Bernard Arnault: 'What I love is to win. What I love is being number one.'
What I love is to win. What I love is being number one.
Bernard Arnault, the chairman and CEO of LVMH, once expressed his mindset in a simple yet powerful statement, saying, "What I love is to win. What I love is being number one." At first glance, this quote may seem like a reflection of his competitive nature and desire for success. It emphasizes the importance he places on achieving the highest position, both personally and professionally. Arnault's words highlight the drive and determination required to excel in any field, urging individuals to strive for greatness and strive to be the best version of themselves.However, let us now explore an unexpected philosophical concept that brings an additional layer of depth to this quote. In the pursuit of understanding Arnault's viewpoint further, we can delve into the philosophy of Stoicism. Stoicism, an ancient school of thought, teaches individuals to focus on what is within their control and detach themselves from the uncontrollable external outcomes. By adopting a Stoic mindset, one learns to measure success inwardly rather than relying solely on external accolades or rankings.While Arnault's quote may appear to contradict the principles of Stoicism at first glance, there is an opportunity for exploring a harmony between the two perspectives. At its core, being number one or winning is objectively an external outcome that can be influenced by various uncontrollable factors, such as luck or external circumstances. Stoicism, on the other hand, advocates for finding fulfillment in our own actions and personal growth, focusing on what we can directly control – our thoughts, values, and actions.When merged, Arnault's quote can be seen as an expression of the drive to excel and the relentless pursuit of personal development. Winning in the conventional sense can be viewed as a byproduct of becoming the best version of oneself. By embracing the Stoic philosophy, Arnault's quest for being number one can be understood as an aspiration to continually improve, to surpass one's previous achievements, and to become a better leader, innovator, or artist.In this light, being "number one" can be seen as a symbol for consistently challenging oneself, embracing new ambitions, and achieving personal excellence. It becomes less about external validation and more about internal growth and self-fulfillment. The focus shifts from the result to the process, from the destination to the journey.Arnault's quote, "What I love is to win. What I love is being number one," encapsulates the human desire for success and the pursuit of excellence. It highlights how ambition and a competitive spirit can drive individuals to push their boundaries and reach new heights. By introducing the Stoic perspective, we evoke a deeper understanding of the quote, emphasizing the importance of personal growth, self-improvement, and finding fulfillment in the journey itself.Ultimately, whether we resonate more with the relentless pursuit of success or the principles of Stoicism, we can all find inspiration in Arnault's quote. It serves as a reminder to embrace our ambitions, continuously challenge ourselves, and prioritize our personal growth. By seeking excellence and staying resilient, we can shape our own paths and define our own versions of being "number one" – on our own terms.