We’ve been discussing friendships and relationships for some weeks now, and we’ve established that after your relationship with God, the next big influence on your life is the people you do life with. But there’s another thing that carries massive weight in shaping your future: You—and what you’re building.

This week, I want to talk about getting busy and building something for yourself. Let’s explore this from the lens of understanding your finances, finding your gifts, and developing your interests.

I’ve always known that I wanted to write to girls between 18 and 23. If you’re younger, you’re welcome. But if you fall in that age range, I’m talking to you. I believe you’re at that golden age where decisions matter and identity is forming. My prayer is that I reach you early and you’re better off for it.

Let’s start here: “A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.” (Proverbs 18:16). You have a gift—even if you haven’t found it yet. Your job now is to explore.

 Possible Interests to Explore

• Writing (stories, essays, poems, scripts)
• Reading and book reviewing
• Content creation (videos, podcasts, blogs, short reels)
• Public speaking or spoken word poetry
• Graphic design, digital illustration, or animation
• Hair styling, wig making, or makeup artistry
• Fashion design or clothing alteration
• Music (singing, song writing, playing instruments)
• Dance or choreography
• Culinary arts (baking, cooking, food presentation)
• Teaching, tutoring, or mentoring
• Event planning or coordination
• Photography or videography
• Social media management or strategy
• Mobile phone or computer repairs
• Tech skills (coding, UI/UX design, data analysis)
• Foreign languages or translation
• Craftsmanship (beadwork, crocheting, DIY décor)
• Social advocacy, public health education, or community volunteering

Whatever you're drawn to—whether it's mainstream or niche—know that your interest is valid. Every skill can be sharpened, and many can lead to real impact and income.

Exploring Your Interests as a Student

Being in school doesn’t mean you can’t grow beyond your academics. Volunteer for tasks. Try out online courses. Start a small blog. Use your breaks to intern or shadow people in fields that intrigue you. Pay attention to what excites you and where you naturally excel. I got to learn photography, I wrote a lot, got to know I loved teaching from my activities in Church.

Harnessing Your Potentials Early

Your twenties are a gift—don’t waste them waiting for “real life” to begin. Start small. Be curious. Ask questions. Read books. Watch others. Reflect often. Self-awareness is one of the strongest tools you can carry into adulthood.

Monetising Skills before You’re Ready for a Full Job

Even if earning money isn’t your immediate goal, it’s powerful to know that your gifts are valuable. You can:

• Offer tutoring services
• Braid or style hair on weekends
• Create content around what you know
• Help small business owners with writing or social media

When you exchange value, you gain confidence—and eventually, income.

 Setting Yourself Up for Success Early

You don’t need to have it all figured out. But you do need to start. Explore. Fail. Try again. Say yes to opportunities that stretch you. Be intentional about your time. The habits and decisions you make now shape who you’ll become.

And remember: You’re not doing this alone. God is for you. You’re in your becoming season. Sow wisely.

Until next week, here are your reflection questions:

• What skills or interests light me up inside?
• How have I made room for personal growth?
• What’s one small way I can invest in myself this week?

Pray with Me

Dear God,
Thank You for the gifts You’ve placed in me—even the ones I don’t see yet.
Help me to explore them with joy and courage.
Show me how to use my time well, and to grow in ways that please You.
Lead me into the fullness of who You’ve created me to be.
Amen.

With love and prayers,
Your Big Sister in Christ