Thisisfolu.co.uk

Category: Buisiness

  • 8 Skills That Will Separate Winners From Losers in 2026

    The gap isn’t opening because of intelligence, education, or access to tools.
    It’s opening because of how people think, decide, and adapt in an AI-accelerated world.

    By 2026, almost everyone will have access to powerful AI. The differentiator won’t be who uses AI , it will be who uses it well, responsibly, and strategically.

    Here are the eight skills that will quietly determine who pulls ahead and who gets left behind.

    1. Judgment in an Automated World

    AI can generate options. It cannot own consequences.

    The winners will be those who can:

    • interpret AI outputs with context
    • challenge flawed assumptions
    • decide when not to use AI

    As automation increases, human judgment becomes more valuable, not less. Poor judgment scales failure faster than ever before.

    2. Problem Framing (Not Problem Solving)

    AI is excellent at solving defined problems.
    Most people define the wrong problem.

    High performers will stand out by:

    • asking sharper questions
    • reframing vague issues into precise challenges
    • separating symptoms from root causes

    Those who can frame problems correctly will outperform those who rush to solutions.

    3. Systems Thinking

    Everything is now interconnected: data, regulation, reputation, operations, risk.

    Winners will understand:

    • second- and third-order effects
    • how one decision impacts multiple systems
    • why “local optimisation” often creates global failure

    Linear thinkers will struggle in a non-linear world.

    4. AI Literacy (Not Prompt Tricks)

    Knowing how AI works matters more than knowing clever prompts.

    AI-literate professionals understand:

    • limitations, bias, and failure modes
    • where data comes from
    • when outputs are unreliable

    This isn’t about becoming technical. It’s about being danger-aware in decision-making.

    5. Accountability Ownership

    As AI spreads, responsibility doesn’t disappear — it concentrates.

    Those who rise will:

    • take ownership of AI-influenced outcomes
    • document decisions and rationale
    • govern AI use defensibly

    Those who hide behind tools will be the first exposed when scrutiny arrives.

    6. Learning Velocity

    What you know today depreciates faster than ever.

    The advantage comes from:

    • learning continuously
    • unlearning outdated assumptions
    • applying knowledge quickly, not hoarding it

    Speed of adaptation will matter more than depth of past experience.

    7. Clear Thinking Under Uncertainty

    2026 won’t reward certainty — it will reward composure.

    Top performers will:

    • make decisions with incomplete information
    • avoid paralysis and overconfidence
    • stay grounded when narratives conflict

    Clarity under pressure is becoming a leadership superpower.

    8. Credible Personal Positioning

    Noise is everywhere. Trust is scarce.

    Winners will:

    • communicate clearly without hype
    • build reputations for sound judgment
    • be known for how they think, not just what they do

    In an AI-saturated world, credibility becomes currency.

    The Real Divide

    This isn’t about being technical or creative.
    It’s about thinking quality.

    AI is amplifying human capability — and human weakness at the same time.

    Those who develop judgment, systems awareness, and accountability will compound their advantage.
    Those who outsource thinking to tools will quietly fall behind.

    2026 won’t be kind to passive users.
    It will reward deliberate thinkers.

    Want to Go Deeper?

    This article focuses on what skills will matter in 2026.

    If you’re looking for practical, structured guidance on how to build these skills at different levels — from beginner to executive — I’ve created a series of AI books and guides designed for real-world application, not hype.

    They cover:

    • AI judgment and decision-making
    • Responsible and defensible AI use
    • Thinking frameworks for leaders and professionals
    • Practical AI capability at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels

    You can explore them here:
    👉 https://www.stan.store/folukt3

    This isn’t about tools or trends.
    It’s about thinking clearly in an AI-driven world.

    #AIGovernance #LeadershipDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #TechAndSociety

  • Why Airbnb Makes the Perfect Side Hustle

    Here’s why I believe Airbnb is such a great side hustle for anyone looking to earn extra income:

    1. Low Start-Up Costs: You don’t need to invest in expensive properties to get started. Whether it’s a spare room, a guest house, or an apartment you’re not using, you can start small and scale up.
    2. Immediate Earning Potential: Once your listing is live, you’re able to start making money almost immediately, especially if you price it right and make your space inviting.
    3. Flexibility: The best part about hosting on Airbnb is the freedom it gives you. It’s not a 9-to-5 job, and you can control how much you want to work and when. This makes it perfect for people who want to earn income on the side while keeping their main job or lifestyle intact.

    Step 1: Find the Right Space

    Let’s start with the basics: you don’t need to be in a tourist hotspot to make money on Airbnb.

    It’s true! There’s always demand for clean, comfortable, and well-located spaces. Whether you have a spare bedroom, an entire apartment, or even a cozy guest house , there’s someone out there looking for exactly what you have.

    When I started, I listed a spare room in my home, and over time, I grew to manage more properties. I recommend starting small, testing the waters, and seeing how your first listing performs. You might be surprised at how quickly it can take off.

    Step 2: Create a Listing That Sells Itself

    Your Airbnb listing needs to stand out. Here’s a pro tip: great photos and a clear description can make a world of difference. People are looking for places that feel welcoming, cozy, and accessible.

    Invest in natural lighting and take pictures from angles that showcase the best parts of your space. Your title and description should also be compelling and concise , highlight what makes your space special. And always ask yourself: Would I want to stay here?

    Step 3: Automate the Process

    Once you’ve set up your listing, you’ll want to save time by automating as much of the process as possible. That’s where tools like Smartbnb, iGMS, and Airbnb’s Smart Pricing come in. These tools automate guest communications, cleaning schedules, and even check-ins.

    By automating these tasks, you free up your time to focus on other important things while your side hustle runs smoothly.

    Step 4: Price Smartly for Maximum Earnings

    Here’s a huge tip: dynamic pricing is key to boosting your earnings. Tools like Pricelabs and BeyondPricingautomatically adjust your nightly rates based on demand, season, and local competition.

    This helps you get the best rate for your space, depending on the time of year and your local market. It can turn your listing from a “side hustle” to a consistent money-maker. Trust me, getting your pricing right can be a game-changer.

    Step 5: Scale Your Airbnb Side Hustle

    Once you’ve mastered your first listing, you might feel ready to scale. Scaling doesn’t mean rushing into managing multiple properties all at once. Start by making sure your systems are in place.

    For example, you can expand by offering co-hosting services or partnering with property owners who need help managing their Airbnb listings. With the right systems, you can grow your side hustle into something more without feeling overwhelmed.

    Ready for the Full Blueprint?

    If you’re feeling excited and ready to take the leap into the Airbnb world, I’ve got something special for you.

    My new eBook, Airbnb Success Blueprint: From Listing to Scaling, takes you step-by-step through everything you need to know to launch and scale your Airbnb business. It’s not just a book , it’s a complete system for success.

    In this eBook, you’ll discover:
    ✅ How to create a high-converting listing
    ✅ The tools and strategies I use to automate my business
    ✅ Pricing hacks to maximise your earnings
    ✅ How to scale without burning out

    👉 Grab your copy here: https://stan.store/folukt3/p/airbnb-success-blueprint-from-listing-to-scaling

    This guide will help you move from an Airbnb newbie to a superhost in no time! Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. With the right mindset and approach, your Airbnb side hustle can become a reliable source of income.

    #AirbnbSideHustle #AirbnbSuccessBlueprint #HowToHostOnAirbnb #PropertySideHustle #PassiveIncome #EarnFromHome #AirbnbSuperhost
    #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbTips #SideHustleJourney #FinancialFreedom #BusinessGrowth #StartYourSideHustle #PassiveIncomeIdeas

  • The Silence of Success: A Coloured Woman’s Voice in Executive Spaces

    There’s a particular silence many of us know too well. It isn’t the peaceful, reflective kind. It’s the type that tightens your chest, that follows a great idea being ignored in the boardroom only to be applauded later when repeated by someone else. It’s the silence that trails behind every achievement you downplay because you don’t want to seem like you’re “showing off.” It’s the voice you learn to muffle, as a coloured woman—especially when you’re navigating executive spaces while raising children.

    The Unspoken Struggles of a Professional Coloured Woman

    1. You’re Expected to Be Exceptional—But Not Too Loud About It

    As a coloured woman, you are expected to prove yourself twice as much. Competence is your bare minimum. Excellence is expected. But pride? That’s unwelcome. When you speak about your promotions, your successful projects, or your impact, there’s often a shift in the room. That subtle shift that suggests: Tone it down. Don’t make others uncomfortable with your greatness.

    2. Jealousy at Home: When Success Becomes a Wedge

    Sometimes, the deepest pain doesn’t come from the workplace—it starts at home. When you start to earn more, achieve more, or even dream more, it can trigger insecurity in a partner who feels left behind or emasculated. Your wins feel like weapons in the wrong context. Even in-laws may whisper—“She’s too ambitious”, “She doesn’t respect her husband”, or the ever-familiar “She’s not raising the children properly.”
    You become “too much” for a world that still clings to outdated gender roles, especially when your skin isn’t white.

    3. Raising Children While Climbing Ladders

    There’s a unique guilt reserved for women—magnified if you’re a coloured woman with big dreams. You worry about missing school plays while trying to secure deals. You fear judgment from the mothers at the school gate. You get called “selfish” for dreaming beyond diapers and dinner. And when you’re successful? You’re judged even more harshly for it.

    4. Prejudice in the Workplace

    • Microaggressions: Being mistaken for the admin staff. Being told you’re “well-spoken” as if it’s a surprise. Having your assertiveness mistaken for aggression.
    • Tokenism: Being placed on panels or diversity boards not because of your talent, but because of how your presence “looks.”
    • Silencing: When you speak out against discrimination, you risk being labelled “angry,” “difficult,” or “a troublemaker.” Even HR can become complicit, more interested in protecting the company image than your dignity.

    How Do You Navigate All This in the Western World?

    It’s a complex dance—one foot in authenticity, one in survival. But it’s possible to honour yourself and your voice. Here’s how:

    Advice & Coping Techniques

    1. Know Your Worth—Even When Others Can’t See It

    Your value isn’t determined by validation. Keep a Success Journal. Write down every win—big or small. This helps rewire your brain to internalise your accomplishments without guilt.

    2. Build Your Own Inner Circle

    You need people who get it. Find or create support groups of women like you—online or in-person. Safe spaces where you can vent, strategise, cry, laugh, and grow without judgement.

    3. Therapy is Not a Luxury—It’s Liberation

    Especially when you’re breaking generational curses. Therapy can help you unpack internalised racism, sexism, and the trauma of being constantly othered.

    4. Protect Your Energy

    Not everyone deserves access to your dreams, especially those who diminish them. This includes friends, relatives, and sometimes—even romantic partners. Learn to love from a distance when needed.

    5. Find Mentors—And Be One

    Seek out mentors who understand the terrain, even if they aren’t in your exact field. And then become that mentor for someone else. Your voice may feel silenced in rooms today, but you are blazing trails for tomorrow.

    6. Document Everything

    If you’re facing workplace discrimination, keep receipts. Emails. Memos. Witnesses. HR isn’t always your friend—but evidence is power.

    7. Reclaim the Narrative

    Talk about your wins. Brag on your name. Whether it’s LinkedIn, your blog, or around your kids—show them that coloured women do succeed. And we can be proud of it.

    Final Word: Don’t Dim Your Light

    Success as a coloured woman is not just personal—it’s political. Every promotion, every boundary you set, every time you speak up—you’re disrupting a system that wasn’t designed for you to win.

    So speak anyway. Shine anyway. Love your children, chase your goals, wear your crown, and raise your voice. Even when it shakes. Especially when it shakes.

    You were never too much. They were simply not enough to handle your light.

    #BlackWomenInLeadership #WomenOfColorInBusiness #ExecutiveBlackWomen
    #WorkingMomLife #BreakingBarriers #WomenOfColorMatter #BlackExcellence
    #SilentStruggles #CareerAndMotherhood #LeadershipWhileBlack #DiversityInLeadership #VoicesOfColor #EmpoweredWomenEmpower #SheLeadsWithPower
    #BlackFemaleExecutives #BlackWomenDeserveMore #CorporateBias #WorkingWhileBlack
    #BlackMomsInBusiness #RiseOfTheUnderrepresented

  • Echoes from my father series : 20 Things My Late Father Would Say About My Journey

    1. “You carried the weight of the world with grace.”
      I left you too soon, my dear child, and yet you became a rock for your sisters. You took on the role of a parent and gave them the love and guidance I could no longer provide. Look at them now—thriving! That’s your doing.
    2. “I’m proud of the Tech leader you’ve become.”
      You didn’t just adapt to the changing world; you became one of the trailblazers shaping it. Your expertise in tech has broken barriers, inspired others, and created opportunities for countless people.
    3. “Your heart for autism advocacy is a gift to the world.”
      When life gave you challenges, you turned them into a mission. Founding Tade Autism Centre and Autism Treatment Support Initiatives showed the depth of your compassion. You’ve given hope to families like ours, showing them they’re never alone.
    4. “You’ve turned pain into purpose.”
      Losing me and your mum shaped your strength, but it didn’t harden your heart. Instead, it fueled your passion to make a difference, and that’s something I admire deeply.
    5. “The charities you founded are your legacy of love.”
      You’ve poured your soul into helping others. Through your charities, you’ve transformed lives, championed inclusion, and brought a sense of belonging to those who felt left behind.
    6. “An online tuition system? That’s genius!”
      Education was always our family’s cornerstone, and you’ve built on that. With your tuition system, you’re giving kids tools to succeed, no matter where they come from. It’s revolutionary—and so very you.
    7. “You raised your sisters like a mother would.”
      They were young when I passed, but you gave them everything. Look at them now—doctors, engineers, business leaders. That’s the fruit of your sacrifice and love.
    8. “Your role as a venture capitalist is awe-inspiring.”
      Investing in others’ dreams? That’s your superpower. You’ve turned ideas into empires and empowered people to create jobs and innovations that change the world.
    9. “You’ve mastered the art of balance.”
      A tech leader, an advocate, a charity founder, a mother, a mentor—you wear so many hats, yet you’ve never let one overshadow the other. That’s no small feat.
    10. “You’re raising your children to be extraordinary.”
      I see your kids, and I see your legacy. They’re resilient, compassionate, and full of potential—all because of you. Akintade is a testament to your patience, faith, and unwavering hope.
    11. “Your faith has guided your every step.”
      Through every trial, you’ve leaned on God, and that’s what kept you standing. Your faith is the foundation of everything you’ve achieved, and it’s evident in all you do.
    12. “You’re a voice for the voiceless.”
      Whether it’s advocating for children with autism or mentoring women, you’ve amplified voices that deserve to be heard. You’ve made the world take notice, and I couldn’t be prouder.
    13. “You’ve turned challenges into stepping stones.”
      Life wasn’t kind when it took me away, but you refused to let hardship define you. Instead, you used it to climb higher and inspire others to do the same.
    14. “You’ve left your mark on the world of business.”
      As a serial entrepreneur, you’ve built ventures that don’t just generate profit—they solve real problems. That’s what makes you stand out in a sea of businesses.
    15. “You’ve inspired countless mothers.”
      Your story of balancing career, family, and selflessness is one that so many mothers look up to. You’ve shown them it’s possible to dream big and still nurture a loving home.
    16. “Your resilience is unparalleled.”
      Losing both parents, raising your sisters, founding charities, building businesses—you’ve faced mountains most people couldn’t climb. But you climbed, and then you built roads for others.
    17. “You’ve honored our family’s name.”
      Everything you’ve done has been with integrity, compassion, and excellence. You’ve shown the world what it means to rise from adversity and shine.
    18. “You’ve made education accessible and exciting.”
      Through your tuition system and mentorship programs, you’ve redefined how children learn and how women succeed. That’s a legacy no one can erase.
    19. “Your entrepreneurial spirit is unmatched.”
      From tech innovations to impactful charities, you’ve taken risks that paid off in ways no one could’ve imagined. You’ve shown that being bold and caring go hand in hand.
    20. “I’m proud to call you my daughter.”
      Above all else, you’ve stayed true to who you are—a kind, brilliant, and tenacious soul. You’ve made me prouder than words can say, and I’m watching over you with a heart full of love.

    “Keep going, my dear. The world is better because of you.”

    #TechLeader #AutismAdvocate #CharityFounder #VentureCapitalist #MomMentor #SerialEntrepreneur #Resilience #Leadership #WomenInTech #AutismSupport #CharityWork #Entrepreneurship #FaithDriven #FamilyFirst #Inspiration #EducationMatters #BalanceInLife #MotherhoodJourney #BusinessSuccess #LifeLessons #LegacyOfLove

  • Nigeria at 64: The Back and Forth Dance of Independence

    Today I write about my motherland Nigeria @ 64. On October 1st, 1960, Nigeria stood tall and proud, waving its green and white flag to the world as it declared itself free from the colonial chains of the British Empire. The country’s leaders beamed with optimism, painting a vision of a nation brimming with untapped potential—rich in natural resources, diverse in culture, and robust in its people’s resolve. The independence journey was hard-fought, marked by fierce debates, protests, and a collective desire to govern our own destiny. The world believed Nigeria was poised to become the shining beacon of Africa.

    But here we are, 64 years later, and that glimmer of hope has dimmed significantly. The same Nigeria that was once called the “Giant of Africa” seems stuck in an endless loop of back and forth. Progress is promised, but stagnation remains the reality.

    The Nigerian economy, once poised to flourish, has been battered by decades of mismanagement, corruption, and inconsistent policies. It’s a tale as old as time: oil booms have been squandered, agricultural potential left untapped, and opportunities for industrial growth missed. The country struggles under the weight of bad governance, where leaders are more focused on self-enrichment than national development. With rising inflation, unemployment, and a weak currency, it’s no wonder that millions of Nigerians find it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.

    This bleak situation has sparked an exodus—what we now refer to as brain drain. Our brightest minds, who once believed in the Nigerian dream, are now packing their bags and leaving for greener pastures. Doctors, engineers, teachers, tech experts, creatives—professionals who could have helped steer the nation towards greatness are finding solace abroad. The impact is devastating. Hospitals are understaffed, schools are ill-equipped, and innovation is stunted. The tech experts who could revolutionize industries are now building empires in Silicon Valley, London, or Dubai, while Nigeria is left to grapple with inadequate infrastructure and a stalling economy.

    The brain drain isn’t just a loss of talent; it’s a loss of hope. Every Nigerian that leaves represents another crack in the foundation of what could have been. The aftermath of bad governance is felt in the streets—young people unemployed, industries crippled, and the collective spirit of the nation worn down by the weight of broken promises.

    But what’s the way forward?

    First, we must tackle bad governance head-on. It starts with accountability. Leaders should be held to higher standards, and citizens must demand transparency. Economic policies need to be long-term, stable, and designed to empower local businesses, create jobs, and foster innovation. We need to diversify away from oil dependency and instead focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and tech. Nigeria should be a hub for startups, innovation, and industrial growth.

    Next, we must create an environment that makes it attractive for Nigerians in the diaspora to return home—what I call the “Japada Movement.” This isn’t just about patriotism; it’s about providing incentives. We need better infrastructure, access to capital for startups, and policies that favor job creation and innovation. The diaspora is a wellspring of talent, and by opening the doors wide enough, we can welcome back doctors, engineers, and innovators with the skills and experience necessary to drive the country forward.

    Lastly, the youth must be empowered. They are the future of Nigeria, and investing in education, skills training, and entrepreneurship is essential. By nurturing the next generation, we lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.

    Nigeria, despite its back-and-forth struggles, has not lost its potential. The road may be long and winding, but with collective effort and leadership that places the people’s interest above all else, we can reclaim our position as the true Giant of Africa.

    So, as we celebrate another Independence Day, let’s remember our journey—the highs, the lows, the steps forward, and the stumbles backward. Let’s reflect on where we are and what we can become. Together, we can make Nigeria great again.

    Happy Independence Day, Nigeria! May we rise above our challenges and soar higher than ever before.

    Share your memories!
    How did you celebrate past Independence Days? How are you spending today? Share your favorite moments from Independence Day in the comments! 🇳🇬💚

    #NigeriaAt64 #IndependenceDay #GiantOfAfrica #MakeNigeriaGreatAgain #BrainDrain #Japada #NigerianDiaspora #BadGovernance #Accountability #YouthEmpowerment #NaijaForLife

    For further discussion on how to improve the situation in Nigeria, subscribe to my blog, email me on folu@thisisfolu.uk ; follow me on Instagram @iamfolupreneur ; TikTok @mumandsonakintade