Private Equity and The Economy with David Rubenstein (Members Only)

Daily Habits

David M. Rubenstein shares his daily routines, emphasizing the importance of preparation and balance. He starts his day early, reading physical newspapers and planning his schedule, which includes speeches, interviews, and writing 1. Despite his busy professional life, he strives to maintain a sense of normalcy and balance between work and personal life 2.

I try to get up reasonably early and read the newspapers. It's an old fashioned thing.

--- David M. Rubenstein

In the evenings, he winds down by catching up on emails and reading books, often those written by authors he interviews 1.

   

Career Insights

Reflecting on his career, David emphasizes the role of humility and hard work in achieving success. He notes that many successful individuals he has interviewed attribute their accomplishments to a combination of effort and luck 3. Rubenstein also shares personal regrets, such as not being more successful earlier in life and wishing he had spent more time with his children 4.

The most successful people tend to be relatively humble and modest about their accomplishments.

--- David M. Rubenstein

Despite these regrets, he expresses contentment with his overall achievements and contributions to society.

   

Philanthropy

David discusses the importance of philanthropy and his commitment to giving back. He believes that using wealth to improve society can lead to greater personal happiness and fulfillment 5. Rubenstein has pledged to give away the bulk of his fortune during his lifetime, aiming to see the positive impact of his contributions 5.

People are happier, and maybe they'll live longer, because happier people tend to live longer than grumpy people.

--- David M. Rubenstein

He also reflects on how his perspective on money has evolved, noting that accumulating more wealth does not necessarily increase happiness 6.