Eric Schmidt’s Secret to Fulfillment: Wealth Isn’t the Goal, Purpose Is

Despite being one of the richest individuals on the planet, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt shares a powerful truth: money isn’t the goal. For Schmidt, fulfillment comes from pursuing passions and finding purpose in both work and life. While wealth may be a byproduct, it’s not the source of happiness.

Schmidt’s message is particularly relevant in today’s success-driven culture, where many chase after financial milestones without considering deeper sources of fulfillment.

1. Meaning Over Money: Find Purpose in What You Do

Schmidt’s philosophy reflects a growing body of research that shows money only contributes to happiness up to a certain point—after that, the impact levels off. Instead of chasing bigger paychecks, Schmidt advises focusing on finding meaning in your work. Whether you’re working in tech, healthcare, or social impact, the key is to find joy in the journey and align your career with a larger purpose.

Case in Point: Warren Buffett’s Happiness Formula

Warren Buffett, another business titan, echoes a similar sentiment: “If you get to my age in life and nobody thinks well of you, I don’t care how big your bank account is—your life is a disaster.” Buffett has long advocated for pursuing work that you’re passionate about rather than seeking wealth for wealth’s sake.

2. Serve Others: The Key to Lasting Fulfillment

Schmidt is a strong proponent of servant leadership—the idea that the greatest happiness comes from contributing to something larger than yourself. By creating products that impact millions or by helping to shape the future of technology, Schmidt found purpose beyond personal success. True fulfillment, he argues, comes from helping others succeed.

Look at Salesforce’s “1-1-1 Philanthropy Model”

Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, built the company on a philanthropic model that dedicates 1% of equity, 1% of product, and 1% of employee time to charitable causes. By embedding social responsibility into the company’s DNA, Benioff has created a culture of purpose-driven work—a lesson that entrepreneurs can apply to build impact-driven businesses.

3. Follow Your Passions: Do Work That Truly Matters

Schmidt credits much of his success to his passion for AI and innovation. His work at Google and beyond has always been driven by a desire to shape the future of technology, not to accumulate wealth. In the same way, he encourages entrepreneurs and leaders to find work that excites them, whether it’s AI, education, sustainability, or any other field. Passion, he argues, fuels persistence, innovation, and ultimately, satisfaction.

Steve Jobs’ Passion for Innovation

Steve Jobs famously said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Jobs’ deep passion for design and user experience drove Apple’s revolutionary products, proving that passion is the core ingredient of success.

Key Takeaways:

• 🧠 Meaning Matters More: Once basic needs are met, more money doesn’t bring more happiness. Focus on doing work that brings you meaning.

• 🌍 Serve Others: Like Schmidt, find purpose in helping others or contributing to a bigger cause—this is where true happiness lies.

• ❤️ Follow Your Passion: Choose a path that excites you, and success will follow. Let passion fuel your career.

By shifting focus from wealth to purpose, you can lead a life of fulfillment and build a career that not only brings you success but also brings you joy and meaning.