Going Viral Taught Me More Than I Expected

None of it was planned.

But the lessons? Game-changing.

Here’s what I learned from going viral — and why it’s helped me grow as a thinker, speaker, and leader.

I didn’t plan to end up in The Daily Mail or The Australian Financial Review, but that’s exactly what happened. One was a raw, off-the-cuff TikTok interview with CoPosit about money. 

The other was a deep conversation with a journalist about how young men are navigating money, mindset, and modern politics.

Both were unfiltered. Both taught me a lot.

Here’s what I learned from being in the media — and how it’s sharpened the way I think, speak, and lead.

1. Clarity Wins

I drive a 20-year-old car.
I don’t order takeaway alone.
I spend with purpose, not impulse.

These aren’t hot takes — they’re just how I live.
But that honesty resonated more than I expected.

In business and content, clear beats clever.
Say less, mean more.

2. Media Magnifies What You Stand For

The AFR called out my focus on money, discipline, and independence.
That wasn’t accidental — it’s what I believe in.

When you speak up, you don’t just get attention.
You get filtered, quoted, and shared.

So be deliberate about what you lead with.

3. Speaking Ad Lib Teaches Strategic Thinking

The CoPosit video? One take. No prep.
Just me, trying to express my mindset in under a minute.

That pressure taught me how to:

• Think fast

• Speak clearly

• Drop the fluff

It’s a skill I now use in meetings, interviews, and even mentoring sessions.

4. People Crave Real Over Perfect

The top comment?
“Thanks for keeping it real.”

Not “You’re a guru.”
Not “That was impressive.”
Just honesty.

That’s what lands.
Not polish — presence.

5. Your Story Can Start Someone Else’s Change

What blew me away most?
The replies from students, professionals, and parents.

They weren’t reacting to me.
They were rethinking themselves.

When you’re honest about how you live, it gives others permission to reflect on how they’re living too.

TL;DR: The Spotlight Doesn’t Build You. The Process Does.

Going viral wasn’t the goal.
But it reminded me of something important:

• Speak from experience

• Own your values

• Let real life lead the message

It’s not about attention.
It’s about intention.

Until next time,

Aftab Bismi