Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) founder Michael Saylor has proposed a radically different approach to building a career amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence. His main thesis is simple yet provocative: do not try to master what AI already does better than you. Instead, focus on finding opportunities that others have not yet noticed.
The essence of the strategy: "finding a new S-curve"
In a recent interview, Saylor explained that technological progress follows the classic S-curve: a slow start, explosive growth, then stabilization. In his view, AI and related digital technologies are currently in the acceleration phase. This means the ideal moment has arrived to carve out a place in a new, emerging niche.
"Do not learn to do what AI already knows how to do. Better yet, learn to ask AI to perform a task that no one has ever solved before," he emphasizes.
The billionaire's practical advice: do not spend years mastering routine skills related to data processing. Instead, develop expertise in a specific subject area and use AI as a tool to create new products or lower the cost of existing services. The key asset is not the ability to write prompts, but a deep understanding of your industry.
Parallels with bitcoin and risks
Saylor also drew an unexpected parallel between career strategy and investing in bitcoin. He criticized traditional real estate investments for their high tax and maintenance burden, calling BTC an "interesting instrument" that appreciates in value without extra hassle. However, this approach carries serious risks, as Strategy's own experience confirms.
By August 16, the company held 840,447 BTC, acquired for $63.36 billion (average price $75,385). Meanwhile, in the second quarter, Strategy recorded a net loss of $8.22 billion due to the decline in bitcoin's price, and its shares have lost nearly 40% since the start of the year. Critics also point to shareholder dilution and recent BTC sales, which contradict the previous long-term holding strategy. Saylor himself has warned investors of "difficult years" ahead.
My take: Saylor once again demonstrates an ability to articulate simple yet powerful ideas. However, his own example shows that chasing a "new S-curve" is a high-risk bet. For a career, this means: being first in a new niche is advantageous, but only if you have a deep knowledge foundation that will not be devalued with the shift in the technological cycle.