Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon says the best advice he ever got came from his grandmother in his 20s: ‘Don’t be in a hurry’

David Solomon, who leads Goldman Sachs, says the most important career advice he ever received came from an unexpected source: his grandmother.

The lesson, delivered when Solomon was in his 20s, was simple: “Don’t be in a hurry.”

A reminder beyond Wall Street

Solomon’s recollection stands out because the advice did not come from a senior banking executive or a mentor in a corporate office. Instead, it came from a family member during an early stage of his career.

For a leader at one of Wall Street’s most powerful banks, the memory highlights the lasting influence a short, personal message can have. The advice also reflects a measured approach to professional progress, placing emphasis on patience rather than speed.

Why the message matters

Solomon’s account connects a basic family lesson with the demands of a high-profile business career. His grandmother’s words offer a perspective that differs from the pressure often associated with rapid advancement: progress does not need to be rushed.

The story provides a rare personal detail about the thinking of a major banking chief while underscoring how career guidance can come from outside traditional professional networks.

Bottom line

David Solomon credits his grandmother’s advice in his 20s with giving him a principle he still identifies as the best career guidance he received: “Don’t be in a hurry.”