Monday Motivation: 'How to become a Financial General'

This week on the first series of Monday Motivation by Imonitie Imafidon, we will dealing on the topic 'How to become a Financial General.'

Read and get motivated....

I am especially fascinated by the Spartan King Leonidas and his exploits during his reign in 480 B.C. These accomplishments were brought to light in the exceptional movie ‘300’. Leonidas was a strong military leader, his skills were forged through rigorous training even from childhood; he was a warrior equipped both mentally and physically. He was trained in the art of combat; utilizing his shield, spear, and short iron sword in an unprecedented manner, he could take on even a hundred men at a time. 

He only fell to a rain of arrows after being cornered by the far more numerous Persian army. Stories of men who have exhibited and continue to exhibit greatness, bravery, sportsmanship and talent are intriguing due to their abnormal/rare nature, as the average man is used to playing it safe without desiring, sacrificing, learning and putting in the work required for outstanding success. 

Whilst the era of Leonidas is far gone and the exceptional skill he exhibited is no longer required in this age, there are modern day Leonidases that are demonstrating great prowess in the financial battles of today. These are the billionaires and millionaires that possess the money that the rest of the world is in dire need of. 

These financial gurus such as Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, Aliko Dangote, Strive Masiyiwa, amongst countless others, are the generals of today that have acquired the financial skill and courage to rake in and keep so much money, and like Leonidas have become more powerful than a hundred men in financial warfare. What made Leonidas stand out and has made these financial generals stand out? What gives a man the ability to possess these godlike powers and elevates him amongst men? 

There are many factors responsible for this, but there are some underlying principles that are worth mentioning, and I would highlight just three of these. The first is Great Learning; Leonidas was trained in the art of combat from childhood, and historians acknowledge this training was both mentally and physically. 

The men mentioned above who are leading the financial army are addicted to learning, they continuously study their trade, learn from others, and dedicate most of their time in getting better in their businesses. The second principle is Hard-work; work is second nature to these men, research have shown that average people work 40 hours a week, above average individuals work about 60 hours a week, but the greats work over 80 hours a week. You cannot get to the top without a crazy, ambitious, and rigorous work ethic. 

 The third principle is an underlying belief that ‘anything is possible’; without faith and a high confidence in one’s ability, there is very little any man can do. In order to undertake any great feat, courage is a key requirement. 

It takes courage to fight and move on even in situations where failure is imminent. It takes courage to keep fighting even when others fear and take flight. It would be a pity to be born and die without any lasting legacy, in whatever field you have chosen, decide to be the very best and do whatever it takes to make it.

Author: Imafidon Imonitie