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Sam Altman on the Power of Long-Term Commitment in Business

Sam Altman, a renowned entrepreneur and investor, shares a valuable insight into one of the few remaining opportunities for significant gains in the market: time. According to Altman, while beating the market in traditional ways is increasingly difficult, making a long-term commitment to something can still yield exceptional results.


Sam Altman, CEO, OpenAI
Sam Altman, CEO, OpenAI

Photo: Getty Images


The Importance of Long-Term Thinking

When considering a startup, Altman emphasizes the importance of choosing something you are willing to commit to for the long haul. This long-term commitment is where a significant void in the market exists. Many entrepreneurs focus on short-term gains, but the real opportunity lies in dedicating time and effort to build something substantial over many years.


Creating Value for Others

Altman also highlights a fundamental principle of business: founders are rewarded for the wealth they create for others. There is a misconception that business is about extracting as much value as possible, but the best companies are those that generate enormous value for the world and capture only a fraction of it for themselves. This approach not only leads to financial success but also builds a positive reputation and lasting impact.


Examples of Long-Term Commitment


  1. Amazon: Jeff Bezos famously adopted a long-term perspective with Amazon. Despite initial losses and skepticism, Bezos focused on customer satisfaction, low prices, and fast delivery. Over the years, Amazon grew into a behemoth, creating massive value for its customers and capturing significant market share.

  2. Tesla: Elon Musk’s commitment to electric vehicles and sustainable energy was met with doubt and financial struggles. However, his long-term vision and relentless pursuit of innovation have made Tesla a leader in the automotive industry and beyond, driving substantial changes in how the world views and uses energy.

  3. Google: Larry Page and Sergey Brin started Google with a mission to organize the world’s information. Their long-term focus on developing superior search algorithms and expanding their services has made Google an integral part of everyday life, creating tremendous value for users worldwide.


The Patience to Build Something Great

Altman stresses that building a successful company is not about quick wins but about patience and perseverance. By committing to a long-term vision, you can create a company that not only thrives financially but also makes a meaningful difference. This commitment requires aligning yourself and your team with the understanding that substantial rewards come from sustained effort over time.


Conclusion

Sam Altman’s advice is clear: focus on long-term commitment in business. By dedicating yourself to a project for an extended period, you fill a significant market void and create immense value for others. This approach not only enhances your chances of success but also ensures that your efforts have a lasting, positive impact. Whether you’re starting a new venture or investing in one, think long-term, be patient, and build something that truly matters.


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