Sapa: Overcoming Financial Hardship with Perseverance and Determination. By: Obanla Ridwan Olawale.

 

Sapa, a Yoruba concept, can refer to the state of being when one doesn't have money. Financial hardship can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and helplessness. However, it is important to remember that sapa is not the end, but a temporary setback that can be overcome with perseverance and determination.

Financial hardship can come in many forms, such as losing a job, unexpected expenses, or mounting debt. It can feel like an impossible obstacle to overcome, but it is important to remember that there is a way forward. There are many examples of people who have overcome financial hardship through hard work and determination.

One example is Dave Ramsey, a financial advisor, and radio host who was once in debt and struggling to make ends meet. He made a plan, worked hard to pay off his debt, and now helps others to do the same. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in overcoming financial hardship.

Another example is the story of Chris Gardner, the inspiration behind the movie "The Pursuit of Happyness." He was once homeless and struggling to support his son, but he did not give up. He worked hard and eventually became a successful stockbroker. His story is a reminder that with hard work and determination, it is possible to overcome even the most challenging financial circumstances.

When faced with financial hardship, it is important to focus on the things that can be controlled. It may not be possible to control the circumstances that led to financial hardship, but it is possible to control how we respond to it. It is essential to take action, create a plan, and work hard towards a solution.

One way to overcome financial hardship is to focus on increasing income. This can be done by looking for a new job, asking for a raise, or starting a side hustle. It is essential to be creative and resourceful when looking for ways to increase income.

Another way to overcome financial hardship is to reduce expenses. This can be done by creating a budget, cutting unnecessary expenses, and looking for ways to save money. It is essential to be disciplined and committed to sticking to the budget and making changes that will help reduce expenses.

It is also important to seek support from others. This can be in the form of family and friends, or seeking advice and guidance from a financial advisor or counselor. There is no shame in asking for help, and it can be incredibly helpful to have someone to turn to for support and guidance.

In conclusion, financial hardship can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but it is not insurmountable. With perseverance and determination, it is possible to overcome financial hardship and achieve financial stability. It is important to focus on the things that can be controlled, such as increasing income and reducing expenses, and to seek support from others when needed. Remember, sapa is not the end, but a temporary setback that can be overcome with hard work and determination.