Having a dream is a powerful motivator, but without taking action in the right direction, it remains nothing more than a distant aspiration. This truth became evident to me on January 1, 2011, when I embarked on a journey of physical and mental preparation that ultimately led me to conquer Africa’s tallest mountain, Kilimanjaro. As we celebrate International Mandela Day, I reflect on the lessons I learned during that challenging climb and the importance of preparation in achieving our goals.
The journey begins
On that fateful New Year’s Day, while many were celebrating and enjoying the start of a new year, I woke up with determination and embarked on a 5km hike. This marked the beginning of a routine that included pace-walking on the treadmill, cycling, and going on short and long walks every day. Over the course of 60 days, I dedicated myself to this preparation, fueled by the spirit of a young African from Nigeria, the most populous black nation on the continent.
Conquering Kilimanjaro
In March of that year, the time had come to put my preparation to the test. I flew to Tanzania and landed at Kilimanjaro International Airport, ready to take on the formidable challenge that lay ahead. Over six days, I embarked on a slow and steady trek, starting from the base of the mountain through Umbwe Gate and ascending to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19,340 feet above sea level.
The pinnacle of this journey came when I proudly hoisted the Nigerian National Flag at the summit becoming the first citizen to do it with the national flag of the land of my birth.
Humbled to have done it successfully second time July 2013 as a tribute to Nelson Mandela and a symbol of unity and achievement. Climbing Kilimanjaro in his honour was a testament to the power of preparation and the impact it can have on realizing our dreams.
The significance of preparation
Preparation, as defined in the dictionary, is a preliminary measure that makes us ready for something or the state of being prepared beforehand. Tim Redmond once said, “Proper preparation produces powerful performances”, and my experience climbing Kilimanjaro affirmed this statement. The time invested in preparing for those 60 days was not wasted; it was an investment that reaped rewards throughout the entire journey.
Preparation is never a waste of time, as its true value becomes evident only as we progress on our path to success. Whether it’s personal or professional aspirations, taking the time to prepare is crucial. Every minute devoted to preparation strengthens us and enhances our performance, setting us apart from those who neglect this vital step.
Reflective question and call to action
Now, it is time to reflect on your own life. In what area(s) of your personal or professional life will you commit time to prepare for your goals, dreams, or desires? Remember, every ounce of time invested in preparation empowers us to go further and accomplish more than those who overlook its significance. Just like Olympic athletes who dedicate themselves to daily preparation to secure victory, we must begin our own journey of preparation today.
Conclusion:
The story of my climb to the summit of Kilimanjaro serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preparation and taking action. Having a dream is merely the starting point; it is through deliberate and consistent preparation that dreams become attainable realities. As we celebrate International Mandela Day, let us honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela, a beacon of leadership and resilience, by embracing the power of preparation.
So, my question to you is: How will you commit to preparing for your goals and dreams? Take action now and invest the time necessary to prepare yourself for success. The journey may be challenging, but remember that each step you take in the right direction brings you closer to your aspirations. Begin your preparation today and let it propel you towards a future filled with accomplishment, satisfaction, and fulfilment.
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