Celebrating her recent birthday, Mimi Okigbo, a prominent advocate for personal growth and development, shared a powerful lesson she has learned over the past year: the value of building and nurturing relationships. “Don’t just make money; make and build men,” she emphasized, reflecting on the impact of human connections.
Okigbo revealed that her greatest realization of the past year was understanding that “God uses men to raise men.” She highlighted that wealth is not only about finances but also about being “rich in men,” referring to the power of relationships.
She outlined key insights from her reflections:
- Connections as Resources: Okigbo emphasized that “almost all the resources you seek are in the hands of a man.” She noted that opportunities like jobs, event spaces, and specialized skills are often held by others. This, she said, underscores the truth behind the saying, “Your network is your net worth,” and reinforces the importance of collaboration.
- Mutual Value in Relationships: While recognizing that much of what people need is controlled by others, Okigbo cautioned against forming relationships solely for personal gain. She advised, “Don’t go after men just for what they can give you.” Instead, she encouraged being valuable and impactful, advocating for a reciprocal approach where individuals build others up as they themselves grow.
- The Importance of Honoring Relationships: Okigbo stressed the need to honor the people around us, warning against the Nigerian concept of “see finish,” which means taking someone for granted. “In this aspect of wealth known as men, some of the investments you’ll make are honor, respect, and sacrifice,” she stated. She called for a commitment to invest in the growth of others, ensuring that relationships are characterized by mutual respect and growth.
- Emotional Investments: Highlighting the emotional aspects of relationships, Okigbo said, “Men have an emotional bank.” She explained that just as with financial assets, individuals can invest in emotional connections. “This is why you’ll often hear statements like, ‘There’s a friend that sticks closer than a brother,'” she added, noting the importance of cultivating deep, supportive relationships.
Mimi Okigbo hopes that these insights will encourage others to value and nurture their relationships, building a wealth that extends beyond material gains. As she looks forward to the year ahead, she expressed optimism for what the future holds, concluding with a call to action: “Wishing you more mindful and healthy relationships this week.”
Her reflections have sparked a conversation about the power of human connections and the importance of building relationships that foster mutual growth and support.
ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU