The Liquid Soap Analogy

One morning, while I dispensed a small amount of liquid soap into my left palm to wash my hands at the bathroom sink, something crossed my mind. The issue was never the amount of soap I had; it was more about how well I scrubbed my palms together to maximize the quantity of the soap already in my hands to achieve the best results.

I could use that as an argument to avoid soap waste, since I don't require a large quantity to get the work done. I could pour an entire container of soap onto my hands and rinse them, but that would be an impractical method for washing hands or removing germs. Even with minimal soap or water, I can still clean my hands by understanding the fundamentals and the ultimate goal of handwashing.

As I pondered this idea even further, it became clear that the moment represented the essence of maximizing available resources and minimizing waste to reach the desired outcome or something very close to it. Every immigrant knows this too well. Calculating your every move from the very first time you had that serious self-conversation that it was time to apply for the immigration visa to the time you arrive. Even though your legal status determines the opportunities available to you in the country you are headed to, the principle of making the most of what you have to get what you want or desire is foundational to all spheres of life. Immigration gist is for another day.

What do you want in your life right now? How are you factoring that in the direction of your daily hustle? Are you wasting so much time in the wrong direction? Being clear about the direction owill open your eyes to the resources around you—the resources you already have to get from point A to B. As Sam Adeyemi would say, "start right where you are with what you already have". There are Biblical examples from Moses, whom God asked, "What do you have in your hand?" and the widow whom Elisha asked 2 key questions - "How can i help you?" and "What do you have in your house?" The starting point is what they already have, not something anticipated. Something within reach, something accessible.

Once you determine what you want, where you are heading to, and then you can assess the resources available to you right where you are.

The next thing would be how to maximize these resources. You are never empty or finished. You are just not looking deep enough.

You can begin by examining your social circle. The people around us matter a great deal. Your friends, family, and acquaintances can serve as invaluable source of inspiration. Consider the skills, knowledge, and experiences that the individuals in your network possess. Strategically engaging with them can provide insights and connect you with opportunities that you may not have considered. Networking events, casual meet-ups, or even social media platforms can be leveraged to expand this circle further, allowing you to connect with others who share similar interests. You might learn something new!

In addition to personal relationships, utilizing resources at your local library or church can help you read more and be of help to your community. Libraries often offer not just books, but also workshops, seminars, and access to databases that can provide the information you need to further your knowledge and skills. Similarly, community centers or churches frequently organize events or groups that can connect you with others who have similar objectives, providing a supportive environment for growth and development.

Even de-cluttering stuff in your room and your office or your garage... taking inventory of things around that you don't really need can change your life.

Revisting an old hobby can also play a significant role in your overall progress. Engaging in activities that you are passionate about not only brings joy but can also serve as a productive outlet for stress relief and creativity. Whether it's painting, writing, gardening, or playing a musical instrument, these activities can be provide a sense of fulfillment and help you stay motivated in difficult seasons of your life.

Changing your routine or diet may positively impact your energy levels and overall well-being, which in turn can influence your ability to pursue your everyday goals. Small changes, such as incorporating regular exercise, eating healthier meals, or establishing a consistent sleep schedule, can enhance your physical and mental health.

Another thing is deliberately reviewing your cycle of interactions and influence. This could mean surrounding yourself with more positive influences, seeking out mentors, or engaging in new experiences that challenge the way you currently see the world internally and externally.

We are back to where we started with the liquid soap analogy. Let's just say, my mind travels really fast. It comes to what you do with what you already have. The more you can manage the little drop of soap everytime you wash your hands, the longer you can sustain the entire bottle of soap.

A teeny bit of liquid soap and a splash of water can get your hands squeaky clean!