Bill Gates has been long known as one of the richest people in the world. He has held the title of being the richest person in the world for nearly 20 years. Paul Allen described him as someone who was ferociously competitive and driven in business, like Michael Jordan was in Basketball.
However, from the days of the numero uno business executive to now, Gates has mellowed quite a lot. His recent video of congratulating Warren Buffett on his 90th birthday is a testimony to that. In a recent question answer session, Gates revealed his personal side.
Gates, 63, a centi-billionaire, answered the following questions, Are you happy? & Through it all, what makes you happy? His answers reflect his simplicity, humour and wisdom that you come to associate with Gates. The computer revolution pioneer who is now leading several philanthropic initiatives around the world shares his four rules for happiness:
1. Relaxation & Taking it Easy
Gates made a very interesting point on comparing his life in the 60s versus when he was in his 20s and 30s. Even though he was on top of the world and making serious headways in the world of computers, there was relentless pressure too that comes with the job.
Bill Gates said, “When I was in my 20s and early 30s, I was fanatical about software. I didn’t take vacations or weekends off and I wasn’t interested in getting married. (Obviously, that changed when I met Melinda!)”
Bill’s response to whether he is happy, “Yes! When I was in my 30s, I didn’t think people in their 60s were very smart or had much fun. Now I have had a counter-revelation. Ask me in 20 years and I will tell you how smart 80-year-olds are.”
Gates seems to be relaxed and enjoying his second innings at Melinda Gates Foundation with all the work he is doing there.
2. Cherish Family Time & Commitments
To the second question, Gates responded, “Some recently said that when your children are doing well it really is very special, and as a parent, I completely agree.”
Bill Gates has a great family and he loves spending time with them. For someone who has been at the forefront of action and public focus all the time, sometimes, it is good to be away from the limelight and cherish small things. These are precious moments that no one can take away from you.
Gates also said, “Sometimes following through on commitments to yourself, like doing more exercise, also improves your happiness.”
Several studies indicate the effect of exercise on our brains. It releases chemicals, detoxes your system and increases your overall happiness. Gates also derives pleasure by fulfilling his simple commitments like exercise. Gates is also an avid Tennis player and appeared with Roger Federer as his doubles partner earlier this year for a charity match.
3. Financial Freedom
Last year, someone asked Bill Gates, “Do you think being a billionaire has made you a happier person than if you were just a middle class person?”
Bill Gates’ replied saying, “Yes. I don’t have to think about health costs or college costs. Being free from worry about financial things is a real blessing.”
Financial freedom is a real blessing for people. Ofcourse, you don’t need a billion dollars to live a happy life, but once you have sufficient money, you can spend more time doing things you love.
People like Bill Gates and several other billionaires use wealth as a potent tool not just to secure their families, but also the society around them. Money is a tool, which can be used for the good of people, solve inequalities and provide you peace of mind. Financial independence makes people happy and secured.
4. Greater Cause & Giving
Bill Gates derives a lot of pleasure with his Gates Foundation’s work. He started The Giving Pledge, which encourages billionaires to publicly commit to giving majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes. The pledge was started in 2010 & has over 200 billionaires signed up as of now.
Giving is a joy and whether you’re a billionaire or not, you can still contribute. People who are involved in pursuit of a greater cause for the benefit of masses feel a sense of fulfillment. Whether it is poverty, hunger, education, or healthcare, you can make a difference with your contribution.
Closer to home, consider giving for your own well-being. Scientific studies have confirmed that giving makes us happy, is good for our health, and evokes gratitude.
A Harvard Business School report concludes that the emotional rewards are the greatest when our generosity is connected to others. For e.g. contributing to a cancer stricken GoFundMe campaign.
