The young Gabe Newell thought hed be a doctor until he ended up visiting his brother at Microsoft, where Steve Ballmer got mad and said If youre going to be hanging out here, why dont you do something useful?
Gabe Newell's early journey from aspiring doctor to gaming mogul is both humorous and insightful. In a recent interview, he reflects on a time when programming was not seen as a career. He describes how a casual visit to Microsoft turned into a pivotal moment that shaped his future. "If you're going to be hanging out here, why don't you do something useful?" This simple statement from Steve Ballmer sparked a career that would revolutionize gaming. Newell's narrative emphasizes the importance of luck and timing in career paths. The anecdote also highlights how passion can lead to unexpected opportunities. His respect for early Microsoft culture is evident, showing how it influenced Valve. This story serves as a reminder that greatness often comes from unplanned moments. It's a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a tech legend and the serendipity of success. For a deeper dive, check out the full interview here.