As 2024 draws to a close, Iโve been reflecting on my journey, whichย has taught me the power of breaking free from the cage of doubt and self-imposed limitations.
Early Success
In primary school, my English essays were pinned to the class noticeboard as examples for my classmates. By high school, my final-year essay had been selected nationally by the Kenya National Examination Council as a model for future students. Writing felt like my calling.
But when my incredible English teacher, Mrs. Osier, encouraged me to pursue literature at A-levels, I chose math, physics, and chemistry insteadโthe โMan Power Combination,โ we called it. Writing seemed too soft for a tough amateur boxing champion like me.
Trapped in Doubt
At 19, I tried writing my first book. I didnโt get far. A relentless inner voice whispered, โNot good enough. Not Wole Soyinka or Frederick Forsyth good.โ
That voice became a cage of doubt that prevented me from deploying my potential.
Looking back now, I wonder why that same voice didnโt tell me that even these literary greats faced struggles on their paths to success.
Life, however, had other plans.
Life’s Unexpected Turns
After a university setback and challenges with my first business during my twenties, I found myself back at the universityโnot as a student, but as a science editor trainee, returning to the world of literature. Life had come full circle. Yet, even after founding a publishing house to help others share their stories, my cage of doubt remained.
It wasnโt until my 40s that I finally began to break free. I silenced that critic, took a leap of faith, and started writing my first book. Determined to meet the highest standard, I sought feedback from multiple top writers and editors and refined the manuscript through countless revisions.
Lessons Learned
When I finally held Champion: Achieving with Excellence in my hands and began receiving messages about its impact, one thought haunted me: I had spent years standing in my way, locked in that cage of doubt. Aย few years later, the Ministry of Education selected one of my childrenโs books, purchasing 28,000 copies for schoolsโa powerful reminder of whatโs possible when we intentionally harness our potential.
Hereโs my confession: I allowed fear and comparison to keep me trapped. I withheld what could have been a blessing to others.
This realization strikes a deep chord as I reflect on one of my favourite Scripturesโthe Parable of the Talents. Remember the servant who buried his gift? His excuses sounded valid: โI was afraid.โ But fear doesnโt absolve us; it cages us.
Even Moses had his cage of doubt:
- โWho am I?โ
- โWhat if they donโt believe me?โ
- โIโm not eloquent.โ
Yet, despite his doubts, Moses couldnโt escape his calling.
No Cages in 2025
And what about you? What gifts, talents, or ideas are you holding back? What excuses are keeping you trapped in a cage?
Reflecting on 2024 and looking ahead to 2025, Iโve decided I want to leave this world emptyโno excuses, no buried talents, no cages.
Are you ready to break free? Letโs commit to embracing our potential, sharing our light, and using our gifts boldlyโeven when it pushes us out of our comfort zone.
Doubt doesnโt deserve the final word.
Copyrightย ยฉ2024 David Waweru. Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
