“If you are not learning new things, you stop doing great and useful things,” is one of the core ideas that define Satya Nadella’s leadership philosophy. Since taking over as CEO of Microsoft in 2014, Nadella has consistently encouraged a culture of curiosity, urging individuals and organisations to adopt a “learn-it-all” mindset rather than assuming they already know everything.
Born on November 19, 1967, in Hyderabad, India, Nadella’s journey reflects the power of lifelong learning. He studied electrical engineering at the Manipal Institute of Technology, earned a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and later completed an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. After joining Microsoft in 1992, he rose through key roles in product and cloud engineering before being appointed CEO, a milestone that marked a cultural shift at the world’s largest software company.
Nadella’s quote underscores the belief that learning fuels growth, innovation, and usefulness. In a rapidly changing, technology-driven world, relying only on existing knowledge can limit progress. Continuous learning helps individuals adapt, solve new problems, and create meaningful solutions that benefit society.
For Nadella, learning is also central to leadership and teamwork. Organisations that encourage learning remain innovative and relevant, while those that resist change risk stagnation. His message is clear: curiosity and constant learning are not optional—they are essential for creating work that truly matters.
