DEV Community: Solih Akorede Lawal

Why Being Honest With Yourself About What You’re Learning Matters By Solih Akorede Lawal

Solih Akorede Lawal — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 22:01:43 +0000

How It All Started

Last year, I wrote an article titled “Why Am I Learning This? Understanding the Purpose Behind Your Education.”

At that time, I was a web developer in training — writing code, building interfaces, and learning the logic behind web technologies. I believed I loved it, but deep down, I was following the trend, not my truth.

I didn’t realize it then — but I was learning for the wrong reasons.

The Turning Point

By December last year, I began to feel stuck. I asked myself tough questions:

“Why am I learning this?”
“Is this really what I want?”
“Would I still be happy doing this in 10 years?”

For weeks, I couldn’t find clear answers. I felt lost — like I was learning, but not growing.

Then I noticed something small but powerful — I loved using AI tools like ChatGPT.
It fascinated me how AI could understand, summarize, and even create ideas.

That was my spark.
I told myself, “What if I could build my own AI model or something that uses AI?”

My First Step into AI

The first thing I built was an AI Text Summarizer, after completing a Postman API course.
That moment — watching my project summarize text automatically — gave me so much joy and confidence.

I realized: This is it. This is my lane.

That’s how my journey into Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning began.

Finding My Focus: Computer Vision

When I started exploring AI, I came across several areas:

Machine Learning
Deep Learning
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Computer Vision
Robotics
AI Ethics

Then I discovered Computer Vision — and everything clicked.
The idea of teaching machines to see and understand the world the way humans do fascinated me.
That’s where I decided to focus.

What I Learned

Looking back at my old article made me realize something important:
I wasn’t being honest with myself about why I was learning web development.

But I’m glad I discovered the truth early enough to change direction.

🧩 The Takeaway

If you’re learning or working on something just because it’s popular, take a step back and reflect:

Are you genuinely passionate about it?

Does it align with your goals?

Would you still be excited about it years from now?

If not — it’s okay to start over.

Change can be uncomfortable, but being honest with yourself is the first step toward a fulfilling career.

It’s never too late to realign, refocus, and rediscover what truly makes you happy.

Final Thoughts

Finding your path takes time — but every wrong turn teaches you something.
I’m grateful for my web development journey because it led me to discover my love for AI and Computer Vision.

So if you’re at that crossroads, unsure of what’s next — take a deep breath, be honest with yourself, and keep exploring.
You might just find the path you were meant to take all along.

Written by Solih Akorede Lawal
AI/ML Developer | Computer Vision Enthusiast | Lifelong Learner

AI #MachineLearning #ComputerVision #CareerJourney #Motivation #Growth

AI Won’t Take Your Job—But People Who Use AI Will.

Solih Akorede Lawal — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:19:55 +0000

A few days ago, I hosted a live session on the topic “Overcoming Doubts: Why Everyone Has a Place in Tech.” During the Q&A section, an audience member asked a question that left everyone thinking: “Will AI take our jobs?” The speaker’s response was simple but profound: “No, it’s the people using AI that will take our jobs.”

That answer stuck with me because it reveals a truth we often overlook—AI is not here to replace us. Instead, it’s empowering those who know how to use it. The real competition lies not between humans and AI, but between those who leverage AI and those who don’t.

The Reality of AI in the Workplace

Let’s face it—AI is revolutionizing industries worldwide. But contrary to popular fear, it’s not a human replacement; it’s a tool for improving efficiency, accuracy, and creativity.

Consider these examples:

Healthcare: AI helps doctors analyze medical images, detect diseases early, and suggest treatments, saving countless lives. AI-powered robotic surgery tools are also enhancing precision in the operating room.
Content Creation: Writers use AI tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly to generate ideas, draft articles, and polish their writing, speeding up research and revision processes.
Customer Service: AI chatbots handle routine queries, allowing human agents to focus on complex issues that require empathy and critical thinking.
Finance: AI systems analyze vast amounts of financial data to detect fraud, automate trading, and provide personalized investment recommendations, helping businesses and individuals make better financial decisions.

5.** Education:** AI-powered platforms like Khan Academy and Coursera personalize learning experiences, adapting lessons to each student’s pace and style. Teachers also use AI tools to grade assignments, track progress, and identify areas where students struggle.

6.** Manufacturing:** AI-driven robots optimize production lines by performing repetitive tasks with speed and accuracy, reducing human error. Predictive maintenance tools also monitor machinery to prevent costly breakdowns.

Transportation and Logistics: AI powers self-driving vehicles, route optimization tools, and delivery systems that streamline supply chains, saving time and fuel costs.
Retail and E-commerce: AI analyzes customer preferences to recommend products, manage inventory, and automate customer support. Tools like virtual fitting rooms enhance online shopping experiences.
Agriculture: Farmers use AI for crop monitoring, pest detection, and predicting weather patterns. Drones equipped with AI analyze fields to optimize irrigation and boost yields.
Programming and Software Development: Tools like GitHub Copilot and AI-powered debuggers help developers write cleaner, error-free code faster, reducing time spent on repetitive tasks.

In every sector, AI is augmenting human potential, making workflows smoother, faster, and more accurate. The machines process data and automate tasks, but humans remain the strategists, decision-makers, and creative innovators who bring ideas to life.

## Who Will Take the Jobs?
It’s clear that the people who embrace AI, learn its capabilities, and integrate it into their workflows will lead the future. Those who resist change risk being left behind, while those who adapt gain a competitive edge.

Here are a few examples of how professionals are leveraging AI:

Designers: Graphic designers and artists are creating stunning visuals in minutes using tools like MidJourney, DALL·E, and Canva AI. These tools help them experiment with concepts, save time, and bring creative visions to life faster than ever before.
Writers: Writers are brainstorming and refining content using AI language models like ChatGPT, Jasper AI, and Grammarly. These tools speed up research, improve clarity, and enhance productivity for content creators, marketers, and journalists.
Programmers: Developers use AI-powered tools like GitHub Copilot, Tabnine, and CodeWhisperer to automate code generation, debug errors, and improve efficiency, enabling them to focus on solving more complex problems.
Marketers: Digital marketers leverage AI tools such as HubSpot and Google Analytics to analyze customer data, predict trends, automate campaigns, and create personalized content for target audiences.
Educators: Teachers use AI tools like Khanmigo and Quizlet to personalize learning experiences, create automated lesson plans, and provide feedback, freeing up time for one-on-one student engagement.
Photographers and Videographers: Professionals are using AI tools like Runway and Topaz Labs to edit photos and videos, enhance quality, and even generate creative visual effects in post-production.
Customer Support Agents: AI-powered chatbots and tools like Intercom and Zendesk AI handle repetitive tasks, allowing agents to focus on more nuanced and empathetic human interactions.
Financial Analysts: Professionals in finance use AI tools for risk assessment, fraud detection, and investment predictions. Platforms like Bloomberg Terminal AI and Alphasense analyze massive datasets to identify market trends and opportunities.
HR Professionals: Recruiters are streamlining hiring processes using AI tools like LinkedIn Recruiter and HireVue for candidate screening, interview scheduling, and performance analysis, saving time and reducing bias.
Doctors and Medical Practitioners: AI tools like IBM Watson Health assist doctors in diagnosing diseases, analyzing medical reports, and recommending treatments, enabling them to provide better and faster care.
Sales Professionals: AI platforms like Salesforce Einstein and Zoho CRM analyze data to predict customer behavior, automate workflows, and optimize outreach strategies for better results.

The bottom line? It’s not about AI replacing professionals; it’s about professionals enhancing their work with AI. Those who embrace these tools will drive innovation, boost productivity, and lead the way in their industries.

Upskilling is the Key

**
The shift brought by AI is not a threat but a call to action: adapt and evolve. The demand for new skills is growing, and those who invest in upskilling will thrive.

Here’s how to get started:

Learn AI Tools: Explore AI-powered platforms relevant to your field (e.g., MidJourney for design, ChatGPT for writing, or Postman for developers).
Take Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on AI fundamentals and tools.
Build a Growth Mindset: Stay curious and open to learning—AI evolves quickly, and so must you.

Adopting AI doesn’t mean abandoning your skills. It means enhancing them, allowing you to work smarter, not harder.

Final Thoughts: AI Won’t Replace You—But You Need to Keep Up

AI is not the villain of the story. It’s an opportunity—one that levels the playing field for those who choose to adapt. The future doesn’t belong to machines; it belongs to the people who innovate with them.

So, the question isn’t “Will AI take your job?” but “What are you doing to stay ahead?” Learn, adapt, and leverage AI to your advantage. Because while AI itself won’t take your job, the people who use it definitely will.

Why Am I Learning This? Understanding the Purpose Behind Your Education By Solih Akorede Lawal

Solih Akorede Lawal — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 00:15:27 +0000

Ever found yourself sitting in a class or scrolling through an online course and thinking, "Why am I even learning this?" You're not alone. This question is super important because it can totally change how you approach learning and, ultimately, your success. Understanding why you're learning something is crucial, and ignoring this can seriously impact your life.

Personal Experience
As someone who constantly asks, "Why am I learning this?" I get it. This question has shaped my learning journey in major ways. Here are a few things I always consider:

Of What Use Will This Be?
I used to question the utility of what I was learning all the time. For example, when I was learning about tutoring techniques, it seemed pointless. But now I tutor people in tech, mostly programming languages, and those skills have become invaluable. They help me communicate complex ideas and keep learners engaged.
How Does This Relate to My Goal?
I always check how the subject connects to my goals. Learning programming languages like Python and JavaScript, for instance, directly supports my dream of becoming a software developer. These languages are everywhere in the industry, and knowing them opens up tons of job opportunities.
Am I Wasting My Time Learning This?
Sometimes, I wonder if certain subjects are worth my time. Take subjects like history. At first, it felt irrelevant to my career. But then I realized that understanding history helps develop storytelling skills, critical thinking, and the ability to understand different perspectives. These skills are valuable in any job, especially in fields like marketing, writing, and even tech.

The Importance of Understanding the Purpose:

Motivation and Engagement:
Knowing why you're learning something can massively boost your motivation. Research by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) shows that students who see the relevance of their studies are 2.6 times more likely to stay engaged. When the purpose is clear, learning becomes more enjoyable and less of a chore.
Relevance and Application:
Understanding how what you're learning applies to your goals or interests makes it more useful. A Pew Research Center report says that 87% of working adults believe job skills and knowledge are key to career success. Knowing the importance of coding in today's digital world can motivate you to dive into it, seeing the endless opportunities it offers.
Long-Term Retention:
Grasping the significance of the material helps you remember it longer. A study in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that meaningful learning leads to better retention. You're not just cramming for exams; you're learning for life. For example, learning a language with the goal of working abroad makes it stick better.

Potential Consequences of Ignoring the Why

Lack of Direction
Without understanding the purpose, learning can feel pointless. The American Psychological Association reports that students with unclear goals are more likely to experience burnout and stress. This lack of direction can lead to confusion and missed opportunities.
Decreased Motivation
If you don't see why something matters, your motivation can drop. This can lead to bad grades, low self-esteem, and a lack of enthusiasm for future learning. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation found that 47% of college dropouts left because they didn’t find their courses engaging or relevant.
Missed Opportunities
Not recognizing the value of certain skills can mean missed chances. Not appreciating the importance of digital literacy in our tech-driven world can limit your career options and personal growth.
Inefficiency in Problem Solving
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are often built through subjects that seem unrelated. Not understanding this can make it harder to tackle complex issues. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report highlights that critical thinking and problem-solving are among the top skills needed in the workforce.

The Bigger Picture: Purposeful Learning

Personal Growth and Development
Learning helps you grow. A study by UC Berkeley found that lifelong learning improves cognitive function and adaptability. It sharpens your mind and broadens your horizons.
Economic Stability and Career Advancement
New skills and knowledge are key for moving up in your career. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that higher education levels lead to lower unemployment rates and higher pay.
Social and Cultural Awareness
Education helps you understand different cultures, fostering empathy and social harmony. The National Education Association says that exposure to diverse perspectives prepares you for global citizenship.
Health and Well-being
Learning about health and wellness directly impacts your well-being. The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of health education in promoting overall health.
Technological Proficiency
In today's digital world, knowing how to use tech tools is crucial. LinkedIn Learning reports that digital literacy is a top skill employers look for.Critical and Analytical Thinking Even subjects that seem irrelevant develop your critical thinking. These skills are essential for making informed decisions and solving problems.

Conclusion
Asking "Why am I learning this?" is more than just a fleeting thought; it's a key part of the learning process. It gives you clarity, boosts your motivation, and ensures your time and effort in education pay off. By understanding the purpose behind your studies, you can navigate your educational journey with focus and intention, leading to a more fulfilling and successful life.

Key Questions to Ask Before Learning Something
To make the most of your learning experience, ask yourself these questions before diving into a new subject:
1.What is the relevance of this subject to my goals?
2.How will this knowledge or skill be applied in real life?
3.What are the long-term benefits of learning this?
4.What are the potential consequences of not learning this?
5.How does this contribute to my personal growth and development?
6.Will this enhance my career opportunities and economic stability?
7.Does this knowledge help in understanding different cultures or societal issues?
8.Will this improve my health and well-being?
9.Is this skill essential for technological proficiency in today’s world?
10.Does this subject develop my critical and analytical thinking abilities?

Next time you start learning something new, ask yourself these questions. Understanding the answers can transform your learning experience and set you on the path to a more successful and meaningful life.

Make Learning Engaging with Gen Z References and Interactive Elements

To make learning even more engaging, incorporate references to technologies, social media, or trends popular among Gen Z. For instance, relate learning new skills to staying ahead on platforms like TikTok or gaining followers by mastering video editing techniques.

Interactive elements like quizzes or infographics can capture your interest. Imagine a quiz that helps you discover which programming language suits you best or an infographic that visualizes the benefits of learning a new language. These tools make the learning process more dynamic and enjoyable.