Life and Business Lessons from Billionaire Sir Richard Branson
I have been very fortunate over the last few years to experience a few once in a lifetime moments. My trip to Adelaide on May 8 -9 was no exception.
I attended the "National Achievers Conference" where one of the key note speakers was Sir Richard Branson, who needs no introduction.
I was lucky enough to have a front row seat, along with a backstage pass for a meet & greet and photo opportunity …. Yes, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
As Sir Richard is a well-known sufferer or dyslexia, he was interviewed by a local journalist to keep him on track, give him the ability to articulate and to express his thoughts as clearly and concisely as possible.
Here are my top 'takeaways' from his chat - right before my eyes:
Screw it - let's do it
Look for the best in people - "praise people". People flourish under praise.
Put a very high importance on team and make sure your team 100% believes in what you're doing
Get someone to run your business day to day, which gives you much more thinking time
Use yourself to put your company on the map, you've got to stand out
Have fun - make a positive difference to people's lives
Make people smile - it's worth doing
Most of your time is at work - make it enjoyable!
Treat people well - you get buckets back
I carry a notebook wherever I go - to write down ideas, thoughts and suggestions from other people
What brings success:
Surround yourself with great people
Be a good listener
Listen to as many people as possible
If you fall flat on your face - get up and have another crack
Nothing beats just getting out and giving it a go
Think about where there is a gap - improve things!
Don't go into business just wanting to make a lot of money
He also spoke of his island paradise - Necker Island - where he "pulls up the draw bridge" to let his hair down, relax and get fit. It is where he thinks about the bigger picture and plans the future.
"Have you got a Necker Island or somewhere similar?"
The final questions Sir Richard was asked was what was the best advice he has ever got? His answer did surprise me a little!
"Spend a year making up with all the people you have fallen out with"
Now there's a challenge?!?
I really did feel that day I had Lived boldly, and had a BRAVEday!