" I’ve just seen it all – I’ve seen the bird flu, I’ve seen the Asian economic meltdown, SARS, 9/11, economic cycles. "
- Alan Mulally

The quote highlights the speaker's extensive experience with significant global events over a period of time. It mentions encountering various crises such as bird flu, economic downturns in Asia, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and the terrorist attacks on September 11th, alongside understanding the natural ups and downs of economies.

In essence, this quote underscores resilience and adaptability in the face of diverse challenges. By referencing a range of historical events, Alan Mulally emphasizes the importance of being prepared for unexpected crises and economic fluctuations. His statement also serves as a reminder that while these occurrences can be daunting, experiencing them firsthand provides invaluable insights and experience in managing through turbulent times. This perspective suggests that encountering various difficulties throughout one's career is not only inevitable but also instrumental in developing strong leadership skills.

Alan Mulally, the author of this quote, is renowned for his role at Ford Motor Company from 2006 to 2014, where he played a pivotal part in reviving the company’s fortunes during a challenging period. Known for his calm demeanor and strategic foresight, he successfully navigated Ford through several economic crises, earning him recognition as one of the most influential leaders in the automotive industry.