Nailed it! NVIDIA founder & CEO Jensen Huang's advice to students is brilliant:
"People with high expectations have low resilience, and resilience matters in success... I don't know how to teach it to you except for, 'I hope suffering happens to you'... greatness comes from character & character... is formed from people who suffered... I wish upon you ample doses of pain & suffering"- Jensen Huang
It's counterintuitive, isn't it? In a world where we constantly emphasize the importance of high expectations and ambition, Jensen Huang—a renowned figure in the tech industry—suggests that a bit of pain and suffering might be what truly fuels success. But let's delve deeper into this idea and explore the reasons why embracing challenges and adversity can lead to resilience, character, and ultimately, greatness. Think back to some of the most influential people in history—Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, or J.K. Rowling, to name a few. Each of them faced significant obstacles before achieving monumental success. Einstein couldn't speak until he was three and struggled in school. Jobs was fired from the very company he co-founded. Rowling was a single mother on welfare while writing the first Harry Potter book.
What do these stories have in common? They all highlight the transformative power of overcoming hardships and the role of resilience in shaping world-changing ideas, products, and stories.
Resilience, a key component of Huang's advice, refers to our ability to adapt in the face of adversity. Developing resilience involves pushing through challenges and learning from our failures. As students, it's essential to understand that encountering obstacles is not a setback; instead, it's an opportunity to grow and hone our skills.
To build resilience, try
- embracing valuable criticism as a chance to improve
- practicing mindfulness to manage stress and maintain a positive mindset
- surrounding yourself with supportive peers who share similar goals
- setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories along the way
By adopting these practices, you'll not only build resilience but also develop character traits that distinguish you as a learner and future professional—curiosity, determination, and adaptability.
Next time you're faced with a daunting challenge or find yourself struggling, remember Jensen Huang's advice: suffering and pain can serve as a catalyst for character development and greatness. So, embrace the difficulties with open arms and maintain a resilient attitude. In doing so, you'll be on your way to becoming a more resourceful, innovative, and well-rounded individual.