"I call myself a blind man riding on a blind tiger."

When you hear someone say they feel like a blind man riding a blind tiger, it paints quite the vivid picture. It’s a way to express navigating through life or a specific situation without clear guidance or control. Essentially, they’re admitting to feeling lost and at the mercy of circumstances—like they're holding on for dear life without seeing where they're headed and unsure if the beast they’re riding will keep them safe or turn around and bite.

Historically, this kind of metaphorical expression is often used in times of great uncertainty or upheaval. Think about someone leading a company through a financial crisis or dealing with personal turmoil. They might feel like they have no clear vision of the future and are being carried by forces beyond their control.

Take the 2008 financial crisis, for example. Many CEOs and financial experts could have described their situation much like the blind man on the blind tiger. They made decisions based on faulty data, and unpredictable market behaviors were the tiger they were trying to ride. It was a chaotic time, and many felt they had no control or clear direction, just hanging on and trying to survive the ride.

If you ever find yourself in a similar predicament, here’s some advice: embrace the uncertainty and focus on what you can control. You might not see the path ahead clearly, but you can take small, deliberate actions to steer your way through. Think of it like walking in the dark with your hands outstretched—you might not see the obstacles, but you can feel your way forward step by step.

Imagine you’re in a job that’s rapidly changing due to new technology—something like AI or automation. You feel out of your depth, and every day is a struggle to keep up. A friend might offer you this quote. It feels like you're a blind person on a blind tiger—you don’t really know where things are going or if you're making the right moves. But here’s what you do: you start learning about the new tech, asking questions, and seeking guidance from those who seem to have a handle on the situation. You’re taking small steps in the dark, hoping to find a clearer path.

In a more personal scenario, think about a new parent. They might feel like they’re riding a blind tiger, too. There’s no manual, no clear direction—just instincts and a lot of hope. They navigate sleepless nights, endless crying, and the overwhelming responsibility of keeping a tiny human alive. They don’t have all the answers, but they take it one day at a time, learning as they go, and relying on their support system to help guide them when things get tough.

In both examples, the key takeaway is that feeling out of control or blind to the future is a common human experience. It’s about how we navigate these times, focusing on manageable steps and seeking help when needed, that defines our journey. So next time you feel like you're riding a blind tiger, remember—you're not alone, and you can find your way, one small step at a time.