Practical Steps for Building Your Own Legacy: Tips for Women to Start Building a Legacy, Regardless of Their Current Circumstances

As women, we’re often told to focus on others—to care for our families, nurture our relationships, and put everyone else’s needs before our own. While there’s nothing wrong with caring for those around us, something is empowering about taking control of our own journey and building a legacy that reflects who we are, what we believe in, and the impact we want to leave on the world.

I truly believe that every woman can create her own path and leave a lasting legacy, regardless of her current circumstances. Whether you're starting from scratch or have faced challenges along the way, the key is to take consistent action towards your vision. Here are some practical steps that have helped me along my journey, and I hope they’ll inspire you to start building your own legacy.

1. Start with Clarity: Define Your Legacy

Before you can start building a legacy, it’s crucial to understand what legacy means to you. For me, it’s about empowering women, particularly African women, to create the lives they deserve. It’s about teaching them to build their own businesses, embrace their independence, and pursue their passions without fear or guilt.

Ask yourself, what do I want to leave behind? What do I want people to remember me for? Whether it’s a business, a mindset shift, or a way of living, clarity is the first step toward creating a meaningful legacy. Take some time to think about the kind of impact you want to make and the life you want to live. This clarity will be the driving force behind everything you do.

2. Focus on What You Can Control

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when we look at the big picture, but remember that you can only control what’s within your power. Instead of focusing on what’s outside of your control, focus on the small steps you can take today to move closer to your goals.

In my journey, I’ve had to adapt to challenges like motherhood, finances, and doubt. But I realized that no matter how small the action is, each step counts. Whether it’s reading a book on personal development, writing that blog post, or creating one social media post, these small actions accumulate over time and contribute to building a legacy.

3. Invest in Your Skills and Knowledge

One of the most powerful ways to build a lasting legacy is to invest in yourself. Whether that’s through education, honing your skills, or finding mentors who can help guide you, continuous learning is a key part of growth.

I’ve spent countless hours learning new things about content creation, business management, social media strategies, and more. Every new skill I acquire empowers me to take my brand and business to the next level. The more knowledge you gain, the more opportunities you’ll have to make an impact in your field and create the life you’ve always envisioned.

4. Take Action on Your Ideas

You can have the best ideas in the world, but without action, they’ll remain dreams. Building a legacy requires bold steps forward, even when you don’t feel ready. Don’t wait for the “perfect time.” Start where you are and take action today.

For me, Ngumabi started with a simple love for handcrafted fashion pieces. I didn’t have all the answers, but I started creating, sharing, and experimenting with what I loved. Kaolosphere, my social media management business, grew from a passion for empowering nonprofits. I didn’t have all the resources or certainty, but I took action, reached out to clients, and slowly built my confidence and expertise.

5. Build a Community of Like-Minded People

Legacy isn’t built alone — it’s about creating connections and supporting others along the way. Surround yourself with people who share your values and vision, people who believe in your mission and are willing to lift you up as you rise.

Building a community has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Whether it’s through my blog, my social media platforms, or my work with nonprofits, I’ve been able to connect with women who are just as passionate about creating a lasting impact as I am. Together, we can support and inspire one another.

6. Keep Going, Even When It Gets Hard

The road to building a legacy isn’t easy. There will be moments of doubt, discouragement, and setbacks. I’ve faced plenty of obstacles in my journey, from financial challenges to balancing work and motherhood. But every time I felt like giving up, I reminded myself of why I started in the first place.

It’s okay to take breaks when needed, but don’t let setbacks stop you from pursuing your dreams. Remember, perseverance is key. Your legacy is built over time, and consistency is the bridge between your dreams and your reality.

7. Be Authentic and True to Yourself

A legacy isn’t just about the things you do; it’s about how you do them. Authenticity is at the heart of everything I do. I strive to be honest, open, and true to myself and my audience. Whether it’s through my blog posts, social media updates, or business endeavours, I make sure that my actions align with my core values.

Your authenticity will attract the right people, the ones who resonate with your message and who believe in what you’re building. When you’re true to yourself, you’ll find that the journey of creating your legacy feels more fulfilling.

8. Teach and Empower Others

Building a legacy is not just about what you achieve—it’s about helping others rise with you. As you build your legacy, don’t forget to share your knowledge and experiences with others. Empower the women around you by offering advice, support, and opportunities for growth.

Whether it’s through blog posts, mentorship, or speaking engagements, teaching others is one of the most impactful ways to leave a legacy. The more you give, the more you’ll receive in return.

Your Legacy Starts Today

Creating your legacy may feel overwhelming, but remember, you’re already on your way. The first step is to believe that you have the power to build something meaningful—and then take action, one step at a time.

By defining your vision, focusing on what you can control, investing in yourself, and staying authentic, you’re building something that will last long beyond your lifetime. Your legacy will inspire future generations of women to create their own paths and live the lives they deserve.

Don’t wait for permission. Start today, and watch your legacy unfold.

This season has been sprinkling a little extra joy into my blogging journey, and I’m so grateful.

Just weeks after finding out that my blog was listed among FeedSpot’s Top Black Female Blogs, I made another beautiful discovery:

One of my blog posts was referenced on Wikipedia.
Yes — Wikipedia!

Honestly, it felt like the cherry on top of a very sweet cake. 😊

First, the FeedSpot recognition, and then this — it felt like the universe was giving me a quiet nod of encouragement.

Here’s how it happened:

I was checking my blog’s performance on Google Search Console — trying to understand where my traffic was coming from — when I noticed “Wikipedia.org” listed as one of the sources. I blinked. Wait… Wikipedia?

Curious (and very confused), I went to Google and typed Wikipedia + My Local Adventures Blog, and there it was.

My Ekwang recipe — a dish that means so much to me and so many Cameroonians — had been referenced on a Wikipedia page about Cameroonian cuisine.

Here's the link to the post on Wikipedia:

Why Starting Small Can Lead to Big Success

1. Starting Small Reduces Risk

Many people hesitate to start a business or project because they fear failure. But when you start small, you minimize risks. You don’t have to invest thousands of dollars upfront or quit your job. Instead, you can test your idea, see what works, and make adjustments without major financial losses.

Example: Instead of taking a loan to open a physical clothing store, you could start by selling on Instagram or WhatsApp. If you gain traction, you can then reinvest profits into expanding your business.

2. You Learn as You Grow

One of the biggest advantages of starting small is the opportunity to learn without overwhelming pressure. When you manage things on a smaller scale, you have time to understand your audience, refine your product, and improve your skills.

Example: If you want to be a content creator, you don’t need a professional camera and studio. Start with your phone, record videos, and improve as you go. Many successful YouTubers began with basic equipment and upgraded over time.

3. You Build Confidence and Momentum

Taking small steps allows you to build confidence. The more you do, the more you believe in yourself. With every small win, you gain momentum, which pushes you to keep going.

Example: If you dream of writing a book, don’t wait until you have a publishing deal. Start by writing blog posts or short stories. Over time, your writing will improve, and you’ll feel more prepared for bigger projects.

4. You Develop Stronger Problem-Solving Skills

Starting small forces you to be resourceful and creative. Instead of relying on money to solve problems, you learn how to make things work with what you have.

Example: If you can’t afford professional marketing, you can leverage free tools like social media, word-of-mouth, and collaborations to grow your brand. Many entrepreneurs who start this way become experts in their industries because they learn hands-on problem-solving skills.

5. It’s Easier to Pivot if Needed

Not every idea will work out as planned. If you start small, it’s easier to make adjustments without significant losses. You can experiment, gather feedback, and pivot if necessary.

Example: Imagine you start an online business selling handmade candles. After a few months, you realize that people love your scents but prefer wax melts instead of candles. Because you started small, you can easily shift your focus without losing a huge investment.

6. Small Steps Compound Into Big Results

Many people underestimate the power of small, consistent efforts. When you take small actions daily, they build up over time, leading to big success.

Example: If you start a savings challenge by putting aside $1 a day, in a year, you’ll have $365. If you increase the amount gradually, in a few years, you’ll have thousands saved. The same applies to business and personal growth—small actions create long-term impact.

Starting small isn’t a setback—it’s a strategy. Every big business, influencer, and entrepreneur you admire once started with little. The key is to begin where you are, with what you have, and stay consistent.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Take the first step today, and let the journey unfold. One day, you’ll look back and realize that starting small was the best decision you ever made.

If this inspired you, share your thoughts in the comments or subscribe for more tips on growing your dreams into reality!

One day, I had a conversation with a friend who reminded me that many of these successful people had started small, with little to no resources. That single thought changed my perspective. I stopped focusing on what I lacked and started thinking about what I could do with what I had.

If you’ve been holding back on your dreams because you think you need more money, better equipment, or the perfect timing, let me assure you: the key to success is shifting your mindset. Here’s how.

The Mindset Shift Needed to Start With What You Have

1. Focus on What You Have, Not What You Lack

It’s easy to dwell on the things we don’t have—capital, connections, or expertise. But successful people don’t let limitations stop them. They focus on their strengths and use available resources creatively.

Example: You don’t need a professional camera to start a YouTube channel. Many influencers began with their phone cameras. The most important thing is consistency and content quality, not fancy equipment.

2. See Limitations as Opportunities for Growth

When you have limited resources, you learn to be resourceful. This mindset fosters creativity and problem-solving skills that will benefit you in the long run.

Example: If you want to start a business but lack funds, begin by offering services instead of selling products. Freelancers and consultants often start with skills rather than physical inventory, allowing them to grow without a huge initial investment.

3. Take Imperfect Action

Many people delay starting because they want everything to be perfect. But waiting for perfection leads to inaction. The best way to grow is by taking small, imperfect steps forward.

Example: If you dream of launching a blog, don’t wait until you have the perfect website. Start writing and publishing on free platforms like Medium or LinkedIn. Your skills and audience will grow over time.

4. Embrace the Learning Process

Success isn’t about having all the answers from day one—it’s about continuous learning. Each challenge you face is an opportunity to grow and improve.

Example: Many entrepreneurs started without formal business training. Instead of waiting to enroll in a course, they learned by doing—researching online, watching free tutorials, and testing ideas in real life.

5. Surround Yourself with Positivity

The people and content you engage with influence your mindset. Surround yourself with individuals who encourage you to start with what you have and take action.

Example: Follow entrepreneurs who share real, practical advice. Join online communities of like-minded individuals who uplift and support each other’s growth.

The biggest shift you need is in your mindset. Instead of seeing obstacles, start seeing opportunities. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, take the first step now. You already have everything you need to begin—your creativity, determination, and willingness to learn.

The journey to success isn’t about having the best resources; it’s about making the best use of what you have. Start today, and watch how small steps lead to big achievements.

Ogbono Soup Recipe - Cameroonian recipe 

Ingredients

Prepping the ingredients

Cooking 

Harvested waterleaf from my garden

My mixed waterfufu before cooking. I didn't take pictures of the cooking process

Ogbono soup

Ogbono soup and waterfufu

Khoki Beans Recipe With Cocoyam Leaves | Cameroon Recipe

 

Ingredients and tools

Mortar

Banana\plantain leaves for tying

Palm oil

How to cook

When you are done wrapping them, put them in the pot and steam for at least 3 hours.

Here are the steps to wrap and tie the khoki in leaves in the pictures below.

Things I’ve Learned From Moving Multiple Times

I’ve moved several times over the past few years. Not because I love the process—it’s stressful, emotional, and exhausting—but because life has taken me through different seasons that required different spaces. Some moves were planned. Some were forced. Some were healing. Others were freeing. But every move taught me something new about life, independence, and myself.

Looking back, I now realize every move carries its own story. And no two moves are ever the same.

Here are some of the things I’ve learned through all my moves—and maybe, if you’re going through a change or considering one, this will help you make sense of your own journey too.

1. The Reason You Move Shapes the Way You Feel

Each move comes with its own emotion. I’ve moved out of survival, I’ve moved out of freedom, I’ve moved out of exhaustion, and I’ve moved out of hope.

Leaving the apartment I shared with my ex was painful but necessary. That move came with fear, urgency, and heartbreak—but also courage. The apartment I moved into next became a refuge. It saw me cry, heal, scream, hope again, and rebuild my confidence after everything I lost in that relationship.

Now, moving out of that healing apartment felt completely different. It wasn’t about escaping anymore—it was about growth. The mold on the walls, the noise from the road, and the discomfort of the space made it hard to stay, even though a part of me was emotionally attached to the history within those walls.

I’ve learned not to expect every move to feel the same. Sometimes you’ll feel relieved. Sometimes you’ll cry more than you expected. And both are okay.

2. Some Homes Are Meant for a Season—And That’s Okay

I used to believe that once I found a place, I would stay there for five years minimum. I longed for that kind of stability. And I still do. But reality has shown me that some spaces are not meant to be permanent—they are meant to carry you through a certain phase of your life.

Maybe they’re not perfect. Maybe they’re temporary. But they hold you when you need them most. They serve a purpose. And when that purpose is fulfilled, it’s okay to let go.

The house that sheltered your healing may not be the one that sees your flourishing. It’s not a failure—it’s a shift.

3. Moving Out Is Not Just a Physical Act—It’s an Emotional One

When you’ve cried in a room, laughed in a kitchen, prayed in a corner, or danced in your living room, it becomes more than just a building. That space starts to hold pieces of your story.

And when it’s time to go, it can feel like you’re leaving behind a version of yourself. I felt this deeply in my recent move. I wasn’t just saying goodbye to an apartment—I was saying goodbye to the woman who first entered it two years ago, broken and afraid. And I was proud of the woman who was walking out—healed, stronger, and more grounded.

So don’t be surprised if you feel heavy when leaving a space. Closure is not only for relationships—it’s also for homes that held you.

4. You Will Lose Things—And That’s Part of the Journey

Each time I move, I lose something. Sometimes it’s physical—plates, clothes, or a piece of furniture that just doesn’t fit anymore. But other times, it’s emotional. I lose attachments, old habits, or outdated versions of myself.

Some things I thought I couldn’t live without suddenly have no place in my new home. And other things I never valued before become precious.

Moving teaches you about what truly matters.
What’s useful, what’s clutter, and what needs to be released.

5. The Next Place Is a Blank Canvas—Let Yourself Explore It

Here’s the thing about moving into a new home: no matter how ready or excited you are, you don’t really know what it will feel like until you live in it.

Every new apartment or house comes with a fresh energy, and you get to define what that energy becomes. You’re not just arranging furniture—you’re planting seeds for a new season.

You won’t have all the answers on day one. And that’s okay. Let yourself settle slowly. Let the space grow on you. Let it reflect who you are now, not who you used to be.

6. Moving Teaches You About Yourself

With every move, I’ve learned to listen to myself more. To recognize when I’m forcing something. To trust when I feel peace. To let go even when I don’t have a full plan.

I’ve learned that I value quiet. Privacy. Light. View. Safety. I’ve learned that I want to live where I can hear birds in the morning, not cars honking at dawn.

I’ve also learned that I can do hard things. That I’m resourceful, that I can ask for help, and that I can rebuild from scratch—again and again, if I need to.

7. You’re Allowed to Feel It All

The mix of emotions during a move is real. Relief. Anxiety. Excitement. Nostalgia. Even fear. Don’t feel guilty for being emotional. And don’t rush to feel “settled” right away.

Take your time.
Feel the sadness of leaving, and the hope of entering.
Honor your process.

Let Every Move Be a Milestone, Not Just a Moment

If you’ve moved a lot like I have, you may feel tired. You may long for roots. But you can also see it as proof of how far you’ve come. Each move marks a shift in your journey, a moment when you chose to take action—either to survive, to heal, or to grow.

Let each move remind you that you are still in motion. That life is unfolding. That you’re not stuck. And that every time you move, you get closer to becoming the woman you were always meant to be.

So here’s to the places that held us.
Here’s to the ones we outgrew.
And here’s to the ones still waiting to be filled with laughter, light, and new beginnings.

If you’ve moved homes more than once in your life, then you probably know no two moves are the same.

Sometimes we move because we have to. Other times, because we want to. And then there are those moments—like mine—when a move is both sudden and deeply symbolic.

A few weeks ago, I moved into a new apartment in Yaoundé. It wasn’t something I had planned for that specific month, but deep down, I had been preparing myself for it. There had been signs for months: the growing discomfort in my old space, the mold creeping through the walls from unfinished construction, and the noise from the road just outside my window. But it wasn’t just the building. I had simply outgrown the space, emotionally and mentally.

The Apartment That Carried My Healing

Before this new place, I lived in what I often called my “refuge apartment.” It was the space I moved into after leaving a toxic relationship—a place that represented safety and survival. That apartment saw me through some of my darkest days.

There were tears, regret-filled nights, moments of complete numbness, and early mornings when all I had was faith and determination. There were heated phone calls, days of silence, bursts of courage, shame, and those proud, quiet victories when I could finally smile again at my own reflection.

So even though the walls were starting to leak and mold, and even though I knew I needed better, saying goodbye wasn’t as easy as I expected.

Letting Go Was Harder Than I Thought

Letting go of a space that held your worst and best moments can be deeply emotional. That apartment gave me warmth, comfort, and room to rebuild when I needed it the most. It was never perfect, but it served its purpose. It was my cocoon, and walking away from it felt like shedding old skin. Necessary, but bittersweet.

I realised something important:

We don’t just leave buildings. We leave behind stories, chapters, and versions of ourselves.

Every Move Comes With a Lesson

Over the years—and especially with this recent move—I’ve learned a lot about apartment hunting in Yaoundé. Things like:

• Always vet the neighbourhood first: proximity to the road is good, but too much noise can wear you down.

• Watch out for unfinished buildings—they can bring long-term issues like water leaking into walls and mold.

• Know your non-negotiables: A big kitchen? Natural light? Calm environment? Don’t compromise on the things that truly matter to your peace.

• Some houses fit a season in your life, not a lifetime. And that’s okay.

This time, I knew I needed a calmer space, better light, and a neighbourhood with more peace. I had to stretch myself to find it in a short time, but thank God, I did.

Stepping Into the Unknown With Faith

The first few nights in my new place felt surreal. It was quieter. I could hear birds in the morning—something I hadn’t experienced in a long time. It felt unfamiliar, but right.

I’ve started a new morning routine here—slow, peaceful, and intentional. I wake up feeling more centered, more present. It’s as though the space is inviting me into a new version of myself: softer, surer, ready.

I’ve also started looking at the things I brought with me differently. Some items no longer fit the new space or season of my life, and that’s okay too. You realize that in every move, you’ll lose a few things, gain a few, and repurpose others, just like in life.

My Favourite Things About My New Apartment

I haven’t done a full tour yet (but it’s coming soon on the blog and YouTube!), but I can already tell you what I love:

• The view. It's not grand, but it brings calm.

• The privacy. There are no shops in the compound this time—just peace and quiet.

• The sense of "new". The feeling that I get to recreate myself again here.

Growth Happens in Transitions

This move reminded me that growth isn’t always loud or dramatic. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet act of leaving a place that once held your broken pieces and walking into a new space with hope, even when you're unsure.

If you’re in a season of transition, moving homes, or just thinking of starting over in any way, I want to tell you this:

Every move teaches you something. Every space leaves a mark. And every new place gives you the chance to start again—with more wisdom, more clarity, and more strength.

Thanks for being part of my journey. I’ll share more soon—about setting up, creating routines, decorating on a budget, and finding beauty in the everyday.

Until then, here’s to new beginnings, healing walls, and homes that reflect the best version of who we are becoming.