Exploring Life, Work, and Education with Ricardo Semler

Ricardo Semler discusses his concept of 'terminal days,' where he lives as if he has limited time, focusing on meaningful activities. He shares innovative management practices at his company, emphasizing employee autonomy and wisdom. Semler also explores educational reform through his Lumiar schools, aiming to teach wisdom over traditional subjects. He reflects on personal growth, legacy, and the importance of questioning life's purpose.

What does Ricardo Semler refer to as 'terminal days'?

• Days dedicated to leisure activities

• Days spent working overtime

• Days lived as if he has limited time left

• Days focused on financial planning

According to Semler, what is the true opposite of work?

• Leisure

• Idleness

• Exercise

• Travel

What unique policy does Semler's company offer to employees regarding their work schedule?

• Unlimited vacation days

• Option to buy back time for personal pursuits

• Mandatory overtime on weekends

• Fixed working hours

How does Semler's company ensure democratic decision-making?

• By conducting weekly all-staff meetings

• By having a single leader make all decisions

• Through anonymous employee evaluations of leaders

• By rotating leadership roles monthly

What is a key feature of the educational model at Lumiar schools?

• Emphasis on wisdom and passion

• Focus on standardized testing

• Traditional classroom settings

• Strict age-based class divisions

In Semler's educational model, who are encouraged to teach the students?

• Parents of the students

• Senior citizens with passion and expertise

• Professional athletes

• Only certified teachers

What does Semler suggest about giving back to society?

• It should be done through large donations

• It should be done only after retirement

• It indicates that one took too much

• It is unnecessary if taxes are paid

What personal action did Semler take to free himself from past achievements?

• He wrote a memoir

• He donated all his wealth

• He burned all his past work

• He started a new business

What does Semler believe is the most important question in life?

• Why do we exist?

• How to achieve success?

• How to accumulate wealth?

• What is the meaning of happiness?

What tool does Semler suggest using to gain wisdom?

• Attending motivational seminars

• Practicing meditation daily

• Reading self-help books

• Asking three whys in a row