Okezi Obrutu
Builder at Narratives That Build, Physician & Data Specialist
Okezi Obrutu is an author who uses the power of words to build positive identity in young children. She's also a physician, data specialist, and ministry leader. At its core, her work equips people, processes, and systems to function at their highest potential.
WALK THE TALK & DO THE WORK
Impact Report
In the past 5 years, I have:
SUCCESS LEAVES CLUES
We asked Okezi for Clues
Something that catalyzed your growth - besides working hard?
Making decisive decisions at strategic inflection points has been a significant catalyst for my growth. Every time I’ve said yes to a new challenge, aspiration, or bold ask when I could have chosen the easier path, it has placed me on a trajectory of accelerated growth and multiplied impact.
Something you're most proud of?
I’m most proud of the mark I have made in the lives of hundreds of children over the last decade through various expressions, including published books, curated events, teaching ministry, and personal investments. Such accomplishments matter to me because I know how much intention and attention go into every expression.
The YESes haven’t always been easy, and reinvention has been required over and over again, but every time I receive feedback from a child I have taught, or one who has read my book, or a parent whose child has been marked by my presence in their life, it makes me grateful for the sacrifices that led up to that point and proud of my journey so far.
On Reinvention
One of the most significant pivots I have experienced came with a role where I led a faith-based community of 200+ women. As an introvert, I struggled to see myself as someone who could really function in that capacity, which held me back from fully showing up for a few months.
However, in a moment of self-evaluation, I realized that time was passing, and my input at the time wasn't going to produce my preferred outcomes at the end of the season.
That moment brought about a shift in my mindset and self-perception. I decided that I could be who the role needed me to be, and I was determined to make a difference with my position and leave a positive impact at the end of the day.
It was a single decision, but it changed how I functioned going forward. My shift in perspective transformed my posture, actions, routines, and goals, which led to accomplishments beyond what I could have imagined.
To me, a reinventor is one who steps into the shoes needed to accomplish what a vision demands and then puts in the work to fill them.
Note to everyone considering a pivot:
"Go for it, step into the river, and see where it takes you. You can’t win if you don’t try, and if you miss, the transformation you’ll experience on the journey will still be worth it. Who knows, it could even be the springboard for your next win."
Worth Remembering
Reinvention is not about changing your core identity. Instead, it is an invitation to expand your self-perception and leverage your innate potential to deliver a different kind of result. Everyone is capable of this, including you.
- Okezi Obrutu
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If any part of her story resonated with you, there's more where it came from.