Face Your Front

There’s a saying my Ghanaian mum used to say a lot, especially when she caught any of us comparing ourselves to someone else :- “Face your front”!

At the time, it was usually said with a knowing look, a raised eyebrow, kissed teeth (IYKYK) and a touch of impatience. But it’s a phrase that has stayed with me, and one I find more relevant than ever, particularly in the world we live in now - where comparison is so easy, and discontent can be just a scroll away.

“Facing your front” means focusing on your own path. Not looking left or right or watching what others are doing and measuring yourself against them. It means putting your energy into what you’re building, not what others appear to have already built. It’s about trusting that what is meant for you will not pass you by and, recognising that your journey is not supposed to look like anyone else’s.

As we get deeper into the summer and ‘holiday period’, there’s a lot of talk about slowing down, taking breaks, and “switching off for summer”, and while I’m all for rest and renewal, I’ve found myself reflecting on what that really means.

The truth is that rest looks different for everyone. For some, it’s a complete digital detox and time in the sun. For others, it might be catching up on creative projects, finding quiet moments amid the usual schedule, or simply saying “no” a little more often. Whatever it looks like for you, let it be yours!

Don’t compare your version of recharging to someone else’s social media-worthy retreat. Don’t feel pressure to keep up with anyone else’s pace or, their pause, build your own strategy and trust your own rhythm.

In the professional world, the temptation to compare is always present. We see promotions, achievements, new roles, big moves, it can feel like you’re behind or not doing enough. But this wisdom from my mum is a reminder that progress isn’t always loud, sometimes it’s quiet, steady and intentional.

When you “face your front”, it’s about YOU.

• You allow yourself to thrive on your own terms.

• You set goals that align with your values, not others’ expectations.

• You acknowledge and celebrate small wins that are meaningful to you.

• You create habits that support your wellbeing, not drain it.

• You give yourself permission to grow at your own pace—rooted, not rushed.

As with many things, I now see the depth in what my mum was trying to teach us. Her wisdom wasn’t just about staying in your lane, it was about being grounded in purpose, resisting distraction, and believing in God’s timing.

So, this summer (and beyond) I invite you to face YOUR front. Find your focus. Rest your way. Grow your way. Trust your way. Because what’s ahead of you is yours. And that’s enough.

Have fun!