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Jean Paul Getty’s *How to Be Rich* Still Transforms Modern Business Thinking

A half-century-old guide still reshapes ambition and strategy. What makes Getty’s wisdom on purpose and profit so enduring?

In the foreground of this poster, there is some text written on a wall as " MCCOMB HIGH SCHOOL" on...
In the foreground of this poster, there is some text written on a wall as " MCCOMB HIGH SCHOOL" on it. In the background, there are plants, trees, a pole, building, sky and the cloud.

Jean Paul Getty’s *How to Be Rich* Still Transforms Modern Business Thinking

Jean Paul Getty’s How to Be Rich continues to shape business thinking decades after its release. Originally published over 50 years ago, the book’s principles still guide entrepreneurs and leaders today. Its lessons on wealth, purpose and leadership have stood the test of time.

The only Russian edition, titled Как стать богатым, appeared in 2018. A Belarusian publisher, Popurri, handled the translation, though the translator’s name remains uncredited.

At its core, the book argues that true success comes from aligning business goals with broader societal progress. Getty insists that companies must tackle global challenges while pursuing profit. This dual focus, he claims, ensures long-term relevance and impact.

The work also stresses the value of human capital over financial assets. Employee well-being and development take centre stage, with Getty urging leaders to foster trust and shared values. Strong teams, built on respect, become the foundation of any thriving enterprise.

Beyond business tactics, the book explores personal priorities. It examines work-life balance, the role of family, and how luck and risk shape careers. Readers are pushed to set bold goals and take decisive action rather than waiting for opportunities.

Lifelong learning emerges as another key theme. Getty frames education as a continuous process, not a one-time effort. Those who adapt, study, and grow, he argues, will outlast competitors in an ever-changing market.

Getty’s ideas have influenced generations of entrepreneurs, from start-up founders to established executives. The 2018 Russian translation extended its reach, though details about the translator stay unknown. For many, the book remains a practical guide—blending timeless wisdom with actionable advice for modern leadership.

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