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Personal reflections

March 2023: Trying out new things

March kicked off with me moving to Mara, a fintech company as a communications manager. I want to learn more about how companies can tell better stories and influence narratives from within. So far it’s been a great experience settling in even as I take a break from actively chasing stories as a journalist.

Generally, I’ll still do freelance journalism, this time pitching stories I’m interested in writing to publications. I finally used Chat GPT (I had tried a few times earlier but it didn’t work because) and using it has been impressive!  

The Gubernatorial elections took a surprising twist with the resurgence of tribalism in Lagos. It was the most surprising thing that happened in March as I’m still wrapping my mind around how low politicians can go to win elections.  

Highlights of the Months

  • I started a new role at Mara as a communications manager. 
  • I returned to the stadium to watch Sporting Lagos play its second season.
  • Took a break from writing for a month. 

From the Web

???? Hit Makers: The Science of Popularity in an Age of Distraction – Derek Thompson

“To sell something familiar, make it surprising. To sell something surprising, make it familiar.”

An insightful book on the different elements that go into making popular content or items. 

???? “I’ll Walk Away From Anything”: Kara Swisher Calls the Shots 

“I mentor a lot of people, and almost every single one of them is worried about losing their place if they step out of line. And I’m like, the only way you get higher is if you step out of line,” Swisher tells me. “That’s the only way. Seriously. Unless you’re untalented. And then you should stay in line.”

???? The impossible job: inside the world of Premier League referees

Football refereeing is one of the toughest jobs in sport, and over the years, it takes its toll. “I can’t think of any other job where there’s this much scrutiny over decision-making. Maybe a surgeon?”

????What happens in a world where mediocrity rules?

“In a kakonomy, mediocrity rules. People not only supply shoddy work and expect shoddy work in return, they actually prefer to receive shoddy work.”

Definitely, a must-read for every Nigerian.

???? Gucci and Goliath 

“How it all happened is a story that has little to do with loafers or leather. It is instead about arrogance and missed opportunities, hubris and crossed signals, and very smart men who made very dumb mistakes.”

A brilliant account of a hostile takeover bid for Gucci that almost succeeded.

???? ENOCH |  A BIOPIC OF PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

A biopic on the life of Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). 

An inspiring movie on the life of a highly revered man of God. If you enjoyed watching it, you’ll also love The Train

????In 1960, Orson Welles explained how he wrangled complete creative control for his first film, Citizen Kane, and the value of “ignorance” to break through old ideas.

???? Beware of chasing prestige.

Quote ????

“If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” – Murakami

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