Having traveled to 90 different countries, I have acquired perspectives and learned lessons that extend far beyond what can be picked up in a classroom, boardroom, or even daily life. The ability to navigate the unknown is something you can only acquire through travel to places you have never been before.
Travel often forces you out of your comfort zone, whether you’re facing unexpected delays or trying to communicate without a common language. Through these experiences, your perspective broadens, and you gain a deeper understanding of the world around you. Travel has been my greatest teacher, and the lessons I’ve learned from it have shaped how I navigate the business world.
Managing the Unexpected
One of the greatest lessons travel has taught me, and one that has significantly contributed to my success as a business owner, is the power of adaptability. Traveling in general, but specifically at the frequency and scale I do, rarely goes exactly as planned. Experiencing flight delays, unexpected weather shifts, and, most notably, changes in cultural norms across countries has strengthened my ability to empathize.
Over the years, I have developed a deeper understanding of the unique needs and behaviors of different markets and types of consumers. This deeper insight has enabled me to develop business strategies that not only align with local expectations but also foster stronger connections with diverse audiences. As a result, I am able to craft globally relevant brand experiences that reflect both inclusion and cultural awareness.
My experiences in countries like India and the UAE have transformed my approach to customer relations and innovation. In India, I witnessed how meticulous attention to detail and exceptional customer service can enhance a business. Similarly, in the UAE, I learned the importance of leveraging technology in business operations and prioritizing innovation, which resonated with me deeply.
These distinctly different yet equally vital lessons taught me that being adaptable isn’t about being reactive; rather, it’s about being proactive and prepared for change. This lesson has direct relevance to business ownership, in which success often hinges on your ability to remain flexible and anticipate unforeseen challenges. The more confident you become at navigating the unexpected, the better equipped you are to lead and grow a company in an ever-changing business environment.
Understanding More While Talking Less
Being in a country where you do not speak the language requires you to approach communication in a completely different way. You begin to rely on more than just words. Facial expressions, body language, cadence, and tone of voice often convey more information than spoken language. These experiences have deeply influenced how I lead and manage my team.
Clear, empathetic communication is essential in any business. Even if you are not navigating language barriers, every team member brings a unique background along with their own communication and working style. Effective leadership requires patience to understand what drives someone’s output, ultimately ensuring successful results.
I have learned that effective communication is not just about choosing the right words; it’s also about conveying the right message. It is about ensuring the other person feels truly heard and understood. By using inclusive communication skills and signals, you will foster a culture of thoughtful engagement and open-mindedness, ultimately leading to a more cohesive team culture. Whether engaging with a team member or client, we aim to tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of our diverse global audience. The fewer miscommunications, the stronger our interpersonal team relationships are, leading to a more collaborative culture and better outcomes.
Culture as Currency
The future of business is evolving at an unprecedented rate, driven by technological advancements and global influences. Effective leadership today requires more than operational expertise; it now demands a deep understanding of the environment around you. To lead successfully, you must understand the cultural differences of your clients and team members so you can effectively showcase your company’s values.
Every single country I have visited has broadened and challenged my preconceived notions through observing different consumer behaviors.
Being exposed to other cultures has enabled me to develop cultural fluency, which in turn has shaped my negotiation and collaboration skills. As stated in the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, the rise of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives showcases that these are not just values but rather initiatives that are critical to long-term business success.
Through my travels, I have had to embrace different cultures, not just because it is the right thing to do when you are in someone else’s country, but because I have had the opportunity to learn so much by participating in various cultures. Embracing other customs fosters innovation and growth, which are essential in today’s rapidly evolving global environment.
The Ultimate Education
Traveling to 90 countries has taught me many valuable lessons. Each country has challenged my assumptions, taught me adaptability, and deepened my understanding of people. Through moments of discomfort, I have learned strategies that are directly related to the situations I have encountered as a business owner. Today, we have many opportunities to work with people from diverse cultures, which requires us to be open and curious.
Travel has been the most exceptional educator in my life, equipping me with the soft skills to tackle things I would not have been able to before. The world is constantly evolving, and these qualities — cultural understanding, effective communication, and adaptability — are essential for achieving lasting business success.
