Inspired by a popular song, media career development specialist, Lekan Otufodunrin writes on how to be an unstoppable journalist notwithstanding the odds in the profession.
I’m not sure what made me suddenly feel like watching the video of the popular song, Unstoppable by Australian singer and songwriter, Sia last Saturday evening.
It might have probably been due to the tweet by media entrepreneur and communication specialist, Fola Folayan earlier in the day in which she wrote that “one of the worst things our lecturers did to us as mass communication/journalism students consistently told us not to expect to be rich or make a lot of money from our profession. They lied.”
“If only someone had taught me or shown me what I know now back then …,” she added.
I also watched an Instagram story by Osaruonamen Ibizugbe, Project Officer, Media in Gender at Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), Abuja with Sia’s Unstoppable song
Whatever it was, I’m glad that I watched some videos of the song on YouTube and four keywords stuck out for me on why Sia said she was unstoppable which anyone, including journalists, can learn from despite the discouraging state of the media industry.
Below is the chorus of the song:
“I put my armour on, show you how strong I am
I put my armour on, I’ll show you that I am
I’m unstoppable
I’m a Porsche with no brakes
I’m invincible
Yeah, I win every single game
I’m so powerful
I don’t need batteries to play
I’m so confident
Yeah, I’m unstoppable today”
Sia sang about putting on her armour to show her strength because there will always be situations when you have to ward off unpleasant moments in life and in the profession.
The amour you will need may not be physical like a shield, but you will need abundant knowledge, experience, insights and more to overcome any challenge that may come your way.
Journalism may not be among the best-paying professions, but there are abundant opportunities that can make one rich, not only in terms of money but making lots of impact through our reports.
Instead of allowing yourself to be discouraged by some downtime in the profession, you need Sia’s affirmation that you are unstoppable, invincible, powerful and confident no matter the odds.
Be Unstoppable by not applying the brakes when you come against obstacles.
Be Invincible by maximizing every opportunity when others easily give up.
Be Powerful by relying on your inner strength which cannot fail you.
Be Confident that nothing can stop you from achieving your career goals.
Wake up every day and go about your work with all the determination and dedication singing to yourself as Sia did:
Unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
I’m unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
I’m unstoppable today
Unstoppable EVERYDAY
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