In an enlightening conversation with Nicolai Tangen, CEO of the $1.6 trillion Norges Bank, Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla, SpaceX, and several other pioneering companies, disclosed some of the rigorous practices that propelled him to the zenith of global business. Known for his relentless work ethic and innovative mindset, Musk’s approach to entrepreneurship goes beyond the ordinary, often pushing the boundaries of personal endurance.
During the podcast episode “In Good Company,” Musk illustrated what he means by “ultra-hard work,” a term he describes as “working every waking hour.” This intense dedication saw him through the tumultuous early days of his startups, including Tesla, where Musk famously endured 100-hour weeks, often sleeping under his desk to maximize productivity. While he candidly advised against this extreme lifestyle, stating it was for “emergencies only,” the anecdote provides a raw glimpse into the sacrifices required at the high stakes table of tech innovators.
I have to agree on this. I’m really annoyed by most of @elonmusk’s shitposting but he’s earned so much of my respect by his shear work ethic, not to mention that the value he’s created changed my life 😌
I just don’t read much of what he posts anymore (freedom of reach) 😒 https://t.co/wKBuC3RvHS pic.twitter.com/3mibfQxI2G
— TeslaStars✨ (@TeslaStars) April 27, 2024
Elon Musk’s Trust-Based Management Philosophy
Elon Musk also delved into his management philosophy, which focuses on autonomy and self-regulation among smart, hard-working individuals. He expressed a preference for setting a common goal and then allowing his team the freedom to achieve it in their own way, provided they align with the overarching vision. This approach, according to Musk, sidesteps traditional micromanagement in favor of a more trust-based strategy, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail in crafting perfect products.
The discussion also touched upon Musk’s thoughts on his own legacy. Despite the widespread speculation and discussion about how he will be remembered, Musk seemed unconcerned with public perception as long as he believes he has made the right choices for the future of human consciousness. This perspective is particularly poignant as he leads projects like Neuralink, which aim to blend human cognition with advanced technology.
Future Directions and Innovations
In the same week as the podcast, Musk reassured Tesla investors about the production of new, more affordable electric vehicles, despite a slight dip in year-over-year revenue. His ability to maintain focus on long-term innovation over immediate financial metrics further cements his reputation as a leader who is always looking ahead, driving his companies towards groundbreaking achievements.
As Elon Musk continues to shape the future of technology and space exploration, his insights offer valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. His conversation with Tangen not only sheds light on the personal cost of building a successful empire but also underscores a visionary’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
