Bill Gates is the wealthiest man alive. His fortune is larger than most countries’ GDP, but he doesn’t let his wealth cloud his judgement. Through his foundation, he has donated over $28 billion to charity up to now, and his 2010 pledge to donate over half his wealth to charity during his lifetime is a clear indicator of the fact he’s not going to stop very soon. He’s a successful entrepreneur and a man of vision – and it would not be prudent to ignore his words of wisdom, some of which you can read below:
1. “It’s fine to celebrate success, but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure.”
2. “If you can’t make it good, at least make it look good.”
3. “Life is not divided into semesters. You don’t get summers off, and very few employers are interested in helping you. Find yourself.”
4. “Patience is a key element of success.”
5. “Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.”
6. “Creative capitalism takes this interest in the fortunes of others and ties it to our interest in our own fortunes in ways that help advance both. This hybrid engine of self-interest and concern for others can serve a much wider circle of people than can be reached by self-interest or caring alone”.
7. “Technology is just a tool. In terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is the most important.”
8. “As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others.”
9. “Until we’re educating every kid in a fantastic way, until ever inner city is cleaned up, there is no shortage of things to do.”
10. “If I’d had some set idea of a finish line, don’t you think I would have crossed it years ago?”
11. “We’ve got to put a lot of money into changing behavior.”
12. “Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.”