Overnight Success vs. Over Time Success: A Truth We Need to Talk About
In the age of reels, curated feeds, and 30-second “life hacks,” the concept of success has become dangerously distorted. Social media and lifestyle gurus often project a narrative of instant transformation — the “overnight success.” But let’s get real: growth, true growth, is far from glamorous. It is messy, painful, and often invisible to the outside world.
The Lie of the Instant Life Glow-Up
We’ve been sold an illusion. Platforms are flooded with highlight reels of beautiful lives, fast wealth, and spiritual alignment seemingly gained with little effort. But what you don’t see are the breakdowns behind the breakthroughs. The countless hours of inner work. The silent battles fought in solitude.
As someone who has been on a personal growth journey for decades, let me tell you — it’s war. Not with the world. But with yourself. Every day, I compete with my older self to simply do and be better. And that requires facing parts of myself I once used as survival mechanisms — habits, patterns, and mindsets that no longer serve me.
The Death of the Old You
Growth demands a death — the death of who you were. And that’s not poetic hyperbole. It's real. It’s uncomfortable. It’s lonely. Especially when others around you want access to the older version of you that made them comfortable. They might call your evolution a betrayal. But truthfully, they are mourning a version of you that was never meant to stay.
Even my own mind rebels at times, trying to resurrect old patterns in the name of self-preservation. Fighting those urges, disciplining myself daily not to slip back — mark my words — is no small feat. It's not the world that makes it hard to grow. It's the part of you that still finds comfort in chaos.
Boundaries, Discipline, and the Long Game
To become the person you envision, you must create boundaries and deny access — not out of arrogance but out of necessity. Growth takes discretion, discernment, and discipline — my personal "3 Ds." They are my compass and my code.
And if you’re still chasing quick wins, I urge you: let go of the fantasy. Ask anyone who builds muscle in the gym — the true results show up over time, not overnight. Incremental wins matter. Small reps matter. Consistency is the compound interest of success.
The Entrepreneur’s Grind
As a lifelong entrepreneur, I’ve taken more losses than wins. But I keep showing up. Because the fight is good. And so is the growth. What sustains me is having a team that shares the vision — people who also live by the 3 Ds. In this world of flakiness and fleeting attention, loyalty is non-negotiable. Find your tribe. Keep them close.
AfriKin: A Decade of Cultural Work and Counting
As AfriKin enters its 11th year, we reflect not only on what we've achieved but on how we can improve. This work — the celebration of Black arts, culture, and community — is more important now than ever. As the arts face defunding and devaluation, we must amplify the stages we still have to empower our people. We’re not just entertaining — we’re preserving identity, memory, and dignity.
That’s why events like Taste of AfriKin matter. Join us on Labor Day Sunday, August 31st at 6 PM in North Miami for an evening of food, flavor, and family. Let us celebrate the culinary and cultural richness of the Black world — together.
So, What Can You Do?
Here are a few calls to action to help you begin — or recommit to — the over time work of becoming your best self:
Audit Your Circle – Surround yourself with people who share your values and stretch your vision.
Master the 3 Ds – Discretion. Discernment. Discipline. Let these guide your decisions daily.
Train Your Mind – Your greatest opponent is your old self. Prepare for battle daily.
Commit to the Long Haul – Burn the backup plans. Focus. Repetition. Progress.
Hold Space for Grace – Not everyone will evolve at your pace. Be patient. Stay open.
Final Thoughts
I’ve lived a rebellious life, one that often went against the status quo. I’ve learned that doing what’s right, living in love, and walking with God are not difficult decisions — they are difficult commitments. They require solitude, stillness, and unwavering focus.
To those who once knew a version of me they miss — I love you. But I’ve moved on. As Gregory once said, "We don’t all get to the Father at the same time." So I leave room for grace, and I ask the same in return.
Ask yourself today: Are you willing to do the overtime work for the success you desire over time? Or will you keep jumping around, chasing a myth that may never materialize?
The choice is yours.
With love, peace, and understanding for more cohesive opportunities.
Cheers,
— Alfonso Brooks for AfriKin
CALL TO ACTION:
The AfriKin Art Fair 2025: Through Creation, We Find Meaning is now open for artist submissions. Be part of a historic movement. Tell your story. Share your vision. Heal through creation.
Visit Afrikin.art for more information and submission guidelines.
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Please share your thoughts with us by sending an email to info@afrikin.org or leaving a comment below. Your feedback is important to us as we continue to grow and evolve.
