“Your Better Self with Akanna” was a personal development column by Akanna Okeke on BellaNaija.com that explored the intersection of self-improvement, leadership, discipline, relationships, faith, ambition, and human behavior.
Through storytelling, cultural commentary, psychology, and practical life lessons, the column challenged readers to think deeply, grow intentionally, and become better versions of themselves. Its central theme was that meaningful success begins with personal transformation.
Patience, Hustle, and Dedication Beat Degrees: The Real PhD of Life
Are formal academic qualifications really the secret to winning at life, or are we confusing schooling with true education?
In this episode, we unpack why academic degrees don't always translate into personal finance wisdom, smart choices, or real-world success.
Inspired by Akanna Osita-Okeke's article, "Thinking About Getting a PhD? Here Are Some Things to Help You Decide if You Need That Degree," we dive into the three fundamental life habits that constitute the only "PHD" you truly need:
P – Patience: The ability to manage expectations, avoid shortcuts, and stay committed even when instant results do not show up.
H – Hustle: Taking active, productive steps to sharpen your skills and build momentum while waiting for your breakthrough.
D – Dedication: Staying focused on your core goals and conquering "shiny-object syndrome" without constantly changing direction.
Stop letting fear of failure hold you back from taking action. True education happens outside the classroom through experience, resilience, and persistent action.
📖 Read the Original Article: BellaNaija – Thinking About Getting a PhD? Here Are Some Things to Help You Decide if You Need That Degree (https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com%2F2016%2F09%2Fakanna-okeke-thinking-about-getting-a-phd-here-are-some-things-to-help-you-decide-if-you-need-that-degree%2F).🎧
Enjoyed this episode? Hit Follow on Spotify, leave a rating, and share it with someone who needs a reminder to focus on the real PhD of life!
1 Oct 2026
Why Good Ideas Come in the Shower (and How to Have Them Anywhere)
Have you ever wondered why your most brilliant ideas, song lyrics, or creative solutions always seem to strike while you are in the shower?
In this episode, we explore the psychology behind "shower thoughts" and break down practical ways to recreate those ideal mental conditions throughout your workday.
Key Takeaways:
Digital Detox: How stepping away from your phone and social media gives your mind the quiet space it needs to reflect.
Single-Tasking vs. Multi-Tasking: Why focusing on one simple physical activity lowers stress and makes your brain receptive to breakthrough ideas.
Receptivity & Vulnerability: How uncluttered surroundings and letting your guard down create fertile ground for creative thinking.
Workspace Replication: Simple strategies to bring distraction-free, relaxing conditions into your daily work environment so you can capture great thoughts anywhere.
This episode is based on the original article on BellaNaija — 3 Reasons Why Good Ideas Come in the Shower (https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com%2F2017%2F05%2Fakanna-okeke-good-ideas-come-shower%2F) by Akanna Osita-Okeke.
25 Sept 2026
The 5 Universal Laws of Stratospheric Success
In this episode, we explore how to apply the 5 Laws of Stratospheric Success—inspired by Bob Burg and John David Mann’s book The Go-Giver and featured in Akanna Osita-Okeke’s article on BellaNaija.
Discover how shifting your focus from taking to giving can transform your personal and professional life.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
The Law of Value: Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than you take in payment.
The Law of Compensation: Your income is determined by how many people you serve and how well you serve them.
The Law of Influence: Your influence is determined by how abundantly you place other people’s interests first.
The Law of Authenticity: The most valuable thing you have to give people is yourself.
The Law of Receptivity: The key to effective giving is staying open to receiving.
Whether you want to advance your career, expand your business, or build stronger relationships, these principles offer a practical framework for creating value and serving others.
📖 Read the original article: Are You Obeying These 5 Laws of Success? It’s Not Too Late to Start (https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com%2F2016%2F08%2Fakanna-okeke-are-you-obeying-these-5-laws-of-success-its-not-too-late-to-start%2F) by Akanna Osita-Okeke on BellaNaija.com
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