Elon Musk has been a prominent figure in headlines for years, but Walter Isaacson’s new biography on the Tesla CEO reveals that there is still much more to learn about the world’s richest man. After shadowing Musk for three years, Isaacson’s book, released on September 12, offers intriguing insights into the life of one of the most influential individuals globally. Here are eight key takeaways from the biography:
1. Musk’s Emotional Rollercoaster: Musk’s moods can fluctuate wildly. Those close to him often fear his “demon mode,” describing how he shifts between distinct personalities rapidly. This emotional volatility can range from intense and goofy to detached and emotional. During his darker moments, Musk may unleash his fury on employees or intensify work demands.
2. Family Influence: Elon Musk’s father, Errol Musk, significantly shaped his personality and worldview. Despite a challenging relationship with his father, Errol Musk’s influence played a role in molding Elon’s personality, including his perception of love and treatment of others.
3. Hardcore Work Ethic: Musk’s hardcore work ethic has been ingrained in him since his early days. He’s known for working long hours and even sleeping at the office. This intense dedication stems from his childhood habit of staying up late to read.
4. Difficult to Work With: Musk’s demanding nature and high expectations have made him a challenging figure to work alongside. He often maintains an intense work environment, even in the early days of his startups.
5. Stress as a Motivator: Stress appears to be a driving force for Musk. He has experienced physical reactions to stress, such as staying awake at night and vomiting. Musk’s pursuit of high-stress situations seems to be a default setting for him.
6. Complex Relationships: Musk’s relationships, particularly romantic ones, have been marked by complexities. His laser focus on his businesses and a lack of social awareness have contributed to challenging dynamics in his personal life.
7. Tender Side: Despite his challenging personality traits, Musk also exhibits a tender side. He is portrayed as a loving and doting father to his son, X AE A-XII (baby X), and has shown support during difficult times for friends and family.
8. Evolving Politics: Musk’s political stance has evolved over time and has begun to align with some of his father’s views. This shift is characterized by a growing propensity for conspiracy theories and an increasing departure from his previous political affiliations.
Elon Musk’s life, as revealed in this biography, is a complex tapestry of emotions, motivations, and influences. It offers readers a deeper understanding of the man who has left an indelible mark on the tech and automotive industries.