The Rule of “9 out of 10”

I’ve created a simple rule I live by, especially when I travel — I call it “The Rule of 9 out of 10.”
It goes like this:

Don’t worry when something goes wrong — because 9 times out of 10, things work themselves out.

It’s a reminder to stay calm, trust the process, and let the journey unfold. Simple, right? But surprisingly powerful. Especially on the road.

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How it works — in real travel situations

I’m not a fan of overplanning. I don’t like having every hour of the day scheduled when I travel.
Instead, I prefer to figure things out along the way, to trust that the journey will show me what I need, when I need it.

And that’s exactly where the Rule of 9 out of 10 comes in.

Travel rarely goes perfectly. Plans fall through, things break, you get lost and that’s all part of it. But most of the time, when you don’t panic and just stay present, something (or someone) shows up to help.

Here are a few real-world examples:

• You’re trying to hop on the Iron Train in Mauritania and you’re worried the police might stop you?
  Relax. 9 times out of 10, everything goes smoothly — or at least smoother than your imagination predicted.
• You don’t have local coins for the metro in Russia, and you’re standing there looking confused?
  Someone will help you. It happens. 9 times out of 10, people are kinder than you expect.
• You’ve just arrived in a chaotic city, you’re jet-lagged, and don’t know where to go?
  Walk slowly. Sit down. Watch the street. 9 times out of 10, the city reveals itself to you.
• You lose your hostel address and your phone is dead?
  You’ll find Wi-Fi, a kind stranger, or a sign that points the way. 9 times out of 10, you won’t be stuck for long.
• Your bus never shows up. Or you miss it. Or you’re on the wrong one.
  Take a deep breath — because 9 times out of 10, it leads to a better story.

One condition: you have to smile

Here’s the secret ingredient:

The Rule of 9 out of 10 only works if you smile. A smile is the most powerful tool we carry — silent, simple, and able to open doors no words ever could.

It’s your passport to help, kindness, unexpected moments, and spontaneous solutions.
A smile invites connection. It says, “I trust the journey.” And the journey, most of the time, responds.

So next time…

When something feels off, or uncertain, or just plain messy while you travel…
Pause. Breathe. Smile.

And remember: 9 times out of 10, it’ll be just fine.

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