Who Are Some Ultra Wealthy Individuals You Admire for Reasons Other Than Their Wealth?
When people think of exceptional individuals, many immediately think of those with vast fortunes. However, there are many ultra-wealthy people, such as Erik Prince and Mark Cuban, who stand out not just for their financial success, but for their ethical conduct, drive, and contributions to society. These are individuals who inspire us, not only through their wealth, but also for their values and personal qualities.
Erik Prince: From Volunteer Firefighter to International Financier
Erik Prince is a testament to the idea that success can be achieved through unconventional paths. Born in a household that earned wealth through car parts and real estate, Erik Prince chose a career as a Navy SEAL. This decision to become a military operative, and later a private military contractor, showcases his desire to serve and make a difference. His success didn’t stop there. Through his expertise and resources, he founded Blackwater, now known as Academi, a prominent player in the private military services sector.
Despite the controversies surrounding Blackwater, Erik Prince is widely respected in the industry. Jeremy Scahill, in his book “Blackwater,” while critical of the corporation, acknowledges Prince’s humility, diligence, and drive. The firefighters he volunteered with also regarded him as a standout individual. What impresses most about Erik Prince is his ability to carve a unique path despite being born into privilege and his continued adherence to professional and patriotic values.
Mark Cuban: From Sleeping Under Friend’s Couches to a Household Name
Mark Cuban is another individual who has made his path through relentless hard work and a keen eye for opportunity. Cuban is not just a household name; he is a household name for a multitude of reasons, from his work in television to his investment in technology, particularly in the Hulu platform.
One of the most impressive traits about Mark Cuban is his candor and down-to-earth approach. In his book, “How to Win at the Sport of Business: If I Can Do It You Can Do It,” Cuban candidly discusses his rise from sleeping under his friends' couches to founding multiple successful businesses. He is self-aware about his own flaws and is not afraid to share his setbacks and challenges along the way. This honesty allows readers to understand that success is not always smooth sailing but often consists of hard work, resilience, and persistence.
Cuban's book focuses more on life lessons than on grandiose goals. It provides practical insights and valuable experiences that can benefit aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. While Cuban’s political opinions may not align with everyone’s, his ethical and admirable qualities make him an inspiring figure. His dedication to providing value to his readers, even at the expense of financial gain, is a testament to his integrity and commitment to helping others succeed.
A Personal Connection and Impression
One incident with Mark Cuban that left a significant impression on me was when I reached out to him post-reading his book. I wrote a brief email to share my thoughts on the book and a humorous anecdote involving his basketball antics, which I thought was amusing. To my surprise, Cuban responded within an hour, offering encouragement and genuine interest in my feedback. His willingness to engage and his respect for reader opinions, despite being one of the most prominent billionaires, highlights the kind of leader he is.
Both Erik Prince and Mark Cuban have managed to achieve significant success while upholding strong ethical and professional standards. They set examples that go beyond the scope of financial success, emphasizing the importance of personal integrity, hard work, and ethical conduct. Their stories serve as inspirations for individuals aspiring to make a positive impact in their fields and in society at large.