Mark Twain
The release of Forbes List of the Top 10 World's Richest People of 2008 is a very interesting read. Two Americans top the list with Bill Gates at #3 and Warren Buffet at #1.
What is the life of a rich and famous philanthropist like? How do they lead their businesses and lives in directions towards that type of phenomenal growth? What ARE their secrets?
Entrepreneurs, business men and women, small business owners and large business owners all have aspirations of becoming rich. They work hard, deal hard and are always looking for ways to strike a deal and rise to the top. How people get rich has always been puzzling to me, as we all know that money is hard to come - - but easy to go. While some of the secrets of the uber-wealthy may be elusive, they all have one thing in common - - they are all philanthropists.
I have noticed that the top billionaire leader on the list, Warren Buffet, has made a life commitment of parting with his wealth, much of it before he dies. He has made a commitment to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to give up to 83% of his fortune to the charity and 99% of it when he passes away. The move by the billionaire caused quite a stir with people on both sides of the opinion for and against giving such a large sum of money away to a foundation. Many thought he should have given to other social work in third–world countries, or perhaps even aiding different needy communities in our states. Some even felt like he should have shared it with them! Whatever side the opinion fell on, folks would have to agree: his philanthropic acts are notable and to get…you have to give.
Warren Buffet’s leadership style is well worth taking note of. He’s not a man who continually boasts about what he’s doing or has done. Neither is he continually trying to get other’s to do what he does. He simply does what he does, gives his strategy for it and waits for the results to pour in. His investments, business deals and his philanthropic life all attest to this man’s strong leadership abilities.
To be a strong leader, be a giver. To be an effective leader, be a giver. To be a leader whose values are embraced and whose mission continues long after you’re gone, be a giver.
Giving is the conduit to leadership that lasts.
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» Warren Buffett: 3 Lessons From the World's #1 Bil from Fully Stocked
However, one of the most important things I think we can learn from Buffett has nothing to do with investing savvy or business skills. Warren Buffett simply loves what he does. [Read More]
Tracked on: March 8, 2008 12:10 PM | Permalink to Trackback