OpenAI Chairman Shares Eric Schmidt’s ‘Rocket Ship’ Mantra That Shaped His Career

OpenAI chairman Bret Taylor emphasizes the importance of flexibility and seizing opportunities in the tech industry, drawing advice from former executives at Google and Facebook. He recalls a significant lesson from Sheryl Sandberg’s Harvard commencement speech: “If someone offers you a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat.” Taylor’s adaptable career trajectory includes roles like co-CEO of Salesforce and chair at Twitter, illustrating the value of self-awareness in navigating Silicon Valley’s unique moments. He contrasts rigid career planning with a more fluid approach that leads to happiness and professional growth. Having faced challenges, such as Twitter’s sale to Elon Musk, Taylor highlights the importance of staying grounded and analytical in high-pressure situations. He believes success arises from hard work and innovative thinking, inspired by tech pioneer Alan Kay’s quote: “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” Seeking impact over leisure drives his ambition.

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