WHARD Co.

I recently had the privilege of working with a multinational asset management company as a research analyst/writer (representing my company), and I’d love to share seven invaluable lessons I learned during this experience. 1. Always Give Your Best 🌟 Last year, I delivered a project that was underpaid but executed with excellence. The client was so impressed that he referred me to this massive opportunity. This experience reaffirmed that delivering top-notch work, regardless of circumstances, always opens new doors. 2. Knowledge is Power, but Sharing is Gold 📚 Upon arrival, I was introduced to the team and asked to present my research methodology. Years of experience in writing and research had prepared me for this moment. It’s one thing to possess knowledge, but sharing it effectively is where true power lies. Think of yourself as a lighthouse, guiding others with your light. 3. Be Sharp-Minded, Not Just Smart-Mouthed 🧠 Meeting the vice president was daunting. His deep knowledge and probing questions were a challenge. But instead of being intimidated, I saw it as an opportunity to showcase my expertise. After a rigorous discussion, he acknowledged my skills and decided to mentor me. Engaging deeply with knowledgeable people can sharpen your own abilities. 4. Wealth is in Quick and Sharp Decisions 💡 I observed wealthy investors making decisions at lightning speed. Their decisiveness was both bewildering and inspiring. They took risks, made swift decisions, and didn’t let fear hold them back. This taught me that success often requires bold moves and quick thinking. As the saying goes, "Fortune favors the bold." 5. Never Sell Yourself Short 💬 Confidence was my armor in this new environment. I spoke about my achievements with pride and positioned myself as an equal. When asked about my experience, I didn’t downplay my skills. Instead, I confidently shared my decade-long journey. This attitude earned me respect and recognition. Remember, self-belief is the first step to gaining others’ trust. 6. Look the Part 👔 Dressing up wasn’t my forte, but it made a significant impact. Following my one my mentor's advice, I dressed sharply for the meetings. It boosted my confidence and earned me compliments. Dressing well shows respect for yourself and the people you’re meeting. 7. Dream Big, Always 🌍 Hearing the success stories of these investors was enlightening. Despite not being on social media, this company generates billions. It showed me that big dreams are achievable no matter where you are. Your aspirations are valid and worthy of pursuit. As Eleanor Roosevelt said, "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Every step of this journey reinforced important lessons. From giving your best to dreaming big, these experiences are invaluable. Always remember, success is not just about reaching the top; it’s about the climb, the lessons learned, and the people you meet along the way. 🌟

Why I Quit My 9-5: A Journey to Finding My True Path In 2019, just a few months before the COVID-19 outbreak, I found myself without a job and as a budding writer. Research had always been my passion since college, and I stuck with it because I was good at it. But a few freelance jobs here and there weren’t enough to pay the bills, and soon, the gigs stopped coming. My social media skills were lacking, but luck was on my side when someone reached out to me about an IT role in a multilevel marketing company in Ikeja. I was ecstatic, especially since the founder promised to help me with accommodation close to the office. Living 30 minutes away in Ogun State made this offer seem like a dream. Around the same time, I applied for a customer associate role at BuyCoins but didn’t get a response after the first aptitude test. While waiting, I accepted the job in Ikeja with a monthly salary of N50,000 and the promise of an apartment. However, commuting from Ogun State was exhausting. I left work at 6 pm, got home by 10 pm, and had to leave before 5 am to get to work by 8 am. Despite complaints and the unmet promise of an apartment, I persevered. But two months in, I was drained and ineffective. When management suggested I find my own place, I did, only for them to say it was too expensive. Frustrated, I decided to start coming in at 9 am instead of 8 am. After two weeks, the deductions in my salary for lateness became too much to bear. I drafted a resignation letter, ready to leave. The founder tried to negotiate, and I proposed working from home with a steady salary and occasional office visits. They took time to consider, but by December 2019, I had to walk away. Unfortunately, I missed the opportunity to continue my interview with BuyCoins, which by then, had sailed. In January 2020, I returned to seeking writing gigs, facing the challenge of getting responses as a Nigerian. Even working for QLA turned futile when I couldn't get paid without a PayPal account. When the marketing company called back, offering to reduce my salary to N30,000, I declined. The COVID-19 pandemic hit soon after, and the company struggled. Realizing writing was my true passion, I committed to it fully. By 2022, I made my second million from writing. Transitioning from freelancer to business owner, I started building a writing agency with @whard_co. The journey was tough, but I’m now proud of the opportunities that come my way, like my upcoming novel and a guide for creative writers and content creators. The Lesson: Sometimes, the toughest moments push you towards discovering your true path. Don’t be afraid to take risks, believe in your skills, and never stop striving for what you love. Your journey might lead you to unexpected success and fulfilment. #CareerJourney #Writing #Entrepreneurship #WorkLifeBalance #Inspiration #NeverGiveUp