What a misstep on a remote farm in Myanmar taught me about leadership, listening, and last-mile sales The Morning That Felt Different It was the kind of morning I’ve come to know well in rural Myanmar’s dry zone—quiet, golden, and already heavy with heat. The overnight bus from Yangon had dropped me in Magway at 4 a.m. The streets were still asleep, save for the occasional trishaw gliding past. I rented a small motorbike, found a local tea shop that was just beginning to stir, and waited for the first light with a cup of sweet, thick Burmese tea. I’d done this countless times—early field visits that began in silence and dust, long before any office opened. But this visit felt different. I wasn’t here to just observe or support. I was here to quietly assess one of our most promising team leads. Meet “Spiky Head” Everyone on the team called him Spiky Head —a nickname earned as much for his wild, uncombed hair as for his sharp, unfiltered energy. He had outsold everyone in the regi...
Myanmar has endured decades of challenges, from political instability to ongoing civil wars. The 2021 military coup marked a new era of economic turmoil, exacerbating the already difficult circumstances. Today, small businesses in Myanmar face an unprecedented landscape—skyrocketing logistics costs, inflation on basic essentials, and a lack of security. Yet, despite these challenges, entrepreneurs continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability. In this post, I’ll share some personal examples and strategies to help businesses adapt and thrive in such tough times. Top Challenges Facing Small Businesses in Myanmar Unstable Logistics and Supply Chains Myanmar’s internal conflict has made travel and transport difficult, with parts of the country deemed unsafe. Logistics costs have surged, putting immense strain on business operations. Delayed deliveries and spoiled goods are now common challenges. Skyrocketing Costs of Essentials Inflation is driving up the cost o...