Michael Afolabi and his inspiring journey

The pursuit of perfection often becomes a formidable barrier when we need to improve in life. This obsession with flawlessness can paralyze progress, leading to missed opportunities and stagnation. Embracing the philosophy of progress over perfection allows individuals to move forward, learn from experiences, and achieve meaningful growth.

This principle is exemplified in the life of Michael Afolabi, whose story of resilience and determination offers profound insights into overcoming adversity. I recently had a chance to catch up with Michael and learn about his incredible journey. His story is inspiring, and his message is clear: Take life’s obstacles and learn from them so you are better prepared for life’s next challenge.

The Perils of Perfectionism

Perfectionism is frequently perceived as a virtue, driving individuals to set high standards and strive for excellence. However, it can also lead to procrastination and fear of failure. Waiting for the perfect moment often holds us back. Perfection is an illusion that hampers progress.

This mindset can prevent individuals from taking the necessary steps toward their goals, as they wait for ideal conditions that may never materialize.

Moreover, the fixation on perfection can result in a lack of contentment and an inability to appreciate incremental progress. Perfection isn't the key here. The key is progress.

Recognizing that small, consistent actions lead to significant improvements can shift the focus from unattainable perfection to achievable progress.

Michael Afolabi: A Testament to Resilience

Michael Afolabi's life exemplifies the power of resilience and the importance of embracing progress over perfection. Born in Nigeria to hardworking parents who valued education, Michael faced numerous challenges, including the devastating loss of his mother and a wrongful incarceration that tested his faith and determination.

Despite these hardships, Michael chose to view adversity as an opportunity for growth. He reflects, "Resilience is a choice. Life will test you in ways you never expect, but how you respond is what truly matters." This perspective enabled him to transform his pain into purpose, leading him to a fulfilling career in nursing and a commitment to helping others overcome their struggles.

Embracing Imperfect Action

One of the key lessons from Michael's journey is the value of taking imperfect action. Rather than waiting for perfect circumstances, he emphasizes the importance of moving forward despite uncertainties.

By focusing on actionable steps, individuals can build momentum and create positive change. This proactive mindset encourages learning through experience, where mistakes become valuable lessons rather than setbacks. Michael's resilience demonstrates that embracing imperfection allows for continuous growth and the development of inner strength.

The Role of Systems and Habits

Establishing effective systems and habits is crucial in maintaining progress and navigating challenges. Using systems and habits to improve your life is a proven method to succeed.

This involves creating routines that promote consistency and align with one's goals.

Michael attributes his success to the positive habits instilled by his mother, such as discipline, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning. These habits provided a foundation that supported him through adversity and propelled him toward his aspirations. By focusing on daily practices, individuals can cultivate resilience and ensure steady progress, even when faced with obstacles.

Finding Purpose Through Adversity

Adversity, while challenging, often serves as a catalyst for discovering one's purpose. Michael's experiences of loss and injustice fueled his passion for healthcare and advocacy. He shares, "My time in detention forced me to reflect on life and what truly mattered... Now, I dedicate myself to helping others overcome their struggles." This transformation illustrates how confronting difficulties can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a more profound sense of purpose.

Viewing challenges as opportunities enables individuals to harness their experiences for personal growth and to inspire others facing similar situations.

Progress Over Perfection: A Pathway to Growth

The concept of progress over perfection encourages a shift in mindset from seeking flawlessness to valuing continuous improvement. This perspective fosters resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from experiences. Michael's journey exemplifies how embracing this philosophy can lead to overcoming adversity and achieving meaningful success.

By focusing on progress, individuals can break free from the paralysis of perfectionism, take actionable steps toward their goals, and develop the resilience needed to navigate life's challenges. As both Michael demonstrates, the pursuit of progress is not only more attainable but also more rewarding, leading to personal fulfillment and the ability to positively impact others.

Conclusion

Embracing progress over perfection is a transformative approach to personal development. It empowers individuals to take action, learn from their experiences, and grow through adversity. Michael Afolabi's story serves as a powerful testament to the strength and resilience that come from this mindset. By adopting this philosophy, we can navigate life's challenges with courage and purpose, continually moving forward on our journey of growth.

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Here is Michael’s story from him:

Michael Afolabi: My Story of Resilience and Purpose

I was born in Nigeria into a family that valued hard work, perseverance, and community. My parents, though not formally educated, were small business owners who worked tirelessly to provide for us. My mother, in particular, held education in high regard. She made countless sacrifices—sometimes going without meals—just to ensure my siblings and I were taken care of.

She would travel long distances to visit me at boarding school, despite the pressures of running her own small business. Her strength and selflessness had a lasting impact on me. From her, I learned the importance of the people you surround yourself with, the value of hard work, and the importance of pushing forward no matter the obstacles life throws at you.

The bond I shared with my mother was unique—she was my rock, my cheerleader, and my guide. When she passed away suddenly at the age of 65, it was devastating. Worse still, I couldn’t return to Nigeria for her funeral, and the pain from that loss haunted me for years.

Her death ignited a fire in me. It sparked a deep desire to understand the human body and help others live longer, healthier lives. This passion eventually led me to nursing, a career I chose to honor her memory.

Wrongful Incarceration: A Test of Faith

Imagine being in the wrong place at the wrong time, only to end up in jail for something you didn’t do. That’s what happened to me. I was wrongfully incarcerated and later detained by immigration authorities. The whole experience was a nightmare—a mixture of disbelief, frustration, and heartbreak.

I kept asking myself, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" I had been a law-abiding resident, paying taxes, working, and attending school. Yet, I found myself trapped in a system that seemed intent on breaking me down. To make matters worse, the lawyers I hired didn’t fight for me—some even suggested I accept a plea deal for a crime I hadn’t committed.

There were times when giving up seemed like the only option. But each time I thought of my wife and young child waiting for me, I found the strength to keep fighting.

Finding Strength in Family

It was my family that gave me the strength to endure. My wife stood by me through the darkest of times, and the thought of my son growing up without me kept me going. I knew I had to fight—for myself, yes, but even more so for them.

“I couldn’t bear the thought of missing my child’s formative years,” I often say. “The idea of not being there for my family pushed me to keep fighting.”

Pivoting to Nursing: A Career Fueled by Purpose

My journey to nursing wasn’t a straight path. Initially, I studied material science and engineering, but after the loss of my mother, I decided to shift my focus. It wasn’t just about changing careers; it was about finding purpose. Nursing became my way to help others while honoring the values my mother had instilled in me.

Today, I work tirelessly as a nurse, drawing from my personal experiences to connect with my patients on a deeper level.

Turning Pain into Purpose

My time in detention forced me to reflect on life and what truly mattered. I missed out on precious moments with my son and lost friends along the way. But these hardships didn’t break me. They strengthened my resolve to make a difference.

Now, I dedicate myself to helping others overcome their struggles—whether through my work in healthcare or by sharing my story to inspire hope. I want to show that resilience can turn pain into purpose.

Advice for Anyone Facing Hard Times

If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone facing tough times, it would be simple: “Never give up.” Even when life feels impossible, there is always a reason to keep going.

“Remember your ‘why,’” I tell people. “Your family, your community, the people who need you—they are the reasons to keep pushing forward.”

Looking Ahead: A Life of Impact

My vision for the future is clear. I want to continue expanding my work, help even more people, and create platforms that empower others to overcome their own obstacles.

“I hope to make a significant impact,” I say. “I want my story to show that no matter how tough life gets, there is always hope.”

Inspiring Others, Against All Odds

My journey is a testament to passion and resilience. I've faced unimaginable challenges, but through faith, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to my family, I’ve turned my struggles into a life of purpose and impact.

If there’s one thing I want people to take away from my story, it’s this: No matter what life throws at you, you can rise above it. Against all odds, you can create a life filled with purpose, love, and hope.

About Michael Afolabi

I’m Michael Afolabi, a compassionate Licensed Practical Nurse,Entrepreneur  and Speaker. I’m dedicated to inspiring others through my story of resilience and hope. From overcoming wrongful incarceration and immigration detention to building a life of purpose, my journey proves the power of perseverance. Today, I focus on empowering individuals to overcome their struggles and reach their fullest potential.

Here are questions to Michael and his insightful responses:

Scott: Your journey is very inspiring. I often tell people that they need to appreciate the journey, not just the destination. What are 3 key lessons you learned from the many obstacles you faced?

Michael: My journey has taught me countless lessons, but three stand out the most:

• Resilience is a choice. Life will test you in ways you never expect, but how you respond is what truly matters. I learned to keep moving forward, even when it felt like everything was falling apart.

• Your “why” is your anchor. When facing adversity, I constantly reminded myself of why I couldn’t give up—my family, my future, and the people I hope to inspire.

• Setbacks are setups for a comeback. Some of my most painful moments became the foundation for my greatest growth. Every obstacle was an opportunity in disguise, shaping me into who I am today.

Scott: If you meet someone who is considering quitting because challenges are in their way, what do you tell them to keep them moving forward?

Michael: When someone feels like quitting, I remind them that challenges are not the end of the road—they’re part of the journey toward becoming stronger and wiser. I tell them, “Your breakthrough often lies just beyond your breaking point.” I also encourage them to remember who needs them—whether it’s family, friends, or a future version of themselves—and to let that be the fuel to keep going.

Scott: You mentioned how influential your mother was in your life, especially with her appreciation of education. How do you emphasize the value of education to your own son?

Michael: I honor my mother’s appreciation for education by instilling those same values in my son. I don’t just focus on academic success—I emphasize the importance of lifelong learning. I encourage curiosity, teach him to ask questions, and show him that education is a tool for empowerment. More importantly, I lead by example—reading, learning, and constantly growing myself.

Scott: Can you describe a time when everything felt terrible but later you realized that the experience ultimately helped you, even though it was painful at the time?

Michael: The most painful experience of my life was my wrongful incarceration. It felt like the end of everything—my career, my dreams, and my dignity. However, that experience taught me the true meaning of strength, patience, and faith. It forced me to confront my deepest fears and rise above them. Today, that pain fuels my purpose to help others overcome their own battles.

Scott: I emphasize the value of the systems and habits in your life and how what you do today creates what is available to you in the future. Can you talk about how the lessons from your mother helped you develop positive habits that helped you overcome and ultimately help you rise to the success you are today?

Michael: My mother’s dedication to hard work and perseverance laid the foundation for my habits today. She taught me discipline through her actions, showing me that consistency builds character. I developed routines around learning, health, and productivity that kept me grounded during tough times. Her sacrifices inspired me to build habits of gratitude, discipline, and resilience—tools that helped me rise beyond my circumstances.

Scott: When I look at my life, I see a lot of pivoting and moving into new areas but in hindsight it all seems to fit together perfectly. Do you notice a similar perspective now that you have overcome so much? Can you talk about how it all fits together to create the person you have become?

Michael: Absolutely—I see it all fitting together now. At the time, my struggles felt disconnected and senseless. But now, I realize every hardship prepared me for the next step in my journey. My experiences in healthcare, my personal challenges, and my passion for speaking all connect in my mission to inspire and empower others. Every pivot, every painful lesson, was shaping me into the person I am today—a coach, a speaker, and someone who helps others find their strength.