Bill Gates, recognized worldwide for his business success in founding Microsoft, has undergone a change of perspective over the years. At 67, he reveals five lessons he wishes he had known during his youth. During his address to Northern Arizona University forestry engineering graduates, he shared his wisdom gained throughout his remarkable career.
1. Versatility as the key to success:
Gates understands the pressure young people feel when making career decisions and says these choices are not final. He mentions that what one decides to do tomorrow does not have to be what one does forever. Although in his beginnings he imagined working at Microsoft all his life, now he dedicates himself to philanthropy and combating climate change, finding a different and enriching purpose. Changing your mind or embarking on a second career can be a valuable option.
2. The art of learning:
Despite believing he knew everything right out of college, Gates understood that the first step to learning something new lies in recognizing what you don’t know. Faced with challenges that are difficult to solve on their own, he advises finding smart people and learning from them. Whether through more experienced colleagues or individuals who bring different perspectives, collaboration and the constant search for knowledge are essential on the path to personal and professional growth.
3. The importance of working on significant problems:
According to Gates, dedicating yourself to solving relevant problems is the key to staying current in different industries and companies, while making a difference in the world. By focusing on activities that address great challenges, you get the motivation to unfold your full creative potential and give a sense of purpose to life.
4. The Power of Friendship:
The founder of Microsoft highlights the relevance of friendships in the workplace. He recounts how, during his college days, he befriended another student, Paul Allen, who would become his partner in the creation of Microsoft. Gates stresses that friendships can be the foundation of a strong network of support and collaboration, as well as potential co-workers. It emphasizes that the most valuable thing is not just what one achieves individually, but with whom one shares that success.
5. Work-life balance:
In his younger years, Gates used to work without rest, without taking vacations or allowing himself time off. However, with the passage of time and the experience of becoming a father, he understood that there is more to life than work. He urges the youth not to wait as long as he does to learn this lesson. He recommends taking breaks when needed, taking care of personal relationships, celebrating successes, and recovering from losses. It emphasizes the importance of enjoying life, whether in short moments or in longer periods, because everyone deserves that time for themselves.
In short, Bill Gates shares valuable lessons for young people, based on his own experience. These teachings emphasize the importance of adaptability, humility when learning, choosing relevant problems, building strong relationships, and work-life balance. By internalizing these teachings, young people will be able to face their future with an enriching mindset and oriented to personal growth.