With a net worth of $42.7 billion USD, Jack Ma certainly knows a thing or two about getting where he wants to go. The founder of Alibaba went from being rejected by a local KFC, struggling to enter university, and finally becoming an English teacher to one of the wealthiest men in the world.
Here’s a few pearls of wisdom straight from the man himself to help you find success in a better tomorrow:
“Hire the best suited to the job, not the most talented. This can be a very painful lessons. There’s no point putting in a Boeing jet engine when you need to run a tractor.”
As in life and fashion, the fit is everything. Consider it over factors that dazzle and impress.
“Intelligent people need a fool to lead them. When the team’s all a bunch of scientists, it is best to have a peasant lead the way. His way of thinking is different. It’s easier to win if you have people seeing things from different perspectives.”
There’s no point being the smartest man in the cave if you don’t have someone to show you the way in the light of day.
“Always keep in mind these three principles: what you want to do, what you should do, and for how long you should do it.”
Avoid burning out, preserve that candle within yourself.
“Never deceive others, in business or in life. In 1995, I was deceived by four companies– four companies that are now closed. company cannot go far by deceit.”
Deception will only take you so far. Putting in the hard hours will take you further.
“You should learn from your competitor but never copy. Copy, and you die.”
Individuality reigns king. Find what makes you singular and capitalise on it.
“It doesn’t matter if I failed. At least I passed the concept on to others. Even if I don’t succeed, someone will succeed.”
A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they will never sit under. Think about the bigger picture. Contribute to the greater good.
“Today is cruel. Tomorrow is crueller. And the day after tomorrow is beautiful.”
Times will get tough. But you’ll come out better for it. Skilled sailors were never made on calm waters.
