Kingdom greetings.
I am Irene Birungi Mugisha, a journalist by background. As a writer, I have always journaled and saved my thoughts. Becoming an author seemed distant, but I occasionally publish articles in our daily newspaper. The idea of writing a book was something I reserved for retirement. My conviction was to share my story through the lens of the reader.
As you turn the pages of my book, I delve into my leadership roles that began early in life by default as the firstborn. The Covid period became a turning point for me, spending months away from my family amidst uncertainty and mounting stress. In April 2020, I seized the momentous decision to start penning my first 20 pages. I recount how my journey relates to life experiences and offer Biblical interpretations of each step.
In summary, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s words ring true: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Nearly everything we see today was once a concept, an idea, a seed, or a dream residing within a heart, spirit, or mind. Despite being unseen, these aspirations are as real as what is visible. The essence of who we are inside, or what God intended us to be, is a powerful force. Every human, regardless of background, holds greatness within them, ordained by God.
Some may not recognize this truth and have been conditioned to believe the opposite. Yet, deep within, a voice whispers that they are capable of more. Even in adversity, the CEO within us refuses to stay silent. We are not meant to merely exist; greatness is our birthright.
In his book, “Live Your Dreams,” Les Brown illustrates this truth through a powerful story. He addressed a group labeled as ‘educable mentally retarded,’ proclaiming that greatness resided within each of them. Initially met with silence, his persistence and belief in their potential eventually ignited a roar of affirmation.
My intention with this book is to amplify that same voice within you, reminding you of your inherent greatness. A CEO in the business world calls the shots and makes things happen. Likewise, there is a CEO within each of us capable of creating legacies and achieving greatness. We often compare ourselves unfavorably to others and disqualify ourselves. I know this struggle firsthand, having overcome personal challenges to achieve success.
Born without privilege, I would have scoffed at the idea of occupying the highest office in the land decades ago. My journey from hopelessness to breakthrough is a testament that others can achieve similar transformations. I feel compelled to guide others on this path, unlocking their inner greatness.
We are born for greatness; the question is how to attain it. This book offers timeless lessons from my own story—a narrative woven with joy, pain, laughter, humble beginnings, hope, hopelessness, and triumph. It’s a journey to discover and embrace your unique potential.
Embedded in these pages are lessons that touch on excitement in self-discovery, meeting expectations through realizing our destiny of greatness and service, the role of experience in shaping our purpose, the empowerment found in blooming where we are planted, and the exceptionalism that comes from living out our purpose.
Join me on this journey to grow into the great CEO you were destined to be.
