Who wants to be a millionaire?
A New Yorker is sharing his four secrets to success — perseverance, endless curiosity, innovation, and balance — after inventing an app at just 14 years old propelled him to the millionaire’s club.
“Success is rarely an overnight phenomenon — it’s the result of consistent effort over time,” entrepreneur Lucas Roitman told Jam Press.
While many of his friends were enjoying traditional pastimes in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Roitman was in his bedroom creating and publishing his own viral web video game at the age of 11.
He also developed Airhand, a revolutionary augmented reality software, as a teen.
The app allows users to control their computer with hand movements — like by pointing to an object on the screen and “picking” items up by opening and closing their hands.
His pursuit quickly paid off — the innovative creation sold for millions to a multinational company.
Roitman continued to work in the tech sector, particularly the AI and robotics industries, and recently sold his Adia Robotics drone start-up to Apple for $55 million.
He credits these four habits for his accomplishments.
Perseverance
The Stanford University graduate says he learned the true power of perseverance in Palo Alto — where he had to embrace cultural changes as well as academic adjustments.
“Embracing these challenges was crucial,” Roitman explained.
“At Stanford, I not only acquired a world-class education but also learned the significance of resilience,” he continued. “It is not merely enduring hard times but also about finding growth and opportunity in them.”
Endless curiosity
The tech whiz credits passion, curiosity, and his ability to absorb as much information as possible for his career trajectory.
“It was my deep-rooted passion and curiosity that propelled my initial steps into the tech world,” Roitman said. “It’s this relentless drive that inspires continuous learning and adaptation, essential in the ever-evolving tech landscape.”
Innovation
Having something unique to offer is key as well because it allows you to establish a distinct identity and stand out with something truly exceptional, Roitman says.
“Today’s teenagers are equipped with unparalleled access to information and tools, and have the unique opportunity to utilize these resources to experiment, learn, and innovate — so they should take advantage of that,” he advised.
Balance
Though work keeps him very busy, Roitman says he makes sure to take time for his hobbies, which include salsa dancing, rock climbing, playing piano, and enjoying adventure sports.
“I often unwind by playing the piano, which helps me relax and refocus,” he said. “Spending quality time with family and friends keeps me grounded, reminding me of the importance of maintaining a well-rounded life.”
Breaking away from routine is important, Roitman counsels.
“The answer is simple — love what you do and the balance will find you,” he declared.
