Category Archives: Opinions

Entertainment, Featured, Opinions

5 Nollywood movies every Nigerian woman should watch (1)

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Over the years in Nollywood, movies have been premiered with themes surrounding motherhood, womanhood, and the girl child. These movies teach morals and serve as a pointer to unearth secrets and enlighten women about core values.

Today, we bring you a list of Nollywood movies every Nigerian woman should watch. The list is curated from films that span across years.

1. Maami (2011)

This film leaves you with a re-echoing sound of ‘Maami’ in your memory. Maami is what most Nigerian Yoruba children call their mothers. It means ‘my mother’. As the name implies, the movie surrounds motherhood’s beauty and struggles. This movie is not the regular mother-child narration with cliches and cliffhangers.

Maami is a Nigerian film produced and directed by Tunde Kelani in 2011. Tunde Babalola adapted the movie from a book Femi Osofisan wrote with the same title. The film starred Funke Akindele, along with Wole Ojo and Olumide Bakare. Funke Akindele as Maami gave a thrilling performance that moved viewers to tears. The chemistry between Funke Akindele and Ayomide Abatti who acted as Kashimawo was out of the screen.

Mainframe Productions produced the movie but it was pirated just a few days later. Maami received mixed responses from viewers but one cannot deny that the movie had an amazing storyline. The storyline evolves around a successful footballer who reminiscences on his childhood when he visits his hometown. Maami implored and used flashbacks to narrate the story and keep you warped in.

2. Elevator Baby (2019)

Elevator Baby is a 2019 Nollywood movie directed by Akay Mason and produced by Niyi Akimolayan under his production company, Anthill Studios. The Nollywood movie was released on October 11, 2019, and was a Nollywood phenomenon that graced the mouths of Nigerians for a long while. The Anthill Studios produced movie was one of the highest-grossing Nigerian films of 2019.

While some critics would say the casting of Toyin Abraham and Timini Eguson was the game changer for the movie, others would praise the cinematography of the movie. The 83-minute film captures the story of Dare, a wealthy and unemployed engineering graduate who got stuck in an elevator due to a power failure with Abigail, a pregnant domestic worker.

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3. King of Boys (2018)

Right here, we are talking about the first release of the KOB sequels Kemi Adetiba struck us with. Kemi Adetiba, one of the top Nollywood directors made a masterpiece that cuts across the political and socio-economic dealings in Nigeria. The story has a woman named Eniola Salami at the frontline. Sola Sobowale who acted as Eniola Salami was the perfect cast for that role and she sucked up the characters.

KOB starred actors like Sola Sobowale, Remilekun Safaru, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, and many other incredible actors who brought the movie to life. This is a movie every Nigerian woman should watch.

4. Blood Sisters (2022)

Temidayo Makanjuola created the Blood Sisters series for Netflix in collaboration with Mo Abudu’s media company, EbonyLife TV. Its arrival on May 5, 2022, sparked positive critical reviews from viewers. The 4- part series was directed by Biyi Bande and Kenneth Gyang. Stars like Nancy Isime, Ini-Idima Okojie, Ramsy Nouah, Kate Henshaw-Nultal, Gabriel Afolayan, and many others.

‘Blood Sisters tells the story of two friends Sarah (Ini Dima-Okojie) and Kemi (Nancy Isime). Sarah is engaged to her dream man, Kola (Deyemi Okanlawon.) However, their seemingly idyllic union has a dark side.’- IMDb.

5. Sugar Rush

Sugar Rush is a 2019 Nigerian crime action comedy film written by Jadesola Osiberu and Bunmi Ajakaiye. Adesua Etomi, Bisola Aiyeola, and Bimbo Ademoye led roles in the movie. The movie which premiered on 23 December 2019, was the 4th highest-grossing Nigerian movie of all time despite mixed criticisms.

‘The Sugar Sisters discover a whopping $800,000, and the financial crimes commission and the supposed owners of the money come for them. Now they team up with unlikely allies and it’s a race against the clock to set things right.’- IMDb

Entertainment, Featured, Leading Stories, Opinions

Met Gala 2024: Top picks for the dresscode, ‘Garden of Dreams’

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Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

The Met Gala 2024 was hosted at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute on May 6, 2024. The theme of this year’s gala was ‘Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion’ with the dress code ‘Garden of Dreams’. The event also known as the Costume Institute Gala was co-chaired by celebrities like Zendaya, Bad Bunny, and Chris Hemsworth alongside Anna Wintour, Vogue’s editor-in-chief.

The Met Gala is a Vogue fundraising event created by Eleanor Lambert. This year’s event had over 400 guests, celebrities, musicians, designers, models, actors, and other influential figures. Each one tried to make a fashion statement to the dress code. Even the red carpet, no, green carpet was decorated to the theme. But who slayed it the most for us? Find out.

Photo Credit:- Getty Images

1. Zendaya

Zendaya made two bold fashion statements on the Met Gala’s red carpet. But her first outfit speaks more to the dress statement of the event, ‘Garden of Dreams’. This is her sixth time in the Met Gala event and she co-chairs the event this year

Photo Credit:- Getty Images

Her first dress screams Mother Nature with a subtle touch of Garden of Eden with her wine-themed makeup. The Challengers’ star bodied this Marson Margiela outfit with grace. Her A-shaped dress seems adorned with a grapes-like design at the strap and the hip side stands out with gold pine-shaped flowers.

Zendaya’s first outfit is made from shimmering blue and teal organza material which she perfectly adorned with a fascinator of the same color. The part of the fascinator close to her neck has on it the representation of a hummingbird. With a closer look at the colors of the dress, the green color represents earth and the blue color represents water. Zendaya killed the dress code with this outfit.

2. Teyana Taylor

Ring-a-ring o’ roses, a pocket full of posies. Teyana Taylor looks good in any outfit for her red carpet look at the Met Gala 2024 has no adjective to qualify it yet. It was breath taking. Her crimson red velvet outfit took the embroidered red roses on it as if it bore it, more like, a bed of roses.

The American songwriter and actress debuted her platinum blonde look with this outfit and matching heels. Her nude makeup glam complements her skin and hair giving her a goddess vibe. With the classy high slit that exposes her gold-strapped heels, we can say Teyana ate this look.

3. Nicki Minaj

While yellow can be too flashy and overbearing sometimes, Nicki Minaj’s dress defiles that possibility. Nicki Minaj appeared at the event in a bright yellow short gown with 4D flowers of different colors sticking out of various corners of the dress. The flowers contrasted with the yellow background color in the nicest way possible.

Photo Credit:- US Weekly

The American rapper styled the outfit with matching yellow bags and shoes. She maintained a nude makeup look and her hair was adorned with flower-shaped accessories. Her look represents a brightly colored garden of flowers. She is one of the few lots that did justice to a flower-themed look.

4. Jonathan Bailey

The Bridgerton star graced the red carpet in a Loewe suit designed. Jonathan Bailey wore a bright pink flower bow tie to the suit .This made Jonathan’s outfit speak to the dress code. The Jonathan Anderson’s styled suit moved from being simple to a dreamy one with the flower placed at the upper left hand side of his trouser’s pocket of the suit.

Photo Credit;- Town and Country Magazine

5. Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle’s dress is described as a ‘sea-worthy couture’. She walked the Met Gala red carpet alongside her husband, Dwayne Wade in a high neck teal and green ombre embedded dress. Gabrielle Union was giving mermaid vibes in her fish tailed outfit. The designer behind Gabrielle Union’s oufit is the indellible Michael Kors.

Photo Credit:- TV Alagoas

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6. Cynthia Erivo

The Wicked star was dressed in Thom Browne black suit dress. But this crop topped suit was designed with sequin material at the bust area, with a closer look at the outfit, one would notice embroidered bugs, spiders and other insects on the dress. Cynthia in an interview teased that it looks like she ‘ has run into a garden and things have fallen on’ her.

Photo Credit:- Towns and Country Magazine.

Her dress have rose petals designed all over with the drape of her dress overflowing. She accompainied the look with a bright pink coloured hand bag. We cannot help but notice the blush around her eyes giving her statement look.

7. Ayo Edebiri

The Emmy winner wore a floral themed dress to the Met Gala. She graced the red carpet in a A-shaped white flowered backless, strapless dress. Flowers were embroidered into dress at the lower part of the dress down to the hem of the dress. She graced a simple but elegant look also with the brightly coloured blush on her cheeks.

Photo Credit :- Getty Images.

8. Rachael Smith

The American actress decided to go green with the dresscode. Her dress loooks like she is a garden of vegetable which she wore graciously. The black and green flower embroidered dress matches the red carpet’s asthetics and Rachael embodied the green of nature effortlessly.

Photo Credit:- Cosmopolitan

9. Bad Bunny

Bad Bunny was one of the co-chairs of Met Gala 2024. The actor is known for making fashion statements without overdoing it. He graced the red carpet with a Maison Margiela black suit holding a bouquet of black roses- the black roses just made his outfit a match to the dresscode. Bad Bunny really killed his outfit ‘with a playful little hat, hoofed Tabi shoes, tiny sunglasses’.

Photo Credit:- Billboard

The Met Gala 2024 was graced by a lot of stunning designs on the red carpet. Only that, the carpet was green adorned with green flowers. It goes well with the dress code chosen. The dress code, Garden of Dreams is not a new concept . Dior had used it for their advertised campain which featured Anya Taylor- Joy in 2023. It is important that guests stick to the dress code of events they attend.

This is our pick for guests who stuck to the dresscode. There are a lot more we want to bring to your reading but let us close the list here. Check out the rest on Met Gala social media pages and stay fashion trendy because one day you might just receive an invite.

Featured, Opinions, Sports

Major sports events still coming up in 2024

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

The 2024 calendar year has seen remarkable outings and showings across the world of sports. The world of football (Soccer) has seen the African Cup of Nations, the Asian cup and Carabao cup. In tennis, the Melbourne held Australian open was contested earlier in January. The Super Bowl, world championships for Aquatics and Table Tennis are also but a few of the already seen events.

With the year still having a lengthy expanse of months to go, here are some of the Sporting events to look forward to.

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Here are the major sports events coming up in 2024:

Summer Olympics – Paris

The Olympics is a multi-sport event held every four years and contested by nations around the globe. The tournament will take place in France between July 26th-August 11th.

The last edition scheduled for Tokyo in 2020 had to be shifted till the following year as a result of the Covid pandemic. This edition will present a chance to return to the usual norm. Its variant the Winter Olympics is pegged for 2026 in Milan-Cortina.

Copa América – USA

The Copa América is a major football tournament typically for men’s senior teams in South America.

However, it’s often seen that invitations are extended to some teams from North America. The tournament is one of the oldest international tournaments.

This edition will be the 48th such in the competition’s history and will take place between June 20th and July 14th in the United States of America.

Wimbledon – London

This event is one of the most prized tournaments in the world of tennis. It is one of the four tennis Grand Slam events (others being the US open, French open and Australian open). The event takes place annually at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in London and is played on outdoor grass courts. 

Equally, the 2024 Wimbledon Championships will be the 137th staging and will run from 1 July 2024 to 14 July 2024.

The last edition’s prize money was an estimated £44,700,000.

Euro 2024 – Germany

The European Championships is contested by senior men’s teams across Europe.

The Germany held tournament will be the last showing for a plethora of football stars in the event, likely including Cristiano Ronaldo, Thomas Muller, Pepe amongst others. Also, the tournament allows for participation from 24 teams and the winner will go on to face the Copa América winner in the CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions.

The Italian national team are the current defending champions.

Monaco Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix is regarded as one of the most esteemed Auto Racing events. It is a yearly Formula one race held on the streets of Monaco.

The complexities of the street themed track boasting tunnels, alleys, tight corners and bends makes it one of the most keenly contested racing events. The race is held along the Monte Carlo street circuit. It is scheduled for the 26th of May, 2024.

The Paralympic Games – Paris

The Paralympic games are held every four years in similarity to the Olympics. The tournament is an event for disabled athletes and is competed internationally by over 100 nations.

The games has 22 sport events and athletes are graded in six different categories based on severity. The 2024 Paralympic Games is pegged for Paris, France.

UEFA Cup finals

All three tiers of UEFA’s cup competitions have their finals upcoming. The UEFA champions league final will take place at the esteemed Wembley stadium in London on Saturday, June 1st.

The UEFA Europa League final is scheduled for the 22nd of May at the Dublin Arena in the Republic of Ireland.

The 2023/2024 UEFA conference league, the competition’s 3rd edition since its inauguration, is pegged for the Agia Sophia Stadium, Athens, Greece on the 29th of May, 2024.

It is important to note that Tour de France (cycling), the Scotland Open championship (Golf), the World Rowing championships (Rowing), the Melbourne Cup (horse racing) amongst others.

Featured, Health & Lifestyle, Opinions

National Screen Free Week: Can it be observed?

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Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

This week is the National Screen Free Week for 2024. Are you commemorating it? I guess not because as long as you read this article this week, you are not. Well, you are not alone. I am also not commemorating it because I use a screen to bring this to your screen.

Photo Credit: -screenfree.org

The impossibility of this commemoration is not far-fetched. Folks have built their lives around screen time. Their work, family, and even religious association are dependent on the screen, that is, phones, laptops, iPads, tablets, smart TVs, etc. This commemoration would mean that a lot of people would have to put a hold on their lives for a week.

Is it possible for you not to use your mobile devices for a week?

This question has relatable answers to it. We have to look at some factors before we decide on answers to this question. Most people now earn a living using their mobile gadgets. Others connect to their loved ones, spouses, parents, and children through mobile devices. In that sense, mobile gadgets have been more of a blessing to them and something they cannot do without.

The mental health of many solely lies in the hands of having quality screen time. They unwind and escape the harsh faces of reality through mobile gadgets. So it might be impossible for them to get off their mobile gadgets.

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You can decide not to use your mobile devices for a week if you have weighed the disadvantages higher than the advantages. Remember that your decision implies that you will be off from social media, unable to pick up calls except through landline telephones. This decision would also mean that no television watching, you have to seek your amusement from nature and the people around you.

If you have your family members near you, then maybe you can give the National Screen Free week a trial. This can be a possible trial for you if you are the CEO of the company and you have left the affairs of your company in trustworthy hands. But having a screen-free week is a delusion that seems almost impossible this decade.

Why you need to stay screen-free despite the technological advancement

I know it is not easy to stay screen-free for a day not to talk of a week. But you can try a few hours, right? We must not build too much dependency on mobile gadgets such that our lives cannot function properly without them.

High levels of screen time mess with our brain, especially with the production of melatonin, the sleeping hormone. Some people find it hard to sleep without staying glued to their phones. Their gadgets can also keep them up all night depriving them of sleep.

It is quite important to connect to the people around us especially when we are surrounded by our loved ones. Our mobile gadgets should be the reason we stray away from our family. We are very much physical beings who can interact socially without social media.

We understand if you had not prepared for this week to be no screen-time week. Try next week or any other week. You might not be able to run this commemoration for a week as you are a tech bro but you can run it for a day or a few hours. Just make sure you are being intentional and use those few hours off to connect with people around and nature. Let us express our social behaviors without the screen.

Featured, Opinions

Monday Morning: How to achieve your goals this week

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Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

A new week has dawned, and Monday morning is here! The perfect time to reflect on our goals and aspirations. As you sip your coffee and get ready to tackle the day, remember that this week is a fresh canvas waiting for your brushstrokes. It’s time to paint a masterpiece of productivity and success.

Set Clear and Achievable Goals

The first step to achieving your goals is to define them clearly. Take a few minutes to reflect on what you want to accomplish this week. Make sure your goals are:

  • Specific: Avoid vague goals like “I want to be more productive.” Instead, opt for “I will complete three tasks on my to-do list by Wednesday.”
  • Measurable: Quantify your goals so you can track progress. For example, “I will write 1,000 words for my project by Friday.”
  • Achievable: Be realistic about what you can accomplish in a week. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by aiming too high.
  • Relevant: Align your goals with your values and priorities. Ask yourself, “Will achieving this goal truly make a positive impact on my life?”

Prioritize and Focus

With clear goals in mind, it’s time to prioritize and focus. Use the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize your tasks into:

  • Urgent and Important: Tackle these tasks first, as they require immediate attention.
  • Important but Not Urgent: Schedule time for these tasks, as they are crucial for long-term success.
  • Urgent but Not Important: Delegate or automate these tasks if possible, to free up time for more critical activities.
  • Not Urgent or Important: Consider eliminating or minimizing time spent on these tasks.

Create a Schedule and Stick to It

Plan out your day, week, and month. Set specific times for:

  • Work: Allocate dedicated blocks of time for focused work.
  • Breaks: Take regular breaks to recharge and avoid burnout.
  • Self-care: Schedule time for exercise, meditation, or relaxation.
  • Review and Reflection: Regularly review your progress and reflect on what’s working and what areas need improvement.

Use Productivity Tools and Resources

Leverage technology and tools to boost your productivity:

  • Task management apps: Utilize apps like Todoist, Trello, or Asana to organize and prioritize your tasks.
  • Time management tools: Tools like RescueTime or Focus@Will can help you stay on track and avoid distractions.
  • Motivational resources: Follow inspiring blogs, podcasts, or social media accounts to stay motivated and informed.

Stay Flexible and Adaptable

Life is unpredictable, and unexpected tasks will arise. Don’t be too rigid with your plans. Instead:

  • Embrace flexibility: Be open to adjusting your schedule as needed.
  • Learn to say no: Be mindful of taking on too much and politely decline non-essential tasks.
  • Practice self-compassion: Remember that setbacks are temporary and don’t define your entire week.

Monday morning is a fresh start, a chance to reboot and refocus. By setting clear goals, prioritizing, and staying flexible, you’ll be well on your way to achieving success this week. Remember to be kind to yourself, stay motivated, and celebrate your accomplishments along the way.

Health & Lifestyle, Opinions

5 seemingly cute things some women do that can be a turn-off for men

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Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

When it comes to relationships, sometimes things that seem nice to one person might not be so appealing to the other.

Here are five common behaviors that some women might think are attractive but can actually be a turn-off for some men.

1. Being overly dramatic or attention-seeking

Being overly dramatic or attention-seeking

While it’s natural to want attention and express emotions, being overly dramatic or constantly seeking attention can be overwhelming for men. It’s important to find a balance and not overdo it.

2. Being too clingy or needy

Being too clingy or needy

Wanting to spend time with your partner is understandable, but being overly clingy or constantly needing reassurance can make some men feel suffocated. Giving each other space is healthy in any relationship.

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3. Wearing excessive makeup

Wearing excessive makeup

While makeup can enhance natural beauty, some men prefer a more natural look. Wearing excessive makeup might give the impression that you’re trying too hard or not comfortable in your own skin.

4. Multiple body piercings

Multiple body piercings

While personal style is important, having too many piercings might be a turn-off for some men. It’s all about personal preference, but some men might find it distracting or unattractive.

5. Playing “hard to get”

Playing “hard to get”

While it’s common advice in dating, playing hard to get can actually backfire. It might make men feel frustrated or disinterested if they’re not sure where they stand.

In the end, every person is different, and what one person finds attractive, another might not. It’s important to be true to yourself while also being considerate of your partner’s preferences.

Finding a balance that works for both of you is the key to a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

Opinions

40 powerful skills to develop before turning 40

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Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

As we journey through life, it’s important to continually develop new skills and expand our knowledge. Mastering a range of skills can lead to personal growth, improved career prospects, and a more fulfilling life. With that in mind, here is a list of 40 essential skills to aim to master before turning 40:

  1. Cooking a healthy meal from scratch
  2. Basic car maintenance and repair
  3. Effective time management and prioritization
  4. Strong communication and active listening skills
  5. Budgeting and financial planning
  6. Proficiency in a second language
  7. First aid and basic life support
  8. Playing a musical instrument
  9. Writing and storytelling
  10. Public speaking and presentation skills
  11. Photography basics
  12. Basic coding and web development
  13. Yoga or meditation practice
  14. DIY home repair and improvement
  15. Wine tasting and appreciation
  16. Graphic design basics
  17. Leadership and team management
  18. Event planning and coordination
  19. Social media marketing and management
  20. Conflict resolution and negotiation
  21. Creative writing and journaling
  22. Painting or drawing
  23. Gardening and basic botany
  24. Cooking for a crowd (entertaining and hosting)
  25. Personal branding and networking
  26. Data analysis and visualization
  27. Mindfulness and stress management
  28. Travel planning and navigation
  29. Basic plumbing and electrical work
  30. Storytelling and public speaking for impact
  31. Community engagement and volunteerism
  32. Sales and persuasion techniques
  33. Entrepreneurship and small business management
  34. Social entrepreneurship and impact investing
  35. Personal finance and investing
  36. Real estate basics (buying, selling, and renting)
  37. Health and wellness coaching
  38. Environmental sustainability and eco-friendliness
  39. Cybersecurity and online safety
  40. Adaptability and continuous learning

Mastering these skills will not only enhance your personal and professional life but also make you a more well-rounded and adaptable individual. Embrace the journey of learning and growth, and remember that it’s never too early or too late to start working on these essential skills.

Featured, Opinions

National Stress Awareness Month: How to manage stress

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Just today the fuel scarcity hit Nigerians hard. Returning from work seemed almost impossible as transport fares had skyrocketed and the possibility of getting a means of transportation is now the business of the ‘Survival of the fittest’. There is no fuel for people who are willing to buy even at the exorbitant price. This is a stress alert! Watch your blood pressure.

Nigerians and their jamjama, 5&6. They are one of the most hardworking sects of people you can meet. Anything they do, they try to put their all in it. The scenario of a man working seven jobs at once is not scarce. He has a physical salary-paying job, a remote job, a farm, and a business. Such a man becomes a Jack of all trades. His mantras would be ‘The hustle is real‘ or ‘Steady grinding‘.

Nigerians know that their hard work takes a toll on their health but they still keep at what they do. After all, what can men do except work so they would not go hungry? Hard work is the only honest way to put food on one’s table. Despite all, we must give the body its rest. Our body is our powerhouse and it needs rest so it would not shut down when we least expect it to.

National Stress Awareness Month

The National Stress Month has been in commemoration since 1992. It is marked every April to inform the people about the negative impact of stress. Stress and anxiety take different forms that people are oblivious to. You might not be doing strenuous work but you are stressed mentally. Well, it is also possible that you might not be worrying about anything in particular but your mind is all over. Then, you are mentally exhausted without knowing.

Photo Credit:- National Day Calendar

What is stress?

‘Stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree. The way we respond to stress, however, makes a big difference to our overall well-being.’– World Health Organization.

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There are so many causes for Nigerians to be stressed, for example, one might be plunged into worry because of the insecurity in the country or because of the economic situation of the country. People’s relationships are supposed to be a source of comfort or joy to them but most Nigerians find themselves in toxic relationships.

Over 9 million Nigerians suffer from stress. 90% of illnesses that affect Nigerians are caused by physical exhaustion. If one is stressed, he is susceptible to other illnesses. Nigerians even take pride in saying they are stressed. They are chasing the bag such that when they travel abroad, they engage in so many jobs to make more money.

Stress most times leads to anxiety and then to depression. Most people fall into depression and have suicidal thoughts. Suicide should not be an option for anyone. According to various religions, there is no peace in eternity for people who die by suicide.

How to manage stress

One cannot eliminate stress. Stress is very much inevitable, it is our plight as humans. Humans need a reasonable amount of stress to be motivated to work. Stress can be combated if the stress-inducing factor is tackled. Many times, it is not possible to solve the issue causing stress all at once.

Sleep is one of the certified ways to manage stress. Ironically, most people suffering from this exhaustion find it hard to sleep except when it is induced. Rest is one of the ways to relax one’s mind and an avenue to drift into unconsciousness. To ensure that you are relaxed, make your resting area dimmed lightly and well-ventilated.

Some experts would say that if you are mentally or physically exhausted, you should stay away from your electronic devices. Well, they are right but if scrolling through your social media page and watching diverse content help you relax, then go for it. If it is ‘Netflix and chill’, go for it. The main goal is to destress.

If possible, stay away from what bothers you for some time. You might need to take a vacation or leave a toxic relationship as the case may be. It is not possible to avoid stress but it is wise to stay far away from any potential stress. Life is stressful enough to add more problems to your plate.

If you cannot manage your anxiety yourself after trying for a while, you must see a therapist or a certified psychologist in that field. Do not keep mute., see someone. It might not be easy to destress if you are used to it.

#LITTTLEBYLITTLE

The motto for this year’s ‘National Stress Awareness Month’ is ‘Little by Little’. Appreciate the little steps you take to achieve a goal. Managing stress is crucial to one’s total well-being. Prioritize your rest and find little ways to destress. Take breaks when necessary. The world moves on after the death of many. Rest my friend, Body no be firewood.

Featured, Opinions

National Month of Hope: Hope, our lens for a better future

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Four months gone, just eight months left in the year. It is almost the end of the first third of the year 2024. Have you given up on this year yet? I know that it has not been easy actually. Those plans and goals you had sought to achieve are nowhere near implementation yet. The inflation rate made getting what you have been saving up for impossible. This year has been a roller coaster, yes, I know.

Life is dynamic because of its unpredictability. It is a sloppy hill that can sprout you up one minute and bring you down the next minute. But what is that feeling that gives you a glimpse of bitterness even when it does not make sense? Hope, that is the feeling.

History of the Month of Hope

‘National Month of Hope has a history that can be traced back to 2016 when it was established by a non-profit organization called Mothers in Crisis in Tallahassee, Florida. The idea behind the day was simply to counteract the difficulties that life brings by dedicating this month and encouraging people to spread hope around their neighborhoods, communities, and all around the world.‘- Days of the Year blog.

Photo Credit:- Angie Gensler

It was formerly regarded as ‘Hope Universe Day’. In 2018, the celebration was renamed to ‘National Month of Hope’ and the celebration has retained that name to this day.

Hope our lens for a better future

April means ‘to open’. We have hope that this month has opened the doors of betterment and breakthrough for the rest of the year. Flowers and trees blossom around April, just like they do, we are expected to blossom all around with hope regardless of what we have in our pockets or bank accounts.

The word ‘hope’ is derived from the Latin word, ‘cupio’ meaning, ‘to desire’ or to ‘wish well’. We are expected to project this feeling in viewing what the future looks like. The present makes the future look so gloomy. Hope is the one sparkle that gives us reasons to live and push forward.

Nigerians would agree that this year has been an unstable cycle in the economic sector. The exchange rate skyrocketed like a rocket going into space. The cost of living got higher. People drifted into survival mode with weird food combinations as food items got more expensive. In spite of all, we are here, breathing. The cost of living did not kill the living.

Despite the hard turn of events in the past months, April marked the beginning of some economic progress in the Nigerian economic sector. Some people made some risky financial decisions, some of which faltered, others paid off. Whatever the consequence of your decision, do not let it weigh you down. The future being bright is not a cliche. It is a possibility and your possibility.

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How can we spread hope?

Bad energy stay far away! Spread positive vibes. Sprinkle joy all around. We know the country is hard but you are not a newscaster to keep bringing those news to people’s table. If possible, stay away from listening to bad news updates. Start your day by consuming content of positivity and hope and not that of pessimism. It is all going to get better!

Keep an appreciation jotter or diary to record those big to little achievements you have got. Your appreciation diary will serve as a renewal of hope when it feels like all is not going well. Reminiscence on your little well, your past miracles, and the progress you have made with God’s supernatural backing.

Listen to sermons, podcasts, and songs that lift your spirit. In renewing your hope, feeding your mind with the right content is key to being hopeful. It is not time to listen to the kinds of stuff that remind you of your condition or worsen your mood. Listen to sermons and songs that preach hope according to your beliefs.

Preach resilience and inculcate positive mindsets. We are not a conqueror if we give up halfway. The story is only sweet if we win. If you feel like your mental energy is low, seek the company of people who will refuel your juice. It is not time to seclude yourself from others, it is time to keep the right company. We are in this together.

Seek comfort in nature and appreciate the works of nature around you. Do you know that the trees also go through trying times too? Sometimes the weather is not palatable yet they survive to bloom in the spring season. Look at how ants pick up again after their trail has been scattered. They gather around together to perform their task, probably that breadcrumb you dropped on the floor.

Seek hope from God

For believers, this is a time to be closer to God. Blaming God or renouncing your salvation is not the best way to go about it. Only God can help you through the storm and only Him can give you joy through the rocky path. I do not think one can have peace by renouncing the only one who offers rest to humans. Our rest is in Him.

April is not the only month you should be on the same page with hope. Hope is needed for our survival, otherwise, we will just be beings without purpose or a glimpse of a better future. Spread the light, joy, and hope all around. Keep it in your consciousness to make others happy and do not utter words that plunge them into sadness. Let us keep our heads high, the good of the land awaits us!

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Coin d’amour: Online love texts versus handwritten love letters

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Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

It is the National Card and Letter Writing Month! Do we still write letters, definitely yes but not in the form it took when this celebration was signed up for. Our letters have developed into emails, casual text messages, and SMS because of the advent of technology. No one takes a pen to write letters again because the person you have got to reach is just a call or a text away.

In old times, lovers would have to wait for their long-distance partners to reply to their letters. This longing feeling and expectancy that bred made love, not an easy feat. But now, people can still communicate in an LDR over different time zones. I know technology has made things easier but have we considered the beauty of handwritten love letters?

Online love messages.
Photo Credit:- Pinterest

The psychology behind handwritten love letters

The hand-brain complex lays down neuro-pathways when writing messages to those we care for, creating meaning and memory, and triggering the release of dopamine in the brain through the neurotransmission of the feel-good sensation of writing words of love and gratitude.‘- Scroll. in

Gone are the days when people learned cursive handwriting to write beautiful love messages to their partners. They even consult the dictionary to craft grammatically correct love letters to their love. Most people would not see their partner’s handwriting until when they have to sign their marriage papers. A criterion for dating is no longer because of their ‘fine handwriting’.

Handwritten love letter
Photo Credit:- Pinterest.

The art of writing love letters has dwindled among lovers. Do you know your written words depict your feelings for your partner? You would not want to write a shabby letter to your patient, you are patient and treat the piece of paper you are writing on like gold.

Some people go as far as getting special papers embedded with flowers and artistic carvings to write love letters. They have that special ink they use to write love letters to their beloved. Even the culture of adolescents secretly passing love notes to themselves is out of the page, they simply share their feelings on WhatsApp. Gen Zs might have missed out on this but maybe Millenials can relate.

Handwritten love letters can give you a hint on your partner’s intelligence level. You do not just want to find out that your partner cannot write a regular essay when your daughter has an assignment of such. Online messaging has its advantages. It has emojis that you can use with your texts to convey your emotions. But your handwriting is one of the truest conveyer of feelings, emojis can lie.

A handwritten love letter screams intentionality and patience. Once you make a mistake while writing handwritten letters, you might discard that sheet and start again because there is no delete button or auto-correct on your paper. You would not want to express your feelings in a paper full of canceled and shaded words.

The process of writing a handwritten letter is one of patience. You have to put your thoughts together maybe in a draft before writing it on the actual page. Your partner has to have one handwritten love letter and not a note. I am not talking about those words you write on sticky notes to set a reminder or a love affirmation. I mean actual written pages of wooing or commending your lover.

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Your hands on the keyboard or keypad should also handle a pen on paper as well

It is no doubt that online messaging has come to stay and ever since the advent of social media apps for messaging, you see no reason why you should send a handwritten love letter to your partner. I understand but writing handwritten love letters for some occasions does not make you archaic or old-school. It is another way of showing your intentions.

Imagine writing those lines of romantic poetry written in a calligraphic style on rose background paper to your lover then compare it to writing those lines of poetry in a Whatsapp chat box. You would agree with me that the former is more romantic than the latter.

Your partner might lose your chats with them if their chats get wiped. Even those starred sweet love messages you wrote to them will be gone. But your handwritten note folded properly in a special box holds a special place in their heart. When you leave your fragrance or your scent on the letters, anytime they pick up the note, it jogs their memory and rejuvenates your love.

Your love messages to your lovers on their phones are not sacred because the hate messages on other social media platforms can also be accessed with that same phone. Customizing your lover’s chat and saving their contacts with those love-inspired emojis is beautiful but they still deserve to see your words on paper telling them how you feel about them.

Your partner does not have to be far away before you can write them a love letter. Give them one on special occasions instead of the cliche greeting cards you get for them from stores. Put it randomly in their suitcase or their bag before they leave for work. You can leave it as a note beside their bed for them to wake up to it, or you can be more romantic and put a flower beside it.

P.S. It does not have to be Valentine’s Day before you can do this.

Team Handwritten Love Letters

Do not let the only handwritten expression of love to your partner be your signature on the marriage papers. Your wedding vows were even typed. You no longer handwrite those shopping lists, technology is your saving grace. Design a card and check out DIYs on how to go about it on the internet. Also, go extra by decorating the love letters with heart shapes and other creative shapes that depict your feelings.

I know the last card that signified the love you shared with your partner was your invitation card. Do you think your handwriting is not befitting enough to express your love for your partner in words? It does not matter, they might likely appreciate your intention rather than the means. Do not let anything stop you from writing that love letter. Write it, today!