Page 4 - INSIDE_ACCESS_SEPTEMBER_2ND-EDITION

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Business Lessons Series:
Bill Gates
Leave on top when your legacy beckons
Gates left Microsoft in 2006 to devote more attention to his foundation. He did not leave when Microsoft was struggling with the emergence of the internet. He saved it and brought it back to its old position of dominance.
Leave on top. Don't overstay your welcome. There is a time to be born, and a time to exit. Gates has always demonstrated impeccable timing.
Pick a great family and make great friends.
Gates' father was one of the most successful lawyers in Seattle. He helped a young Howard Schultz buy Starbucks. When a rich investor wanted to steal the deal away from Schultz, he pointed out to the investor that the “young guy” deserved his chance. He then helped to finance the acquisition of Starbucks. That's how history is made, ethically. Gates' mom knew the CEO of IBM because they sat on a board together. That's how Gates knew IBM's plan. And one of Gates' closest friends is Warren Buffett. If a person is known by his family and friends, we don't need to know much about Gates other than his father had great character and Warren Buffett is a close friend.
Create and attract great karma.
Leave a great legacy
Gates will be remembered in a league with one of the greatest philanthropists of history like Andrew Carnegie who gave his fortune to education and other good causes. With his foundation, Gates is doing the same and is encouraging other billionaires to follow him. More power to him.
There should be a limit to greed.
Contributed by
Oye Jolaoso
PAGE 4 INSIDE ACCESS | SEPTEMBER 2020 2ND EDITION