Nelson Oluwabukola Michael, a Nigerian-American residing in Texas, has forged a distinctive trajectory in his career. Presently, he serves as the Director of Corporate Strategy and Revenue Growth at JPMorgan Chase, where he orchestrates winning strategies for the financial powerhouse. Previously, he held the position of Vice President, spearheading payment product innovation within the same organization.
Before assuming his current role, Nelson’s professional journey traversed various sectors. With leadership roles at Yahoo, including Director of Ad Quality Strategy, and engagements at AmerisourceBergen, he sharpened his analytical and strategic acumen.
Yet, Nelson’s entrepreneurial zeal is palpable. He established The CoBuilders, the world’s premier end-to-end house cleaning technology company, showcasing his adeptness at identifying market demands and pioneering solutions.
In addition to his corporate endeavors, Nelson is esteemed as a thought leader and lauded writer. Armed with a Master of Business Administration from Dallas Baptist University and a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Systems from the University of Texas at Tyler, he also holds diplomas from the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations and the Lagos State Polytechnic.
In this exclusive interview with allnaijadiaspora, Nelson imparts invaluable insights gleaned from navigating the corporate sphere, offering glimpses into his remarkable journey and the wisdom amassed along the way. Excerpts:
Tell us your immigration story. What motivated you to immigrate to the US, and what were your initial experiences like?
My migration story is quite interesting. It was not exactly planned, but rather serendipitous. It all started with the Diversity Visa Lottery program. In her final year at Obafemi Awolowo University, someone approached my wife about entering her name into the lottery. Initially hesitant, she eventually agreed and submitted her name without much thought. After finishing school and settling into married life, we received unexpected news: she had been selected for the lottery a couple of years later. We had married. and you know we were settling in, and all of that. And you know, I think the person who helped her came back and informed my wife that she was selected for the lottery after a couple of years it had been played. It was a turning point for us.
Before this, I had been envisioning a different kind of society, one that aligned more closely with my aspirations for normalcy and progress. I often found myself at odds with the realities of Nigeria’s societal norms and practices. These experiences fueled my desire for change and progress.
When the opportunity to immigrate arose, it felt like more than just a chance to travel; it aligned with my vision for the future. Despite my wife’s initial indifference to leaving Nigeria, the opportunity resonated deeply with me. It felt like a step in the right direction.
You know, our life balances things out. And I think when things work out that way, it keeps you humble.
We travelled out of the country in 2010. We had married a year earlier and were expecting our first baby at that time everything clicked. So, we have been America for 14 years now. But I only naturalized 3 years ago, after struggling with it for a while. I eventually did it because it was the right thing to do.
From your experience again, what would you say are some of the misconceptions about the immigrant experience that you would like to dispel?
When we examine the concept of migration, it’s essentially a fundamental aspect of human history. Sometimes we view it narrowly, merely as individuals leaving one country for another, often discussing issues like brain drain. However, migration has been integral to the human experience since our early ancestors migrated from Africa. The human inclination towards migration is inherent. So, the human gene is vulnerable to migration, anyway.
In today’s world, borders are increasingly blurred, and individuals are scattered across the globe. Take, for example, Wale Adeyemo, who is the United States deputy secretary of the treasury, despite having a Nigerian root. This interconnectedness challenges traditional notions of migration and nationality.
One common misconception is the idea of migration as a jackpot, leading to a better life automatically. Moving abroad does not necessarily change one’s circumstances; it merely changes the location. People may face even greater challenges than they did at home due to this misconception.
Additionally, there is a misconception that success comes easily once you’ve migrated. This belief is often perpetuated by social media, where people tend to highlight their successes. However, the reality is often far from glamorous. Starting afresh in a new country entail grappling with a new culture, navigating unfamiliar systems, and sometimes encountering racism or xenophobia.
Migration is not a panacea for life’s challenges. It requires resilience, adaptability, and hard work. While it offers opportunities for growth and change, success is not guaranteed. It is essential to approach migration with realistic expectations and a willingness to confront and overcome obstacles.
You have built an impressive career as a business leader. Can you share your challenges and triumphs navigating the professional landscape here in the US?
The challenges are undeniably real but let me address the question directly. When I first arrived in the US, I started working as a cart pusher at Walmart. It was an eye-opening experience. They called the role a “receiving associate executive,” which struck me as quite grandiose for what it entailed. My main task was sorting groceries and merchandise, which allowed me to observe the managerial dynamics at play. One immediate challenge was the language barrier. The nuances of communication varied from what I was accustomed to in Nigeria. This is because you have an intonation which is different from the vocal range of the people you live with. So, you are saying something but it is landing differently on the other side.
This, coupled with the mindset shift from survival mode to thriving in a competitive society, presented additional hurdles. Some individuals find comfort in settling for jobs that merely pay the bills, hesitant to venture into environments where they must continually prove themselves.
Language proficiency is crucial in America, where effective communication underpins business interactions. You must be able to convince the other person of your point. You must be bold. You will not be able to achieve much without being able to communicate effectively. At some point, you may have to say, this is who I am, this is how I talk. I think it is just the content and the context, and maybe slowing down so people can hear me better.
Adapting my speech patterns and pacing to ensure clarity became essential. Moreover, transitioning from mere survival to thriving in a corporate setting requires resilience and perseverance. Each step forward presents a new hurdle to overcome, from learning new skills to vying for higher positions. However, the realization that no one is holding me back but myself serves as a powerful motivator. Failure becomes a learning opportunity rather than a setback.
Beyond these challenges lies the importance of storytelling. Unlike back home, where action speaks louder than words, success in America often hinges on one’s ability to articulate their journey and accomplishments. Documenting achievements and sharing them with colleagues and superiors is vital. It is about owning your narrative and ensuring that your contributions are recognized and valued.
Most of us are just doers. We do not tell our stories. Even if you look at the historical context, people write our stories for us. Here. if you produce an idea, you have to be able to articulate it properly. You thrive here by documenting your story. Do not let any other person tell your story for you. Tell your friends I wrote this. This is my process for getting here. Put in your name and stamp on it. I have been lucky to have great bosses who told me that I was doing great, but that nobody’s hearing that I don’t articulate it. You should not be surprised that people do silly things, and it gets celebrated because it is packaged. This is because they tell their stories. So, you also must tell your stories using PowerPoint. When you do this, people remember you when there are opportunities. Being able to do that unlocks a lot for you in this in this land.
Navigating these challenges is part of the immigrant experience. However, with perseverance and a willingness to adapt, one can overcome these hurdles and thrive in their new environment.
Did your educational background from Nigeria prepare you well for your US studies/career? What advice would you give to young Nigerians aspiring to study or work abroad and who are enthusiastic about making a significant difference in their world?
I believe my success wouldn’t have been possible without the education I received in Nigeria, and I’m truly honest about that. The foundation laid by my upbringing and especially my education, particularly in communication, has been instrumental. As I’ve emphasized before, communication is fundamental here. Every day, I rely on my ability to communicate effectively, which sets me apart even among my peers, including native Americans. Clear communication has become my distinguishing factor.
In fact, I often describe myself as a knowledge aggregator. I approach new areas like a journalist, absorbing information and presenting it to others. My education in Nigeria provided the framework upon which I’ve built my expertise, including my knowledge in computer science, all centered around effective communication.
For young people navigating their way in the US, my advice is to invest in yourself during the initial years. It’s easy to fall into the trap of merely surviving, but setting a higher standard is crucial. Pursuing further education or practical experiences, even if challenging, is essential. Here, practicality often outweighs theory, requiring more real-world interaction and application. Try to pay the price in the first few years that you spent here, because you could be comfortable just trying to survive and get stuck in that rat race. But you must set a standard to say, what is the real ticket in this country? Maybe it’s one of their courses, or community college or something you have to do, which may be tough because you have to be more practical here than theoretical like back home, and that would push you hard because now you have to speak in front of people you have to like to do real things like interact with the real world more than we used to do backups.
During a conversation with a UK executive director at JP Morgan last year, he asked me about Nigerians in general. I emphasized that Nigerians possess immense talent and potential, hindered only by their environment. My hope lies in the remarkable individuals I’ve encountered from Nigeria, both in the US and elsewhere. Their success abroad is a testament to their inherent abilities, which the environment here simply amplifies.
To any young person arriving in the US, I would encourage them to adopt a mindset where nothing is impossible. With determination and clarity of purpose, the sky is the limit. The only obstacle you face is yourself.
You have an interesting and certainly inspiring career growth trajectory. So, share with us, what it takes to make the right impact in the job market and what think are the key secrets to climbing the corporate ladder rapidly, especially as immigrants.
It boils down to one fundamental aspect: identifying the problems that genuinely ignite your passion for solving. Picture this scenario: What type of challenges do you find invigorating? This initial step is crucial because it prevents you from being pulled in multiple directions by various issues. You don’t want to find yourself aimlessly addressing problems that don’t resonate with your core interests.
For instance, let’s say someone mentions healthcare. Does it evoke a sense of excitement within you, prompting memories of a field you’ve always been passionate about? Identifying your passion enables you to gravitate towards opportunities where you can leverage your unique perspective to drive solutions. For me, it’s communication. Every problem I encounter is approached with the mindset of effective communication. I’ve cultivated a reputation for being able to articulate ideas clearly and bring diverse perspectives to the table, thus facilitating collaboration and problem-solving.
However, everyone’s approach to problem-solving varies. I’ve witnessed colleagues who excel in numerical analysis, effortlessly dissecting complex data sets to derive insights. Their ability to convey findings through numerical analysis is impressive. The key lies in recognizing what excites you and aligning your approach to problem-solving accordingly. Let’s discuss climbing the corporate ladder. One essential aspect is the art of storytelling. You may be accomplishing remarkable things, but if you fail to articulate your achievements effectively, they may go unnoticed. Whether through PowerPoint presentations or other means, storytelling plays a pivotal role in highlighting your contributions.
Imagine presenting a concise narrative detailing your initiatives, the challenges encountered, and the solutions implemented. This structured approach not only showcases your accomplishments but also demonstrates your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Documenting your journey allows you to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with decision-makers, paving the way for career advancement opportunities. If you are asked a question and you are responding without a documented statement, it’s almost like you are responding emotionally, and they don’t pay for your emotions.
Storytelling serves as a powerful tool for advocating for yourself and your contributions. It enables you to stand out amidst the crowd by showcasing your unique value proposition. So, embrace the art of storytelling, and let your achievements speak for themselves. In a competitive landscape, the ability to effectively communicate your story can make all the difference in propelling you towards success.
I’ll just like you to elaborate on sourcing jobs and interesting potential employers,, having sat on many interview panels. What works for you?
Firstly, we have personality, emotional intelligence, and body language. These elements are crucial as they reflect the cultural norms and expectations within the workplace. How you present yourself, from your posture to your handshake, your eye contact, and even your smile, all convey important messages about your professionalism and suitability as a colleague. There’s also the aspect of having a learner’s mindset. This involves demonstrating a genuine curiosity and willingness to learn about the company or topic at hand. It’s about acknowledging what you know, pausing on what you don’t, and showing a proactive attitude towards acquiring new knowledge. By displaying humility and a thirst for understanding, you convey to interviewers that you’re adaptable and open to growth. Conducting thorough research is paramount. Familiarizing yourself with the company’s background, key figures, recent developments, and industry trends demonstrate your commitment and preparedness. For example, referencing specific statements or initiatives from company leaders highlights your dedication to understanding the organization’s values and objectives.
Also, hunger and drive are essential traits that employers look for. Demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and motivation for the role can set you apart from other candidates. This can be conveyed through your responses during the interview, as well as by asking insightful questions that reflect your genuine interest in the company and its challenges. Active listening and engagement are critical. By attentively responding to interviewers’ cues and showing genuine interest in their responses, you demonstrate your ability to engage in meaningful dialogue and contribute to the conversation as a valued team member.
What are your impressions about the Nigerian community in the US and what should we be doing to leverage our cultural heritage to impact our society?
I believe these organizations are commonly referred to as diversity groups in nearly every country, at least in the US, as far as I’m aware. There are Hispanic groups, Asian groups, and Black groups. Additionally, events like Black History Week or Black History Month are celebrated. Being part of these groups and bringing your unique perspective to the table can be beneficial. It allows you to understand the landscape and explore how you can leverage the Black community to highlight what sets Nigerian culture apart from, say, black British or Black American culture.
Solely identifying as a Nigerian within the broader Black community may not always be as impactful. Many people may not fully grasp the nuances and distinctions between various African countries. When I mention I’m from Nigeria, it often requires further explanation, delving into the complexities of West African culture and geography. Therefore, it’s essential to emphasize the Nigerian identity within the broader black community to gain recognition and appreciation.
Alternatively, Black Nigerians could strive to foster a stronger sense of community among themselves. However, from what I’ve observed, this tends to revolve around social activities rather than collective empowerment or advocacy. While socializing is important, it’s crucial to consider the broader purpose and impact of such gatherings. Embedding oneself in the social fabric of society and aligning with shared struggles, both locally and globally, can lead to more meaningful contributions and connections. Ultimately, leveraging existing platforms within the Black community, wherever you are, is a promising starting point for effecting positive change and fostering a stronger sense of identity and purpose.
Let’s talk about integration, what’s your experience like?
Being part of those communities is crucial, as it’s where you can truly immerse yourself. Let me share my own story of how I integrated successfully. Firstly, through my children, as they are starting out, I take a keen interest in their activities such as school events, parent-child days, and dances. Attending these events helps me understand the community dynamics, their values, and what matters to them, including politics and neighborhood relationships. By observing how people interact and greet each other, I gain insights into their culture. Secondly, I engage with my neighbours respectfully, without imposing conversations they may not want to have. Simple gestures like acknowledging a neighbour’s presence or offering a friendly wave foster a sense of community. Studying these cultural nuances helps me navigate social interactions more effectively. Thirdly, I integrate into the community through my children’s experiences at school, including their friendships, food, and cultural activities. By participating in school events and engaging with other parents, I deepen my connection to the community.
Once I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the community, I look for ways to contribute meaningfully. For instance, I founded Co-builders, a platform that addresses societal needs like industrialization and productivity while providing employment opportunities to cleaners from diverse backgrounds. This initiative not only generates income but also fosters community engagement by sponsoring school events and contributing to local schools. By aligning my initiatives with community needs and values, I earn respect and recognition from both colleagues and the broader society. Even though I prioritize my professional commitments, my involvement in initiatives like Co-builders demonstrates my commitment to making a positive impact beyond the workplace.
Successful integration involves contributing meaningfully to society while respecting its norms and values. By actively participating in community events and initiatives, I’ve been able to foster genuine connections without causing friction or discord. Ultimately, earning respect in society comes from making valuable contributions that address real needs and enhance communal well-being.
You have a keen interest in tech entrepreneurship and innovation and have pioneered the creation of the world’s first end-to-end house cleaning technology, placing you effectively as a leading American innovator. How did that journey begin, and what does it take to become a successful innovator and an entrepreneur in a boisterous and competitive market like the US?
So, coming from Nigeria, my interest in the sciences has always been strong. However, it was as a teenager that I became fascinated with computers, particularly when I realized their potential for aiding in writing and publishing books. Despite not having access to a computer at the time, I stumbled upon a discarded keyboard at a refuse dump, which sparked my curiosity. Although I wasn’t a child playing with a toy, I found myself intrigued by the possibilities offered by this simple piece of technology. It was my first real encounter with tech, and I was drawn to the layout of the keyboard and its potential applications.
Upon arriving in the United States, I decided to pursue computer science, leaning more towards the business aspect of the field. While I gained proficiency in coding, SQL, and website development, my primary interest lay in using technology as a solution to real-world problems. This mindset led me to my first corporate job at Suddenlink, a communications company, where I had a transformative experience. It was here I met Mike Ellis, a mentor who encouraged me to adopt a managerial mindset and take ownership of my work. One notable instance was when I was tasked with improving a process that took a colleague four weeks to complete. By integrating various Microsoft applications and implementing macros, I was able to streamline the process to just four minutes. This achievement earned me recognition and an innovator’s award, reinforcing my belief in using technology to drive tangible outcomes.
Fast forward to the present day, and I find myself applying the same principles to my venture, The CoBuilders. My journey with technology has been about more than just understanding its technical aspects. It’s been about using it as a tool to solve problems, improve efficiency, and make a meaningful impact on the world around me.
Tell us more about The CoBuilders, in terms of its impacts and prospects.
Well, The CoBuilders (www.thecobuilders.com) has become more than just a project for me; it’s a lifelong commitment. It is more than just an app; it’s a solution that addresses real-life pain points by simplifying complex tasks into just a few clicks. By leveraging technology, we’ve created a platform where users can easily book cleaning services without any hassle. Every day, our engineering team comes together to tackle challenges and innovate. Just this morning, we were in competitive mode, analyzing the industry landscape and strategizing against the giants in our space. The potential of The CoBuilders is vast, with an annual sales capacity exceeding $25 million. We’re dedicated to pushing the boundaries and making our mark in the market.
Much like Uber connects riders with drivers, The CoBuilders simplifies the process of booking cleaning services. Our platform is already making waves in the US market, where cleaning services are a longstanding necessity in every household. Our goal is to make these services accessible to everyone by offering competitive pricing and exceptional quality.
Over the years, our team has grown to over 20 members, united by a shared vision. We’ve poured our hearts and souls into building The CoBuilders from scratch, overcoming challenges and learning along the way. One of our marketing team members recently made a poignant observation: while you may want luxuries like Netflix or the latest iPhone, The CoBuilders provides a fundamental necessity – a clean home. This realization underscores the importance of our platform and the impact it has on people’s lives. As we continue to expand, we’re facing the ultimate test: can we bootstrap The CoBuilders and weather the challenges ahead? Despite the uncertainties, we’re proud to be facilitating over 50 cleanings a day across the US, with minimal manual intervention. Our system seamlessly matches customers with professional cleaners, ensuring a safe and efficient experience for all parties involved.
What sets The CoBuilders apart is our commitment to safety and convenience. From background checks for cleaners to real-time tracking for customers, we prioritize transparency and reliability. Our platform empowers customers to manage their cleaning appointments effortlessly, with notifications and updates every step of the way. The impact of The CoBuilders extends beyond just cleaning services; it’s about making a difference in people’s lives. We’ve received heart-warming feedback from diverse individuals who rely on our services for essential support. Their gratitude fuels our passion to keep innovating and improving. The CoBuilders isn’t just a business – it’s a movement. With each satisfied customer and positive review, we’re reminded of the profound impact we’re making. As we look towards the future, we’re excited to see Co-builders continue to grow and evolve, making clean, healthy homes accessible to all.
What does it take to become a successful innovator and an entrepreneur in a boisterous and competitive market like the US?
I actually studied Tope Awobona at some point, and what struck me most was a story where he took a $200,000 loan and invested it all in Calendly. Stories like these remind me that entrepreneurship isn’t about immediate gratification; it’s about taking risks and believing in a vision, even when the outcome is uncertain. Entrepreneurs like Tope Awobona, Jeff Bezos, and Bill Gates are not ordinary people; they possess a relentless drive and unwavering belief in their ideas. Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone. It requires resilience, determination, and a willingness to weather challenges without the guarantee of success. Many people are drawn to the allure of entrepreneurship but lack the commitment to see it through. It’s heart-breaking to see individuals give up halfway, realizing the sacrifices required are more than they bargained for.
Entrepreneurs are driven by a deeper purpose beyond monetary gain. They’re motivated by the prospect of creating something meaningful that solves a problem and adds value to people’s lives. Take Co-builders, for example. For five years, we’ve poured our hearts and souls into building the platform, without immediate financial returns. Our focus has always been on delivering a solution that truly benefits our users, even if it means delaying profitability. The journey of entrepreneurship is not glamorous. It’s about perseverance, resilience, and unwavering dedication to a vision. As an entrepreneur, you must be willing to endure years of uncertainty and sacrifice, knowing that the eventual payoff is worth it.
So what do you most miss most about Nigeria?
As for what I miss most about Nigeria, it’s the vibrant energy of Lagos—the bustling streets, the lively atmosphere, and the sense of community. There’s an indescribable spirit in the air that you can’t find anywhere else. Here, everything feels more subdued, lacking the same vibrancy and spontaneity that defines Lagos.
If you could give your younger self some pieces of advice, what would these be?
My advice would have been to gather the people around you and build something that you all believe in. I recall when we had the opportunity to create editorial or newsletter for our campus as undergraduates. The collaborative mindset was inspiring, and we all worked together joyfully. Looking back, I realize that if I could advise my younger self, I would encourage us to do more of that—collaborate freely and fearlessly. Back then, we didn’t hesitate to pursue our ideas. We were driven by passion and excitement rather than fear of judgment. That’s the opportunity younger folks have here—to take action without restraint. If only we had seized more opportunities back then, who knows what we could have accomplished? Many ideas were discussed, but unfortunately, not all came to fruition.
What does it take to create wealth as an immigrant? Are there any unfailing investment secrets you have learned?
As an immigrant, one of the most striking attributes we bring to the table is our inherent hunger and willingness to take risks. We are already accustomed to making tough decisions and sacrifices, like leaving our families behind in pursuit of a better future. This resilience is a core trait of successful entrepreneurs. Just consider the backgrounds of many prominent figures like Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Steve Jobs—they all come from immigrant or minority backgrounds.
When it comes to creating wealth, there are a few essential ingredients. Firstly, you must be driven by a desire to solve problems rather than merely chasing profits. True wealth comes from providing solutions that improve people’s lives. Whether it’s through technology, consulting services, or any other innovation, the focus should always be on addressing a genuine need in society.
Additionally, patience and delayed gratification are key. Wealth creation is often a slow and arduous process. It requires waiting for years, sometimes decades, for your efforts to bear fruit. Consider Jeff Bezos, who spent years building Amazon before seeing significant returns. This willingness to endure hardship and uncertainty is what separates successful entrepreneurs from the rest.
It’s crucial to be mindful of how money flows in and out of your venture. Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of accumulating debt for frivolous expenses rather than investing in meaningful growth opportunities. Warren Buffett’s frugality and wise monetary management serve as a valuable lesson in this regard. By prioritizing sustainable growth over immediate gratification, you set yourself up for long-term success. Wealth creation is not just about making money, it’s about building something enduring and impactful. It requires a combination of vision, resilience, and discipline. By embracing these principles and staying true to your mission, you can create wealth that transcends financial success and leaves a legacy.
As one who is enthusiastic about national development in Nigeria, what are some of the things that bother you about the country today and what do you think should be done to turn things around for the better?
I believe we should not lose sight of the importance of harnessing the energy of the youth to speak truth to power. Even though it might not immediately deter the powerful and greedy from their actions, it does help us maintain hope. Without hope, what motivation do people like you and me must keep pushing forward? We need those seeds of hope to envision a better future and act accordingly.
It is crucial for us to come together and confront the truth. We need to chart a clear direction for ourselves and our society. This is not about politics; it’s about fundamental improvements in areas like education. Our schools should be better equipped to integrate our economy into the educational system. Instead of just offering graduates stipends to keep them content, we should empower them to pursue their ambitions and dig deep into their potential. We cannot simply hand everything to them on a silver platter; they need opportunities to explore and contribute meaningfully. Until we instil this mindset in our youth, real change will remain elusive.
Would you like to join politics someday?
I have come to realize that entrepreneurship holds significant sway over politics, often more than we might initially perceive. Figures like Bill Gates exemplify how entrepreneurship can exert influence on political agendas without directly engaging in traditional political channels. They can advocate for certain initiatives or investments without being constrained by political affiliations or bureaucratic processes. This ability to drive change outside of the political arena is compelling.
I am increasingly inclined towards advocating for entrepreneurship as a means of affecting societal change. Instead of navigating the complexities of politics, entrepreneurs can channel their resources and energy into projects and initiatives that align with their vision for progress. By funding and spearheading innovative ventures, they can drive tangible results and contribute to the advancement of society more directly. This shift in perspective stems from a desire to see progress happen at a faster pace. When you have the means to fund and execute your ideas independently, you are not bound by the sluggishness of political processes. You can see your vision come to fruition more efficiently and feel a deeper sense of fulfilment in the impact you are able to make.
So, for now, I see entrepreneurship advocacy as a more effective and fulfilling path for driving change. It allows individuals to leverage their resources and expertise to enact meaningful transformations in society, unencumbered by the constraints of traditional politics.
Let us talk about purposeful family growth and development. What challenges have you faced building a purposeful family and how have you overcome them? Have you also got any counsel for parents in the diaspora?
That is a profound question, and I find it wonderful because family lies at the core of every society, shaping our success and defining our true achievements. In Nigeria and across Africa, one of the key challenges is enhancing our mindset regarding power dynamics within the home. Rather than seeking to change these dynamics, we should aim to enhance our perspective and see our spouses as equals with distinct roles. Each partner should be entrusted with a shared vision for the family, one that transcends individual desires and encompasses the collective aspirations of the household. Empowering your spouse is crucial in this regard, granting them the autonomy to make decisions and contribute to the family’s growth and well-being.
Failure to establish equality and shared vision within the home can hinder progress and limit success. Even individuals who strive for equality in broader society may inadvertently undermine their own efforts by neglecting to foster equality within their families. While pursuing opportunities abroad, it is essential not to sacrifice the coherence and vision of your family. It is vital to remain engaged and present for your children, providing guidance and support as they navigate their own paths.
Economic power dynamics can also pose challenges within diaspora families, particularly when women assert newfound economic independence without adequate outlets for expressing this power within the household. Clear communication and mutual respect are essential in addressing these dynamics, ensuring that economic empowerment strengthens rather than strains familial bonds. By creating a supportive and nurturing environment within the family, parents can counteract external influences and provide their children with a stable foundation for growth and development. Open dialogue and intentional parenting strategies can help mitigate the impact of societal pressures and guide children towards positive outcomes.
The success of both your family and your business hinges on your ability to integrate these two aspects of your life seamlessly. By fostering a sense of purpose and unity within your family, you can lay the groundwork for generational wealth and prosperity, ensuring that your business endeavors serve not only your own interests but also the well-being of future generations.
