Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates focused on both the big picture and the small details as he built his software company in its early days.
In an interview with CNBC’s Make It published recently, Gates shared that his concept of success was tied to the quality of his software and its global impact.
“Back then, it was just about: Is my code really good? Does it work? And can this company prove to the world that these microcomputers matter?” Gates explained.
His vision also reflected his enthusiasm for personal computers’ potential to revolutionize business and society, even though this was not readily apparent to everyone four decades ago, including some early pioneers.
In 1981, IBM launched its PC with a modest projection of selling only 241,683 units over five years. Yet, the actual sales figures exceeded expectations, with about 3 million units sold in that period and hundreds of millions within a decade.
Recognizing the demand for software, Gates seized the opportunity with laser-like focus.
“It was the power of software,” he mentioned in the interview. “And I was determined to devote my life in my 20s solely to software development, which was my primary goal.”
Together with Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen, Gates envisioned a PC on every desk and in every household, a seemingly mundane goal today, but considered outlandish at the time, as Gates recalled.
Reflecting on those early days, he described his perspective on success as “strongly tied to Microsoft,” recalling his 20s as being completely devoted to Microsoft and its activities.
Having stepped down as CEO in 2000 and progressively reducing his involvement in the company, Gates shifted his focus to philanthropy, broadening his definition of success to include making a positive impact on the world and empowering others.
During a commencement speech to Northern Arizona University graduates in 2023, Gates expressed some regret for his intense work approach in Microsoft’s early years, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance and learning from his experiences.
However, Gates doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon, intending to continue working for at least the next two decades, inspired by Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett. Retirement is not on his radar, as Gates finds the idea unappealing.
