Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from February, 2025

Life Is Awful? Make Attainable Goals Instead

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga It’s the end of the 2nd month, and 10 months are left, but there seems to be no change in the year. Life can be challenging, and our goals are often hindered by various elements. Sometimes, we fail to be realistic about our own capabilities. Don’t Make Wishes, Make Attainable Goals - Set specific goals: Clearly define what you want to achieve, making sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). - Make a plan: Break down your goal into smaller, manageable tasks, and create a schedule to accomplish them. - Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way to stay motivated. - Be realistic: Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by aiming too high or expecting overnight success. - Take ownership: Recognize that your growth and success depend on your own efforts and initiative. The Power of Small Inputs • Start small: Begin with tiny, incremental steps towards your goal, and gradua...

Beware: You Fix Them, They Fix You Too

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga The intention to cause others consequences usually carries reciprocal repercussions. Seeking revenge by “fixing” someone can backfire, leading to reciprocated harm. Plotting against others is a perilous game. Your actions won’t fall on deaf ears or inert objects; they’ll impact someone equally capable of reacting. Before taking action, consider: 1. The rights of all parties involved. 2. The potential consequences of your actions. 3. Whether you could easily accept similar treatment. Correcting oneself is crucial. When criticized for wrongdoing, acknowledge your mistakes and make amends. Attempting to deceive others with further lies only exacerbates the situation. Silencing dissent is a dangerous game, leading to severe repercussions. The Double Tragedy of Fixing Others When you attempt to “fix” someone, whether through revenge, manipulation, or control, you risk unleashing a double tragedy: Tragedy 1: Consequences of Your Actions 1. Deepening S...

Prefer Peace, Avoid Enmity

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga In the face of conflict, it’s tempting to lash out and assert our power. However, choosing peace is often the more beneficial and sustainable choice. Negotiating for Peace Without Sacrificing Power: 1. Swallow Your Pride : Let go of your ego and focus on finding a resolution. Pride can be a significant obstacle to peace. Remember, every individual has rights, but privileges are limited. Acknowledge the rights of others, even if they’ve wronged you. 2. Compromise : Find common ground and be willing to make concessions. Compromise doesn’t mean surrendering your power; it means being flexible and open to finding a mutually beneficial solution. In fact, accommodating others’ wrongs can ultimately consolidate your power. 3. Active Listening : Truly hear the other person’s perspective and try to understand their point of view. Analyzing the information they provide is more empowering than making assumptions. 4. Empathy : Put yourself in the othe...

Take It For Granted and Savour The Consequences

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga There are times when our eyes see no evil, hear no evil, especially when we're dealing with people we hold in high esteem. We're easily thrilled by fleeting gestures, without considering the greater outcomes. Credibility isn't measured by a single event. Even the friendliest person can cause harm, just like food poisoning. Why Take It For Granted? 1. Lazy to take the full circle : People might take things for granted because they don't want to put in the effort to understand the full implications or consequences of their actions. Be cautious of excessive friendliness; it can be suspicious. 2. Duped : Individuals might be misled or deceived into thinking things will always work out in their favor, leading them to take things for granted. We're often overly impressed, approving things without due care. 3. Lack of consequences : When people don't face immediate consequences for their actions, they might become complacent and take ...

What Drew Us To Each Other

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Marriage is a lifetime commitment, and as such, it demands meaningful deliberateness before making that solemn vow. Life itself is a journey fraught with ups and downs, treacherous paths, and unpredictable challenges. You need someone who can stand by your side when the “Elephants confront” – when life’s overwhelming difficulties come knocking. If you never anticipate trouble, the initial spark that drew you together will likely diminish when faced with the inevitable challenges. That’s why it’s crucial to identify and nurture the lasting qualities that will sustain a lifetime marriage. The Lasting Qualities of a Sustainable Marriage 1. Common Purpose : A shared vision, values, and goals that unite you. Besides physical attraction, it’s essential to be convinced that your focus is on one thing. Divergent goals can lead to a fractured relationship. 2. Resilience : The ability to navigate life’s ups and downs together. A supportive partner can h...

Hiding the Truth and Short-Lived Benefits

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Intentionally making wrong decisions to gain undeservedly may seem tempting, but the benefits are fleeting. Life has a natural equilibrium where justice prevails, and wrongdoing ultimately catches up with us. We often convince ourselves that we would have achieved our goals anyway, but the truth is, shortcuts and dishonest means may provide temporary advantages, but they undermine our character and integrity. Driving Forces of Wrongdoing Reflecting on my personal experiences, I realized that feelings of inferiority and inadequacy can drive us to wrongdoing. For instance: - Economic pressure : I recall feeling embarrassed about my economic status and trying to keep up appearances by cheating my parents. - Desire and longing : A person may cheat or steal to acquire something they desire, such as luxury items or attention. - Cover-up : When faced with severe consequences, individuals may try to destroy evidence or hide the truth to avoid accountabili...

Dissimilar Mindset Attracts Enmity

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Why do people with differing mindsets often find themselves at odds? In a world where diversity is celebrated, why do we struggle to accept and appreciate differences in perspective? The Building Blocks of Mindset Our mindset is shaped by various factors, including: 1. Leadership: The guiding forces that influence our thoughts and behaviors. 2. Scarcity of Resources: The struggle for limited resources that fuels competition. 3. Successes: The achievements that reinforce our convictions. 4. Religion: The spiritual frameworks that shape our worldview. 5. Neighbors: The people around us who influence our perspectives. 6. Education: The knowledge that empowers us to form opinions. When Enmity Ensues What happens when we encounter someone with a dissimilar mindset? Often, we feel threatened, and our initial reaction is to defend our own mindset. This can lead to conflict, as we try to prove the superiority of our own perspective, the fear of being over...

Willpower: Determination To Do Well

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga The first prerequisite for success is being born. Life’s numerous challenges can foster laziness, making tasks seem impossible, especially when they have never been solved before. However, human history shows that our predecessors’ willpower has been crucial to our survival. Consider the earliest humans, who had to distinguish between edible and poisonous plants. This feat demonstrates the power of willpower in overcoming adversity. Definition and Importance of Willpower Willpower is the ability, capacity, and competence to complete tasks, overcome obstacles, and achieve goals. It involves prioritizing tasks that bring benefits, despite surrounding challenges and complexities. Why We Need Willpower Myth and Complexity : Life is full of mysteries and complexities. Willpower helps navigate these challenges, find solutions, and counter the intimidating solidness of complexity.  Force of Nature:  Willpower enables us to adapt to and overcome...

The Corrosive Effect of Insecurity

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Insecurity is a pervasive emotion characterized by feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. It can arise from various sources, including looming failure, past experiences, or social pressures. While emotions play a vital role in helping us cope with life’s challenges, corrosive emotions like insecurity can harm us instead of helping us. The Role of Emotions Emotions equip us with the necessary preparedness to respond to threats. For instance, the presence of a snake triggers fear, which protects us from harm. However, when emotions become corrosive, they can prevent us from responding to challenges effectively. Corrosive Behavioral Aspects Insecurity can manifest in several destructive behaviours, including: 1. Inertia : Failing to confront persistent fears can lead to damage to one’s territory or means. Continuous avoidance can result in missed opportunities and stagnation. For example, a young lady who had an unwanted pregnancy might hesitate t...

Wisdom Receives Wise Counsel

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Wisdom is not an innate trait, but rather a skill developed through dedication and effort. It begins with the willingness to listen and learn. “A man who finds himself sufficient will never listen, neither will he learn. An unlearned man will fail somehow.”  Success is not a permanent state; it requires adaptability, which is a product of continuous learning. The Properties of Wisdom 1. Listening : Not everything can be seen with our eyes. Listening allows us to gain insight into what lies beyond our immediate focus. It’s up to us to discern what is worthy of our attention. 2. Learning : Certain tasks require knowledge and understanding beyond our current abilities. Forcing limited knowledge can be dangerous, while embracing a willingness to learn fosters growth. 3. Sacrifice/Endurance : The value of knowledge is often tested by the sacrifices and endurance required to attain it. What we hold dear is often obtained through the losses we endur...

Deceptive Loyalty: Obstruct Betrayal

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Deceptive loyalty is a phenomenon where individuals appear loyal and trustworthy for an extended period, only to reveal their true intentions by betraying us when we’re most vulnerable. This insidious behavior can be motivated by self-interest, personal gain, or a desire for power. Recognizing the Red Flags To avoid falling prey to deceptive loyalty, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and not take loyalty at face value. Pay attention to subtle signs and trust your intuition, as they can help detect potential betrayers before it’s too late. How to Rebuff Deception Here are five strategies to help you protect yourself from deceptive loyalty: 1. Expect Deception Be aware that deception can occur in any relationship, personal or professional. Do not be fooled by current peace and stability. Now and again, disappoint willingly and check if the cordial relationship will remain. Conflict among people with a common purpose is easy to solve. The moment you sh...

Conspiracy The Silent Destroyer Of Progress

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga When your game is failing, and your checks and balances indicate you’re giving your best, it’s time to reassess your surroundings. Without blaming others, scrutinize those around you to determine if they’re secretly working against you. If you uncover concealed antagonism, replace your support discreetly. Your environment might be difficult to change, but establishing new pillars can neutralize conspirators. 6 Ways to Overcome Conspiracy 1. Monitor Your Close Environment : Keep a watchful eye on your inner circle to detect underhanded activities that pose potential threats. Unfulfilled promises can be as damaging as fraud. 2. Take Note of Excuses : Persistent excuses indicate unwillingness to cooperate. Evaluate what benefits your close associates prioritizing your success or downfall. 3. Know Your Strength : Recognize your superior qualities and leverage them to stay ahead. Even in treacherous environments, inner strength can be a powerful ...

Accept Defeat and Prepare for the Next Encounter

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga In the face of defeat, it's essential to acknowledge your losses, regroup, and focus on the next challenge. Your next encounter matters most, and it's crucial to utilize the resources you have, including yourself, to overcome the obstacles ahead. 5 Key Strategies to Bounce Back from Defeat 1. Reflect, Don't Dwell : Analyze your weaknesses to replace them with improved strategies. Avoid repetitive self-questioning, as it can drain your energy for future challenges. 2. Forgiveness Over Hate : Befriend your opponents, as hatred can lead to negativity and decreased confidence. Recognize that defeats are an inevitable part of the game, and personal vendettas can hinder your progress. Less hostility can drive opponents into complacency. 3. Heal and Mend : Address your emotional and physical bruises before engaging in another challenge. Unattended injuries can be exploited by your opponents, compromising your performance. Matches and battles are ...

Love The Art Of Life Continuation

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga  Continued from link below 👇🏽 https://fintomarketing.blogspot.com/2025/02/love-art-of-life.html Chiedza, after going through James' profile, realized he was a young entrepreneur doing well. The first thing that struck her mind was having a commercial handler manage her career. Intuitively, Chiedza responded to James over WhatsApp. "Hi James, it's Chiedza, the lady you found on stage yesterday. I didn't notice you filming my act, but wow, you captured one of my best moments. You will realize, but nevertheless, I am willing to share about my music and life. You can contact me directly on this number. I am self-managing my affairs. At the moment, the load is still manageable." James was on Facebook when the message popped up. His heart responded first, before his thumb followed. In no time, James was enjoying the heart-throbbing response from Chiedza. Since James was good at picking opportunities, it was easy for him to reminisce ...

The Dead Are Not Expired

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Life is a transformative journey, where raw resources are converted into meaningful products, services, and mechanisms. When you process complexities into consumable items, your legacy lives on through your creations. In essence, if you don't create or contribute, your existence may be fleeting. However, when you leave a lasting impact, your life's work continues to inspire and influence others. Key Takeaways 1. Idea Generation : Don't let ideas remain mere thoughts; bring them to life. If you wish to live forever, process the ideas that engulf your mind. Streamline your ideas into realistic and tangible mechanisms. 2. Resilience : Every obstacle is an opportunity for growth and learning. If others have paved ways through valleys, why can't you bore a way through the mountainous problems you face? 3. Empowerment : Harness your power to convert raw resources into tangible utilities. Acquire skills, knowledge, and funds to campaign succe...

Blaming Others Is Ceding Power To Them

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga When you blame someone for your downfall, you're essentially surrendering your power to them. By doing so, you're implying that their actions alone led to your negative outcome. But are they prepared to solve your problems? Or are you admitting that you're powerless to solve them yourself? Key Factors That Cause Blame 1. Lack of Discerning Trust : Before engaging in any partnership, trust must be established. However, trust shouldn't be given blindly. Verify the character and integrity of the other person before trusting them. Remember, people often talk more than they deliver. 2. Laziness : When you're unwilling to put in the effort required for growth, you may settle for less and blame others for your circumstances. A lack of personal initiative can lead to stagnation. 3. Failure to Acknowledge Personal Wrongdoing : Blame often stems from an inability to admit our own mistakes. When we convince ourselves that we're right desp...

Love The Art Of Life

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga The revellers at the joint moved freely between the counter and the hall, drawn to the vibrant stage where Chiedza and the City Combination Band performed. Conveniently located in the heart of Harare, the spot attracted patrons from all corners of the city. Taxis waited outside, ready to take people home. Thursday marked the beginning of the weekend at the Joy by Joy Sports Bar And Night Club. Chiedza was one of the rising stars who alternated the stage with other prominent musicians. James and his friends had just finished a late-night work session, finalizing a tender submission due the next morning at 10 am. James, a young entrepreneur, had started his electrical company with his college mate, Blessing. After completing his apprenticeship, James had decided to form his electrical installations company. The two friends had met while James was enrolled as an apprentice with the Municipality of Harare. To unwind, James and his friends decided to g...

Demanded Love: The Valentine’s Dilemma

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga As Valentine's Day approaches, amidst the pomp and fanfare, a contradictory sentiment emerges. The celebration of love and affection, now a global phenomenon, raises a poignant question: Are we, as lovers, demanding love in order to feel loved? The Voluntary Exchange of Emotions Feeling loved is an assumption many people fancy. Though love by its very nature, is a voluntary exchange of emotions. It’s a choice we make to care for, support, and cherish another person. When we demand love or happiness from our partner, do we not undermine the fundamental principles of love? Commerce vs. Natural Love Valentine's Day has undoubtedly become a commercialized celebration. However, this doesn't diminish the genuine love we share with our partners. Instead, it presents an opportunity to spoil our loved ones and reaffirm our commitment. Let's not allow commerce to dictate or demand our love; after all, love is shared every day, and Valentine'...

Desperation is Self-Enslavement

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Desperation is a suffocating state of hopelessness, where one feels trapped and devoid of meaningful decisions, unable to find solutions to persistent problems. It extends far beyond financial stress, affecting individuals across various social strata. The Psychology of Self-Sabotage When meaningful decisions are absent, willpower and motivation are severely impacted, rendering one feeling hopeless. A desperate cry for help can attract both benevolent supporters and opportunistic exploiters. Like an injured buffalo in the wild jungle, the first responders are often hungry hyenas rather than helpers. This vulnerability can lead to self-sabotage, where one inadvertently perpetuates their own enslavement. Breaking Free through Self-Awareness Acknowledging desperation’s grip is crucial. Develop the intellect to distinguish between opportunists and genuine helpers. Confide only in those who can provide constructive support. Cultivate self-awareness to ...

Skill Up or Ship Out: Survival is Always Persistent

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga A skill is a distinguishable mechanism you use to earn a living. Survival is persistent, and each moment you live, you’re working to sustain yourself. From the day you were conceived, survival began, and support has been vital. Adapting to Change Life is unpredictable, and circumstances change. Work becomes complicated, and competition increases. No matter how skilled you are, you can’t remain competitive without adapting. Research and Anticipation To stay ahead, research future needs. If today’s needs are satisfied, focus on tomorrow’s challenges. Sophisticate your skills to maintain a competitive advantage. Increase Your Integrity Besides being effective, reliability is crucial. When engaged, deliver according to specifications. This builds trust and ensures your services or products remain relevant. Upgrade and Innovate Add new features and benefits to your products or services. Ensure alternatives don’t substitute your offerings as irrelevant....

The Dangers of Deception: Why Lies Have a Best Before Date

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Today may accommodate your lies, but tomorrow will expose you. This age-old adage serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of lying and deceiving others. Lies may provide temporary relief or benefits, but they inevitably come with a heavy price. The Reasons for Lying 1. Gaining an Undue Advantage : The principle of waiting for due processes is painstaking but worth it. Some plot to shortcut success, and the only tool is deception. Lying to achieve a good outcome or position not yet deserved is a short-sighted approach that can damage relationships and reputations. The desire for recognition can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to control this desire and avoid temptation. 2. Creating Wrong Impressions : Deceiving others to create a false image or impression can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem when the truth is revealed. The love of a good status can drive individuals to deceive, but this approach ultimately destroys one’s rep...

Ubuntu Love Comes to The Grub Restaurant this Valentine’s Day

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Renowned promoter and event manager Mathias Bangure is thrilled to introduce a unique twist to the traditional Valentine’s Day celebration at The Grub Restaurant. This year, the Ubuntu principle of “I am well if you are also well” will take center stage, promoting a culture of love, unity, and community. To set the mood, Tanga Wekwa Sando, the legendary Mugovera love hit maker, will serenade the audience with soulful ballads, alongside the versatile Jabavu Drive Band. The evening’s entertainment, bar, and catering will be infused with African flair, promising an unforgettable experience. Conveniently located  4 km along Samora Machel Avenue, away from the bustling CBD, The Grub Restaurant offers the perfect setting for a romantic and relaxing evening. Tanga Wekwa Sando, a Zimbabwean music icon, is celebrated for his captivating stage presence and soulful voice. With a career spanning over several years, moving from Harare Mambos to pursuing t...

Is Social Spending an Investment?

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Spending on social activities can be confusing because it doesn’t yield immediate financial returns, unlike business investments where turnover is quick. However, is social spending truly an investment? Situations That Lead to Social Spending 1. Life-Saving Situations: Medical emergencies, accidents, or illnesses can result in exorbitant medical bills, making social spending a necessary investment in someone’s life. 2. Supporting Constrained Loved Ones: Job loss, misfortunes, or recession can push relatives into financial difficulties, requiring social support to get back on their feet. 3. Empowerment: Investing in someone’s potential can help them achieve their goals, leading to a more productive and fulfilling life. 4. Avoiding Exploitation: Being cautious of individuals who might take advantage of kindness is essential; prioritize genuine needs and verify the authenticity of requests. 5. Bereavement: Community support during times of grief, suc...

A Home: A Man’s First Need

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga 1. What is a Home? Everything that ends up with a successful outcome does not start from where the results are being noticed or enjoyed. There is a domain of the idea, a home. It’s not just a physical structure; it’s a sense of belonging, security, and comfort. It’s where we find peace, rest, and rejuvenation. A home is where we can be ourselves, without fear of judgment or rejection. It’s the foundation upon which we build our lives, and it plays a critical role in shaping our identities, values, and aspirations. 2. Enabling Environment A home itself should be a solution to our daily problems, providing an enabling environment that fosters creativity and productivity. When we feel safe and supported, we’re more likely to take risks, explore new ideas, and pursue our passions. A home can be a sanctuary, a place where we can retreat from the world and recharge. It’s where we can nurture our minds, bodies, and spirits, and connect with loved ones. 3...

Fred’s Distilled Valuable Lessons Of 51 Years Of life

  Self Written Happy Birthday To Me Early Childhood Memories I was born on a Thursday in 1974 at Harare Hospital. My parents lived in Tafara, but my memories of that time are faint. However, I vividly remember moments from 1977 when we lived in Zengeza 2, Chikunguru street. My sharp memory also recalls our move to Zengeza 3 in 1978, when my only sister was born. Even at a young age, I demonstrated a talent for storytelling and narration, skills that would eventually blossom into my writing and music. Challenges and Triumphs My first infant challenge was being raised in the Liberation Struggle.  Bullying took its toll again, which left me eager to outgrow infancy and end the teasing. Fortunately, I didn’t face significant learning challenges in primary school, thanks in part to my excellent first teacher, the late Mr. Dzvengwe. My desire to learn and grow only intensified as I progressed through school. However, secondary school presented new obstacles, particularly when I was ...

Till Death Do Us Part

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Life’s main activity is production. All other pursuits support productivity. One must process something into value, making the means and ends their own. A person must utilize their environment to cast out their outstanding strength, which they depend on. The Role of Marriage Partnership emerges as a way to support and secure the competency of the household. In this process, individuals choose a reliable partner to share with. The union becomes a cornerstone for productivity, growth, and survival. The First Support A person’s genuine support, before engaging in other pursuits, is a strong partner. Soon after acquiring enough stability, one should convince their partner to join them. Detaching from reliance on others, they should confide in their partner to navigate life’s obstacles. The Choice of Values The choice of values and principles should align with the couple’s shared approach to overcoming challenges. This harmony enables them to build a s...

Who’s in Command: Your Present or Ex?

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Being controlled by past emotions is a sign of defeat. Resentment is a clear indication that you’re under the influence of your adversary. Have you ever found yourself stuck between two worlds: the present and the past? The Power of Emotional Residue Past relationships can leave behind emotional residue, making it challenging to navigate new relationships. This residue can trigger emotions, even when you’re not offended. It can manifest as: - Lingering feelings of love or anger: Persistent emotions and attachment towards an ex-partner, making it challenging to move on. - Unresolved emotions or unfinished business: Unaddressed issues can haunt you, making you defensive and eager to exonerate yourself. - Comparisons between past and present partners: Comparing your ex-lover to your current partner is a sign of denial. - Fear of falling into the same circumstances: Past failures can make you suspicious and afraid of repeating the same mistakes. Break...