As we journey through life, there are lessons that only become clear with time. Hindsight is a powerful teacher, and the things we often dismiss or overlook in our youth are those that carry the most wisdom.
Time is fleeing
“When you’re young, it feels like there’s an endless amount of time.” Anitha Mukandamage, 39 years old.
We waste hours scrolling through social media, binge-watching TV shows, or waiting for the “right moment” to act. But as we grow older, we realize that time is not an infinite resource. The 5th Population and Housing Census by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) has revealed that the country’s life expectancy was 69.6 years in 2022. This brings home the fact that our time is finite.
“Time is the most valuable thing a man can spend.” Theophrastus
Theophrastus wasn’t Rwandan, but his words resonate with our busy schedules in Kigali. The lesson? Don’t waste it. Prioritize your goals and invest your time wisely.
Health is wealth
“When we’re young, we often feel invincible. It’s easy to take our health for granted, but as we age, the importance of a balanced diet, exercise, and mental well-being becomes glaringly obvious.” Clovis Nkurunzia, 43 years old.
With the rising rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension, Rwanda is not immune to this global health crisis. According to a 2021 report from Rwanda Biomedical Centre, NCDs account for 36% of deaths in the country. World Health Organization (WHO) estimates from 2016 show that NCDs, injuries and disabilities, accounted for 58 percent of total annual mortality in Rwanda.
Buddha once said that, “To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise, we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.”
Health is your foundation. Without it, you can’t pursue your dreams or take care of your loved ones. Taking small, consistent steps now, such as walking more or eating well, can have a massive impact on your future.
Money doesn’t buy happiness, but it buys stability
“Growing up, many of us are taught that success equals money. While financial stability is crucial (especially in a developing economy like ours), we soon learn that it isn’t the ticket to happiness.” Jeanine Rurangwa, 38 years old.
Satisfaction in life isn’t solely determined by income, but also by relationships and a sense of purpose.
“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.”- Will Rogers.
True wealth comes from security, peace of mind, and meaningful relationships—not from trying to show off.
Failing is part of the process
“When we’re young, failure feels like the end of the world. But as we get older, we realize that failure is part of the process of growth.” Elie Mugisha, 36 years old.
Entrepreneurs are no strangers to this, as the country continues to encourage innovation and small business growth. According to a 2023 World Bank report, approximately 30% of new small businesses fail by the end of year two, while half will fail before year five.
That means roughly 70% of startups fail within their first five years of operations, but these failures often pave the way for future successes. Thomas Edison once said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Failure teaches resilience and persistence, two qualities crucial for success in any field.
Relationships matter more than you think
“When you’re younger, you may think that you can do it all on your own. But as we age, we realize that our relationships—family, friends, mentors—are some of the most valuable assets we have.” Nyirangabo Jean, 38 years old.
In Rwanda’s tight-knit communities, relationships often play a key role in personal and professional growth. No man is an island, entire of itself, your connections shape your opportunities and experiences. Nurture them.
It’s never too late to start again
“Whether it’s pursuing a new career, passion, or lifestyle, it’s never too late to start over.” Stephanie Uwodukunda, 37 years old.
In Rwanda, where innovation and entrepreneurship are at the forefront, stories of people reinventing themselves abound. Take the example of women in cooperatives, who, after years of subsistence farming, are now thriving in small businesses, thanks to government initiatives.
It’s never too late to be what you might have been. Age is just a number. If you have the passion and drive, you can start over at any point in life.
