When everything seems to go wrong, what's next?

I recently went to Pakistan, a business trip that tested my resilience and patience, and reminded me of one of Murphy’s laws: “When things can go wrong, they will.”

For months, I had meticulously planned this visit. My Hong Kong business had recently merged with a fintech firm in Karachi, and I had critical meetings awaiting me in Islamabad to resolve business issues and explore new ventures. Flights were booked, hotels arranged, and schedules finalised—until everything started to go wrong.

Just days before my departure, geopolitical tensions between Pakistan and India led to a week-long suspension of flights over Pakistani airspace. Then I had to move out of my home due to renovations. Then I contracted COVID.  So, all my well-organised plans had to be set aside, and I had to start from the beginning.

With tensions subsided, renovations underway, and COVID negative, I finally arrived in Islamabad.  What I found happily astounded me. Not having visited Pakistan since the pandemic, I was so cheered by the vibrant energy around me. All the media reports of darkness and doom did not reflect the people brimming with resilience and ambition, showing off their industrious and innovative spirit, undeterred by challenges.

How distance distorts our views and perceptions! Instead of a country held back by difficulties, I discovered a land of relentless hustlers—people like me—who believed in hard work and optimism.

I only had 96 hours in Islamabad, so efficiency was key. My schedule was packed with back-to-back meetings, negotiations, and strategy sessions across the city.  The mission was clear: resolve pressing business hurdles, finalise new deals, and lay the groundwork for future growth. Against the odds, we achieved in four days what could have taken months.

The secret? Surrounding myself with partners who shared my drive. The Pakistani entrepreneurs I work with are resourceful, solution-oriented, and relentless. Their tenacity was infectious, proving that obstacles are just opportunities in disguise. Together, we turned potential setbacks into a resounding success.

So my immediate lessons?

• Murphy is correct, but …:  yes, things will go wrong. And so, what happens next?

• Mindset Matters: cancelled flights, illness, or geopolitical unrest, challenges do not have to define the outcome

• Find the positive: The people I met didn’t dwell on limitations; they found ways around them, and their “can-do” spirit was a powerful reminder that progress belongs to those who refuse to quit

This trip reinforced a vital lesson:  the key difference between failure and success is persistence. Whether in business, personal goals, or daily life, the willingness to persevere and act is what separates achievers from bystanders.

My biggest lesson from this trip? How amazing is Pakistan, especially those many, many unrecognised and ordinary people with the “Make It Happen” Philosophy, who focus on action over excuses. When things went wrong, they didn’t complain; they innovated. When others saw problems, they saw potential.

And my incredible partners? Trailblazers! Your brilliance, adaptability, and unwavering drive made this trip a triumph. You are proof that talent and determination can thrive in any circumstance. Thank you for inspiring me and for showcasing the true spirit of Pakistan.

You gave me a masterclass in overcoming adversity and illustrated these real-life lessons with such good grace and positivity:

• Embrace Uncertainty – Growth lies beyond fear. Take calculated risks.

• Control What You Can – Focus on effort, not external factors.

• Surround Yourself with Doers – The right team magnifies success.

• Stay Grounded in Your Roots – Heritage can be a wellspring of strength.

• Celebrate Small Wins – Progress compounds. Every step counts.

This trip is a powerful reminder: success favours those who keep going. In just four days, we achieved the extraordinary—not because it was easy, but because we refused to quit. The relentless spirit of Pakistan’s people left an indelible mark on me.

Wherever you are, whatever challenges you face—keep pushing forward. Adopt the “Make It Happen” mindset and watch how barriers turn into breakthroughs. Here’s to resilience, action, and the unstoppable force of Persistence!

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