This article provides an analysis of Elon Musk’s life and career, exploring how he became so successful. It also offers insight into his business decisions, leadership approach, and key traits for success. It discusses how these insights can be applied to other entrepreneurs and business leaders with the intent to better understand and emulate Musk’s breakthroughs.
Elon Musk grew up in South Africa. His father was an electrical engineer and his mother a nutritionist. He demonstrated an early aptitude for computers and was accepted into the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics and physics. He then attended Stanford University, but dropped out after two days to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities.
Musk got his start in business by co-founding the online software payment processor Zip2. This business was eventually sold to Compaq Computers for $318 million, and
