When the story of your life spends weeks as a Washington Post and New York Times #1 bestseller, you are definitely an inspiration to millions of people around the world. People may even be familiar with the life of Chris Gardner thanks to the film The Pursuit of Happyness, which starred Will Smith.
Although Gardner’s childhood was filled with family illiteracy, domestic violence, poverty, and sexual abuse, he was determined to never let his past define him. After being discharged from the Navy and becoming a father, he decided he needed a rewarding and lucrative career to provide for his family. He took an interest in finance, but he didn’t have a degree or even training in the field. He eventually found a training program at a brokerage firm, but it meant he and his son would be homeless because he wouldn’t be able to make ends meet on such a low salary. He persevered, becoming a top earner at Bear Stearns & Co. before starting his own high grossing firm.
Today, Chris Gardner is an author, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and philanthropist who shares his childhood story and ability to overcome homelessness as a single parent in an effort to encourage people to never give up. He is very active in organizations that support single fathers, children’s education, and provide financial assistance to those in need.
Via: Chris Gardner Media
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