---
title: ▍Blackstone’s Byron Wien Discusses Lessons Learned in His First 80 Years
created: 2026-07-14
modified: 2026-07-14
authors: Byron Wien
category: Essay
---

> Take the time to give those who work for you a pat on the back when they do good work. Most people are so focused on the next challenge that they fail to thank the people who support them. It is important to do this. It motivates and inspires people and encourages them to perform at a higher level.

> ⭐️ When meeting someone new, try to find out what formative experience occurred in their lives before they were <mark>seventeen</mark>. It is my belief that some important event in everyone’s youth has an influence on everything that occurs afterwards.

> Most people don’t become comfortable with who they are until they’re in their 40’s. By that time they can underplay their achievements and become a nicer, more likable person. Try to get to that point as soon as you can.

> Read all the time. Don’t just do it because you’re curious about something, read actively.

> If you want to be successful and live a long, stimulating life, keep yourself at risk intellectually all the time.