In 1971, Bruce Lee, the iconic martial artist and actor, delivered a memorable line in the American TV series “Longstreet.” The words he spoke, “Be water, my friend,” would go on to become one of his most famous quotes. This simple yet profound statement resonated with many, not just for its martial arts context but also for the deeper philosophy it encapsulated.

Lee’s message was clear: people should avoid locking themselves into a rigid mindset and instead be like water, able to adapt and flow with the ever-changing surroundings and circumstances. His wisdom transcended martial arts, offering a valuable life lesson about resilience, adaptability, and the power of embracing change.

Inspired by Bruce Lee’s words, Mohammad Sherafatmand, the founder and CEO of the innovative water technology company Hydroleap, took this philosophy to heart. In an interview with CNBC’s “My Biggest Lessons,” Sherafatmand shared his perspective on the importance of adopting the water-like mindset. “You need to be adaptive; if you hit a roadblock, brave it,” he emphasized. “Face it, adapt to it, and find another way.”

Sherafatmand’s journey in disrupting the water purification industry echoed the very principles he spoke of. He recognized that when you set out to solve substantial problems or challenge the status quo in any field, the path is seldom straightforward. In such endeavours, one must be flexible, resilient, and unwavering in the pursuit of alternative solutions. His conviction in the power of adaptability has been a driving force behind his efforts to revolutionize the water technology landscape.

Indeed, “Be water, my friend” serves as a guiding mantra for those like Mohammad Sherafatmand who are committed to making significant strides in their respective industries. It encapsulates the spirit of perseverance, the readiness to evolve with changing circumstances, and the determination to overcome obstacles. It is a reminder that innovation and disruption are often born from a mindset that is fluid, adaptable, and unyielding in the face of challenges. In a world that is constantly evolving, Bruce Lee’s timeless advice continues to inspire individuals like Sherafatmand to embrace change, think creatively, and find new paths to success.

This happens to be one of  just Mohammad Sherafatmand’s biggest lessons. Watch the video above to learn more.