New year’s, give us opportunities to reflect and reset. Life is a journey filled with peaks and valleys, triumphs and challenges. At times, it’s easy to feel stuck, unsure of how to push forward. In line with Elpizo’s quest this year to use singular words to help us stay focused on this year’s resolution, our word for today is Resilience.
In valley moments, we often look to stories of resilience and triumph to remind us of the power of determination and hope. One such story is that of Jason Arday, whose remarkable journey inspires us to reflect on our own paths and the barriers we seek to overcome.
Jason Arday’s Remarkable Story
Jason Arday, a 37-year-old British Ghanaian, made history in March 2023 as the youngest Black professor at the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. While his achievement is impressive on its own, the path that led him there is nothing short of extraordinary.
As a child, Jason was diagnosed with autism and global developmental delay. He could not speak until he was 11 years old and couldn’t read or write until the age of 18. Despite these challenges, Jason’s perseverance and dedication propelled him to shatter barriers. Today, he is not only a professor but also a passionate advocate for mental health, neurodiversity, and improving representation for minority groups in higher education.
Jason’s life is a testament to hard work, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity. Let’s use his story to provoke us to reflect on the following questions: What is holding us back? What would we achieve if we pushed through the barriers in our own lives?
Reflecting on Your Own Journey
- What is your motivator in life? What drives you to keep going, even when the road is difficult? Perhaps it’s the desire to create a better future for yourself and your loved ones, a healthier mental-wellbeing, or maybe it’s a passion for making a difference in the world.
- What inspires you? Is it stories like Jason’s, friends and family members, moments of kindness, the progress you see in yourself over time, a higher power?
- What keeps you going during the valleys in life? Do you rely on your support system, your faith, therapy, accountability partner, or your inner strength to navigate through tough times?
- What stories motivate you to keep moving? Who or what reminds you that obstacles are temporary, and that growth is possible?
Breaking Through Your Barriers
Jason’s journey encourages us to look at our own roadblocks; whether they’re external challenges, internal fears, or self-imposed limitations. Ask yourself:
- What is my biggest roadblock?
- What mental filters might be distorting how I view my potential?
- How can I embrace my authentic self, unencumbered by past experiences or doubts?
The answers to these questions can guide you toward breaking through your barriers and stepping into a life that aligns with your true potential.
A Call to Persevere
Jason Arday’s life reminds us that our circumstances do not define us. Instead, it is our response to those circumstances that shapes our story. Elpizo’s therapists are equipped to support you in this quest or any other goals you have for yourself this year, let Elpizo be your accountability partner.
So, as you reflect on Jason’s story, let it fuel your determination. Identify your motivators, lean on your inspirations, and push through the valleys knowing that progress, however small is still progress.
What is your roadblock? What is your motivator? Share your thoughts with us, and let’s encourage one another to persevere and embrace the authenticity of who we are, free from the barriers that life may have placed in our way.
Ruth Baah-Gyebi is the Co-Owner of Elpizo Counselling Services and a Registered Psychotherapist.
