A few days ago, I watched Top Gun: Maverick, and one dialogue by Miles Teller has been echoing in my mind ever since:

“It’s not the plane, it’s the pilot.”

That single line says so much — not just about flying, but about life itself.

In our daily work, we often focus too much on tools, technology, and systems. But what truly makes the difference is the people who use them. A good software can’t change an organization unless the people behind it have an adaptable mindset. The most advanced machine can’t produce great results unless the operator has the hunger to learn and grow.

We already have enough resources around us. What we really need is the spirit to make the most of them — the courage to take risks, the willingness to explore the unknown, and the mindset to turn limitations into possibilities.

That’s what Top Gun reminded me of. Those incredible aerial maneuvers, the risky flips, the split-second decisions — none of that depended solely on a high-tech jet. It depended on the pilot’s belief, skill, and daring to push beyond the edge.

Interestingly, another movie that conveys the same thought is my childhood favorite — Shaolin Soccer. There’s a beautiful moment when the main character removes his new shoes and puts on his old, worn-out ones. In that instant, his spirit comes alive again. Because it was never about the fancy shoes — it was about rediscovering his love for the game.

Whether it’s flying a jet, building a business, or chasing a dream, the truth remains the same:

It’s not about what we have. It’s about who we are, and how we use what we have.