What We Can Learn From the World's (Former) Wealthiest Man

H. L. Hunt | D Magazine

H. L. Hunt was an American oil tycoon who secured title to much of the East Texas Oil Field, one of the world's largest oil deposits. At the time of his death, Hunt was reputed to have the highest net worth of any individual in the world.

Hunt was not born into immense wealth, and his path to get there was a bit unusual. Hunt was homeschooled, and he didn't even go to elementary school or to high school. Later in life, Hunt would controversially say that education is an obstacle to making money.

In 1957—seventeen years before his death—Fortune estimated that Hunt had a fortune of $400–700 million, and was one of the eight richest people in the United States. J. Paul Getty, who was considered to be the richest private citizen in the world, said of Hunt, "In terms of extraordinary, independent wealth, there is only one man—H. L. Hunt."

A bit of a riverboat gambler with questionable morals, he's also highly controversial, but when the wealthiest man in the world shares some insight on how he got to the top, it's worth noting.

I share a bit of Hunt's story to set the stage for a quote of his that many of us ought to listen to. While controversial, perhaps there's something we can learn from the former wealthiest man on earth:

“Decide what you want, decide what you are willing to exchange for it. Establish your priorities and go to work." — H. L. Hunt

So what can we learn from the world's former wealthiest man?

Know what you want. Clarity within your vision is easier said than done, but it's an important starting place.

Know what you're willing to exchange for it. Sacrifices need to be made - what are you willing to sacrifice for what you want?

Set your priorities. Establish your priorities and set your daily routine accordingly.

Do the work. Do what needs to be done, even when you don't feel like it.