To be successful you have to be selfish, or else you never achieve. And once you get to your highest level, then you have to be unselfish. Stay reachable. Stay in touch. Don’t isolate.

Michael Jordan presents a balanced view of ambition and generosity. He suggests that achieving personal goals initially requires a degree of self-focus. To become excellent, we must invest time, energy, and attention in developing ourselves. This may mean prioritizing training, learning, preparation, and personal improvement. However, Jordan explains that this approach must change once we reach a high level. At that point, success should not become an excuse for isolation or self-importance. Michael Jordan emphasizes the importance of becoming unselfish, staying connected, and remaining accessible to others. This is an important leadership lesson. Personal achievement can open doors, but long-term influence often depends on how we treat and support the people around us. Someone who becomes successful but isolates themselves may lose valuable relationships and opportunities to make a positive impact. The quote therefore describes two stages of growth: first, develop yourself with intense focus; then, use your experience and success to contribute to others. True achievement is not only about reaching the top but also about staying grounded and connected once you get there.