Mark Cuban: My Best Advice To 16-Year-Olds
You're 16. You're probably thinking about college, maybe driving, and definitely about your next TikTok video. But what about your future? Mark Cuban, billionaire entrepreneur and investor, has some advice for you. He knows a thing or two about success.
Forget About College, Focus on Skills: Cuban isn't a college hater, but he believes skills are way more important. Think about what you're good at, and what you love to do. Then, focus on building those skills. "Find something that makes you happy and something you’re good at," he advises. "The rest will take care of itself."
Building Skills is More Important Than Books: In today's world, skills are everything. Learning new things, whether it's coding, design, or even video editing, is key to success. "You can learn everything you need to know online, even if you don't go to college," says Cuban. You can learn how to code on platforms like Codecademy or FreeCodeCamp!
Don't Be Afraid to Fail: "Everyone fails," says Cuban. The important thing is to learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward. Failing is a part of the learning process. Don't be afraid to take risks, and don't be afraid to try something new.
Start a Business! It's never too early to start a business. Cuban says that entrepreneurship is the best way to learn and grow. You don't have to have a million dollars to start. Start small, and build your way up. There are tons of resources available online, like Y Combinator, Startup Weekend, and Techstars.
Passion is Key: Cuban's biggest piece of advice? Follow your passions. If you're passionate about something, you'll be more likely to succeed. "I’m a big believer in following your passions,” he says. “If you’re passionate about something, you’ll find a way to make it work.”
Cuban's advice might sound simple, but it's powerful. He's telling you to be proactive, to learn, and to never give up. His words are a reminder that success isn't just about luck, it's about hard work, passion, and a willingness to learn. So, go out there and start building your future!