What if the Ming dynasty had extended its maritime exploration, potentially establishing a Chinese-led global empire before European colonialism?

I've been reflecting on the Ming dynasty and their impressive naval explorations under Admiral Zheng He. It’s striking to consider that China, with its advanced fleet and resources, could have established a dominant global presence centuries before European powers began their overseas conquests. Instead, the Ming chose a path of isolation. It leaves me wondering—what if they had expanded their reach, continuing their maritime pursuits? How might history have unfolded differently if China had shaped the global order instead of Europe? Would the world we know today have been completely transformed?