The Effect of Location on Personal Growth

If I had been born in an advanced country like the U.K. or the U.S. rather than Africa, I believe my potential would have been nurtured more effectively. This view may be contentious, but let me explain.

At the age of six, a teacher recognized my academic abilities and encouraged my parents to move to a city with better resources. My mother took me to her sister's place in the city, but I ended up in a coastal area that undervalued education. Despite leaving our small town, I found little opportunity to flourish, and instead, I succumbed to the negative influences of my environment.

In my home country, education was undervalued, and opportunities were primarily reserved for the privileged. As a result, children from less fortunate backgrounds faced significant obstacles in accessing quality education and realizing their potential. My upbringing lacked role models or mentors to guide me, which further hindered my path.

The atmosphere was toxic, often referred to as the "pull him down" mentality, where innate abilities could be stifled by the surrounding environment. Despite my potential, I struggled to achieve anything of significance until I relocated to Spain.

The Transition to Spain: A Mixed Experience

Spain provided me with a different set of opportunities—access to the internet, reliable electricity, and spaces to study—resources I had missed in Africa. Yet, the definition of a "great" place is subjective and contingent on the people’s mindset.

Unfortunately, the Spanish culture often does not prioritize greatness for foreigners. While you might argue that success is a self-driven endeavor, my experience suggests otherwise. I entered Spain filled with ambition and dedication, eager to excel at my job. However, my enthusiasm was met with resentment from my employers, who viewed my commitment as a threat.

Many immigrants can relate to this challenging dynamic. The environment can be harsh, and if you're not cautious, it can lead to bitterness and despair. My experiences in Spain left me feeling trapped, as opportunities were often reserved for locals rather than foreigners.

Life in the U.K.: A New Beginning

After recently moving to the U.K., I feel a significant shift in my circumstances. It’s as if a weight has been lifted. The opportunities here are abundant, and I can see avenues for realizing my dreams that I couldn't in Spain.

Racial discrimination exists everywhere, but the U.K. appears to offer more representation and opportunities for people of color compared to Spain. In the U.K., I encounter black professionals across various fields, which fuels my belief in the potential for success regardless of background.

I find it easier to connect with others who share similar ambitions and journeys—a stark contrast to my experience in Spain, where forging connections was challenging.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Environment

The essence of my message is clear: your environment can profoundly influence your journey. If you find yourself in a place that stifles your potential, it may be time to consider a change.

Reflect on your current situation—if you've been stagnant for too long, it might be time to take a leap of faith and seek a location that fosters growth, even if it comes with challenges.

The quote by Israelmore Ayivor resonates deeply: "Check your environment and be sure that it is supportive. Some environments do not support progress."

Summation: The Environment's Role in Our Lives

We understand that our surroundings can shape our experiences and outcomes. However, the consequences can be more severe than merely hindering success; they can lead to a loss of one's true self.

When you cannot express your authentic self, negativity can creep in, leading to bitterness and resentment. The environment can dim your inner light, compelling you to follow the negative patterns of those around you.

Your willpower can only do so much against the backdrop of a detrimental environment. Therefore, it is essential to recognize when a change is necessary.

If you found this perspective thought-provoking and wish to explore more of my work, consider subscribing to receive updates directly in your inbox. Thank you for reading.