The Great Habits and Philosophy of Li Ka-shing (1928.7.29–)

Li Ka-shing is one of Hong Kong’s most respected entrepreneurs and a self-made billionaire admired not only across Asia but around the world. Born in mainland China, he lost his father amid war and poverty and was forced, at the age of twelve, to support his family. He left school and began working in factories to survive, cultivating diligence and endurance from an early age as he carved out his own path in life.

His day begins at five in the morning. In the quiet hours of early dawn, he reads to organize his thoughts and reflect on the world, followed by jogging or stretching at six to train his body. He then reviews his daily plan and faithfully follows a disciplined routine. He has often said that “time management is a greater asset than any talent,” and he has rigorously governed every hour of his life according to this belief.

In the early stages of his career, he found success in plastic manufacturing, later expanding into real estate, telecommunications, ports, and energy, building a vast fortune across diverse industries. Yet for Li Ka-shing, wealth accumulation was never the ultimate goal, but a means. He consistently emphasized that “wealth should never harm people, and in the end, it must be returned to society,” expressing a firm commitment to using business as a force for social good.

In meetings, he prioritizes listening over speaking and maintains a lifelong habit of taking notes. He is also well known for carefully listening to suggestions from younger employees. As reflected in his words, “Only those who continue to learn can endure,” he has never stopped studying technological and social change, even in old age. Always dressed in a neat suit and maintaining an upright posture, his respectful manner toward others has long served as a model for many.

Favorite Foods and Eating Habits

Li Ka-shing’s eating habits are marked by extreme simplicity and restraint. He eats three meals a day at regular times, but in modest portions. He avoids greasy or highly seasoned foods, preferring vegetables and fish. Refined sugar and flour are rarely part of his diet, and he maintains the habit of slowly enjoying meals accompanied by aged black tea.

Even during meals, he maintains a composed and disciplined attitude. He keeps television and smartphones at a distance, chewing slowly and focusing fully on the act of eating itself. He has said that “a meal is not merely about filling the stomach, but a ritual that trains both body and mind,” infusing every action with care. Except for occasional meals with family or close friends, he often eats alone in silence, using the time to organize his thoughts.

He also places importance on the aesthetics of food. Even a simple bowl of porridge is valued for its balance of color and mild flavor, and he sometimes prepares meals himself in the kitchen. Believing that the quality of food is directly connected to the quality of life, he seeks true abundance within simplicity. This is not merely a health-conscious choice, but a philosophy deeply woven into his entire way of living.

Love and Philosophy of Human Relationships

Li Ka-shing is known for his deep devotion to family. He spent his life with his wife, and even after her passing, he has often expressed his enduring longing for her. In educating his children, he valued trust and guidance over direct interference, encouraging his two sons to absorb management lessons in their own ways.

He believed that instilling life philosophy and a sense of responsibility was more important than passing down wealth itself. In fact, he has already donated a significant portion of his vast fortune to society, emphasizing to his sons that “a parent’s role is to help children walk their own paths.” This attitude is consistently reflected throughout his approach to human relationships.

In business as well, he strives to retain warmth and humanity. Even ahead of major contracts, he is known to ask first about the other party’s health or family, a subtle consideration that has earned him deep trust among partners and collaborators. He often repeats, “If the other side does not benefit, neither do I,” pursuing relationships built on mutual gain and long-term trust.

Lessons We Can Learn

Li Ka-shing’s life resembles a lotus flower blooming amid turbulent waters. Even in desperate circumstances, he never abandoned hope, rising to become a world-class entrepreneur through unwavering philosophy and consistent action. Above all, his life teaches us the power of perseverance. By practicing small habits daily and maintaining self-discipline, he demonstrated that true success is built over time.

He has also never lost his humility. Referring to himself as “a person blessed by fortune,” he has continuously sought to return that fortune to society. His belief that success is not about standing above others, but about guiding many forward, continues to resonate deeply with people today.

Li Ka-shing stands not merely as a wealthy individual, but as a symbol of leadership grounded in philosophy. His journey reminds us that true success ultimately lies in preserving one’s humanity.