24th November, 2024
By Yosola Lande
Many psychologists have a plethora of theories on motivation, and many stories have been told of how motivation has been a propeller to achieving success. It is undoubtedly true that motivation is crucial for the start, yet many believe motivation carries one to the final phase, which is not so. For example, if one depends on incentive motivation to achieve tasks, then a day without this incentive becomes a day without motivation, which affects the process in the long run to achieving that task.
Whereas, if the germane—discipline—is a part of one’s habit, then one is a step closer to winning, as that takes doing, and not once, but consistently. The Kung Fu legend, Bruce Lee, noted, “I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”
One of the popular self-help and productivity authors, and author of the best-selling book, “Atomic Habits,” noted that, “Success is the result of consistent habits, not fleeting motivation. Discipline helps build these habits.” So, to get to the crest that one yearns for, one needs motivation for the start and discipline to take one farther. Habits are consistent patterns, and apart from other reasons, mindset is a huge factor in forming habits, which lead to the achievement of any goal. However, good habits are perks to one’s dreams, and they are patterns being discussed that are deliberate blocks to discipline, instead of emotions.
Among the men who still walk the face of the earth and have built good habits—blocks of discipline, which is one integral tool to becoming—is Kehinde Thomas. He grew up in the rustic area of Kabba, Kogi State, Nigeria. The resilient nature and deliberate disciplined life he has been shaped to take on were influenced by his humble background. Also, he became more focused on his life and achievements. At seven, the loss of his father, too, was a strangling occurrence, which made him carry an albatross on his neck. These burdens of responsibility made him adaptable to life’s situations for the sake of his future and family.
One of the best decisions Kehinde had to make very early in his life was immigrating to the United States of America. The U.S. stands tall among other countries because of a plethora of reasons, which include the systems in place, freedom, equal rights, economic prosperity, and cultural diversity, among others. His immigration to the United States was a phase of his life that brought about more challenges. However, in those trying moments, his yearning for fulfillment—the reason he left Nigeria—made him play the ball in his court, which was his first chest won. In 1993, he bagged his first degrees in Philosophy and Psychology at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. He also earned his second degree in Business Communications in 1995 at the same university. Kehinde Thomas, after many years of making an impact in business, finance, insurance, media, and communications, earned an Honorary PHD in Business and Leadership Development from Veridian University in 2024.
Actually, Kehinde Thomas started his career in the United States of America as a sportsman when he joined the National Football League (NFL) through the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pennsylvania in 1995. His career in the club was cut short due to an injury in the same year. This injury was an imminent stumbling block in his life, but it didn’t cause him to lose his confidence as a fighter in the land of opportunities. Kehinde is still into personal sports, and his lessons about discipline, teamwork, and perseverance have all stayed with him. His pivot from sports to academics and business has been another milestone in his life, which has also led him into leadership and creating pathways for younger ones to succeed through mentorship.
With over substantial years of experience in the United States, Kehinde Thomas is best seen as an epitome of strength, unwavering hope, and faith. As a thought leader and insurance expert, Kehinde Thomas, if met with any young person in the next minute, would emphasize determination, resilience, and discipline in achieving one’s goals, urging them not to let circumstances steal their faith. He has proven, through his life’s trajectory, that discipline is a bridge between goals and accomplishments. Kehinde’s story is a reminder that challenges are stepping stones for those who remain steadfast, focused, and disciplined in their pursuit of success. His inspiring mentorship and leadership are testaments to his commitment to helping others build better futures for themselves.
Kehinde Thomas’ life journey is a testament to the fact that while motivation may spark the journey, it is discipline, consistent habits, and a resilient mindset that sustain the momentum to achieve success. His transition from sports to academics, then to business and leadership, highlights his adaptability and determination to succeed against all odds. Kehinde Thomas stands as an embodiment of the idea that with discipline, perseverance, and faith, one can overcome life’s challenges and reach their full potential.
