Keys to success in tech according to former Elon Musk

Elon Musk is one of the most recognized and controversial entrepreneurs of our era. Founder of Tesla, SpaceX and Neuralink, and most recently owner of Twitter, the platform he turned into X, Musk has redefined entire industries with his revolutionary vision. However, his career is not free from controversy. His decisions and statements have been highly controversial, especially on labor, environmental and social issues. With a unique personality and unconventional approach, one cannot wonder how he achieved such success in the world of technology.

Writer Justine Musk, his former first wife, offers an intimate and unique perspective on the matter. She not only witnessed the mogul’s first steps in his career, but also publicly reflected on the qualities and sacrifices required to achieve what she calls “extraordinary success.” In a Quora post that, despite the years, is still relevant, Justine shared her ideas about what it really means to reach the heights of Musk, Bill Gates or Steve Jobs.

Keys to success in technology according to Justin Musk

1. Obsession as the main driving force

For Justine, one of the things that defines those who achieve great success is obsession, but not by any means. This speaks of that passion that does not allow you to think about anything else, this strong desire to continue going no matter what. If you don’t feel that way about what you’re doing, she’ll usually say, “Forget it.” Successful people are completely absorbed in what they love to do.

“If you’re not obsessed, stop what you’re doing and find something you’re obsessed with. Having an ego helps, but you have to serve something bigger to inspire others.”

2. Unusual personality

According to Justine, the “super achievers” are usually the “losers” of the group. People who don’t quite fit the mold, with unique personalities that make them see the world differently. Justine says many of them have experienced challenges such as dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and have learned to turn these differences into their best weapons. These unusual perspectives are actually what give them their edge.

“These people are usually misfits who have had to learn the world in an unusually difficult way. “They developed survival strategies and, as they grew, they found ways to apply those strategies to other things, creating a clear and powerful advantage for themselves.”

3. Work harder than anyone else

Enormous success is not just a matter of talent. Justine makes it clear: you need a fierce work ethic. It’s not for everyone. If you want to achieve this, prepare for sleepless nights, a lot of stress, endless travel, and more sacrifices than you probably think you can handle. In other words, you better be in shape because this is no walk in the park.

“If you don’t have divine genetics, get your body into the best shape possible. There will be jet lag, mental fatigue, sleepless nights and many casualties. “Keep your body in shape to keep your mind sharp.”

4. Face failure without fear

Failure is part of the deal. This is how Justine sees it: great people are not afraid of failure, or if they are, they don’t let it stop them. For them, every failure is an opportunity to learn something that no one else can discover. Success is not about avoiding falls, but how you get up afterwards.

“These people will experience heroic, spectacular, humiliating and public failures, but they will learn lessons that others will not learn. Their resilience and courage will allow them to turn failure into opportunity.”

5. Innovate instead of imitate

Finally, Justine says something obvious but key: there is no magic formula for success. Copying the path of others rarely works. Truly successful people find their strengths, question the established and look for new ways of doing things.

“Don’t follow a pre-existing path. Extraordinary success is not like ordinary success; “What worked for others probably won’t work for you.”

Is extreme success worth the price?

Justine Musk’s analysis gives us insight into what it takes to achieve the level of success we see in people like Elon Musk. But it also raises an important question: Are all these sacrifices really worth it? After all, professional success may not be as satisfying if personal well-being or happiness is sacrificed. As Justine states, “extreme success is the result of an extreme personality and requires costs in many other areas.” Everyone decides for themselves how far they are willing to go. What do you think?