The post office had long become a forgotten place.

Most people only passed by it on their way to somewhere else. But every first Saturday of the month, a young woman walked through its doors with the same ritual.

She would buy a single envelope.

A single stamp.

And write one letter.

Not to a celebrity.

Not to a company.

Not even to someone she expected would reply.

She wrote to her father.

He had left home when she was nine.

No dramatic goodbye.

No fight.

Just a promise.

"I'll be back before Christmas."

Christmas came.

Then another.

And another.

Years passed until the promise became a family joke no one laughed at.

At sixteen, she wrote her first letter.

She told him she had won a debate competition.

At eighteen, she told him she got into university.

At twenty-one, she wrote about losing her mother.

At twenty-four, she confessed she was angry.

Not because he left.

But because he never came back.

Every letter ended the same way.

"I hope life has been kinder to you than it has been to us."

She addressed each envelope with the only address she had ever known:

P.O. Box 118.

No city.

No state.

Just the number.

The man at the counter stopped asking questions after the third year.

He simply accepted the envelope, stamped it, and dropped it into the outgoing mail.

Deep down, she knew the letters were going nowhere.

But writing them made her feel as though the words had somewhere to live besides her heart.

Then, one Harmattan morning, everything changed.

She arrived at the post office as usual.

The elderly clerk looked at her for a long moment before disappearing into the back room.

When he returned, he was holding a bundle of envelopes tied together with a blue ribbon.

Every one of them had her handwriting.

Every one of them had been returned.

"These were found during the renovation," he said softly. "The address was incomplete. They never left."

She stared at the bundle in silence.

Eight years.

Eight birthdays.

Eight Christmases.

Eight chances to say what she had carried all her life.

None of them had gone anywhere.

For the first time, she wondered if that was a blessing.

Because if they had reached him years ago, they would have belonged to a younger version of herself.

The girl who wanted answers.

The woman standing there wanted something different.

Peace.

She took the letters home.

Read every single one.

She smiled.

She cried.

She laughed at how dramatically seventeen-year-old her wrote.

Then she did something she never expected.

She wrote one final letter.

Not to her father.

To herself.

It began:

You've spent years writing to someone who never answered. Maybe it's time to answer yourself.

She wrote about forgiveness.

About grief.

About surviving.

About becoming the person she once wished someone would rescue.

When she finished, she folded the letter carefully and slipped it into one of the old envelopes.

She didn't post it.

Some letters aren't meant to travel across cities.

They're meant to travel across time.

From the person you were…

To the person you've become.

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Every year, thousands of children, adolescents, and adults are diagnosed with scoliosis. For many, the diagnosis is accompanied by fear, uncertainty, and a flood of questions about the future.

Can I still play sports?

Will I be able to pursue my dream career?

Will I always be in pain?

Will my life ever be normal?

These concerns are understandable. Unfortunately, they are often fueled by misconceptions that portray scoliosis as a condition that automatically limits a person’s abilities and potential.

This Scoliosis Awareness Day, it is important to challenge that narrative.

Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often accompanied by vertebral rotation. While the condition can vary in severity and may require monitoring or treatment, a diagnosis of scoliosis does not automatically mean a person is disabled, incapable, or destined for a life of limitations.

In reality, millions of people with scoliosis attend school, excel in sports, build successful careers, raise families, and pursue their passions every day. They are students, athletes, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, and leaders. Their spinal curves do not define their abilities, ambitions, or worth.

One of the most damaging aspects of scoliosis is not always the physical curve itself, but the assumptions that often accompany it. Too many people hear the diagnosis and immediately think of restrictions, dependence, or an inability to live fully. Yet for many individuals, scoliosis is simply one aspect of their health journey, not the defining feature of their lives.

This does not mean scoliosis should be ignored or minimized. Some individuals may experience pain, postural changes, reduced mobility, breathing difficulties, or psychological challenges related to body image and self-esteem. These experiences are real and deserve recognition, support, and appropriate care. However, acknowledging these challenges is very different from assuming that everyone with scoliosis is destined to be limited by them.

Awareness means understanding the condition for what it truly is, not exaggerating it, and not dismissing it.

The most important message of all is this: people with scoliosis should never be defined by their diagnosis.

A curved spine does not determine intelligence. It does not determine talent. It does not determine character. It does not determine how far someone can go in life.

As we mark Scoliosis Awareness Day, let us move beyond stereotypes and misconceptions. Let us replace fear with knowledge, stigma with understanding, and assumptions with support.

Because scoliosis is a condition a person may have, it is not the measure of who they are.

A curved spine does not mean a limited life.

Maybe healing is not just about “getting better,” but about learning healthier ways to live, cope, rest, and exist.

Maybe it looks like setting boundaries without guilt.

Logging off when everything feels overwhelming.

Resting before your body forces you to.

Being honest about how you feel.

Choosing environments that do not constantly drain you.

Checking on yourself the same way you check on other people.

Because the truth is, healing cannot happen properly if you keep abandoning yourself in the process.

And maybe prioritizing your mental health is not always one big life-changing decision.

Sometimes it is the small things:

Getting enough rest.

Taking breaks.

Saying no when necessary.

Allowing yourself to slow down.

Giving yourself grace on difficult days.

Healing is not linear.

Some days will still feel heavy.

Some days you will still struggle.

But struggling sometimes does not erase your progress.

You are still growing.

Still learning.

Still becoming.

One step at a time.

One day at a time.

Because even slow healing is still healing.

For Reflection

• What is one thing you need to start doing differently to prioritize your mental health?

• Have you been giving yourself the same care and understanding you give to other people?

Healing takes time. Be patient with yourself.

End of series.

Sometimes, people stop opening up not because they want to suffer alone, but because of how the world responds when they finally speak.

A lot of people have tried to explain how they feel before and were met with:

“Everybody is going through something.”

“You’re overthinking it.”

“Just pray about it.”

“Be strong.”

“It’s not that deep.”

So eventually, they stop talking.

Because after a while, it becomes easier to pretend you’re okay than to explain your feelings to people who already seem prepared to dismiss them.

And honestly, that is one of the saddest things about this generation.

Many people are silently carrying emotional weight, not because they enjoy suffering quietly, but because they no longer feel safe being vulnerable.

We live in a world where people often listen to respond instead of listening to understand.

Someone says they are tired emotionally, and the conversation quickly becomes motivation speeches.

Someone admits they are struggling mentally, and people immediately compare struggles instead of simply being present.

Someone finally gathers the courage to speak, and instead of feeling lighter afterward, they end up feeling misunderstood.

So people adapt.

They start saying “I’m fine” automatically. They laugh things off. They keep everything inside. They become emotionally distant. Not because they don’t need support, but because they no longer expect it.

The truth is, humans can either become safe spaces for each other or the reason people become emotionally closed off.

Sometimes, one dismissive response is enough to make someone never open up again.

And this is why checking up on people genuinely matters.

Not the casual: “How far?” “You good?” “Hope you’re alright?”

But the kind of checking up that makes people feel seen.

The kind where you actually listen. Where you don’t interrupt. Where you don’t immediately judge, advise, or minimize what they’re feeling.

Because not every struggling person needs a solution instantly.

Sometimes people just need comfort. Sometimes they just need honesty. Sometimes they just need somebody who will sit with their feelings instead of trying to invalidate them.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, maybe we should become softer with people.

Maybe we should normalize creating spaces where people can speak freely without fear of embarrassment.

Maybe we should learn how to listen better.

Because the truth is, people are more likely to open up when they feel emotionally safe.

And sometimes, being heard properly can save someone from feeling completely alone.

For Reflection

• When people open up to you, do you truly listen or do you immediately try to respond?

• Have you created a space where the people around you feel safe being honest?

Sometimes the kindest thing you can do for someone is simply listen.

Part 4 coming soon.

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There was a time when comparison mostly happened within your immediate environment. Your classmates. Your neighbors. Your friends.

Now, with just one scroll, you can see somebody getting engaged, somebody buying a car, somebody traveling, somebody starting a business, somebody graduating, somebody “living their best life”, all before 10 a.m.

And even when you try not to compare yourself, sometimes it still happens unconsciously.

You start questioning your progress.

Your appearance.

Your achievements.

Your life.

Social media has made it easier than ever to stay connected, but somehow, a lot of people have never felt more disconnected from themselves.

Because the truth is, many people are quietly performing happiness online while silently struggling in real life.

Everybody looks happy online.

Everybody looks successful.

Everybody looks confident.

Everybody looks like they have life figured out.

And after a while, it starts to feel like everybody is okay except you.

Meanwhile, behind those same screens, people are struggling with anxiety, loneliness, burnout, insecurity, pressure, and emotional exhaustion.

But social media rarely shows that part.

People post the celebration, not the breakdown.

The achievement, not the stress behind it.

The smiling pictures, not the nights they cried themselves to sleep.

Because online, many people have mastered the performance of being okay.

And when you constantly consume polished versions of people’s lives, it becomes easy to feel like you are falling behind.

Especially in this generation where there is pressure to “make it” early.

At 20, you’re expected to have direction.

At 22, people are asking about your future.

At 25, everybody suddenly seems successful online.

If you’re not careful, comparison can quietly steal your peace without you even realizing it.

You stop appreciating your own progress because you’re too focused on somebody else’s timeline.

You begin to feel inadequate for not moving at the same pace as people online, forgetting that social media is a highlight reel, not real life.

And honestly, constantly consuming unrealistic standards can affect mental health more than people realize.

Sometimes you don’t even need insults to feel bad about yourself.

Sometimes endless comparison is enough.

This is why protecting your mental space is important.

Not every trend deserves your attention.

Not every opinion deserves access to you.

And not every lifestyle you see online should become the standard you use to measure your own life.

It is okay to log off sometimes.

It is okay to move at your own pace.

It is okay if your life does not look “aesthetic” every second.

Real life is not perfectly curated.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, maybe we should remind ourselves that being human is more important than performing happiness online.

Because truthfully?

A lot of people are not okay.

They’ve just become really good at looking like they are.

For Reflection

• How often do you compare your life to what you see online?

• Has social media been helping your mental health lately, or hurting it?

Protect your peace, even from the things you consume daily.

Part 3 coming soon.

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Somewhere along the line, a lot of us stopped living and started managing.

Every day wake up, rush somewhere, meet deadlines, answer “How are you?” with “I’m fine,” even when you’re clearly not. Everybody just dey try survive one thing or another. School stress. Money issues. Family expectations. Fear of the future. The pressure to always keep moving like your life must constantly make sense.

And somehow, we’ve normalized it.

“You’re tired? Omo na normal thing.” “You’re stressed? Everybody is stressed.” “Just keep pushing.”

But constantly feeling mentally exhausted should not become our default setting.

Especially as students and young adults in Nigeria, the pressure can be insane. Sometimes it feels like life no even give you small chance to pause properly. You’re expected to keep performing even when you’re tired physically, mentally, and emotionally. And because everybody around you also seems stressed, you convince yourself that maybe what you’re feeling is not serious enough to talk about.

So you keep going.

Even when your body is tired. Even when your mind is tired. Even when you honestly don’t feel okay anymore.

Now the thing about burnout is that e no dey always dey loud.

Sometimes it looks like losing motivation for things you used to enjoy. Sometimes it’s struggling to focus. Sometimes it’s isolating yourself without knowing why. Sometimes it’s irritation over small things. Sometimes it’s waking up tired no matter how much you sleep.

But because many of us have mastered functioning while exhausted, people rarely notice when something is wrong.

In this generation, suffering has almost become a personality trait.

People now joke about not sleeping. People celebrate overworking themselves. Resting feels like laziness. Everybody is chasing productivity, trying not to fall behind, trying not to “waste their life.”

But honestly, surviving every day in constant stress is not the same thing as living.

Living should not feel like you’re permanently carrying weight on your chest.

Mental health conversations are important because not every struggle is visible. Some people are smiling in pictures and still fighting silent battles. Some people look fine outside but are mentally exhausted inside. Some people have become so used to stress that they no longer remember what peace feels like.

And sometimes, the “strong friend” is just somebody who no longer knows how to say, “I’m not okay.”

This Mental Health Awareness Month, maybe we should stop glorifying suffering so much. Maybe we should stop acting like rest is weakness. Maybe we should normalize checking on people beyond surface conversations.

Because at the end of the day, “I dey survive” is not the same thing as “I dey live.”

For Reflection

• When last did you actually rest without feeling guilty?

• Are you truly living, or just trying to make it through another week?

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And maybe growth isn’t just about it

Maybe it’s about the peace that comes with it

The solitude you never thought was there

And then I finally understood what my mother used to tell me about

That I’ll wake-up on a bright morning

Caring less about the heaviness of the world

But rather, the peace in my heart

It all seemed abstract to me but I knew that I would one day get to understand what she meant

Today, I woke up feeling 20 and I finally understand

The courage, the strength

The way mistakes no longer feel like failure

But like a gentle nudge guiding you

The way my heart no longer feels empty because of the heartbreak but feels filled with experiences for the future

The hope of a better tomorrow

The joy of a much more defining growth

Maybe I just needed to be 20

But what if it’s not about being 20

What if it’s the people around me

Who has made me seen life in a brighter view

They say the people you surround yourself with influence your behavior but I’ll say it influences your growth

Because I have been contaminated with their joy

They make me start my day with laughter and end it with laughter

My mother was right but not completely

It’s not just about growth, it’s about the environment, the people, the words, the love and the company

And then it dawned on me,

I didn’t change overnight, I became, gently.

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Ever noticed that some children respond differently to sounds, touch, or social interaction and thought, “Maybe they’ll just grow out of it”? Sometimes, it could be more than that.

Differences in communication, behaviour, or sensory responses can be part of normal development, especially in early childhood. But when these patterns persist and affect learning, interaction, or daily functioning, it may be something called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Now What is Autism?

Our brain is like a complex communication network that helps us understand people, express ourselves, and respond to the world around us. When a person has autism, this communication network works differently. It is not “broken,” but it processes information in a unique way.

This can affect how a person speaks, interacts socially, and responds to sensory input like sound, light, touch, or movement.

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, meaning it begins early in life and continues into adulthood. However, with the right support, therapy, and understanding, individuals with autism can live meaningful, independent, and fulfilling lives.

What Can Cause Autism?

The exact cause of autism is not fully understood.

What we do know is that it is not caused by parenting, discipline, or vaccines. Research suggests a combination of:

• genetic factors

• early brain development differences

• environmental influences before birth

It is important to understand that autism is not something a child “develops” from external behaviour, but rather something present in early brain development.

Who is at risk?

Autism can occur in anyone, regardless of background, gender, or environment. However, it is often identified in early childhood when developmental milestones such as speech, eye contact, and social interaction differ from expected patterns.

Early identification is key because it allows earlier support and better developmental outcomes.

What are the signs of Autism?

Autism presents differently in every individual, but common signs may include:

• Delayed or different speech development

• Difficulty with social interaction or eye contact

• Repetitive movements or behaviours (such as hand flapping or rocking)

• Strong preference for routines and resistance to change

• Sensitivity or reduced response to sounds, light, touch, or movement

• Highly focused interests in specific topics or objects

It is important to remember that autism exists on a spectrum, meaning symptoms and abilities vary widely from person to person.

Autism and Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays an important role, especially in children with autism who have:

• motor coordination difficulties

• balance and posture challenges

• low muscle tone or delayed gross motor development

• sensory-motor integration issues

Through structured movement therapy, physiotherapy helps improve:

• body awareness

• coordination

• functional mobility

• participation in daily activities

What can be done?

• Encourage early developmental screening

• Support inclusive education and understanding

• Seek multidisciplinary care (speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy)

• Focus on strengths, not just challenges

Understanding autism is not about changing the person, it is about supporting how they experience the world.

Autism Awareness Month is a reminder that there is no “normal” mind, only different ways of thinking, feeling, and being.

At the center of Easter is Jesus.

His story is not soft or comfortable—it’s a story of sacrifice.

He carried sin He didn’t commit, endured punishment He didn’t deserve, and suffered for our sake.

Not because He had to, but because He loves us.

And then He rose.

His resurrection changes everything. Sin doesn’t have the final say. Death is not the end. Grace, mercy, and new beginnings are still possible.

Easter reminds us that no one is too far gone. No life is beyond redemption.

Jesus is the reason for this season—not just because He died, but because He lives. And because He lives, we can too.

Happy Easter!🤍

The crown that bore our shame, yet brought us life. ✝️

Not the kind written in course outlines but the kind that whispers constantly:

Get better grades.

Do more.

Don’t fall behind.

Don’t fail.

Somewhere along the way, many students begin to believe they must become the “perfect student.”

And that belief can become heavier than the workload itself.

⸻

The Pressure of Being a “Perfect Student”

Somewhere along the way, many students quietly adopt a dangerous expectation: the need to be perfect.

High grades.

Complete attendance.

Great productivity.

Perfect plans for the future.

It often begins subtly. A desire to do well in school. A determination to make parents proud. A motivation to stand out among peers. But slowly, ambition transforms into pressure.

Suddenly, every assignment feels like a test of worth.

A low score doesn’t feel like feedback, it feels like failure. Missing a deadline feels like falling behind in life. Even rest begins to feel undeserved.

The idea of the “perfect student” becomes a silent standard many try to reach.

But perfection is a strange goal. The closer we chase it, the more impossible it becomes.

In reality, students are navigating life for the first time. They are learning how to study, how to manage time, how to handle stress, how to balance friendships, responsibilities, and personal growth. Mistakes are not interruptions in that process, they are a part of it.

Yet academic environments sometimes reward outcomes more than effort, creating the illusion that everyone else has everything figured out.

Social media doesn’t help either. It shows polished success: high grades, scholarships, achievements. Rarely does it show the confusion, exhaustion, and uncertainty behind those accomplishments.

So many students begin to believe they are the only ones struggling.

But the truth is that the “perfect student” does not exist.

There are only students who are trying.

Students who sometimes succeed brilliantly and sometimes fall short. Students who are learning lessons that will not appear on transcripts: resilience, patience, adaptability.

The real goal of education is not perfection.

It is growth.

Growth means making mistakes and adjusting. It means discovering strengths and confronting weaknesses. It means realizing that productivity and worth are not the same thing.

The pressure to be perfect can make students forget something essential: being human is not a flaw, it is the process.

And sometimes, the most powerful thing a student can do is not push harder, but step back and remember that learning was never meant to look perfect.

If today feels heavy, remind yourself that progress is not always loud or visible. Sometimes it looks like small efforts, quiet persistence, and the courage to keep going even when things feel uncertain.

You may feel like you are not doing enough, but showing up, trying again, and continuing to learn is already more than enough.

Because learning was never meant to look perfect.

Failure is one of the most terrifying words in a student’s vocabulary.

Not exams.

Not assignments.

Not presentations.

Failure.

In her article, “Practical Tips to Help Students Overcome the Fear of Failure,” Emma Robinson explores something many students silently battle: the crippling anxiety that comes from the possibility of not succeeding.

School already comes with enormous pressure like maintaining good grades, balancing academics with work, managing social life, figuring out career paths, and worrying about finances. Beneath all of this sits a persistent question: What if I fail?

And that question alone can be paralyzing.

Robinson explains that fear of failure is not unusual. In fact, research suggests that a significant portion of people experience an intense fear of failing. In today’s success-driven culture, especially in economies where financial stability feels fragile, failure is no longer seen as a simple mistake. It can feel like a threat to security, identity, and future opportunities.

But here’s the important distinction the article makes:

Failure is normal. Fear is normal. Paralysis is not inevitable.

The article breaks fear responses into three categories: thought-based, emotion-based, and action-based responses.

Thought-Based Responses: Understanding the Root

Many fears begin early in life. A harsh reaction to a mistake, comparison to peers, or internalized pressure can teach us that failure equals rejection or inadequacy. Robinson encourages introspection. Ask yourself:

• When did failure first feel unbearable?

• Are you more forgiving of others than you are of yourself?

• Did your fear develop from personal experience or from observing others?

Fear of failure is often learned, which means it can be unlearned.

Rather than obsessing over why the fear exists, the focus should shift toward how to reframe it.

Emotion-Based Responses: Changing the Way You Speak to Yourself

One of the most powerful parts of the article discusses negative self-talk.

Students often say things to themselves they would never say to a friend. We normalize harsh criticism internally while offering compassion externally. Robinson suggests a simple but transformative exercise: imagine saying your inner thoughts out loud to someone you love or to your younger self.

If it sounds cruel when directed outward, why is it acceptable inward?

Self-compassion is not weakness. It is emotional regulation. And without it, fear deepens.

Action-Based Responses: Accountability Without Self-Destruction

There is a difference between responsibility and self-punishment.

Robinson emphasizes balance. Yes, mistakes require reflection and sometimes correction. But beating yourself up does not improve outcomes, it worsens anxiety and strengthens avoidance behaviours.

Failure does not mean you are unsafe.

It does not mean you are unworthy.

It does not mean you are incapable.

It means you are learning.

The article also highlights that overcoming fear of failure may look different depending on individual circumstances. Students facing mental health challenges, disabilities, or systemic barriers may experience this fear more intensely. Recognising personal challenges is not making excuses, it is practicing awareness.

Ultimately, the message is this:

Failure is human. Growth is intentional.

Being a student means navigating uncertainty for the first time. Perfection is impossible. Mistakes are inevitable. But resilience, that is something we build.

Learning how to fail without losing yourself may be one of the most important lessons education teaches.

Originally written by Emma Robinson and curated by BAPS Editorial for student reflection. Read the full article by Emma Robinson here: https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/articles/college-health-safety/practical-tips-to-help-students-overcome-the-fear-of-failure/

I’m just a girl….with a condition.

 It was there again. If I’m being real, I don’t know when or how it happened. I know it stayed though. Made itself very at home. Some days, it was loud and restricting; other days? On other days, it chooses to be my background noise.

Literally.

It was my back.

  You know, pain has the funniest way of slipping into routine. One day, you’re the chef that could give Hilda a run for her money, the next, you can barely stand straight enough to make noodles.

Hi, I’m Aria, and I’m just a girl.

 A girl whose life has had to change in the most subtle way. Subtle, because it’s my body and I live in it. Subtle because the changes happened very quietly; how I stand, how I sit, how I sleep even and I barely noticed them.

 If you didn’t already get the memo, I’m a chef, fighting to build the “Lagos big girl” lifestyle for herself. Yes. I live with a condition. No. It’s not deadly. It’s Scoliosis.

 And before you ask -before you assume- I’m still me, even with the pain.

Maybe one day, I’ll gist you about how I got here.

And maybe I won’t.

Let’s see.

Hi. I’m Aria. And I’m just a girl…with a condition.

‘Blood of Jesus' Chinwedu repeatedly screamed as she stood up from the bike.  Onlookers had surrounded the scene in bewilderment because the bike man lay dead by the side with his skull split.

Chinwedu, a dark-skinned 22-year-old physiotherapy student at the University of Lagos was in a rush to meet a ‘friend' that had invited her for a ‘meet and greet' at the Lagos Continental Hotel.

Susan and Chinwedu had a small apartment rented not so far from school..... It was the usual weather of Lagos -hot and dry and Nigeria smiled at us with the ‘no light’ syndrome. Susan sat at the window doing school work while Chinwedu prepared of her outing.

At the mirror, Chinwedu stood with 2 different colours dresses (red polka dot and a green plain body con), she turned her neck to ask Susan which of the dresses fit.

‘I don’t have a good feeling about this’, Susan snorted without lifting her head.

‘Why are you always so negative in speech?’ it’s not so much of a deal joor’, Chinwedu said giggling as she picked the red and white

‘Whatever’ Susan said letting out a shallow breath......better be back before 6pm.

Alright, all done......don’t work yourself off Chinwedu said as she put her essential in her purse and walked out.

The journey from Yaba to Victoria island should take at least 2 hours. Chinwedu trekked to the junction and boarded a Korope heading towards that place at 2:40pm. It was a smooth ride as she alighted safely after the stipulated time.

Chinwedu had called her supposed ‘friend’  to know if he was at the hotel of which he confirmed.... A fifteen minutes bike ride turned to an unforgettable story in Chinwedu’s life.

A speeding car crashed into her and the bike man mid-way to Lagos Continental Hotel. The next thing she heard herself screaming was ‘Blood of Jesus’ ..... She landed with her hips and had bruises on her arms and thigh. All this she never paid attention to—her eyes were fixed on the bike man who had his skull split into different pieces at the extreme end of the road.

Funny how the car that hit them had fled from the sight of incidence..... It’s seemed as though it was a tipsy driver said on of the person’s that saw the scene played.

By this time,  onlookers had gathered to examine the situation. A man was shouting ‘call the ambulance’ but no one could get through to it. Luckily, there was a woman with a car who volunteered to take Chinwedu and the dead man to Kelina Hospital.

‘We need help’ a man that accompanied them  said as they approached the front desk. Fortunately, the nurses swung to action, spiralling around to tend to Chinwedu’s wound. Arrangements were made to take the dead man to the mortuary – it was a gloomy site to behold.  

This woman waited till  Chinwedu was treated and still volunteered to take her back home .......unfortunately none the bike man’s relative could be traced.

The drive home was silent, Chinwedu was still drawn back by what happened. It was finally 8:20pm  and Chinwedu gracefully alights the car of the woman. She thanked the woman and walked towards her apartment.

‘What happened to you?’, Susan exclaimed as she tried to understand why her friend’s left arm had a bandage.

‘It’s a long story, my life flashed before my eyes Sussy, I thought I died for a minute’, Chinwedu stated as she sat on the chair nearest to her. She picked her phone from her bag and saw 10 missed calls from this ‘friend’ and hissed.

I’ll give you details later abeg....... I need to give a testimony to God in the Church tomorrow.

Silence grew in the room as Susan was thrown to the dark of knowing the situation.

Joy doesn’t always shout. Sometimes, it whispers.

And for those whose Christmas is quiet, where the day only feels like Christmas because of the date on the calendar or the posts on your feed, we see you. Your Christmas matters, even if it’s not loud or picture-perfect. From this year onward, you have the power to rewrite your story: to notice the small sparks, to create moments that make your heart lighter, and to turn an ordinary day into something that feels like Christmas to you.

The season isn’t defined by noise or gifts; it’s defined by the joy you let in. Because it’s in these subtle moments that Christmas truly lingers: the quiet spark of connection, the gestures that go unnoticed, the memories that quietly settle in your heart. They don’t demand attention, yet their warmth stays with us long after the season passes.

As the year winds down, reflection comes naturally. We think about how far we’ve come, what we survived, and what we learned. While it’s easy to focus on what didn’t work out, Christmas gently invites us to notice the progress hidden in plain sight. The strength it took to keep going. The courage to show up. The quiet growth that still mattered.

In the midst of the celebrations and quiet moments, Christmas calls our hearts back to God. It reminds us to pause, to trust Him, and to rest in the assurance that our lives are held in His hands. Scripture says, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). In stillness, we find peace. In surrender, we find reassurance. And in His presence, we discover a joy that does not depend on circumstances.

Gratitude changes everything. Gratitude for rest, for safety, for laughter, for lessons learned, and for the chance to begin again. When we learn to appreciate small blessings, joy stops feeling rare and becomes something we carry with us.

As the year comes to an end, may we remember that we are allowed to rest, to find joy in simple moments, and to celebrate how far we’ve come, even if the journey isn’t finished yet.

Big joy doesn’t always come from big events. Often, it’s found in the little things.

Merry Christmas 🤍

Here’s to gentler days, grateful hearts, and joy that lingers.

-In 2019, the number of people aged 60 years and older was 1 billion

-This number will increase to 1.4 billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion by 2050

-The number of persons aged 80 years or older is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050 to reach 426 million

The main focus of Physiotherapy isn’t just about massage or lifting weights to build muscles, it’s about designing a life that keeps you active and moving. It’s never too late to start an exercise program, there’s no shame in wanting to keep yourself healthy.

Frailty, commonly seen in the elderly, is a condition where the multiple body systems gradually lose their in-built reserves which makes the individual more vulnerable to illness and injuries. Frailty also makes it difficult to recover from an illness or other stressors; this is because their body is already functioning at a very low level, so it has little to no extra energy to fight off an illness or recover from an injury.

Think of it this way:

A healthy older person might get cold and just need a few days to recover, but a frail person with the same cold could end up developing a more serious illness and end up being hospitalized.

The symptoms of Frailty include;

-Unintentional weight loss

-Muscle weakness

-Fatigue

-Reduced physical activity or endurance

-Poor balance and instability

These symptoms of frailty directly increase the risk of falls. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among the elderly and they also constitute a major concern but they are often preventable. Physiotherapists are specialists in prescribing tailored and individualized exercise programs to improve strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. These four aspects are very important in prevention of falls.

Imagine having a strong, stable base that makes you less likely to fall, and a body that is flexible enough to help you recover fast enough if you do.

These exercises prescribed are not just about preventing injuries; they’re about preserving your independence and giving you confidence and freedom to move about without any form of fear.

Physiotherapy is also very important in the early identification of balance or gait problems that can lead to accidents. Physiotherapists not only offer practical advice on posture and safe mobility but also help individuals recognize and reduce hazards at home. This gives some sort of empowerment, providing them with the knowledge and tools to take an active role in improving their safety and quality of life.

These two conditions can create a cycle of inactivity and increased dependence, but with the proper interventions particularly physical activity and physiotherapy, this cycle can be broken and their risks can be reduced significantly.

In summary, physiotherapy and physical activity can promote healthy ageing by tackling frailty and falls in the following ways;

-Strength training to rebuild lost muscle mass and reduce muscle weakness.

-Balance exercises to reduce the risk of falls.

-Flexibility and range of motion exercises to help reduce stiffness and maintain/improve joint health which are essential in performing activities of daily living.

-Education on identification/prevention of health hazards and promotion of functional independence.

By embracing physiotherapy and integrating regular physical activity into our daily lives, we can take charge of our lives and ensure that we don’t just live long years but quality long years.

So this World Physiotherapy Day, let us commit to staying active and embracing a healthier future.

The Academic Team

What Is Osteoarthritis, Really?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is often called the “wear-and-tear” arthritis. Inside healthy joints, smooth cartilage cushions bones, letting you walk, bend, or dance without a second thought. But with OA, that cartilage thins and roughens. Bones start to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, joints swell, lose flexibility, and—without intervention—can leave you reaching for support just to move.

Why Does It Happen?

• Age and Time

  Like a well-loved leather bag that softens and cracks, our joints change over the years.

• Repetitive Motion

  From market traders to office workers, doing the same movements daily can stress cartilage.

• Injury and Overuse

  An old sports injury or heavy lifting can kickstart the degeneration.

• Genetics and Weight

  Family history and extra body fat increase the load on weight-bearing joints.

A Day in Mama Adanna’s Shoes

Picture Mama Adanna on her worst morning: she wakes at dawn, the first step sends a jolt through her knee. She massages it, hoping the day progressing will ease the stiffness. By noon, the pain’s a constant companion. Yet she soldiers on—because selling fabrics is how she feeds her family. But that evening, she collapses onto her bed, unsure if tomorrow will be the same. In pain she goes down memory lane thinking about how agile and active she used to be when she was much younger, and in that moment she wished she could have a glimpse of the old times when she would never miss a day in the market.

Physiotherapy: The Beacon of Hope

Physiotherapy isn’t just for athletes or post-surgical recovery—it’s a lifeline for anyone with OA. It’s about empowering you to move, reduce pain, and reclaim your day-to-day joy. Here’s how:

•Tailored Exercise Plans

Gentle strengthening and stretching exercises preserve mobility and build muscle support around affected joints. Think simple routines you can do at home:

• Quadriceps sets: Tighten thigh muscles while lying down.

• Heel slides: Bend and straighten the knee to maintain flexibility.

• Calf stretches: Against a wall, ease tension in your lower legs

•Hands-On Techniques

Through careful joint mobilizations and soft-tissue massage, physiotherapists ease stiffness, improve circulation, and break the pain cycle.

•Therapeutic Modalities

Heat or Cold modalities or TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) can soothe inflamed joints and calm persistent pain.

•Education and Self-Management

Knowledge is power. A physiotherapist teaches you how to protect your joints—proper posture, weight management tips, and safe ways to perform daily tasks like how to lift things off the floor correctly.

We See You, We Hear You

To everyone who wakes up like Mama Adanna, know this: your pain matters. Physiotherapists listen, assess, and create a plan just for you. We celebrate each small victory—a few extra degrees of bend, a walk without a limp—as milestones toward a fuller life.

Spreading the Word

Don’t wait until a loved one winces in silence. If you notice someone favoring their hip, limping, or complaining of morning stiffness, tell them: “Physiotherapy could give you back your steps.”

Whether it’s a mother in your church choir, a neighbor at the bus stop, or your best friend, or even the women who sells corn at the junction of your street, your encouragement might be the nudge they need.

A Call to Action

This Arthritis Awareness Month, let’s stand together:

• For those with OA: Take that first step—book a physiotherapy assessment.

• For those without OA: Share this story. A quick message or a gentle recommendation could change someone’s life.

• For everyone: Move a little more today. Watch your weight, take a 10-minutes walk, or even a gentle stretch—your joints will thank you years from now.

Closing Scene

Back at the market, imagine Mama Adanna a month later. She performs her exercises faithfully, visits her physiotherapist once a week, and layers warmth on her knees before dawn. The creaking hasn’t vanished, but her smile is brighter, her steps surer. She’s not just selling fabrics again; she’s reclaiming her story—one physiotherapy session at a time.

Osteoarthritis doesn’t have to script your ending. And it is not the end of your world, with the right support, informed action, and a community that cares, every joint’s journey can have a hopeful new chapter.

Joke for the day: Why did my arthritis go to the party? Because it was joint celebration!

Best regards,

Naomi O. Ifemade(Royalty) and Paula E. Ago.

BAPS Editorial Team.

Just as he lined up to score what would have been a flawless goal, it hit—a sharp, stabbing pain in his shin that stopped him dead in his tracks. He froze, wobbling slightly as he clutched his lower leg, just below his knee. The pain was unbearable, and he couldn’t even take another step.

For weeks, Bolu had felt a dull ache in his shin during training, but he always brushed it off as normal soreness. Now, as he stood there, unable to bear the pain, regret washed over him. He should have listened to his body.

His coach, Mr. Adamson, and his teammates rushed toward him, worry written all over their faces. “Bolu, what happened?” one of them asked, helping him sit on the bench. He winced as he stretched his leg out, hoping the pain would ease, but it didn’t.

Coach Adamson crouched in front of him, concern clear in his voice. “You’ve been overworking yourself, haven’t you? This doesn’t look good. You need to see a physiotherapist—no arguments.”

Bolu just nodded. Deep down, he knew the coach was right. But the thought of sitting out for even a day terrified him. He could only hope it wasn’t as bad as it felt.

At the clinic, Bolu sat nervously, his leg stretched out in front of him while Coach Adamson sat beside him, arms folded tightly across his chest. The door opened, and the physiotherapist, Mrs. Amanda, walked in with a warm but professional smile.

“Bolu, I’ve gone through your symptoms,” she began, sitting down across from him. “You have shin splints.”

Bolu frowned, confused. “Shin splints? What’s that?”

Mrs. Amanda leaned forward, her tone calm and reassuring.

Mrs. Amanda continued, her voice steady as she explained. “It’s usually caused by repetitive stress and strain on the shin area. The muscles and tendons become inflamed, leading to that sharp, stabbing pain you’re feeling. But don’t worry, with proper treatment and rest, you’ll recover.”

Bolu’s heart sank. Rest. The very thing he feared. He had worked so hard to get to this point, and now it felt like everything was falling apart. But his body had spoken, and it was clear he had no choice but to listen.

“Don’t worry, Bolu,” Mrs. Amanda said, picking up a notepad and jotting down a treatment plan✍🏽. “We’ll take care of you. I’m going to outline a physiotherapy regimen that will help reduce the pain, inflammation, and allow your body to heal.”

She looked up and met his gaze, her voice firm but gentle. “You’ll need to come in three days a week for treatment. Here’s what we’ll do.”

PHYSIOTHERAPY MANAGEMENT

FREQUENCY: 3 days per week

Rx: Cryotherapy to the area x15-20mins: We’ll apply ice to the inflamed area to help reduce both pain and swelling. It’s one of the most effective methods to calm down the inflammation.

Compression and elevation: You’ll need to elevate your leg while we apply compression. This will help reduce swelling and promote better circulation to the area.

Stretching and flexibility exercises: These will focus on reducing stress in the tibia. I’ll guide you through calf stretches, hamstring stretches, and Achilles tendon stretches. These exercises will relieve tightness and improve flexibility.

Strengthening exercises: We’ll gradually work on strengthening the muscles around the shin. We’ll use a sandbag for exercises like tibialis anterior strengthening, resisted ankle dorsiflexion, and inversion. These will help rebuild the muscle strength and prevent further strain.

Use of orthosis: We’ll provide you with an orthotic to help prevent deformities or further injuries. This will keep your foot in a stable position and reduce stress on your shin.

Neuromuscular re-education: This will help you regain proper movement patterns and muscle coordination, ensuring your body moves correctly once you’re back on the field.

Mrs. Amanda paused, looking at Bolu with a reassuring smile. “The goal of this treatment plan is simple. We want to reduce your pain and inflammation, allowing your leg to heal properly. But, and this is very important, you’ll need to take it easy for a while. No training for the next 6 to 8 weeks.”

Bolu stared at her in disbelief. Six to eight weeks. That was the entire duration of the Olympics.

Coach Adamson spoke up, his tone gentle yet firm. “Bolu, this is about your long-term health. You can’t push through this injury and expect to perform at your best. I know it’s hard, but this break will help you come back stronger.”

Bolu let out a deep breath, the weight of the situation settling in. He had always been the one pushing himself, always the one eager to give his all. But this time, he had to pull back. He had to trust the process.

“Okay,” he finally said, his voice quiet but resolute. “I’ll do what it takes to heal.”

Mrs. Amanda smiled again, standing up. “Good. We’re going to make sure you recover fully. You’re going to come out of this stronger and more prepared than ever.”

As he left the clinic, Bolu couldn’t help but feel a mix of frustration and hope. It was going to be a long, hard road, but for the first time, he was ready to take the necessary steps back to get back to the field, healthier and more focused than ever.

The Importance of Physiotherapy in Sports Injury Management

Pain is a subjective experience that should not be ignored or overlooked. It is a signal, not an inconvenience. It often indicates strain, inflammation, or overuse.It tells the individual of something possibly wrong with the body and the more it is ignored, the worse the pain and the situation gets. Sport-related pain should be reported to the physiotherapist for expert management.

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in both the prevention and management of injuries in athletes. It helps maintain peak performance, promotes faster recovery, and prevents minor issues from turning into serious problems.

In conclusion dear reader, be careful how you treat your body, ask for help when you need it, and do not ignore the signs and symptoms your body uses to communicate with you. Have an amazing sport-life💫!

Best regards,

Odebiyi Sharon and Adegoroye Adefolakemi

BAPS Editorial Team.

In simple terms, it means doing the most important things before the less important ones📌.

As students, even while engaging in various school activities, our academics should remain our top priority. Prioritization helps us navigate through these activities, ensuring we strike a balance between academics and extracurricular engagements.

The Need for Prioritization

This semester is packed with extracurricular activities and events, from College Cup to departmental week and numerous conferences. You might wonder, "Why should I prioritize when I can just do everything in no particular order and still get the work done?"🤷🏽

Well, the truth is, you might not get anything done at all. We are only human, and we can’t do everything at once. This is why prioritization is essential. By setting clear priorities, we ensure that the most important tasks get completed before moving on to less urgent ones.

When you prioritize, you manage your time better, improve efficiency, and achieve your goals more effectively.

Procrastination: An Enemy of Progress

Procrastination is the habit of delaying tasks until the last minute or even past a deadline. Many times, we deceive ourselves with the lie, “I still get time, I go run am” lol.

But last-minute rushes often lead to stress, lower productivity 📈, and poor results.

When you have tasks to complete, don’t procrastinate, prioritize!

Benefits of Prioritization

1. Better Time Management and Efficiency: Prioritization helps you focus on high-impact tasks and allocate your time wisely. In simple terms, it ensures that you do the most important things at the right time while still creating space for less urgent matters.

2. Reduced Stress and Overwhelm: Tackling tasks in order of importance prevents last-minute panic and keeps you from feeling overloaded.

3. Improved Critical Thinking and Decision-Making: Prioritization encourages you to assess urgency, deadlines, and available time, helping you make smarter choices.

Structures and Strategies for Effective Prioritization

Prioritization is great in theory, but without clear strategies and structures, it can remain just that, a theory. Here are some practical ways to implement it:

1. To-Do Lists: Write down your daily tasks, categorizing them based on urgency and importance. This makes it easier to stay organized and focused.

2. Ben Carson's Best-Worst Analysis: Before making any decision on the spot, ask yourself these four questions:

- What’s the best thing that can happen if I do it now?

- What’s the best thing that can happen if I don’t do it now?

- What’s the worst thing that can happen if I do it now?

- What’s the worst thing that can happen if I don’t do it now?

3. Accountability Partners: Having someone to keep you accountable can help you stay on track and committed to your priorities.

4. Mental Task Prioritization: Regularly assess your tasks in order of urgency and importance to maintain a clear focus.

5. Set Alarms & Reminders: Use alarms or digital reminders to keep yourself on schedule.

6. Break Down Large Tasks: Dividing big projects into smaller, manageable steps makes them less overwhelming and easier to tackle.

7. Regularly Review and Adjust Priorities: As new responsibilities arise, ensure your priorities stay aligned with your overall goals.

In conclusion, as we continue through the semester, it’s important to stay focused and not get carried away by the numerous activities competing for our time this semester. The only way to do this effectively is through prioritization.

By applying these strategies, you’ll not only manage your time better but also reduce stress and improve productivity. We hope this helps you achieve that and wish you the very best through the rest of the semester.

Stay focused. Stay organized. And most importantly, prioritize!

Stay cheesed up! ✨

Best regards,

Alayande Jeremiah and Sodje-Progress Victory

BAPS Editorial Team.

It started with a text. A text that sent me into a full-blown existential crisis.

Fifi, my best friend, had just sent me a photo of a giant teddy bear clutching a heartshaped balloon with the caption, “Guess who just got a Valentine’s gift?”

I stared at my phone, my jaw practically on the floor—lower than my motivation to study for my upcoming Physiotherapy exams. Fifi wasn’t even in a relationship. She was just… Fifi. The kind of person who could charm a rock into cracking a smile.

Meanwhile, I was over here, single to stupor, wondering if my love life was cursed or if Cupid had simply lost my address. But this wasn’t just about Fifi’s oversized teddy bear. It was about me.

Every year, without fail, Valentine’s Day rolled around, and I found myself in the same predicament: single, slightly bitter, and surrounded by couples who “just happened” to be deeply in love right when I was at my most emotionally vulnerable. It was like the universe had a personal vendetta against me.

Operation: Borrow-a-Boyfriend.

One evening, while lying on my bed surrounded by empty chocolate wrappers, I had an epiphany. If I couldn’t find a boyfriend in time for Valentine’s, maybe I could… create one.

Not in a creepy Frankenstein way, obviously. But what if I could borrow one? Just for the day. A temporary Valentine. A placeholder. A… stunt double.

There was only one person who wouldn’t judge me for this ridiculous idea: Ola.

Ola and I had been friends since forever. He was the kind of guy who’d help you move a dead body without asking questions (not that I’ve ever needed that service, the point is that he’s reliable).

So, I called him.

“Ola,” I said, voice dripping with desperation. “I need you to be my Valentine.”

A long pause. Then, laughter. Loud, shameless, mocking laughter.

“You’re joking, right?” he finally asked.

“Do I sound like I’m joking?” I snapped. “I’m tired of being the ‘single friend’ every year. Just once, I want to be the one receiving a Valentine’s gift instead of hyping up everyone else’s. Is that too much to ask?”

Ola sighed dramatically. “Fine. But I’m not buying you a teddy bear. Those things are overpriced.”

Fair enough.

The plan was simple: On Valentine’s Day, Ola would show up at my clinic with a gift, and we’d stage the ultimate “couple moment.” Not for romance. Not for love. Just for survival.

I needed to prove to myself—and the world—that I wasn’t doomed to be single forever.

D-Day: The Grand Performance

Valentine’s Day arrived, and I was a bundle of nerves. I kept glancing at the clock, waiting for Ola to show up like a lovestruck teenager.

Then, finally, he walked in, holding a bouquet of flowers.

I almost cried. Not because I was touched, but because it was working.

My colleagues erupted into cheers.

“Awww, MJ has a Valentine!” they cooed.

I basked in the glory, feeling like I had finally won at life.

And then— Ola leaned in and whispered something that completely ruined the moment.

Ola Drops the Mic (and Some Truth Bombs)

“You know, MJ, you don’t need a boyfriend to feel loved,” he murmured. “You’re amazing just the way you are.”

I blinked at him, stunned.

Was Ola, the same guy who once ate an entire pizza in one sitting—giving me life advice?

And what made it worse was that he was right

It hit me then. Valentine’s Day wasn’t about grand gestures or being in a relationship just for the sake of it. It was about the people who show up for you, whether that’s your best friend, your family, or even yourself.

It was about celebrating the love you already have, and not the love you think you’re missing.

So, where’s my boyfriend?

Honestly? I have no idea. But until he shows up, I’ll be over here living my best life, reading poetries on my bed, writing my stories, and reminding myself that the best love stories always start with self-love.

And if all else fails, there’s always chocolate.

PSA to My Fellow Singles: You’re Already Winning

Valentine’s Day isn’t really about who you love, it’s about how you love.

So, this year, instead of stressing over whether that one guy finally replies to your text (spoiler: he won’t), how about:

- Showing kindness to a colleague who’s overwhelmed?

- Treating yourself to something nice because self-love is also love?

- Sending an appreciation message to the people who genuinely make your life better— your friends, your family, even that one lecturer who doesn’t terrorize you.

And if you’re still single, just remember: Your stress levels are scientifically lower than those in relationships (probably).

So, snap your fingers, and embrace the love that’s already around you❤️.

Best regards,

Dada Mojoyinoluwa and Aderupoko Olanrewaju

BAPS Editorial Team.

Every January, we promise ourselves big things like, “I’ll hit the gym every week,” or “I’ll finally stop procrastinating.” But by February, reality hits, and most of those goals vanish into thin air.

Why does this happen? Resolutions often rely on motivation—and let’s be honest, motivation doesn’t last. But you know what does? Systems!

This year, forget guilt trips and quick fixes. Instead, focus on creating a system that actually works for your goals, your schedule, and your life.

Why Resolutions Fail Without Systems

Resolutions sound great but often lack a plan. Think of them as wishful thinking without a strategy.

Systems, on the other hand, are your game plan—a step-by-step process that takes you where you want to be.

With systems, you’re not just setting goals; you’re building habits that make success automatic.

Simplify Your 2025: Break Goals into Actionable Steps

Let’s make 2025 the year you stay consistent and see real results. The simple solution? Break your goals into smaller, actionable steps and prioritize them wisely.

Here’s how to design a system that works for you—and sticks:

1. Learn from 2024’s Wins and Challenges

Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on last year:

– What were your biggest achievements?

– What challenges did you face?

– Which habits helped you succeed, and which ones held you back?

Reflection helps you set realistic, meaningful, and achievable goals.

2. Turn Big Goals into Bite-Sized Tasks

Focus on one or two habits at a time to avoid overwhelm. Trying to tackle too much at once can leave you feeling stuck or unsuccessful.

For example:

- Big Goal: “I want to get healthier.”

- System: Walk 5,000 steps daily, drink two liters of water, and prep meals every Sunday.

Small, consistent actions make big goals manageable and achievable.

3. Set SMART Goals💡

SMART goals ensure clarity and focus. They are:

– Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve.

– Measurable: Set a way to track your progress.

– Achievable: Be realistic about what’s possible.

– Relevant: Align with your priorities, like personal growth or academic success.

– Time-bound: Set deadlines to create urgency. For instance, instead of saying, “I want better grades in Anatomy”, say, “I will study Anatomy for 30 minutes daily and review my notes every Sunday.”

4. Track and Celebrate Your Progress

Consistency is key. Use a journal, an app, or sticky notes to monitor your progress. And don’t forget to celebrate small wins along the way.

Use the Eisenhower Quadrant for Task Prioritization

The Eisenhower Quadrant is a simple tool to prioritize your tasks effectively. Draw a grid and divide tasks into these four categories:

The Four Quadrants:

1. Urgent and Important🎯: Tasks requiring immediate attention, like studying for tomorrow’s test or submitting an assignment due today.

2. Important, Not Urgent: Long-term goals needing consistent effort, like preparing for semester exams or building physical fitness.

3. Urgent, Not Important: Tasks that feel pressing but add little value, like replying to non-essential messages when you have more important things to do.

4. Not Urgent, Not Important: Time-wasters like excessive social media scrolling or binge-watching before exams.

Pro Tip: Focus on Quadrants 1 and 2 for meaningful progress. Minimize or delegate tasks in Quadrant 3 and avoid activities in Quadrant 4.

5. Create Your Blueprint for Success

Here are four keys to building a system that works:

1. Focus on Habits, Not Just Outcomes

Instead of fixating on results, concentrate on habits like active reading, consistent exercise, or budgeting.

2. Celebrate Small Wins

Reward yourself when you reach milestones. For example, treat yourself to a meal out after completing a challenging project.

3. Limit Distractions (Quadrant 4)

Block distractions like social media or games during work or study hours. Set specific time limits for leisure activities.

4. Seek Support

Share your goals with trusted friends, family, or mentors. They can provide encouragement and hold you accountable.

Make 2025 Your Year of Progress

This year, commit to building systems, not just resolutions, and watch how much you achieve—not just in January but all year long.

Take five minutes right now to write down one goal and the first small step you’ll take toward it. Start small, stay consistent, and grow into the best version of yourself.

HAVE A GREAT 2025!✨

Best regards,

Warekuromo Oluwanifemi and Layeni Oluwakorede

BAPS Editorial Team.