Hello, my name is Dede Nyansapo. I am an entrepreneur who also participates in Accra’s burgeoning gig economy as a driver. My love for meeting fascinating people and my curiosity about how they think usually places me in the midst of some very entertaining conversations. Invariably, these conversations lead to some key learnings that may be useful to anyone on their business journey.
Episode 23: Purpose vs Responsibilities
On a drive from Dansoman to Labone, Adwoa and Zainab, two colleagues were engaged in deep conversation. Adwoa had just revealed an opportunity to work as the head of an NGO that supports battered women.
Zainab: (turning to Adwoa) So, you’re really considering leaving law altogether? That’s a huge step, Adwoa.
Adwoa: (nodding) Yes, it’s been on my mind for a while. The NGO does incredible work, and I feel drawn to it. But, I’m scared. I’ve worked so hard to get where I am in law, and the path ahead is so secure.
Zainab: (smiling) I understand, Adwoa. But sometimes, the path we’re on isn’t the one meant for us. Tell me more about the NGO.
Adwoa: It’s called “Women of Strength.” They provide shelter, legal aid, and vocational training for women who have faced domestic violence. They help these women rebuild their lives from scratch. It’s so impactful, and I feel I could make a real difference there.
Zainab: That sounds wonderful. But what about your current career? You’re on track to become a judge, Adwoa. That’s a significant achievement. The job security, the respect, the house… it’s all guaranteed.
Adwoa: (sighing) I know, Zainab. That’s what’s making this so difficult. I don’t want to throw away everything I’ve worked for, but I also can’t ignore this pull I feel towards helping those women.
Zainab: (thoughtful) Have you prayed about it? Sometimes, God gives us these feelings for a reason. Maybe this is your true calling.
Adwoa: (biting her lip) I have prayed, and I still feel conflicted. My parents are retired, and my brother has disabilities that require constant care. If I leave my law career, I’m not sure I’ll be able to support them as I do now.
Zainab: But the NGO work isn’t exactly low-paying, is it? You might not make as much as you would as a judge, but you wouldn’t be destitute either. Plus, the fulfilment you’d get from that job could be priceless.
Adwoa: (nodding slowly) You’re right. But the risk is so high. What if the NGO runs into financial trouble? Non-profits can be unstable. I could end up without a job and with no way to support my family.
Zainab: (softly) True, but every job has its risks. Even in law, there are no absolute guarantees. The real question is, which risk are you willing to take? The risk of instability, or the risk of never fulfilling your true purpose?
Adwoa: (quietly) That’s the hardest part. I can handle risk for myself, but not for my family. They depend on me.
Zainab: (gently) Adwoa, we all have responsibilities. But sometimes, following our true path leads to greater blessings than we could ever imagine. Maybe this opportunity is part of a bigger plan for you and your family.
Adwoa: (sighing deeply) I know. But I also keep thinking about the women at the NGO. They need someone who cares, someone who can fight for them. And I feel like that could be me.
Zainab: Then maybe it’s time to take that leap of faith. Trust that things will work out. Trust that you’ll find a way to support your family, no matter what.
Adwoa: (nodding slowly) You have a point. But what if it all falls apart? What if I can’t support my family anymore? Can I live with that kind of uncertainty?
Zainab: (smiling) Adwoa, sometimes you just have to trust in the process. Believe that if you follow your true calling, God will provide a way. You could be opening doors to opportunities you can’t even imagine right now.
Adwoa: (sighing) It’s a lot to think about. I don’t want to regret not taking this chance, but I also don’t want to regret leaving the security I have now.
Zainab: (nodding) It’s a tough decision, but you have to consider what will make you truly happy. You’ve always been passionate about helping others. Maybe this is your chance to do that on a larger scale.
Adwoa: (smiling) You’re right. I need to find a way to balance my passion and my responsibilities. Maybe then, I won’t have any regrets.
Zainab: (smiling) I’m here for you, Adwoa. Whatever you decide, just remember to trust in yourself and in God’s plan for you.
Adwoa: (sighing deeply) Thank you, Zainab. This has been really helpful. I think I need to talk to the NGO and see if there’s a way to start gradually. I need to see if this is really what I’m meant to do.
Zainab: (nodding) That could be a good middle ground. You can test the waters without giving up your security just yet.
Adwoa: (smiling) Yes, that sounds like a more balanced approach. This way, I’m not risking everything all at once.
Zainab: (smiling) And remember, no matter what you decide, you’ve already achieved so much. Just make sure you’re happy and your family is taken care of.
Adwoa: (smiling) You’re right. I need to find a way to balance my passion and my responsibilities. Maybe then, I won’t have any regrets.
As they continued their ride, I could imagine Adwoa feeling a mix of relief and apprehension. While the decision was daunting, I believed she owed it to herself and her family to explore all possibilities.
Hopefully, Zainab’s advice gave her a clearer perspective, and she would resolve to take the first step towards what might be a more fulfilling path.
