Dreams Are Valid, Only If You Try

"I can accept failure; everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying." - Michael Jordan 

It’s words like this that have echoed in my heart many times — especially when I’ve been standing on the edge of something new, something terrifying, something uncertain.

Trying is an act of resistance. It is a defiance against the small voice of fear that tells us to stay still, to stay safe, to stay stuck.

The Mindset of Trying vs. The Mindset of Stagnation

There is a powerful difference between the person who tries and the person who doesn’t.

Trying is rooted in courage. It says: I am not defined by the outcome — I am defined by the effort.

The mindset that keeps us stuck sounds very different. It says:

• What if I fail?

• What will people say?

• What if I’m not good enough?

• Better the devil I know than the one I don’t.

This is fear in disguise. Fear of judgment. Fear of loss. Fear of growth.

Yet here’s the truth — fear is normal. But allowing fear to become our compass is dangerous. Because fear doesn’t lead you forward. It keeps you circling the same mountain over and over.

Lessons from the Mountain

Speaking of mountains — let me tell you about my first hike

A friend invited me on a hike. It was one of those beautiful yet intimidating trails where the views will take your breath away — but so will the effort it takes to get there.

There were moments I told myself and those around me: "I can't do this." "This is too hard."

But I realised something powerful — the mountain wasn’t only physical. The real mountain was in my mind. Step by step, I learned to override that voice of defeat with a new mantra: "One step at a time." And you know what? I made it. I didn’t just survive the hike — I fell in love with hiking. It was a powerful reminder: The only way to see the view is to keep moving, even when you’re scared, tired, in pain or unsure.

You Miss 100% of The Shots You Don’t Take

This lesson applies everywhere.

Earlier this year, our company had an exciting opportunity in a completely new industry. It was a challenge — unfamiliar terrain for us. We were shortlisted, we prepared like never before, we dreamed of what could be. And then — we didn’t get the business. Was it disappointing? Absolutely.

But here’s what matters: The process taught us so much about ourselves and our partners. We discovered strengths and weaknesses we might never have seen otherwise. We built resilience. And we survived the bumpy moments.

Every try sharpens your skills. Every miss is data for your next move.

The Regret of Not Trying

Of course, I also know the sting of not trying.

Many years ago, I was offered the chance to buy  into a business in another  country which would have  meant relocation It was an incredible opportunity — but I chose to stay in Zimbabwe. There were many reasons at the time, and I stand by them. But I won’t lie — in tough moments, I sometimes wonder: What if?

And that’s okay too.

Regret teaches us where fear once ruled us. It’s a guidepost for future bravery.

Trying With Wisdom

Trying doesn’t mean saying yes to everything. It means recognising when an opportunity aligns with your values, your vision, and your purpose.

This is what African leaders like Strive Masiyiwa have demonstrated so powerfully. His willingness to try, fail, learn and adapt has built one of the continent’s most inspiring entrepreneurial legacies.

Or think of Bonang Matheba — South African media powerhouse — who boldly expanded into the global luxury beverage industry with her sparkling wine brand House of BNG. She didn’t wait for permission. She tried — and in doing so, she created new lanes for herself and others.

One Step At A Time

Trying is how we grow.

Trying is how we break generational limits.

Trying is an act of hope.

Every attempt is a vote for your future self.

Every step — even the small, wobbly, scared ones — take you closer to the life you want.

And remember this — life is not about having a perfect scorecard.

It’s about standing at the foot of the mountain, tying your shoelaces, whispering to yourself "one step at a time", and choosing to climb.

Because the view is waiting.