The Nigerian proverb, "The lizard that jumped from a high iroko tree to the ground said he would praise himself if no one else did," speaks to the importance of self-recognition and self-confidence. It suggests that when someone accomplishes something significant, even if others do not acknowledge the achievement, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate personal success. The proverb highlights the value of self-validation, implying that self-respect is essential, especially when external validation is lacking.
Consider Boitumelo, a dedicated woman in her professional life. Boitumelo works tirelessly, often going above and beyond what is required. Despite her hard work and contributions, her efforts are rarely recognized by her colleagues or superiors. Faced with this lack of acknowledgment, she decides to adopt the mindset of the lizard in the proverb. Instead of waiting for others to praise her, Boitumelo begins to take pride in her achievements, celebrating her progress and reflecting on how far she has come. This shift in attitude boosts her self-esteem and empowers her to continue pursuing excellence without relying on external validation.
In a practical and professional way, this proverb can be applied by encouraging individuals to take stock of personal achievements, even when these are overlooked by others. For example, Boitumelo could keep a journal of her successes at work, from small victories to major milestones. This act of self-reflection allows her to build confidence and stay motivated, regardless of whether her efforts are publicly recognized. Additionally, Boitumelo could practice self-advocacy, subtly reminding her colleagues of her contributions during meetings or reviews, ensuring that her efforts are acknowledged.
The lesson we learn from this
proverb is that self-recognition is vital for personal growth and confidence.
In situations where others may not offer praise or recognition, it is important
to develop a sense of self-worth. Like the lizard in the proverb, individuals
must learn to appreciate their own efforts and take pride in their
accomplishments, knowing that external validation is not always guaranteed.
Share this proverb
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