" The three short years I spent at Harvard, where I lived with excellent people, taught me not only that I must know how to choose my partners but also that choosing excellent partners is a skill you can learn. Obviously, when you spend time with the best, you learn how to choose among them. "
- Jorge Paulo Lemann

In this quote, Jorge Paulo Lemann reflects on his time at Harvard University, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with high-caliber individuals. He suggests that during those three pivotal years, he learned the crucial lesson of how to select the right people for various roles and collaborations in life. The experience taught him not just whom to choose but also underscored the significance of being selective and discerning when forming partnerships.

The deeper meaning behind Lemann’s words touches on personal growth through exposure to excellence. By spending time with highly accomplished individuals, one gains insight into what it means to be excellent and learns how to identify similar qualities in others. This process isn't just about recognizing talent but also understanding the attributes that contribute to success and then applying this knowledge when making future choices. It suggests a cycle of continuous improvement where each encounter with excellence feeds back into one's ability to seek out more opportunities for growth.

Jorge Paulo Lemann is a Brazilian businessman known for his significant contributions to the beer and beverage industry, as well as his philanthropic efforts. He is often recognized as one of the most influential figures in business due to his success and mentorship of numerous executives. His insights into partnership selection and personal development are drawn from a lifetime of experience at the highest levels of corporate governance and leadership.