We would say over the last two years, Nigerians especially have been consistent about what we all termed popularly as ‘JAPA.’ You wake up informed that a close friend or family member has relocated to another country coupled with so many reasons, leaving either a positive or negative impact, realizing that some memories you have of being together with them in the same physical space might be the last you’ll have for another 20 years. And then, the anxiety kicks in, the burden of wanting the same for yourself or getting upset about the situation of the country. How then do we survive this pressure? Stay with us.
Factors that contribute to Japa pressure
People are pressured because their close friends, family members and neighbours are leaving the country for one reason or the other which may include:
- Education:
For most individuals, the reason they move to another country is to start or further their education, like, have a B.sc, Master’s, Postgraduate degree, or accept scholarship offers.
- Economy threat:
Not everyone can get used to or work around deflation in the economy, imbalance, and suffering, which brings an individual to look out and yearn for good possibilities somewhere else.
- Change of Environment:
A new dispensation is the main motive we can highlight here. At first, this became a joke until reality set in. Individuals have different reasons as to why they want to relocate, but mostly, it is to enter and enjoy a new phase of life.
- Mental Wellness:
When an individual gets agitated by stress, economic affairs, frustration, or pressure from family and friends for certain reasons, they are coerced into relocating to a new environment for their emotional stability.
How to cope with Japa pressure
To be quite honest, it may be hard. But we hope that the coping strategies highlighted below can help you withstand the Pressure;
Self-reflection
Self-reflection is one of the coping strategies to pull through this stage. Start by Identifying the context of the pressure, I.e., are you influenced by the fear of missing out on better opportunities or other valid reasons? Highlight this and practice meditation. Sit back and consider what your most pressing issues are instead of following the crowd to participate in things that don’t matter to you. What are your goals and aspirations? Do they align with you also making Japa plans? Even if it does, do not forget that everyone’s timing is different and unique.
Building and connecting deeper with Supportive networks
The most powerful tool for advancing growth is building and connecting deeper with supportive networks, and it has been said to be one of the major coping strategies for withstanding Japa pressure. Why? It’s amazing how people who know you and love you will bring out the best in you, even in your lowest and happiest moments.
When you build and connect deeper with supportive networks, they open the doors to learning and unlearning things you don’t even know about, and you get diverse points of view as to how things work.
Seek guidance
Another coping strategy to withstand Japa pressure is to seek guidance. Everyone has at least one confidant (Mentor) to disclose personal issues. And when you feel pressured like this, the best thing is to reach out to them for counsel, comfort, and moral support. They know better, which means they can help better.
Explore alternatives
As we discussed earlier about goals and aspirations and how they align with your plans under self-reflection, exploring them is also another coping strategy to withstand Japa pressure. Go out and seek better possibility options you can access.
Prioritize well-being
Another coping strategy for withstanding Japa pressure is to prioritize well-being be it physical or emotional well-being. Explore your hobbies or newfound interests, go on walks, eat healthy, and take good rest.
In conclusion, It is essential to understand that everyone has unique potential. What works for A might not work for B, but you can make use of whatever you have wherever you are. Do not fall into the pressure of Japa, but prioritize goals that align with your direction. GOOD LUCK WITH THAT!!!
