Doug McMillon’s Key Lessons for Success in Career and Life
Doug McMillon’s rise to the top of Walmart is a classic success story. He started his journey at Walmart as a teenager working in a distribution center. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, serving in various leadership roles before becoming CEO in 2014. His journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and a passion for retail.
During a commencement speech at the University of Arkansas, McMillon shared three key lessons that helped him navigate his career and life. These insights offer valuable advice for anyone looking to achieve success.
1. Be Present in Every Moment
One of McMillon’s biggest takeaways from his career is the importance of being fully engaged in the present. While planning for the future is crucial, he emphasizes that enjoying the current moment is just as important.
He shared how, as a student, he had mapped out his career with ambitious goals—including attending a top-tier business school and starting his own company. However, life didn’t go exactly as planned. Despite setbacks, he stayed focused on doing his best in the present, which ultimately led him to greater opportunities.
His advice: Do today’s job well, earn trust, and embrace every phase of life.
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2. Find a Career That Doesn’t Feel Like Work
McMillon believes that true success comes from pursuing work that feels fulfilling. He reflected on how his father, a dentist, was unhappy in his profession, which affected their family. In contrast, McMillon found his passion in retail and never looked back.
His advice for graduates and professionals: If you don’t love what you’re doing, keep searching until you find your happy place.
3. Assume Positive Intent and Show Grace
In today’s world, where negativity and conflicts are prevalent, McMillon encourages people to approach others with kindness and an open mind. He believes that people have more in common than differences and that helping others brings more joy than personal achievements.
His advice: If you ever feel stuck, do something kind for someone else. It will change your perspective.
How McMillon’s Advice Reflects His Leadership at Walmart
McMillon’s leadership style at Walmart reflects the same principles he shared in his speech. He is known for his people-first approach, innovative mindset, and ability to navigate challenges with grace. Under his leadership, Walmart has expanded its e-commerce business, invested in employee growth, and embraced digital transformation.
Doug McMillon’s journey from unloading Walmart trucks to leading the world’s largest retailer is an inspiring story of perseverance and purpose. His advice—being present, finding fulfilling work, and assuming positive intent—serves as a blueprint for success in both work and life.
