The dust has settled on the TotalEnergies AFCON 2023 final, while Côte d’Ivoire emerged victorious. Both teams aimed for gold, but only one claimed it. This powerful analogy holds a vital message for all of us. Someone wrote, “Never give up even if you have been referred to as a loser. If Cote D’Ivoire could move from best loser to the winner, even in your worst situation, push on your trophy awaits you.”

Yes, winning requires perseverance, not just a starting advantage. Nigeria scored first, but Côte d’Ivoire’s relentless desire propelled them to victory. Just like in business and life, taking the lead isn’t enough. We must constantly strive, adapt, and push beyond initial achievements to secure the ultimate win. Remember, there was no name on the trophy or medals until either of the teams won.

The “first mover advantage” debate gets tossed around often, but the AFCON final reminds us that being first doesn’t guarantee success. Just like Nigeria, sometimes pioneers stumble. You need to ensure that you make efforts to sustain the lead and consolidate if you want to retain the first position. The key lies in sustained effort, strategic adaptation, and a burning desire to win.

So, if you aim for Gold, you must work diligently to win in your tasks, career, and endeavours. The way to go to winning the medal is to refine your strategy, fuel your desire, and not wait for the final whistle.

Start taking action to make your gold medal shine!

Lastly, neither you nor I can do it alone; we need to support each other on our journeys to Gold!

Yours in PR,

Olutayo