Branson said he became an entrepreneur before the word ever existed. His favorite quote, “Screw it and get on and do it,” reflects his desire to try new companies with different or new products and services.
“An entrepreneur is someone that makes something that makes a difference in people’s lives,” he said in a video he showed at the conference.
“I am a person that looks forward more than looking back,” he added.
His advice was to give an idea a go. The worst thing that can happen is that you fall on your face. If that happens, you pick yourself up.
Surround Yourself With Smart People
“If you build a team of people, you can do extraordinary things around the world,” Branson said. “From a young age, I was lucky to surround myself with great people.”
He laughed as he recalled a business meeting where a board member pulled him aside and asked, ‘Richard, you don’t know the difference between net and gross?’ He admitted he did not.
His strategy is to look for people who are passionate and create an enjoyable work environment for them.
Live To Do Things Better
“I certainly didn’t have a grand vision,” shared Branson. “The more you travel and the more you can read about what is going on in this world, you can see opportunities.”