Staying motivated is not difficult for me. Despite all my achievements, when I think about everything I still want to accomplish, it feels as if I have not even started yet. The possibilities are endless. Looking toward the future and setting new goals helps me stay motivated.
Success: How do you keep yourself motivated to achieve your goals?
First of all, it is a matter of responsibility. I try to stay committed to the decisions I make. It is important to evaluate potential challenges in advance and think about how much time it will take to achieve a goal. This approach increases patience and helps prevent unnecessary problems. Most importantly, it is essential not to lose focus. Staying focused is very important.
Success: What inspires you?
Many things inspire me. What inspires me the most is speaking with real people who say that my work has made a difference in their lives. Their stories encourage me to work harder and strive to do even better.
Jazz music also inspires me greatly. Life is like music — different parts come together to create something unexpected and beautiful.
In addition, the books of Maya Angelou are a great source of inspiration for me. Her words are filled with wisdom and courage.
Success: What is the biggest thing you still want to achieve?
It is hard to say. I simply want to continue growing and learning. If I can do that, who knows where life will take me.
Success: What is the smartest thing you have done with your money?
Saving it. Sometimes there are moments when the best thing you can do is simply hold on to your money.
Success: What achievement are you most proud of?
No business success can compete with the pride I feel for my children. Their achievements bring me my greatest joy.
Success: What has been your biggest mistake or failure in life?
I have made both small and big mistakes in my life. But honestly, I often joke that my biggest mistake might still be ahead of me.
Success: Is there something you wish you had known earlier in life?
I wish I had understood the value of time earlier. Time is the greatest resource in life. At some point, you realize that the number of tomorrows is limited. That is why every day should be appreciated.
Success: Do you have any time-management habits that have helped you become more successful?
I have a simple rule: always be on time. If possible, arrive early. Being late creates the wrong impression and can make people lose trust in your ability to prioritize.
Success: How do you maintain balance between work, family, and personal life?
It is a daily struggle. My family and loved ones often have to show a lot of understanding. I am very passionate about my work, and it makes me happy, but it can also be exhausting. There are days when I simply have to step away — no calls, no emails — just time for myself.
Success: What are three personal philosophies that could guide others?
First, do not be afraid to hire people who are smarter than you. Surround yourself with intelligent and capable individuals.
Second, be passionate about what you do. You should wake up in the morning excited about the day ahead.
Third, love what you do. Happiness will follow. Money is the least important measure of true wealth.
Success: Which historical figure do you admire the most?
Nelson Mandela. He is one of the leaders who truly changed the lives of people.
Success: Who helped shape your philosophy of success?
My mother, Bettye Jean Gardner. One day I was watching a college basketball game on television, and one of the commentators said that one day a player could earn a million dollars. I was amazed. My mother, who was in the next room, said, “Son, if you want to, you could earn a million dollars one day too.”
That single sentence gave me confidence for the rest of my life.
Success: How would you like to be remembered?
I honestly believe that the best is still ahead of me. I hope that what people remember about me has not happened yet, because I still have much more to achieve.
Success: Could you talk a little about giving back to society?
I am currently working on establishing a foundation that will help homeless people and victims of domestic violence.
At one point in my life, I was homeless myself. A shelter and soup kitchen at Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco saved my life. Today I try to support that organization as much as I can.
In Chicago, I also work with the CARA program, which helps homeless and at-risk individuals through job training and employment opportunities.
When you become successful, giving back should not be seen as an obligation — it is a privilege.
Helping others is not only about money. People can give their time, compassion, and understanding.
Remember that homeless people are not just statistics. Each of them has their own story.