The beginnings of a great man

In Ghana, we often say, “Obi nnim obrempon ahyease”, meaning, "no one knows the beginning of a great man". Behind every success story, there’s a struggle. And behind every struggle, there’s usually a reason, a why.

When you know your why, you can keep going, even when the road is rough, the system feels unfair, or the rewards don’t come quickly. This isn’t just about chasing dreams, it’s about living a life that means something to you and to others.

Let’s begin with a story.

In the United States, there’s a young man named Ben Comen. He ran on his school’s track team, despite having cerebral palsy, a condition that makes movement difficult. He fell often. He finished last every single time. He bled, he struggled, he ran alone. But still, he showed up for every race. Why?

Because his goal wasn't to win. His goal was to prove something deeper. That courage, effort, and commitment matter more than the scoreboard. That even if life sets you back, you can still move forward one step at a time.

You may not be running a physical race like Ben, but maybe you're:

• A young graduate sending out countless CVs with no response.

• A market woman waking up at dawn, hoping for better sales than the day before.

• An SHS student struggling to stay motivated because home is tough and school feels far away.

• An entrepreneur facing “no” after “no,” trying to make your idea work in a system that seems built against you.

Life in Ghana, like anywhere, is not always fair. But what keeps people moving isn’t always success. It’s purpose. Your "why" is what fuels you when money is short, when motivation fades, and when progress is slow.

When you live without a clear sense of why, it’s easy to get discouraged or distracted. You compare yourself to others. You chase shortcuts. You give up too early. Whether you're driving a taxi in Accra, farming in Tamale, designing clothes in Kumasi, or studying hard in Cape Coast, knowing your why gives you direction.

People follow those who know where they’re going. Not just in politics or business — even in your friend group or community. When you live with purpose, people see it. They trust you. They respect you. And they might even start following you, not because you're perfect, but because you’re authentic.

In this part of the world, we face many challenges. But we also have deep strength. Strength in community. Strength in faith. Strength in perseverance. So whatever your hustle is, whatever your struggle, don’t just ask what you want. Ask why you want it. Because when you live from your why, you won't just survive, you'll lead. And when you follow your why, others will follow you.

Have a lovely weekend folks. Share and leave a comment.