Hello everyone!
I’m beyond thrilled to share that I’ve officially passed my PMP exam! 🎉
Let’s just say this journey wasn’t a walk in the park—it was more like a hike up Mount Everest, but I’m here now, and I hope my story inspires you!
Why PMP?
I decided to pursue the PMP certification to align my skills with global project management standards and enhance my ability to manage complex construction projects (and any other projectized obligations) effectively. The PMP was my way of solidifying my expertise, advancing my career, and boosting my employability in this fast-growing, dynamic industry.
Funny enough, my PMP story started eight years ago when I was completely new to projects. Back then, I signed up for my first PMP training with zero experience in project management. The academic head almost rejected my application because the program required participants to work in a projectized environment. But nope, I wasn’t taking “no” for an answer. I passionately argued, “Why deny me the chance to enhance my career before it even starts?!” 🤣 (Bless him for relenting.)
Fast forward, I trained, failed several mock exams, and completely lost my drive. I never even attempted the actual exam. I felt defeated.
But here we are—eight years, five years of direct project experience, and two PMBOK editions later—I found myself asking, “Why didn’t I push harder back then?”
The Game-Changer:
This time, I joined Step Up Business School, an ATP here in Ghana and their training changed the game for me. Their approach simplified everything I thought I knew but never really understood. Concepts I’d struggled with before suddenly made sense, and their emphasis on the PMI mindset was a lifesaver. I finally began to internalize what PMI expects of us project managers.
But let me tell you, the road wasn’t smooth. Between juggling work, family, and studies, there were days I wanted to throw in the towel. Consistency became my mantra. I joined a study group where we set an unbreakable goal: write and pass the exam before the end of the year. We became each other’s accountability partners, meeting every week for two hours virtually and dedicating additional time for individual studies.
The Strategy:
1. Practice, Practice, Practice
I solved hundreds of questions, analyzed all answers (especially the wrong ones), and used them to identify weak domains. I also focused on answering questions faster because speed matters.
2. Resource Discipline
I avoided resource overload and stuck to two materials:
• Step Up slides
• Andrew Ramdayal’s Simplified Notes (I’ll share a copy if anyone needs it!)
3. Mindset is Everything
I watched mindset videos until I could practically hear PMI whispering to me in my dreams. 🤣
4. Fasting and Prayers
I knew I needed more than just knowledge to cross the finish line. So, I fasted and prayed, trusting God to guide me through the process. Every step of the way, I leaned on faith to strengthen my resolve.
5. Stay Calm Before the Storm
A few days before the exam, I stopped cramming and focused on light revision with Bootcamp slides and more mindset videos. The day before the exam, I prioritized rest to show up energized.
The Big Day:
On exam day, I arrived two hours early—don’t ask me why; it’s just a survival instinct where I’m from. 🤣
I felt completely unready that morning and even considered postponing the exam. But after talking to a few PMP-certified folks, I realized pre-exam anxiety is just part of the package.😅 During the exam, I monitored my time like a hawk and flagged questions I wasn’t sure about for review. By the time I clicked “submit,” it wasn’t just relief I felt—it was pure joy and gratitude even though post exam anxiety engulfed me, I was confident I was acing it.
The Lessons:
This journey taught me perseverance, discipline, and, most importantly, to trust God’s timing. From failing mock exams years ago to finally passing the PMP, I’ve learned that success doesn’t come easy, but it’s worth every effort.
Advice to You:
If you’re pursuing PMP or any big milestone, here’s my two cents:
• Stay committed, no matter how hard it gets.
• Trust the process and never underestimate the power of the PMI mindset.
• Pray, fast (if you can), and believe in yourself.
Remember, success is a mix of hard work, strategy, and (let’s be honest) lots of prayer. 😇Let’s keep winning together! Feel free to reach out if you’re preparing for the PMP or tackling any big challenge. We rise by lifting others!
Cheers to more wins,
Somevi Godfred Edem, REEEng, PMP
Community Champion
