Jack Ma is the founder of Alibaba.com and the wealthiest man in Asia as of this writing. Like many individual success stories, Jack’s beginnings were humble – fraught with failures, frustrations, and disappointments. Now that Jack’s doing fine, we have the luxury of taking a closer look at his life and see what we can learn. In this article, I’ve listed six particular lessons that every man can, and should, learn from Jack Ma.
Lesson #1: Don’t Waste Your Youth
Jack once said: “If you’re not rich by 35, it’s your fault.” It’s basically a sign that you’ve missed too many opportunities, or you were too unfocused in your youth. Fortunately, it’s never too late to start opening your eyes to the opportunities around you.
Lesson #2: Take Bold, Massive Action
If there’s anything Jack Ma can teach by example, it’s to take bold, massive action even when faced with uncertainty. Pull the trigger, unload all your cylinders, go full throttle all the way. The world has little in store for timid men, whether they’re entrepreneurs or otherwise.
Lesson #3: Don’t Take It Personally
Jack also said that at any given time, at least 30% of the people around you will NOT agree with you. That means if you make yourself the main driving force behind anything, you’re limiting yourself to a maximum of 70% investment from your people. Don’t limit yourself like that. Instead, unite the people around you under an idea, vision, or goal that they can all relate to. You’ll get much closer to a 100% investment that way. So don’t take it personally when people disagree with you. It’s natural, and it should remind you there’s a better way to do things.
#4: Don’t Be Indispensable
Jack also said: “Always hire people smarter than you.” Business is, after all, meant to run on autopilot. Don’t make yourself an indispensable part of your business, or you’ll end up limiting how much you’ll achieve in life.
#5: Plan Out Your Life
Jack suggests following this blueprint for life: · In your 20’s, join a company with a good boss, where you can learn about business · In your 30’s, branch out and do your own thing(s) · In your 40’s, focus on doing something you’re very good at · In your 50’s, teach the young ones everything you’ve learned · In your 60’s, spend lots of time with your kids and grandkids at the beach Real men know it’s never about them – it’s always about the next generation. This blueprint will maximize your output in life AND leave something for ones to follow.
#6: “This, Too, Shall Pass”
Lastly, know that the saying “This, too, shall pass” doesn’t just apply to the storms in life. It also applies to the good stuff. Don’t think just because you have it good at any point in your life, it’s going to last. Always stay ready for the worst, so you’ll know what to do if it comes. What’s your favorite lesson from Jack Ma? Be sure to share it below – I’d sure love to read about it.