Ending the “Ordinary Mind,” Opening the Door to “Established Fate” A Global Trade Strategist’s Journey through Liao-Fan’s Four lessons

Introduction: When Logic Fails, What Leads to Success? 

With 26 years in international trade, I am used to the precision of contracts and logistics. Yet, life often throws "internal frictions" that logic cannot solve: sudden market shifts or the tug-of-war between family duties and personal ambition. Recently, I revisited "Liao-Fan’s Four Lessons" by the Ming Dynasty (A.D.1368-1644) thinker Yuan Liaofan. I realized that the primary prerequisite for success is a correct understanding of "Fate."

1.A Man "Calculated to Death" for 20 Years: The Story of Yuan Liaofan

To help my international colleagues understand, we must first look at this true historical account. In 16th-century Ming Dynasty China, there was a young man named Yuan Huang (later known as Liao-Fan).

The Beginning: His father died when he was 14, and he planned to become a physician. However, at 17, he met a master named Mr. Kong, an expert in fate calculation.

The Prophecy: Mr. Kong predicted his life with terrifying precision: which year he would rank what in exams, his government positions, and his exact annual salary. He even prophesied that Yuan would die childless at the age of 53.

The Verification: For the next 20 years, every single prediction came true to the letter. Yuan completely resigned to his "Fate," believing life was a pre-programmed track where effort was futile.

2.The Awakening: "Fate is Created by Myself"At 37, Yuan met Zen Master Yungu. The Master noticed Yuan could meditate for three days without a single stray thought. Yuan explained, "My fate is already fixed; there is no use in thinking." The Master laughed: "I thought you were a hero, but you are just an ordinary man! For 20 years, you let a fortune-teller bind your life." The Master gave him a core belief: "Fate is created by myself; happiness is sought from within."What can be predicted is past momentum; what can be changed is the present choice.

3. The Result: Breaking the Ceiling of Fate Yuan changed his mindset and proactively reshaped his life:

Career Breakthrough: He was predicted never to pass the Jinshi exam (the highest-level civil service qualification, akin to a top academic doctorate and a ticket to high office), yet he succeeded.

Legacy: Though predicted to be childless, he later had a son.

Longevity Miracle: Predicted to die at 53, he lived to 74 (an exceptionally old age in the 16th century), leaving behind his legacy in this book.

4.Reflection: From "Omnipotence" to "Value Boundaries"Back to the present. Recently, I’ve been involved in an African machinery and equipment project.During its execution, I fell into the trap of "heroism," trying to solve every licensing, channel, and relationship issue alone. When reality didn't follow my script, I felt resentment. Through Liao-Fan’s teachings, I realized:

Give up the Illusion of Control: I used to care too much about "saving face" and controlling everything. Now, I understand "task separation."

Focus on the Now: Just as in this African project, I no longer dwell on past loyalties or failures, but focus on the current compliance structure and risk control.

Conclusion: Establishing Fate is the Highest Discipline The prerequisite for success is shifting focus from "uncontrollable worries" to the "actionable present." Whether you are cultivating the African market or managing family relationships, remember: the past determines your starting point, but your mindset today determines your destination.