Bill Gates ‘didn’t believe in vacations’ and worked on the weekends while building Microsoft

Here is an article on Bill Gates' views on work-life balance and his tips for success:

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, is widely regarded as one of the most successful entrepreneurs of our time. However, in retrospect, Gates admits that he made some mistakes when it came to work-life balance during the early days of building Microsoft.

In an interview, Gates revealed that he "didn't believe in vacations" and would often work on the weekends, forgoing time off. He said, "I can remember some weekends when I'm sure I slept in my office." This intense work ethic undoubtedly contributed to Microsoft's rapid growth, but Gates now acknowledges that it came at a personal cost.

Looking back, Gates shared three key tips for achieving success while maintaining a healthier work-life balance:

1. Take regular breaks and vacations: Gates advises against the mentality of "I'll rest when I'm dead." He now recognizes the importance of taking time off to recharge and avoid burnout. Stepping away from work can actually boost productivity and creativity in the long run.

2. Prioritize family and personal relationships: Gates admits that he sacrificed time with his family in the early years of Microsoft. He encourages entrepreneurs to make a conscious effort to nurture their personal relationships and not let work consume every waking hour.

3. Delegate and empower your team: As the company grew, Gates learned to delegate more responsibilities to his team and trust them to execute. This allowed him to focus on the bigger picture and strategic decisions rather than getting bogged down in the day-to-day operations.

In conclusion, Bill Gates' experience serves as a cautionary tale for entrepreneurs and ambitious professionals. While a strong work ethic is essential for success, it's equally important to maintain a healthy work-life balance and not neglect one's personal life and well-being. By following Gates' advice, individuals can strive for greatness while also enjoying a fulfilling life outside of work.