturity?

2.As a rule of thumb, I advise that you save at least twenty percent of everything you make every month

November 6

The Small, Yet Powerful Element

There are some small things in life that are very powerful. They seem harmless, but can build up or destroy, depending on how you engage them. One of such things is the tongue. It's small, yet it controls a lot. This is what James (the half-brother of Jesus) had to say about the tongue, in the Bible:

'A bit in the mouth of a horse controls the whole horse. A small rudder on a huge ship in the hands of a skilled captain sets a course in the face of the strongest winds. A word out of your mouth may seem of no account, but it can accomplish nearly anything - or destroy it! A careless or wrongly placed word out of your mouth can do that. By our speech we can ruin the world, turn harmony to chaos, throw mud on a reputation, send the whole world up in smoke and go up in smoke with it, smoke right from the pit of hell.' 1

I encourage you today to engage your tongue wisely. Stop speaking downgrading words to yourself. You can never live beyond and above your confession. Get over what you don't like about yourself and speak what you want into your life. Also, be careful what you say to the people in your life. Learn to speak life and not death.

Little Shifts:

1.How can you describe your engagement with your tongue?

2.What do you say to or about yourself? Do you love and respect yourself?

1(James 3:3-6 AMP)

November 7

Are You On the Dance Floor?

Sometimes, all we have is just one chance to seize the opportunity of a lifetime. It is better to be prepared at all times. Most times, we prefer to have a kind of incentive before we can prepare for something. Our minds and bodies find it hard to prepare for something that is not certain: preparing and developing yourself for a position that is not yet available; preparing yourself to be a good wife or husband when no one is even noticing you; preparing to be a bestselling author when no one is interested in your write-ups.

Jackson Brown said, 'Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor.' Are you willing to get onto the dance floor without the music? Can you make some melody within yourself and start dancing before the music starts.

I started making melody since January 2012 on the dance floor of creative writing. Opportunities are best seized by those prepared and ready for them.

Little Shifts:

1.List two things you need to start preparing for?

2.What do you need to start doing for these two things?

November 8

Why Does the Training Season Suck?

It's interesting how we celebrate or love to celebrate people that achieve something we are yet to achieve or don't even dream of achieving. Some of us think those people are special or lucky or just talented. It may be true but there is more to just being talented or lucky.   
We need the willingness to pay the price even when it's very expensive. We need to stretch ourselves. We need the determination to see things through.   
I remember the summer Olympic Games 2012 in London. I remember how I was cheering on Usain Bolt and Jessica Ennis to victory. The truth is this, no one saw their pains during practice/training seasons, but everyone was willing to pay to come and cheer them to victory. What if they had given up during the training season, the boring and hard-work season?

You can't know what's possible until you decide to go by the way of your dream (the picture of your ideal future). Well, I guess I'm speaking and encouraging myself too. I encourage you too, not to give up when the going gets tough. Remember that after the hard season, multitudes will be willing to pay to cheer for you. Take up the challenge today and begin the first day of the rest of your life.

Little Shifts:

1.Do the hard work behind closed doors and you will be celebrated in the open

2.What training season have you given up recently or are you about to give up?

November 9

For Once, Forget Your Dream!

Sometimes, by just seizing one opportunity, many doors of opportunity begin to show up on their own accord. The initial opportunity may be without monetary gain, but based on the success and quality delivered, you start to receive referrals.   
Never turn down an opportunity to showcase your skill, talent and gifts especially if you are just starting out in an area in life. Future works have a way of rewarding you for the past free jobs.

Opportunities multiply as they are seized. In the Bible, Joseph, in the bid to develop his gift of interpreting dreams, offered free consultancy service to his cellmates. Note that at this time in his life, he was the leader of the prisoners. His leadership skills and abilities were unquestionable. Joseph believed there was more to him than just being a leader. His desire to help and empower people motivated him to push aside his dream for a short while, to focus on interpreting other people's dreams. Guess what? His dream became a reality by interpreting other people's dreams.

Seize the opportunities to solve problems today and you will see more opportunities open to you without sweat.

Little Shifts:

1.Shifting your focus away from yourself, who can you support in making their dream a reality?

2.What other skills have you been thinking lately that you need to develop?

November 10

Inspired or Matured?

We have so many inspired leaders across the globe in different industries. However, mature leaders are not much on the lists. To become a mature leader is another special kind of training that many will prefer not to enrol in. Why? Because it's unusual and painful most times. Anyone can hold the helm of affairs when everything is going well. You would know a mature, experienced pilot when he flies through serious turbulence and unusual adverse weather.

Winston Churchill (two-time United Kingdom Prime Minister, known for his leadership during the Second World War) said, 'Mountaintops inspire leaders but valleys mature them.' Everyone prefers the mountaintops. That's where the honour, praise and recognition are. But the valley experience builds strength, character and belief in yourself. Embrace both positions to become a better leader, a better person.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you identify three mountaintop experiences you've had?

2.Can you identify three valley experiences you've had?

November 11

Extra Inch, Yard and Mile

My big sister shared this story earlier in the year; thought I'd share it with you:

Damian and Henry joined a wholesale company together just after graduation. Both worked very hard. After several years, the boss promoted Henry to sales executive position but Damian remained a sales rep. One day Damian could not take it anymore, he tendered his resignation letter to the boss and complained that the boss did not value hard working staff, but only promoted those who flattered him.

The boss knew that Damian worked very hard for the years, but in order to help Damian realize the difference between him and Henry, the boss gave Damian a simple task: to go and find out if there was anyone selling watermelons in the market. Damian returned and confirmed that there were. The boss asked how much they were charging per kilogram. Damian went back to the market to ask and returned to inform boss that it was $5 per kilogram. The boss told Damian, 'I will give Henry the same task.' Henry went, returned & reported that only one person was selling watermelon at $5 per kilogram, $20 for 10kg. He also had an inventory of 340 melons. On the table there were fifty-eight melons, every melon weighed about fifteen kilograms, bought from the North two days before, they were fresh and red, of good quality. Damian was very impressed and realized the difference between himself and Henry. He decided not to resign but to learn from Henry.

My dear friends, a more successful person is more observant, thinks more and understands in depth. In short, he gives more and does more than is expected of him, will always go beyond the baseline. A more successful person sees several years ahead, while normal people see only tomorrow. The difference between a year and a day is 365 times; how can you win? Think!

Little Shifts:

1.How far ahead can you see?

2.What more can you give more than is expected of you?

November 12

Leave Where You Are!

Most times, we know what we don't want, but don't know what we do want. And for this simple reason, we are stuck in what we don't want or like. We don't like our current jobs but we are not sure of what we really want or like. The truth is, you will never leave where you are until you decide where you would rather be. That's purpose statement. I was speaking to a young man who is really talented and skilled, yet stuck with a lifestyle or circle of friends that he didn't like. He knew it, but stayed there, still enjoying it. Why? Because he is yet to know where he would rather be.

Ben Stein, American actor, writer & lawyer said, 'the first step to getting the things you want out of life is this: decide what you want.' That firm decision will guide you through life's journey. Here are a few tips to consider to decide on what you want:

Little Shifts:

1.What do you like, enjoy doing and wouldn't mind doing for free?

2.What do you hear, see or do that ignites your inner passion?

3.What do you do that comes naturally to you but people around you have commented on how special it was?

4.What can you not stand or tolerate?

November 13

The Last Nail in the Coffin

I was meditating again on my favourite biblical story of Joseph and his journey to his dream. The journey to a dream is an unpredictable one. We're not always sure of what will happen next, not sure who will lie or betray us, or drop us in holes.

Please note, every good deed will always be rewarded. Man may forget your good deed, but God in heaven keeps records and He has a unique way of sending the reward vouchers.

It just dawned on me that when Joseph was sent to prison for the alleged attempted rape of his boss's wife, it seemed to be the end of his life and dream. It looked like the last nail had been hammered into his coffin. No one pleaded for his bail or trial. He probably thought he was sure to die in prison. He had no family to ask about him or declare him missing. But his good deed, faithfulness and willingness to help others delivered him from eternal jail. Dr Mike Okonkwo once said, 'God does not bless office, but faithfulness.'

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember three occasions when you extended an act of kindness to someone?

2.What do you need to do to stay faithful or start being faithful?

November 14

There Are Four Seasons, Not One

My sister shared this story with me:

There was an Indian chief who had four sons. He wanted his sons to learn not to judge things too quickly. So he sent them each on a quest in turn, to go and look at a pear tree that was a great distance away.  
The first son went in the winter, the second in the spring, the third in summer, and the youngest son in the fall. When they had all gone and come back, he called them together to describe what they had seen.

The first son said that the tree was ugly, bent, and twisted.

The second son said: 'No! It was covered with green buds and full of promise.'  
The third son disagreed, saying it was laden with blossoms that smelled so sweet and looked so beautiful. It was the most graceful thing he had ever seen.

The last son disagreed with all of them and said it was ripe and drooping with fruit, full of life and fulfilment.

The man then explained to his sons that they were all right, because they had each seen but only one season in the tree's life.

He told them: 'You cannot judge a tree, or a person, by only one season. The essence of who they are and the pleasure, joy, and love that come from that life can only be measured at the end, when all the seasons are up.

If you give up when it's winter, you will miss the promise of your spring, the beauty of your summer, the fulfilment of your fall.'

Little Shifts:

1.Don't let the pain of one season destroy the joy of the rest

2.Don't judge life by one difficult season

3.Persevere through the difficult patches and better times are sure to come

4.Transition is not the end. It is the end of a season and start of a new season

November 15

The Most Valuable Thing

Adam Osborne said something profound that should encourage people like me, who have made tons of mistakes and bad decisions that seemed good at a time. He said: 'The most valuable thing you can make is a mistake - you can't learn anything from being perfect.' This is not to say that being perfect is bad. My mistakes and the mistakes of others around me have been valuable and instructive. More people would learn from their mistakes if they weren't so busy denying them.

The only one that can never make a mistake is God. God does not make mistakes, people do. Everyone in life - whether a leader, a bishop or a perfectionist father - will make mistakes in life. Young people will make a lot of mistakes in life before they get hold of what's really important. I want to share some advice Joyce Meyer gave me (well, not directly). She said, 'Don't mourn over your bad decisions, just start overcoming them with good ones.' How true!

Some mistakes are too costly and very damaging.

The Prodigal Son left home prematurely and nearly ruined his life. But he decided to make at least a right decision to overcome the bad one. That step paid off for him. It's time to move forward; the mourning is over.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list three mistakes you have made in life and gained something valuable from them?

November 16

Unusual Summer

For some reason, at the time of writing this post, summer in the UK refused to be a real summer. It rained for the most part, and floods were reported in some parts of England. The sun refused to shine as much as it would have. Despite this, the shops had their summer clothes ranges on display and believed people would still shop for their summer needs. Why? Because it was summer, whether the sun was shining or not. The prevalent weather condition did not change the fact that its summer season.

Walt Whitman said, 'Keep your face always towards the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you.' Keep your focus and all the self-doubt shadow will fall behind you. Remember, your life has the potential to be everything you can but have not become, everything you can do but have not yet done.

The potential is there, deposited already inside you. Just draw it out! If you can't, seek help and support from people that can dig deep with you to discover what is hidden in the deep well of your soul.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember a time when what was happening around you was not related to what was happening within you?

November 17

The Yardstick of Quality

The elements of human psychology are mostly predictable. The players and consultants in the business world take advantage of this and profit from it. They don't always wait to carry out market research to know what you would like or want next. Sometimes they just present to us what they believe we need to have in our lives.

Generally, people are willing and happy to pay more for quality and anything that stands for or represents excellence.

Steve Jobs said: 'Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren't used to an environment where excellence is expected.' Jobs was a man that always looked for better ways to do things. His mantra around the office was: 'There has got to be a better way.' Mobile apps, for example, were not here seven or ten years ago. Now, it's the way to go. Today, mobile technology is the driving force behind a lot of things we do. In 2012, a pizza company declared billions of dollars of profit and confirmed that 40% of their sales came through their mobile apps.

Introduce quality to your life and everything you do. You will be rewarded accordingly.

Little Shifts:

1.List three areas of your life you believe can benefit from a touch of quality?

2.What has improved with the new of technology for you?

November 18

Purpose Driven Decision

I cannot over-emphasise the importance of knowing your purpose in life. A clear purpose not only defines what we do; it also defines what we do not do. That's why some organisations will never do some things. Why? Because of their purpose, target audience, values, etc.

As an individual, a clear understanding of your purpose will inform your choices and decisions. Every 'acceptable' action, belief or ideology may not be acceptable to you because of your purpose. This sets you apart from everyone. You are different because your purpose is different. You should owe nobody any apology for making decisions based on your purpose. It is your life!

Because of the unusual purpose God had for Samson, there was a clear instruction concerning the young man even before he was born. He was a special child with a special assignment to fulfil in life. The instructions were meant to guide his decisions in life while fulfilling the purpose. Unfortunately, he got carried away by his craving for pleasure and made bad life decisions that short-lived the preordained purpose. Always remember, your purpose is guaranteed but not automatic.

Little Shifts:

1.List three situations you had to make a decision based on your purpose and not what was expected of you

2.What are the stop checks you have in place to help you with decision making?

November 19

Where Suspicion Lives

A couple has been married for over fifteen years. The wife feels the husband is having an affair, because he comes home really late. But the truth is the man is building up a business and the same time still working his nine-to-five job...

Alexandre Dumas Pere shared a hard truth: 'Pure love and suspicion cannot dwell together: at the door where the latter enters, the former makes its exit.' Where suspicion lives, lack of trust, fear, doubts and assumptions dwell there. And you can't expect anything great to come from such dwelling. Love with a pure heart and if you have concerns, don't hesitate to let your partner know how you feel, and seek clarification. Don't create images, motive and actions in your head that do not exist.

Little Shifts:

1)Can you remember a situation where your suspicion was totally opposite to reality?

2)List three areas you currently have suspicion. Who is involved? What would happen if you let them know how you feel?

November 20

The Plans Are Real

I just want to share these thoughts about life with you. It is not to patronise you but to tell you the truth.

God has plans for your life, the plans are good, they are future-oriented, which means He will unfold over time, over seasons, and the plans are not small. Please read that statement again and read it aloud to yourself. That's the truth. All through our lives, we live to discover God's plans for us as they unfold. In my own life, a new phase is unfolding. I could not have imagined I would be where I am today months ago. When you walk with this understanding, you will have the courage to rise up from the ashes of failure, disappointment and still believe truly there is a plan for my life.

In the bible, a young lady once married an immigrant, but after a short while, her husband died. Her mother in-law decided to return home, but the young lady decided to follow her despite all advice that there was no hope or guarantee of a better life if she followed her mother in-law. I perceive she believed God had plans for her life and she was determined to discover the plan. May you meet people that will usher you into God's plans and purpose for your life.

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. It's no time to stop. Keep moving and the plans will continue to unfold.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you describe your purpose on earth (if you have discovered it)?

November 21

I Need Power

I have a question this morning. It's a question everyone seeking a place of influence or authority needs to answer way before assuming office.

The question is this: can you be trusted with power? Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely. This has been demonstrated in different sectors and levels of authority – in the political world, corporate world, sports industry, even in the church. Power intoxicates! You may not know how powerful its effects can be until you are in charge.   
I believe the issue of power is also one amidst many of the problems Africa is facing. A political leader becomes a lord to be served and worshipped rather than being a servant leader, looking for the better of the people to be served.

Today, many are criticising those in power in Africa, but sadly, some have been given the opportunity to lead and the result was not different. In any sector you find yourself, always ask, can you be trusted with power? The power is to influence others positively, make this world/or catchment area a better place to live.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember a time you were in a place of authority and power? How will you be remembered?

2.Can you list three people you know who abuse the trust and power of their position?

November 22

What's Inside Your Nut?

I was listening to one of my favourite preachers, TD Jakes a few weeks ago and he made a statement that got me thinking for a few days. It's not that I wasn't familiar with the concept of what he was talking about but it was his insight that intrigued me. He said, 'Everything you are going to be in life you are already in another form.' That's a profound truth right there.

Everything I am going to be in life, I am already in another form. An acorn is a nut that has in it an oak tree.

The acorn does not look like an oak tree in any shape or form but that does not negate the fact that there is an oak tree in that funny shaped nut. Your current situation may not look like your preferred future situation but that does not mean you can't get to your preferred future. The acorn had to go through many things in its transformation process but one thing stands out for me in the process. The nut stood and held its ground. Don't despise your acorn; there is more to you than meets the eye. Don't make the common mistake of comparing your acorn nut with the trees around you.

Allow your acorn to go through its transformation process to give way for your oak tree.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you identify three 'acorn nuts' you currently have?

2.What will the transformation process be for each one?

November 23

Potent Strength Crying Out!

On many occasions, I have advised and encouraged people who are preparing for an exam or interview with this phrase: 'Do your best and leave the rest to God.' Interestingly, I just realised it's not really great advice. Most times, our bests do not measure up to what is required, so, what is required is different from what we put in. Sir Winston Churchill said, 'It's not enough that we do our best; sometimes we have to do what's required.'

Your best is what is acceptable to you based on your criteria and factors. What's required is what's acceptable universally across the globe. Putting in 10 hours a week learning your trade may be your best but 28 hours a week may be what's required to master your trade. Ironically, we all can do what's required if we stretch ourselves. There is so much potent strength within us begging to be activated for productivity. You have what's required within you.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you identify three occasion where your best did not measure up to what was required?

2.How can you always give what's required and not just your best?

November 24

A Drop and the Ocean

In recent times, I've begun to think about the benefits of partnership or having a good team to work with. Someone once coined team as 'together each achieves more.' It's only little you can accomplish alone. There is an old African adage that says, 'two heads are better than one' I would like to qualify that remark with, 'two correct heads.' One of the major challenges of partnership is not teaming up with the right person. Many have benefited from the right partnership in business, ministry, marriage and other areas.

Ryunosuke Satoro said, 'Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.' This statement shows how limited we can be sometimes if we operate as a lone ranger. One can go far, but a team can go farther. It's really deciding on what you really wants to achieve.

Teaming up with the right people in life is huge and the impact is unbelievable. I remember the biblical story of Jacob when he fled home and went to join his Uncle. His Uncle confirmed after twenty years when Jacob wanted to leave that God blessed his household because of the partnership with him. He persuaded him to stay and name his price. That's what partnership can do for one.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list three partnerships that have benefit you greatly?

2.Can you list three new partnerships you need to go farther?

November 25

The Most Important After God

Most times we don't know what we have until we lose it or are at the verge of losing it.

Ask yourself, if you were told by your doctor that you had a month to live, what would you like to do? What comes to your mind? I bet you would like to do one or all of these: spend the days left having QUALITY time with family members and loved ones, cherishing every moment, forgiving someone, possibly calling a friend you offended, seeking forgiveness, making proper plans for the family you are going to leave behind.   
At this moment, your perception and perspective have changed. What seemed 'important' to you before is no longer important. My question today is: why do you prefer to wait till such a time as that to do what's right and appropriate? Nothing (apart from God) should be more important to us than our family. That's the gift God gave us to nourish and preserve our lives. Now is the time! Don't wait for bad news from the doctor.

Little Shifts:

1.List three important things you wish you have done in the last 12 months but busyness got in the way?

2.How can you create time to do these three important things?

November 26

The Small Dog on the Big Stage

I watched two great lawn tennis matches during Wimbledon 2012. Both matches had something in common: one of the players was of small stature while the opponent was well-built and very tall. Going by the physical stature, I was quick to say that the tall, well-built players would win the matches, but I was surprised and thrilled with the results of the two matches. The players with smaller physical stature won the matches and proceeded to the next round. It's not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog that matters on a big stage.

I discovered that it's not enough to have just one quality in life and not develop the other qualities require to be a winner or live a significant life. Let us strive to be well rounded in all qualities required to make a mark in life. We all know what we need to work on. Let's give attention to such areas.

Little Shifts:

1.What are the qualities you still need to develop to be an all-rounder?

2.How do you think you can start developing these qualities?

November 27

The Free, Yet Expensive Ticket

There are days when you sleep and have some sweet, promising dreams that you would prefer not to wake up from. You probably said in the dream, 'this better not be a dream; I don't want to wake up.' But at other times, you've had some nightmares and you prayed seriously, 'this better be a dream.' I want to share another kind of dream with you. This is a picture of the future, so real, so close and so personal.

Abdul Kalam said, 'A dream is not what you see when you sleep; a dream is that which does not let you sleep.' When you are consumed by the picture of the future, every decision you make will reflect and take into account the picture. John Maxwell said, 'The dream is free but the journey is not.' I guess this is the sole reason why a lot of people choose not to embark on the dream journey. So expensive, demanding, very stressful, painful but most fulfilling. Very few travel this path. The dream ticket is available in all stores today. Will you take the challenge and make a difference?

Little Shifts:

1.What can you say is your dream?

2.Can you describe the dream journey so far?

November 28

The Hole, Scar and Wound

My sister in-law sent this story to me few months ago. I hope you can learn something from it.

Jack grew up with a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails with the instruction that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of their fence. On the first day Jack had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually reduced. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence because of the effort it entailed. Finally the day came when he didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father, who then suggested that he start to pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.   
The days passed and Jack was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. The father led him to the fence and said, 'You have done well, my son but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same because whenever we say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this. You can stab a man with a knife, but it doesn't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound will still be there.'

Remember that verbal abuse is as bad as physical abuse if not worse. We must learn to treat people with dignity, respect and honour in the face of grievances, complaints and disagreements. 'He who has control over his emotion of anger can capture a whole city.' We must overcome negative emotion with good disposition and never match evil for evil. We often use words to make or mar our relationships. Relationships are rare jewels, indeed they make us happy and fulfilled but sometimes they can hurt us and drive us to tears. Be mindful of your temper.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember three occasions when you said things you wished you had not uttered?

2.Can you remember a situation where someone said something to you that left a scar despite their apology?

November 29

Be Man Enough: Stab Me In The Front

One of the greatest treasures you can have in life is the gift of a true friend. A true friend is rare these days. A true friend knows your weakness and they will not take advantage of it. They will stick it out with you. Come rain, sunshine, snow, drought... in all seasons they are there for you. Not only that, they tell you the truth even if it hurts. They will not patronise you. They will not say in your absence what they cannot say in your presence. This is how you know a true friend: 'True friends stab you in the front.' (Oscar Wilde)

Many are carrying back wounds from different back stabs from trusted friends. Unfortunately, back wounds are hard to reach compared to front wounds. If you are going to stab another, do it honourably and like a man; stab in the front! Only the coward and the weak stab in the back. This is my counsel; either be a true friend or don't be a friend at all.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list three people who have been true friends to you?

2.What makes each of them a true friend indeed?

November 30

Don't Choke the Soul

There was a parable Jesus shared with the disciples to teach them the importance of forgiveness. He told the story of a servant who owed so much that his master not only forgave him for his inability to pay the debt, but wrote off the debt. He was debt free; what a relief! However, one of his colleagues owed him a fraction of the amount he had just been freed of and he was so hard on the colleague, ignoring his pleas. He went as far as locking the guy up. The master was so furious when he heard about the incident: 'But you have just been forgiven of your huge debt; why can't you extend same mercy?'

Why do those forgiven find it difficult to forgive? That's the human nature. When we are finding it difficult to forgive, let us always remember that someone forgave us first. Forgiveness is a gift and most times, the recipient may not deserve or merit it. But always remember, it is a gift. The master forgave him his debt but he choked his colleague. Unforgiveness is choking the soul.

Give someone a gift of forgiveness today.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you remember someone you are still struggling to forgive?

2.How is unforgiveness changing the situation? I encourage you today to extend the gift of forgiveness.

December 1

A Second Does Count!

Guess what? You have just entered the last month of the year. I guess you'll have mixed feelings especially if you have not done anything towards your goal or future in the last eleven months. You may be asking, 'How did we get to December so quickly?' Simple, by each second, minute and hour you felt was insignificant. They all have added up to this day and in thirty days, another 365 days will be deposited into your account free of charge. What will you do differently? Until it hits you like a truck, you will not do something drastic to tame all your time wasters! Don't wait till January to act. Act now.

Everything you need to do, and will do, is embedded in time. When you are able to master how to work this great gift, you are on your way to freedom and fulfilment. One of the things that hold us back and wastes our precious time is fear. Fear paralyzes your movement. Fear will not evaporate like many of us think it will. It must be evicted. Some of us did not attempt some things we aimed this year because of fear of failure, of what people are saying, or will say... I encourage you to serve the notice of eviction to your fear. Its free accommodation has expired.

Little Shifts:

1.List three of your set goals this year you have not attempted?

2.How can you achieve one of the goals listed above within the next thirty days?

December 2

Where Is The Coin?

At least once a year, I devote a day to doing a 'clear out' of our house. Within a year, there are so many things we collect that we don't really need and are just occupying space. Interestingly, this is what we do unconsciously to our lives. There are so many things we collect we don't need or require. They are just occupying useful space in your life. Until we take the initiative to declutter our lives, there will be no space for good things.

I remember the biblical parable of a woman who lost a coin in her house. She was bent on finding the coin at all costs. Unfortunately, the coin was lost in the dark. She realised that, for her to find this coin, she would need to switch on a light. When we switch on the light, we realise that are so many things in wrong places in our rooms, so many things that should not even be in the rooms at all. We may even find other things we forgot we had in the process. It's time to clean up. When you embark on this difficult task, you will be surprised at what you will find in your house and life.

Little Shifts:

1.When was the last time you decluttered your house and life?

2.What are you afraid you may find or need to throw away?

December 3

Marathon of Life

I admire long distance running and marathon athletes. It takes more than skills to participate in any of the long races. I remember the first time I ever participated in the yearly ten-mile marathon competition at my secondary school. I couldn't make the first hundred people that were recognised. My training and determination paid off the following year. I made the top one hundred. I was so proud of myself.

Distance tests a horse's strength; time reveals a person's character (Chinese Proverb). Your strength and determination will surely be tested on your journey in life. Life is a marathon. You will get to some milestones where you will need to be refreshed to be able carry on. Officials and spectators along marathon routes hand out water to athletes.

We need such officials in our lives to hand out energy boosters during the marathon of life. The truth is, there is no winner in the marathon of life, but everyone is required to finish the race. Whether you are injured or not, you need to finish the race. I will be cheering for you. You can finish the race.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you think you are doing in the marathon of life?

2.What do you think you may need to finish the marathon stronger?

December 4

Do Less, Better and More Often

Many of us would love to do big things and accomplish big dreams. But it's always a tall order to get them done without any build-up of some sort. You must have been doing some business before you venture into a one million dollar deal! You must have probably done a hundred, two hundred and fifty or five hundred before the big step of seven figures.  
This is the secret: Do less, better and more often.

I remember the biblical parable of the master and his servants. The summary of the story is, if you are faithful with little, more will be committed into your hands. If you have proven yourself with the little, low capital business, based on your faithfulness, commitment and dedication, more and bigger opportunities will open in their own accord to you. Let us do less, better and more often and the less will become big things.

I remember a story I shared with you earlier in the year about a man that sold tomatoes from door to door. The business grew to the point where he had tons of trucks loading and delivering tomatoes across the nation. Do less, better and more often.

Little Shifts:

1)List three things you can do less, better and more often

2)What do you think may result from the above?

December 5

Pass or Repeat The Class, Simple!

As we may all be aware, life is in stages, in phases. Until you fulfil all the requirements of each stage, you can't move to the next stage/phase in life.

It remind me of my childhood, and the system of primary and secondary education in Nigeria - students are required to pass an examination at the end of each school year to be sure they are truly ready for the next class. I know it may not be the best test to confirm a child's ability or knowledge of what has been learnt in the course of a year. Sometimes some struggling students are promoted 'on trial'.

In life, there is nothing like being promoted on trial! You either pass the test or stay at a stage for as long as it takes, wandering around in the wilderness.

So, truly, the tests of life are not designed to break or harm us, but to check what we have learnt so far and see if we are ready for the next level. The cool thing about tests is that on the other side, there is promotion and reward. Tests also remind us of the important things we need to be aware of and focus on.

Little Shifts:

1.List three tests you are currently facing

2.What do you think may be on the other side of the tests?

December 6

Presumption is Risky

Someone shared this story with me, thought I'd share it with you.  
A dog was so faithful that the woman could leave her baby with it & go out to attend other matters. She always returned to find the child soundly asleep with the dog faithfully watching over him. One day something tragic happened. The woman as usual, left the baby in the 'hands' of this faithful dog and went out shopping. When she returned, she discovered rather a nasty scene, there was a total mess. The baby's cot was dismantled; his nappies & clothes torn to shreds with blood stains all over the bedroom where she had left the child & the dog.   
Shocked, the woman wailed as she began looking for the baby. All of a sudden, she saw the faithful dog emerging from under the bed. It was covered with blood and licking its mouth as it had just finished a delicious meal. The woman went berserk and assumed that the dog had devoured her baby. Without stopping to think she beat the dog to death. But as she continued searching for the 'remains' of her child, she beheld another scene. Close to the bed was the baby who, although lying on the bare floor, was safe; under the bed the body of a snake torn to pieces in what must have been a fierce battle between it and the dog which was now dead.

Then reality dawned on the woman who now began to understand what had taken place in her absence. The dog had fought to protect the baby from the ravenous snake. It was too late for her now to make amends because in her impatience and anger, she had killed the faithful dog.

How often have we misjudged people and torn them to shreds with harsh words and deeds before we have had time to evaluate the situation? It is called the SIN OF PRESUMPTION, assuming things in our own way without taking the trouble to find out exactly what the situation really is. A little patience can drastically reduce major lifelong mistakes.

Little Shifts

1.Can you think of one person you may be misjudging right now?

2.What impact do you think taking time to talk to the person to get the whole picture will have?

December 7

People Means You!

When we think about the word 'people', we tend to think it refers to others - others such as friends, family, colleagues, neighbours or even people we don't know. However, you are a symbol of 'people'. Some, if not all of your traits, can be found in your friends and the people around you. These are ten things John Maxwell has to say about people, that is, about you. I bet you can identify with at least one in the list:   
1. People are insecure; give them confidence.

2. People like to feel special; sincerely compliment them.

3. People look for a better tomorrow; show them hope.

4. People need to be understood; listen to them.

5. People lack direction; navigate for them.

6. People are selfish; speak to their needs first.

7. People get emotionally low; encourage them.

8. People want to be associated with success; help them win.

9. People desire meaningful relationships; provide community.

10. People seek models to follow; be an example.

Little Shifts:

1.Where are you on the above list?

December 8

Sleeping with the Enemy

I remember watching a movie titled 'Sleeping with the Enemy'. You'd think that one would know his/her enemies and still choose to sleep with them. It is dangerous, like playing with a snake's tail.

Interestingly, most of us today are sleeping with the enemy. Your real enemy is YOU. We are our worst enemies. We know it but we lie to ourselves with words such as:

'There is nothing I can do about it... I can't divorce myself...I just can't help it.'

There is something you can do. Win the battle with yourself, the battle of self-control, and you would be a great candidate to win other battles in life.

One of the greatest ways to deal with the real enemy is to be honest and frank with yourself. I remember the biblical story of four lepers extradited from the city. For them, no location was better to stay in anyway because the economic situation was really bad. People had started 'time-sharing' eating their kids. The four men looked at themselves and for once in their lives, reasoned and talked together, 'Why sit here till we die? If we sit here, we are going to die, we are not welcome either in the city. But we can choose to go to the enemies' camp; there, we have two options, as against just one we have now; they will either kill us or save us and give us food.'

Tired, weak and unwelcomed, they dragged themselves across the thick, uncertain path into the enemy's camp. The end of the story is that they became national heroes for their discovery. Guess it's time to talk about facing the enemy.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you have be avoiding confronting yourself about

2.What will be the consequences if you don't confront these things?

December 9

My Job Sucks!

For the sake of earning a living, people do some jobs they hate and are always unhappy going into their offices. 'My job sucks' becomes their daily rap.

There is more to life than just going through the motions. Movement is different from progress. There is a zeal in us that seeks progress in everything we do. Therefore, choosing the right path is crucial in the pursuit of progress. Dale Carnegie said: 'You never achieve success unless you like what you are doing.' Your love for what you do will encourage you to go extra the mile.

Lori Moreno gave this advice some time ago: 'Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.' If your work is your life, then you need to seek how your life will work. How great would it be if you got paid for doing what you loved doing? Can you imagine paying me to write these posts? Discover and develop your craft to the possible best. I love the path I have chosen and you are part of my development process. What path have you chosen?

Little Shifts:

1.Can you thoroughly say you love your job?

2.If you have option, what other job/career will you like to spend the rest of your life doing?

December 10

Write or Do Something worth Writing about

I read a statement Benjamin Franklin made some time ago and it brought a smile to my face: 'Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing about.' The truth is, many bestseller books on the shelves today were not written directly by the authors. Some were approached by ghost writers because they saw that they had done something worth writing about.

We all have the potential to write something worth reading or do something worth writing about. I met a young man named James Graham while working on the audio version of my first book. I was amazed when he shared the story of his trip to Africa from Europe by bike for forty days. Bristol to Morocco in forty days! Well, for me, that was something worth writing about. James, his brother and a few friends did the trip for charity, to raise money to build a school in Nepal.

You can do something worth writing about in your own way. The world is waiting to hear your story - whether someone writes about you or you write something worth reading. I hope I have written something worth reading for the last 300+ days. It has been a great journey and has exposed me to many new opportunities.

Little Shifts:

1.What do you think it takes to do something worth writing about?

2.Can you list three adventurous actions/ trips you have taken before?

December 11

Why Pursue When You Can Attract?

Many of us are pursuing money, shooting in every direction, just to get all the money we can spend to satisfy our needs, wants and desires. Many people pursue money desperately, being out of money is not an option; to be at the mercy of other people's charity is unimaginable. Hence, they have two or three jobs they juggle.

Unfortunately, money runs away from people that pursue it. Jim Rohn, personal development expert said, 'Money is usually attracted, not pursued.' The question then should be: how or what can I do to attract money? Less physical energy is required in attraction, compared to pursuit. One of the best ways to attract money is to develop your gift and be the very best in what you do. Being the best attracts and buys you unusual audiences.

Another great way to attract money is to add value anywhere you find yourself. Value is value, most times not expensive to deliver.

Information is currency. Don't chase money; rather, chase information. That's another great way to attract money. The information you have access to empower you and you can get paid empowering others. Now the choice is yours. Do you still want to pursue money, or would you rather attract it?

Little Shifts:

1.Will you say you have been pursuing or attracting money all these while?

2.What do you think you can do differently to attract money rather than pursuing it?

December 12

What Have You Become?

There are so many things in life we cannot control. These things ironically come to shape our beliefs, values, perspectives, thinking and philosophies. In everything, what's most important is not what happened to you, but what you become, based on what happened. You either become better or worse, and it all depends on how you react to whatever happens. The same thing that happened to you that made you bitter and depressed happened to someone else and made them stronger and wiser. Same situation, different results.

For example, every marriage that has failed had the opportunity to succeed. Likewise, every marriage that has succeeded had the opportunity to fail. Joy Williams said, 'There is nothing wrong in what one does but there is something wrong in what one becomes.'  
What you become is always an indication of where you have been and your capacity. Personally, based on some of the things that have happened to me, I should have lost my mind or better still, committed suicide. Rather, those things made me stronger and more determined to succeed in every area of my life - family, ministry and business.   
Your experiences were not intended to make you lesser; they were designed to make you stronger.

Little Shifts:

1.Do you like the person are you becoming?

2.How has your past experiences shaped the person you are today?

December 13

Second Time is a Choice

Everyone makes mistakes. If you have never made a mistake in life, I guess it means you have never tried something new, something out of your comfort zone. Some of us still make mistakes even in our comfort zones. No one is immune from making mistakes. However, when you keep making the same mistake, it may no longer be a mistake, but a choice.  
Will Smith said it: 'You can't make the same mistake twice; the second time, it's not a mistake, it's a choice.' What makes something a mistake in the first place is usually the lack of information or knowledge. Repeating your mistakes is therefore neglecting what you have learnt or ought to learn. The sad truth is, if caution is not taken, repeating the same mistake over and over again, without carefully looking into why, can sink one's life.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list three mistakes you made at least twice?

2.What can you do in order not to repeat the same mistake again?

December 14

The Power of Decision

God did not make robots. He gave man the free will to choose in many situations, except when, where and how to be born. One of the few things that can change the course of God's purpose for your life is the decision you make. Your decision can derail or get you on the track of His purpose for you. He will not force you to make a decision you don't want to make.

When God created the first family, He gave them everything they needed to live a meaningful life. He also gave them the opportunity to choose whatever they wanted to eat from the garden, asking them to abstain from a particular tree. The man (influenced by his wife) made a wrong choice by disobeying laid down instructions, hence, the story did not end well. Make every decision in life with a sense of responsibility. Your decisions can make or break you. You are product of your decisions. You make your choices, but you don't have the privilege to choose the consequences.

Little Shifts:

1.List two decisions you made that seemed to be the wrong decision to make at the time

2.What was the impact of these decisions over you?

December 15

Money is Not Everything!

Well, that's the truth. Money is not everything in life. Money is important, key to our existence and sustenance. But most times, we feel it's all about money, and beat ourselves up when we are short of it. Sometimes we feel inferior because we can't measure up with our friends financially, living in a bigger and better house, driving a better car and affording luxurious holidays abroad.

You will always feel inferior if you don't know who you are and what you are here on earth to do (purpose). Things do not and should not define who we are, rather, they should celebrate who we are. Even in business, money is not everything. Henry Ford, one of the greatest businessmen that ever lived, said, 'A business that makes nothing but money is a poor business.' How very true! Many companies are taking up social responsibilities across communities. A good business makes not only money but also has a positive impact on its employees and community.

You may not have money to give as an individual, but your listening ears or just being there may mean millions for someone.   
Relationship is more important than money. Place more value on your relationships! After money has come and gone, relationships will still be there for you. Interestingly, relationships can bring you into a place of great wealth and riches.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you believe are more important than money in your life?

2.How is your relationship with those three things currently?

December 16

Misfit for Purpose

It's interesting that the same thing that can give life can also produce death. It all depends on the use of it, the intended purpose. For example, power not channelled into good purpose could cause death. Remember the BP problem at the Gulf Coast. The same crude oil that should make life easy caused discomfort and death of animals. Not only that, many lost their businesses, their livelihoods, all because of the oil spillage across the coast.

The same goes for prescribed drugs. If not used for their right purposes, they can cause death rather than ease pain and suffering.  
So, it is safe to say everything you see or have has a purpose. And according to Dr Myles Munroe, if purpose is not known, abuse is inevitable!

Are you making use of your life for the purpose it was designed for? Your true fulfilment is in your answer to this question. An abuse of purpose will always cause nothing but pain and regret.   
People and things are at their best when they serve the purpose for which they were designed for. Crude oil at its best produces electricity, fuel and gas, making life easy for us.

Little Shifts:

1.List three misfits you have seen in life before

2.Why did you think they were misfits?

December 17

I Need A Promotion!

Sometimes, we don't take the best care of things that are not ours. To put it better, I could say our level of commitment to something that is not ours is, sometimes, not 100%. Many employees have this mentality, 'I will do just what is expected of me; nothing extra or above what is required.' But I have met a few employees who do more than what's required of them. I guess it means they really love what they do and they are good at it. They may even be glad to do it for free. Do you really love what you are doing today? Or you are just doing it for the pay?   
Napoleon Hill said, 'The man who does more than he is paid for will soon be paid for more than he does.' That's one of the easiest ways to get promoted in any thing you do in life: being totally committed to it. When you are not doing it for 'eye service' but you truly love what you are doing and you want to make a difference. Doing more than you are paid for sends a message to everyone that you can do more and that you're not limited by your salary. You position yourself to be the natural choice for a raise or promotion. Joseph was asked to just interpret a dream but he gave the king more than he expected. He offered a robust strategy to implement the interpretation. Don't just offer suggestions or ideas but show how it can work or what can be done with it.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you think you can do more than what's expected of you?

December 18

Don't Just Know, Do!

One fact I have discovered is that, most times we know what to do in situations we find ourselves, but we just don't have the courage to do what is required.

There is an unbelievable bank of information available in this generation via the internet, yet we act as people who don't know what to do. There is almost nothing you want to do, or need advice for, that you can't research on the internet today.

Knowing or acquiring this information is not enough. A corresponding action needs to follow to prove what you know.

Scott Joba said: 'Knowing and not doing gets you the same results as not knowing at all.' So the truth is, don't bother to know if you are not going to act on the information. If you know the truth (of course many know the truth) and do not act on it, you will be as bound as others without the knowledge of the truth.

It's time to act on what you know. That's where power and freedom lies.

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you know but never acted on

2.Which of the above can you benefit from if you acted on it?

December 19

Sorry, It Cannot Be Recovered

A friend sent this story to me

A young lady was waiting for her flight in the boarding room of a big airport. As she would need to wait many hours, she decided to buy a book to read. She also bought a packet of cookies. She sat down in an  
armchair, in the VIP room of the airport, to rest and read in peace.

Beside the armchair where the packet of cookies lay, a man sat down in the next seat, opened his magazine and started reading.  
When she took out the first cookie, the man took one also. She felt irritated but said nothing. She just thought, 'What a nerve! If I was in the mood I would punch him for daring!' For each cookie she took, the man took one too. This was infuriating her but she didn't want to cause a scene. When only one cookie remained, she thought, Ah what would this abusive man do now?'

Then, the man, took the last cookie, divided it into half, giving her one half.

Ah! That was too much! She was much too angry now!

In a huff, she insulted the man, took her book, her things and stormed to the boarding line. When she sat down in her seat, inside the plane, she looked into her bag to find her glasses, and, to her surprise, her packet of cookies was there untouched, unopened! She felt so ashamed! She realized that she was wrong... She had forgotten that her cookies were in her bag. The man had shared his cookies with her, without feeling angered or bitter, while she had been very angry, thinking that she was sharing her cookies with him. And now there was no chance to explain herself nor to apologize.

Little Shifts:

There are four things that you cannot recover:

1.The cake... after it's eaten!

2.The word... after it's said!

3.The occasion... after the loss!

4.The time... after it's gone!

December 20

Unconventional Training

When you start at a new job or position, chances are you will be sent on different training and courses to develop your skills and expertise. Doing this is never a waste of money and resources, it is money well spent. The organisation is investing in their officers; they are key to the success of the organisation.

So also, life needs all the training and development available when we are ready to move to the next level. The training designed for life is unconventional. Never think you will only travel through a field of roses. You need a mountain to grow, mature and be strengthened. As we are about to draw the curtain on this great year and step into a new, promising year, give yourself the opportunity to grow and develop. Be ready to climb the mountains life will put in front of you in the New Year. Don't be afraid of the mountain, but see what the mountain wants to keep away from you.

Little Shifts:

1.How can you describe your growth this year?

2.If you have the opportunity, would you like to experience the challenges you faced this year again?

December 21

The Most Important Day: Today

Destiny, Purpose, Future: these are words that have been overused. A lot of people are confused about what they are exactly. Some are waiting for the day their destiny will happen, when they will reach the destination called future and say confidently, 'I am walking and living on purpose.' Interestingly, destiny happens every day. Destiny, Purpose and Future happen every day. You are a step closer or farther everyday depending on how you engage in the process of your life. The preparation and practice all contribute to the journey.

Winston Churchill said: 'It is a mistake to look too far ahead. Only one link in the chain of destiny can be handled at a time.' Where you are today is a link in the chain of destiny. The future is more like the present, only far away!

'Victory is won not in miles, but in inches. Win a little now, hold your ground, and later, win a little more.' (Louis L'Amour.) Your future, destiny, and desire start from today. Today is the most important day; invest in it, maximise it, cherish it, and, most importantly, work it!

Little Shifts:

1.List three things you can do today that will make positive impact on your future

2.What do you think will happen if you continue to do those things identified above consistently?

December 22

You Need Some Movement

Have you ever been stuck at one point, not knowing the next step or what would happen? Have you ever felt as though you had a plateau in front of you and cannot see anything beyond where you are?

Let me share a biblical story with you - the story of Mordecai. He was an immigrant in another land and was satisfied with being with security officers at the royal palace. Truly, he was good at the job. At one point, he exposed a plan to kill the king. One of the Members of Parliament (MP) just didn't like him for some reason. The MP schemed to get rid of not just Mordecai, but everyone from his tribe - a genocide.

Paul Scanlon once said, 'Without an enemy, your present is permanent; enemies always create movement.' The MP was an enemy that created movement for Mordecai. The conclusion of the story was the MP's scheming was exposed and his place was given to Mordecai, the security officer. The MP was killed with his family. Maybe it is time for some enemies to show up in your life, to create the right movement you really need. I have seen some good movements in my life due to some ugly situations I have found myself in.

Little Shifts:

1.Can you list three ugly situations you have experienced that turned out to be good movement for you?

2.What are you currently experiencing that you think could be the next movement you need?

December 23

Do You Have a Clue?

Well, it's the Christmas season. It does feel like it - decoration everywhere you turn. There is something about this period of the year. The joy! Many people started planning for this time of the year since January, saving for the gifts they will share with friends and family.

What's fascinating is this: two thousand years ago, no one had a clue how great that child born in the dirty manger would be. The circumstances that surrounded his birth was shameful. Not a good start, some would say. The story associated with your birth or background does not and should not dictate your future. The little boy, Jesus, at the time, found purpose that changed the course of his life. Everybody thought he was going to be a carpenter like his father (like the Jewish culture dictated).

Little Shifts:

1.Do you have a clue of what you are capable of?

2.Have you asked yourself why you were born?

December 24

Not A Grandiose Entrance

The Christmas season is a celebration of the beginning of a life dedicated to serve others. His beginning or entrance into the world was not grandiose as you will expect from a life that will literally save humanity and be a worldwide phenomenon.

His background was humbling with an unbelievable future. He was not distracted or moved by his history but encouraged by what his life represents and will deliver. He was stereotyped but he became an example of audacity of hope and possibilities.

The difference between who you ae and who you want to be is what you do. Young Jesus while growing up, believed all that was written concerning him, allowed his predestined future dictate his decisions, actions and choices in life. You may be heading another direction if your actions, decisions and choices are not in support of what you will like to become in life. What you ultimately do daily is the sum of your life.

Little Shifts:

1.What's the driving force behind all your actions, decisions and choices in life?

2.Do you think you are travelling in the right direction?

December 25

Merry Christmas

Today is a universal phenomenon, it's celebrated worldwide. Many celebrate today without knowing the real essence and purpose. When we think about today, for many it is about the gift, the roasted turkey, family visits and re-unions. All of these are good. But most importantly, it is the celebration of a life that made a great sacrifice to save humanity. What a price to pay on behalf of people he hadn't met. It may be easier to sacrifice for a family member or friend. Not for a stranger. That's a great lesson to learn from the greatest leader that ever lived, Jesus. Any sacrifice for a just cause will never go unrewarded.

Whatever is free is free because someone paid the price. Salvation is free, but the price tag is someone's life. In life, not everything has a price, yet everything has a cost. As we celebrate Christmas today, don't lose focus, don't forget the reason for the season. Merry Christmas. Extend the joy of today to someone.

Little Shifts:

1.What sacrifice can you make to give someone a lift in life? For your family, friends or community?

2.Nothing is free in life. Someone paid the price. What are you willing to pay for someone else to enjoy?

December 26

Christmas Question

Christmas has become a universal phenomenon. Everyone celebrates Christmas, yesterday. Yes everyone; those that understand what it represents and those that don't. Many have said Christmas is their favourite time of the year. Why wouldn't you love Christmas? Its full of joy, family reunions, celebration and of course the many gifts that fly around.

If Jesus is involved in the Christmas celebration, I guess the way we celebrate may be different. Think about it. It's really about him, right? Do we really think about him in the midst of the celebration? Or have we hijacked his celebration, his spotlight? The Christmas question is this: 'If you were Jesus, how would you like Christmas to be celebrated?' I wish you again the very best of the holiday season. I pray that the joy of the season fill your heart and family.

Little Shifts:

1.How do you think you can celebrate Christmas differently to extend the joy, love and sacrifice to someone else?

December 27

To Love and Be Loved...

A story someone shared with me few months ago:

A very poor man lived with his wife. One day, his wife, who had very long hair asked him to buy her a comb for her hair to grow well and to be well-groomed. The man felt very sorry as he said no. He explained that he did not even have enough money to fix the strap of his watch he had just broken.

She did not insist on her request. The man went to work and passed by a watch shop, sold his damaged watch at a low price and went to buy a comb for his wife.

He came home in the evening with the comb in his hand ready to give to his wife. He was surprised when he saw his wife with a very short haircut. She had sold her hair and was holding a new watch band. Tears flowed simultaneously from their eyes, not for the futility of their actions, but for the reciprocity of their love.

MORAL: To love is nothing, to be loved is something but to love and be loved by the one you love, is EVERYTHING! Never take love for granted. Reciprocate good gestures and cherish your loved one at all times.

Little Shifts:

1.List three people whom you believe can benefit from your love this season?

December 28

The Woodcutter

I read this short story about 'The Woodcutter' few months ago and I thought I share with you.

'Once upon a time, a very strong woodcutter asked for a job in a timber merchant and he got it. The pay was really good and so were the working conditions. For those reasons, the woodcutter was determined to do his best.

His boss gave him an axe and showed him the area where he was supposed to work. The first day, the woodcutter brought his boss eighteen trees.

'Congratulations,' the boss said. 'Go on that way!'

Very motivated by the boss's words, the woodcutter tried harder the next day, but he could only bring fifteen trees. The third day he tried even harder, but he could only bring ten trees. Day after day he was bringing less and less trees.

'I must be losing my strength', the woodcutter thought.

He went to the boss and apologized, saying that he could not understand what was going on.

"When was the last time you sharpened your axe?" the boss asked.  
'Sharpen? I had no time to sharpen my axe. I have been very busy trying to cut trees...'

Little Shifts:

Our lives are like that. We sometimes get so busy that we don't take time to sharpen the 'axe'. In today's world, it seems that everyone is busier than ever, but less happy than ever. Why is that? Could it be that we have forgotten how to stay 'sharp'?

There's nothing wrong with activity and hard work. But we should not get so busy that we neglect the important factors. If we don't take the time to sharpen the 'axe', we will become dull and lose our effectiveness.

December 29

Default Setting

Most people have zero tolerance for pain, and by default, we shut down or avoid anything that will cause pain. No one loves the sight or smell of pain; pain is like an outcast, looking for a place to rest and in exchange, offers maturity, growth, endurance and strength. Of course, pain is unavoidable in our lives, either productive or non-productive.

Roger Bannister said, "The man who can drive himself further once the effort gets painful is the man who will win." Every champion pushes past the pain level to reach the desired goal. The setting needs to be customised, otherwise, you will continue to get default results. Push past the pain to get an outstanding result. You will be amazed at what you can do or achieve if you just take a step beyond the boundary, threshold of pain that has become a glass ceiling. When you push past pain, you will discover that it's just a distraction to prevent you from the gold, the joy of your labour.

I encourage you today to travel beyond pain bus stop. Glory and Joy bus stop are just ahead.

Little Shifts:

1.List two pains you have struggled over the years to push past

2.What do you think these may be withholding from you?

December 30

Where is Your Report Card?

For the last two days left in the year, I believe most of us will be reflecting on the year; the highs and lows of it, what we did well and not so well, what we wish we had done, what we wish we had said. The list is unending. It's a good exercise if you will take something positive or action plan out of it. If you don't have this exercise in your plan, maybe, it's about time to set aside some minutes to reflect. Someone said, 'What you cannot measure cannot grow.'

How have you fared this year? Score yourself and be honest with yourself. However, this is Marvin Sapp's advice for you. He said, 'never let your failures get to your heart and never let your success get to your head.' Whatever the report says, you can choose to press on to the higher mark. You are about to be handed another opportunity to prove yourself wrong; you can be focused, committed to something for a long period. Are you ready for this new opportunity?

Little Shifts:

1.List five things you have identified to improve on in the new year

2.List three things you have decided to do differently in the New Year?

December 31

Don't Make A New Year Resolution

Today is the last day of the year; 365 days have come and gone. You either have seized the days and their opportunities or you lived the days in emptiness. The days disappeared quietly by the second, almost without notice. You are either happy with what you have done with the days or have regrets about what you could or should have done. Well, unfortunately, there is nothing you can do about the wasted days, but one thing you can do is, decide to make every day count from today.

Another 365 days are about to be released into your account. If you don't decide what you will do with them, life will make the decision for you.   
Don't have a New Year's resolution, but a daily resolution that you will be committed to. The best person you can hold accountable and responsible is YOU. But the question is, will YOU be accountable and responsible? You can rewrite the wrongs as you step into this New Year. For once, prove yourself wrong. Do something YOU would be proud of. I started daily exercise/jogging back on January 1 and I can tell you I am so proud of ME, for seeing it through. The New Year challenge is to increase the timing to 45minutes and eventually one hour. What about you? Don't just allow the days to be deposited into your account without a plan. Don't plan to fail by failing to plan.

Here's wishing you a fantastic New Year. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life this year; I hope to continue to be a part of your life starting tomorrow. 
  1. Chapter 1

