Avid Reader Press / Simon & Schuster What It Takes: Lessons In The Pursuit Of Excellence

I am only half way through this book however the enthusiasm Stephen has for his work and the tenacity to explore, learn and change shows that we can all be winners if we try hard enough.

Excellent book, so much insight and transparency.

Pieno di spunti pratici e motivazionali, si legge con piacere e lascia riflettere su come migliorare ogni giorno. Consigliato a chi cerca ispirazione e crescita personale.

Buena filosofía de vida.

Stephen A. Schwarzman’s What It Takes: Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence is a masterfully written memoir that chronicles the life of a visionary who redefined global finance and philanthropy. From humble beginnings in his father’s linen shop to co-founding Blackstone, one of the world’s most influential investment firms, Schwarzman’s narrative is a testament to the transformative power of ambition, resilience, and disciplined leadership. With candor and insight, he recounts the challenges and triumphs of building an empire, revealing his meticulous approach to risk management and the creation of a culture that prizes innovation and talent. His philosophy, encapsulated in the mantra “Don’t lose money,” serves as both a guiding principle and a hallmark of his enduring success. Beyond the financial world, Schwarzman’s commitment to philanthropy shines through in initiatives like the Schwarzman Scholars program and the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing, underscoring his dedication to global education and technological advancement. Imbued with practical wisdom and profound reflections, What It Takes is more than a memoir; it is a blueprint for aspiring leaders, a celebration of human potential, and a powerful ode to the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Despite the impression that I had of Mr. Schwarzman after I read King of Capital (a self-centered, egoistic, assuming man), I liked how he is portrayed in this book. Well, this book is written by Mr. Schwarzman, so it is no wonder that he is a capable, unassuming, good person in this book, but still, I liked this book. One complaint about this book is that the 25 rules that Mr. Schwarzman presents at the end of the book would not be that useful to ordinary people. It is written in plain English.