In what one might describe as an infamous film “Wall Street” Gordon Ghekko lectures his protege Bud Fox on attributes of individuals that disqualify them from being successful. He states that in the markets “most of these Harvard MBA types don’t add up to dog...it” “Give me guys that are poor, smart, and hungry”
In the context of the message in the film it is a ruthless assessment on the part of Gekko about what it takes to be ruthless and succeed at all costs. There is however, much truth in these words. Cache and platitudes by themselves produce nothing. They must be backed up by intelligence, drive and relentless pursuit of one's goals. This can manifest itself for good or bad depending on who and what is involved.
Taken in the form of good, genius, and resourcefulness, these qualities are pivotal to success. Successful organizations at their onset have founders and leaders that are poor, smart, and hungry. Poor does not mean lack of money or resources in all cases. It can mean that someone wants to fulfill a need or make right a perceived wrong. In all instances, fulfillment of this results in gains. Gains can be monetary, they can be internal and substantive. They can be good for the individual and good for all those impacted by their actions.
Poor, smart, and hungry coupled with good character, integrity, honor, and discipline could be the ideal that many strive for. Awareness and critical thinking. What do you want and how will you accomplish what you want? Can you do it yourself or do you need the qualities that others may possess to achieve it? Think about it.
