Part II: How Ordinary Spaces Shape Extraordinary Lives

From North Korea to Palestine to Silicon Valley: The Power of Place

The Summer of 1905

After after a harrowing escape from Paris, Henri and the Matisse family arrived in the south of France. As the train pulled into the small seacoast village of Collioure, he stepped cautiously onto the dirt path, lugging a collapsible easel and a portable paintbox. He had this unmistakable feeling — a flicker of hope — that “maybe, just maybe, this time I’ve landed in the right place.”

The family of seven made their way to the village’s only rooming house, the Hotel de Templiers, and as they strode ahead he took in the sights with an artist’s keen eye. The unpleasant stench of spilled fish guts that rose from the docks as trawlers unloaded their catch was somewhat expected. Ramshackle houses leaning against each other warily, like drunks outside a dive bar, seemed more problematic. Leaving his old life behind, he had imagined paradise awaited. Now it felt more like paradise lost.

Nestled in the flank of the Pyrenees near the Spanish border, the little fishing village whispered of better days long ago. Even the region’s name, Languedoc — meaning “language of yes” in ancient Occitan — hinted at a place that once brimmed with hope. But by 1905, with its anchovy trade collapsing and vineyards yielding more wine than they could sell, Collioure was in decline. Grapes rotted or were turned into horse feed. Matisse wondered aloud, “What have we gotten ourselves into?” And more urgently: How am I going to sell a single painting here?

Grabbing his wife Amélie’s hand, he muttered, “Not such a charming town, is it?” Amélie offered a one word response. “Hardly.” She had convinced him to leave Paris for a summer here, but what they’d found was far from the refuge they’d envisioned. Then, the reality settled in: Matisse came here because he was broke. And, as it turned out, so was Collioure. They were, in that sense, kindred spirits, although it was not much comfort.

Yet, as the summer unfolded, something shifted. Collioure was no glamorous retreat, but the Mediterranean light glimmered on the worn facades, turning the rough edges of the village into something alive. Fishermen in frayed espadrilles called out in ancient Occitan, their sing-song voices carrying over the salt air. For Matisse, this was a place that felt real in a way Paris never had.

Throughout our lives, we venture from one place to another as Matisse did, always hoping for better pay or a better school system for our children. And just as often, finding ourselves disappointed. For Matisse, he came for cheaper summer lodgings, but like most of us, what he was really searching for was a better life. Was there such a place, one that would let him breathe, that resonated with his spirit? That kind of place is far more rewarding ultimately because it enables us us to change the direction of our life — that is, if you can find it.

What Matisse discovered in Collioure wasn’t anything new; searching for one’s spiritual home is the oldest story of humanity. Over 70,000 years ago, our ancestors, rooted in the search for somewhere that better met their needs, journeyed to a place where they were able to live and feel more connected to each other and the land. That hardy trek is the reason we are here today. They left the land of East Africa that was literally killing them, either intentionally or through circumstance, and searched for a better way of life.

Through our research, we’ve come to understand the search has never ended. There are two kinds of such places: those we find and those we have to build from scratch. Collioure, as Matisse would discover, was the latter.

The places that give us the most satisfaction in terms of warmth, comfort, prosperity, do so because what they really give is the chance to be true to our selves. Without them, we’re alone in a world that pushes us to fit in. This book is about those kinds of spaces. We call them Thrive Zones.

And as Matisse would soon realize, Collioure, with all its flaws, was exactly that.

What Happened in Collioure?

Surrounded by people of passion and simplicity, Matisse finally felt at one with his surroundings. This wasn’t his first trip south; he’d summered in more fashionable St. Tropez many times. But Collioure’s villagers charmed him with their ancient ways and warmth, inspiring him to find harmony between himself and his surroundings. His daily ritual, after painting all morning, was to savor a carafe of local Picpoul de Pinet and a bowl of bourride — the Languedoc’s take on bouillabaisse, made distinct by a dollop of garlic aioli that transformed the familiar fish stew into something unique and tantalizing, much like the region itself. Everything seemed simpler here, yet different and delicious, and slowly, his senses awakened.

Collioure became the home he’d longed for but had never been able to find in the white-hot world of Paris. Where other visitors might have seen decay, Matisse saw a palimpsest — a hidden image beneath the surface, revealing underlying layers of beauty.

The effect was transformative. Collioure became the setting for four of his fifteen greatest canvases, establishing the south of France as a new artistic capital. Matisse captured the raw beauty of the people and terrain, his brushstrokes infused with fresh energy. Shifting from survival to rediscovery, Matisse lived through one of those rare moments that both transforms and echoes through history. Ironically, looking back, it felt so natural, even unremarkable, that he summed up the effect of Collioure with a shrug, “The light here is different.”

But the real question isn’t what Matisse became — one of the most famous artists in history — but whether this transformation was due to talent alone or something that inspired hidden abilities that even he did not know he had? No, it wasn’t talent that changed; his earlier works showed the same technique and expressive brushwork. The paintings from 1905, however, were infused with a new energy and vibrancy of color. The transformation was inside Matisse — a painter with a new view of himself.

Liberated from his conventional Paris surroundings, he believed he could create something unequivocal, nurtured by this new environment. In one season, a mediocre lawyer turned struggling artist came to rival Picasso.

Thrive Zones: The Heart of Transformation

Thrive Zones aren’t defined by appearance. We don’t consider them as such because people enjoy themselves as on a beach vacation. Vacations calm and comfort us, at least momentarily; Thrive Zones enrich and can make us richer. These are places where results are the only barometer of success, much like a Grandmaster’s well-timed moves in chess don’t matter without a checkmate.

A Thrive Zone reveals elements that were once unseen: surroundings, people, and culture converging into a powerful catalyst for personal growth. No one notices the transformation coming — not the world, sometimes not even the person experiencing it. That’s how Matisse found himself in a town far from paradise, while not realizing it was to become his sanctuary after just a hundred days. Reflecting later, he gave us the answer in Notes of a Painter: “An artist must never be a prisoner — not of himself, nor of style, nor of reputation, nor of success.”

In short, Collioure — and the accepting, vibrant culture it symbolized — liberated him.

To find a place where we’re in tune with our surroundings, where the culture nourishes us, where our talent is free to experiment, where we can explore, create, even fail — and rise, time and again, until we thrive — isn’t that worth everything we can muster? That is the power of a Thrive Zone: it turns ordinary surroundings into the opportunity of a lifetime, without having to wait a lifetime.

Five Things You Should Know About Thrive Zones:

1. Thrive Zones are about convergence: environment, people, and purpose align to fuel growth.
2. They may or may not be scenic but are defined by transformative outcomes.
3. Thrive Zones foster resilience and creativity, prerquisites for personal and professional breakthroughs.
4. Thrive Zones encourage calculated risks, offering the freedom to experiment and fail forward.
5. Just as terroir enhances wine, Thrive Zones amplify potential through intentional settings.

The Philosophy of Place: A Blueprint for Reinvention

The Thrive Zone effect is known by many names: turnarounds, transformations, reincarnation, metamorphosis, rebirths, and reinvention. They speak to our fascination with change, the kind where someone leaves their current world for another.

In The Hero’s Journey, Joseph Campbell emphasizes three stages that he deemed essential for a complete metamorphosis. Matisse followed the instruction to the letter: separation from Paris and his clique, discovery into the simple but magical world of Collioure, and the triumphant return to Paris — a movement from ordinary to extraordinary in 100 days.

The story of humanity followed a similar pattern that entire societies and individuals adhere to this day. It begins with separation: a person or group becomes frustrated with life in a place. The next phase is the discovery of a new world — a land that seems extraordinary and hospitable. Finally, there is a merging of old and new — the experience of the old world with the perspective of the new.

This process has become a powerful survival strategy that predates modern Thrive Zones by 70,000 years. Yuval Noah Harari points out in Sapiens that the “Cognitive Revolution” sparked humanity’s first migration out of Africa during the Pleistocene era. Our earliest ancestors didn’t wait for better weather; they packed up and moved. Then, roughly 12,000 years ago, in areas now known as India and Iran, nomadism took root as people roamed back and forth from familiar territories to dodge tough conditions.

In the 4th century BCE, Chinese philosopher Mencius added social harmony to the mix of variables needed for success. Today, we distill his insight into a familiar idea: “being in the right place at the right time.” Mencius understood that community spirit mattered as much as climate; people needed more than just a ruler or a fortress — they needed the right environment to thrive.

In the 14th century, Arab historian Ibn Khaldun coined the phrase, “Geography is destiny.” This poetic idea explained for centuries why some nations flourished while others, as T.S. Eliot feared, ended “not with a bang, but a whimper.” Khaldun was highlighting that certain areas are naturally more hospitable, and for ages, proximity to water and fertile land was considered a ticket to success. But as history unfolded, geography proved malleable — we now have the ability to choose our environments.

Five Things You Should Know About the Thrive Zone Journey

• Separation: Leaving familiar settings for unknown opportunities.
• Discovery: New surroundings catalyze self-discovery and adaptation.
• Transformation: Thrive Zones reshape skills, confidence, and ambition.
• Integration: Return to familiar grounds with fresh insights or purpose.
• Enduring Legacy: Thrive Zones create lasting, impactful change.

The Architecture of a Thrive Zone: Lessons in a Bottle

Thrive Zones didn’t originate in a Harvard classroom; they sprang from the rich soil of a Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard.

Baron Pierre Le Roy, a winemaker and lawyer, revolutionized the French wine industry by formalizing the idea of terroir. The name comes from the Latin word terra, meaning “dirt,” yet its meaning holds the scent of centuries of tradition and decades of innovation. Terroir represents more than a vineyard; it is a place of soil and soul that unlocks extraordinary quality in wine.

In 1935, the winemakers of Châteauneuf-du-Pape recognized that marking a vineyard’s location on a label wasn’t enough. They needed to educate consumers and refine their appreciation for true excellence. They needed to “brand” their wines as terroirs, knowing this shift would reshape the wine industry itself at a significant cost to them. But Le Roy urged his fellow grape farmers, “You must set the example of honesty and discipline.”

His mission was to convince local winemakers that establishing the value of their terroirs was the key to survival in an industry threatened by cheap imports and adulterated wines (with added alcohol and sugar).

For Le Roy, terroir meant more than geography; it was about honoring the essence of place. This insight led him to establish the rules for the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system, which still governs the quality and authenticity of French wine.

Embedded inside Le Roy’s concept was the foundation for the Five Affirmations, each forming a crucial pillar of a terroir and its human counterpart, a Thrive Zone. The “5Ms” — Mentors, Mates, Methods, Mantras, and Metrics — aren’t just for cultivating exceptional wine; they apply equally to human potential. Just as Le Roy’s terroir creates the perfect conditions for grapes, Thrive Zones bring these elements into balance to foster personal and professional success.

Five Things to Know About Le Roy’s Rules of Terroir

1. Joy in Work
   In Thrive Zones, joy emerges from aligning work with purpose. Le Roy believed that the essence of terroir — like true joy — comes from deeply understanding and honoring the creators that have contributed to its legacy. Much like Warren Buffett “tap dancing to work,” it’s about finding satisfaction in a place that is aligned with one’s values.
2. Mentorship and Tradition
   Thrive Zones honor the past while staying curious about the future. Le Roy understood that preserving heritage was essential, symbolized by Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s emblematic Papal Keys. But his vineyards balanced respect for tradition with openness to innovation and encouraged his fellow winemakers to experiment and develop best practices, creating a solid foundation for growth.
3. Collegial Culture
   More than a method, collaboration in Thrive Zones is a mindset. Le Roy’s work with local growers fostered a culture where shared responsibility and dismantling traditional hierarchies led to freer communication and more meaningful teamwork, enhancing both productivity and quality.
4. Experimentation with Best Practices
   Thrive Zones embrace experimentation within a disciplined process — a pre-specified set of rules that assure the outcome isn’t random. Le Roy encouraged new ideas while respecting essential practices. In his vineyards, failure wasn’t feared; it was a step toward mastery, with success viewed as a natural outcome of a dedicated process.
5. Openness to Ideas and Accountability
   Thrive Zones are fueled by accurate, unadulterated guidance found in the metrics of accountability. Le Roy championed transparency and rigorous standards, measuring greatness not by volume but by the quality that emerged from nurturing talent and potential. His AOC system guaranteed each wine’s authenticity, reflecting his dedication to evolving standards that valued excellence. The enduring popularity of high-quality French wine testifies to his foresight in trusting the market’s appreciation for distinction.

Thrive Zones succeed and sustain themselves because they ultimately are about common sense, achieved through the hallowed traditions of mentors, the give and take of mates, the achievement of best practices through trial and error, and mantras to guide during periods of change and adjustment, and finally, endorsed by metrics not mandates from on high. Just as terroir shapes fine wine, Thrive Zones cultivate individual potential by balancing the freedom to innovate with a respect for tradition. They are, as Le Roy would say, the most valuable real estate on Earth.

The Rise and Fall of Communities: How They Develop, Succeed, and Decline

You won’t find Thrive Zones in textbooks.

Or in travel guides.

They come alive in real places, shaped by experience, enlightened leaders, and the steady pull of shared values. Think of them as little democracies — not as concerned with political freedom, but with giving individuals and communities the freedom to succeed.

In a Thrive Zone, you’ll find a govrernance structure that is fairly typical across a wide range of settings — from the Joint Special Forces Command, including Navy SEAL Teams and Green Berets, to the Nobel Prize Institute, the US Senate, organizations like Goldman Sachs and Apple, but you will also find them in institutions as mundane as a community pool in Baltimore or a small Baptist church in Moultrie, Georgia. Each of these illustrates the inner workings of a Thrive Zone and follows a similar pattern, which consists of a natural balance between we call the Five Affirmations.

At the top, you have the leaders — the founders or “mentors” — who set the overall direction. Next come the “mates,” the people who make up the community itself. Together, they establish best practices, or “methods,” which are shaped by experience with trial and error as their guide. Over time, the most successful of these methods evolve into rules and customs, or “mantras.” Finally, outcomes are measured and refined using “metrics” to ensure everything stays on track.

Together, these Five Affirmations form the core of a Thrive Zone.

But for this structure to work, mentors and mates need to stay in sync, balancing tradition with a spirit of innovation in a rough harmony. Some days, the methods work as they are; other times, they need a shake-up to stay relevant. It’s like a lab where the teacher sets the task, and the student gets to try, fail, learn — and sometimes find a better way. Over time, the student may even outgrow the teacher — or be ready to find a different zone.

Through this process, the best people and methods rise to the top and become the group’s new mentors and guiding principles. Success here is built on real experience, not just ambition. But when things slip out of balance — when mentors overshadow the mates — stagnation sets in.

That’s when Thrive Zones become “Survival Zones,” places where staying in line, obeying the status quo, or keeping the ruling elite happy takes priority. We’ve all seen it, in everything from big companies to small countries.

So, how can you tell which kind of zone you’re in? Start with the mentors. Founders and leaders often set the tone for the community’s values. The wrong kind of leader builds barriers, creating self-serving rules that mates are forced to follow. This can quickly turn a Thrive Zone into a Survival Zone. The examples that follow show how this shift plays out.

Case Study: North vs. South Korea

“I learned in South Korea that I could choose my path. In North Korea, we only had obedience.” — Yeonmi Park, North Korean defector

North Korea remains a desperate Survival Zone, with a 30-fold difference in GNI per capita between North and South Korea in 2023 starkly illustrating how leadership shapes destiny. The northern part of the Korean penninsula is defined by concentrated power, economic disparity, and limited opportunity. As founder Kim Il-Sung reportedly stated, “All loyal citizens must live and die for the Supreme Leader.” This leadership model enforces a rigid hierarchy, stifling personal potential. For North Korea, mentorship is synonymous with absolute loyalty to the ruling elite.

Though North and South Korea share the same land mass, language, and 700,000 years of cultural heritage, their paths diverged when North Korea’s leaders chose control over growth in 1948. Meanwhile, South Korea’s mentorship in government, academia, and technology sectors has nurtured freedom, innovation, and collective progress, transforming the country into a global hub. Over fifty Nobel Prize nominations underscore South Korea’s Thrive Zone status. Leaders inspired by values of progress and education mentored generations to believe in opportunity and growth.

South Korean President Park Chung Hee famously stated, “To get rich, we must have knowledge.” His commitment to education and development laid the foundation for South Korea’s remarkable rise. This ethos contrasts sharply with North Korea’s, where conformity and obedience have taken precedence over personal potential.

A North Korean defector, Yeonmi Park, captured this difference in her own words: “I learned in South Korea that I could choose my path. In North Korea, we only had obedience.” Park’s story reveals how even the smallest freedoms in Thrive Zones can unlock enormous potential.

Case Study: Israel vs. Palestine

“It is not enough to be up to date; you have to build up to tomorrow.” — David Ben Gurion, Israeli Prime Minister

The history of Israel and Arab Palestine offers a powerful contrast in leadership and vision, with one emerging as a leading Thrive Zone in the world and the other as an entity that has barely budged from the dark ages.

Early leaders set the tone in each region, guiding their people down very different paths. David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first Prime Minister, prioritized nation-building through education, collaboration, and shared purpose. His emphasis on science, technology, and self-reliance transformed Israel into a Thrive Zone, where innovation and ambition flourished despite limited resources. Ben-Gurion famously said, “It is not enough to be up to date; you have to build up to tomorrow.” This forward-thinking mentorship fostered resilience and opportunity across generations.

The results of this approach are striking. As of 2023, Israel’s GDP per capita is approximately $55,500, reflecting a highly developed economy and global competitiveness. Often called the “Startup Nation,” Israel has more startups per capita than almost any other country, with thriving sectors in technology, agriculture, and defense. These achievements have placed it consistently in the top 20 of the Global Innovation Index.

Conversely, Hajj Amin al-Husseini, the most prominent leader in Arab Palestine at the time of the Israeli War of Independence in 1948, was obsessively focused on destroying Israel rather than building a Palestinian state.

Al-Husseini, who infamously allied himself with Hitler during World War II in a bid to annihilate the Jewish people, declared, “No matter how long it takes, our resistance will prevail.” His “resistance above all else” approach stoked division, leading to state-sponsored terrorism — the main “growth industry” for much of its history. Palestinian leaders from Arafat to Ismail Haniyeh meanwhile, saw their personal wealth grow into the billions, a stark contrast to the economic hardships endured by their people.

The economic disparity between the two regions is equally telling. Recent estimates place the GDP per capita in the Palestinian territories at approximately $3,500 in the West Bank and $1,500 in Gaza — among the lowest in the region. Political instability and a focus on resistance over development have limited infrastructure and industry growth, reflecting the impact of inferior mentorship and corrupt leadership on a nation’s potential to thrive or merely survive.

An example of how Israel’s Thrive Zone has supported diverse talents is Rana Raslan, the first Arab-Israeli to win Miss Israel. “Israel gave me the opportunity to represent both my Arab and Israeli heritage,” she said, illustrating how a Thrive Zone can foster success for anyone.

Case Study: Hollywood: A “Thrive Zone” for Moguls Only

Survival Zones can exist anywhere, even in Hollywood — a place celebrated for its allure but marred by control and elitism. Hollywood mirrors Survivor in many ways: a few rise to the top, while the rest struggle in an industry where compliance is rewarded and individuality can be a liability.

The Harvey Weinstein scandal exposed Hollywood’s darker side, revealing an environment where silence and obedience were often prerequisites for survival. For many women, Hollywood became a terrain of exploitation and humiliation, shifting from a potential Thrive Zone for creative expression to a Survival Zone ruled by power wielded in the shadows. Actress Mira Sorvino, a victim of Weinstein’s manipulation, said, “Speaking out was necessary, and surviving it was powerful.” Sorvino’s resilience highlights the struggle to reclaim spaces for integrity and self-expression in an environment where mentorship had devolved into control.

Additional Examples of Survival Zones

• Elite Universities — Claudine Gay at Harvard: Harvard President Claudine Gay faced significant criticism for failing to address rising antisemitism on campus. Her leadership reflected a Survival Zone mentality, where institutional priorities overshadowed accountability. This created selective support, illustrating how elite institutions can devolve into Survival Zones.
• Corporate Hierarchies — Bob Nardelli at Home Depot: Bob Nardelli’s rigid focus on metrics over people led to high turnover and stagnation. Home Depot struggled until a leadership change restored a more balanced approach, supporting collaboration and growth.
• Caste Systems — Rohith Vemula in India: Rohith Vemula, a talented student from a marginalized caste, faced systemic discrimination that limited his opportunities. His tragic story underscores how caste-based restrictions stifle potential in Indian institutions.
• Political Dynasties — The Marcos Family in the Philippines: The Marcos family’s decades-long grip on power has led to selective privilege and stifled political progress, demonstrating how dynastic control can reinforce a Survival Zone.
• State-Controlled Media — Maria Ressa in the Philippines: Journalist Maria Ressa, a critic of government corruption, faced multiple arrests under President Duterte. Her case highlights how authoritarian regimes foster Survival Zones by punishing dissent. Ressa herself noted, “Being independent means speaking truth to power,” a stance that exemplifies her courage in the face of suppression.
• Taliban-Controlled Regions — Malala Yousafzai in Pakistan: Malala Yousafzai’s advocacy for girls’ education under Taliban rule reveals how Survival Zones actively suppress progress, especially for women. “One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world,” she declared, illustrating her belief in education’s power to transform even the most oppressive environments.

Case Study: Pittsburgh and Silicon Valley, Hare Meets Rabbit

They might be called a “Tale of Two Thrive Zones.” The United States is a kind of Thrive Zone incubator, empowering diverse cultures to flourish in ways that Survival Zones would never permit.

Silicon Valley’s transformation from “The Valley of Heart’s Delight” to the world’s innovation capital was driven by visionary mentors like Frederick Terman, Stanford’s engineering dean. Terman championed cross-disciplinary collaboration and a risk-taking ethos, nurturing talents like Hewlett and Packard. Under his mentorship, Silicon Valley became a Thrive Zone — where “the next big thing” was always within reach, moving at a pace few other regions could match. Terman himself saw mentorship as the key to continual innovation, famously stating, “The next step forward is always just around the corner.”

In contrast, Pittsburgh’s Thrive Zone has developed on a steadier track, emphasizing practical problem-solving over rapid breakthroughs. This legacy began with Carnegie Mellon, founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1900, as the “Stanford of Pittsburgh.” Carnegie envisioned a practical, skills-based training school for working-class Pittsburghers, laying the foundation for cutting-edge technological development in the region. “My aspirations take a higher flight. Mine be it to have contributed to the enlightenment and the joys of the mind, to the things of the spirit, and especially to the things which teach the aspiring to rise.”

Today, leaders at Carnegie Mellon, like Professor Andrew Moore, continue to guide the region’s focus on expertise and consistent progress over flash. “If there’s something serious involving mathematics, put a team together here,” Moore explains. Jason Gries of InnovatePGH adds, “Pittsburgh isn’t hunting unicorns; it’s building exits.”

One notable success story from Pittsburgh is Duolingo, a language-learning app that grew into a leader in educational technology. CEO Luis von Ahn emphasizes Pittsburgh’s grounded approach, saying, “We built this to make education accessible, not for the unicorn status.” Von Ahn’s values reflect how Pittsburgh’s Thrive Zone fosters the Carnegie vision of success without chasing the high-speed intensity often associated with Silicon Valley.

Thrive Zones: Do the Math

1. Results Over Rhetoric
The proof of a Thrive Zone is results, not rhetoric. This distinction matters because Survival Zones are often led by propagandists who tell pleasing stories but conceal their worst intentions. The metrics will see plainly who is leading a Thrive Zone and who is forcing people to barely survive.

2. Balance Is Key
Thrive Zones don’t just empower leaders; they cultivate systems where Mentors, Mates, Methods, Mantras, and Metrics coexist in harmony. In Thrive Zones, ambition thrives, innovation breathes, common sense prevails, and controlled chaos drives resilience and growth.

3. Mentorship vs. Dominance
Thrive Zones foster creativity and collaboration, while Survival Zones prioritize dominance, reducing mates — the ordinary people — to subordinates. Self-preservation eclipses progress, stifling collaboration and opportunity, and eroding success.

4. Mentorship Sets the Tone
A community is shaped by its mentors’ values, determining whether people can thrive or merely survival. Survival Zones sacrifice the individual to serve the State, often meaning the ambitions of a select few.

5. Identify and Avoid Survival Zones
Survival Zones enforce conformity, while Thrive Zones encourage individuality. The differences in economic and social outcomes are stark. If you find yourself in a Survival Zone, leave. To achieve something meaningful, seek a Thrive Zone.

How Thrive Zones Work

Imagine stepping into a place where everything aligns with your ambitions, sparking new confidence and creativity, and revitalizes your spirit. The subjects we interviewed all found such a place, some by chance, others had to shape them for themselves one bold decision at a time.

Geography played a role, for example, Warren Buffett was born into his; But just as likely, geography can guide us, but it doesn’t define us. Even in difficult situations, like John McCain’s time as a POW in North Vietnam, people have found their Thrive Zones through resilience and purpose.

Thrive Zones represent opportunities and choices. Alexander Graham Bell once said, “When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the ones which open for us.” Thrive Zones are those open doors, but we must be willing to step through them. When Matisse found Collioure, he didn’t just notice the opportunity — he ran into it.

Whether you find your Thrive Zone through a deep exploration or just test the waters, it is about finding where you fit. By taking calculated risks, surrounding yourself with the right people, and aligning your work with purpose and values that speak to you, you can create an environment where you’re not just surviving — you’re thriving.

How Business Leaders Create Thrive Zones Within

Modern business leaders like Buffett and Blankfein have crafted their Thrive Zones in organizations where innovation, autonomy, and purpose converge. Buffett’s Omaha-based Berkshire Hathaway embodies long-term thinking, autonomy, and trust, creating a fertile ground for sustained growth. Blankfein, by contrast, led Goldman Sachs through the 2008 financial crisis with resilience and strategic adaptability, transforming the firm into a Thrive Zone when many institutions were faltering.

Humans have an innate need to explore and improve their surroundings, much as civilizations grew by expanding their capabilities to harness resources. If your organization stifles creativity, limits growth, or focuses solely on short-term gains, it may be eroding the confidence and drive that fuel innovation. If this feels familiar, it could be time to make a change.

Thrive Zones aren’t bound to a single geography; they’re found in organizations, teams, and networks willing to foster growth. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt echoes this, linking surroundings directly to emotional and intellectual growth, emphasizing that, just as it was for pioneers thousands of years ago, the drive to explore and improve is deeply rooted in our need to thrive. Similarly, Nobel laureate Daron Acemoglu’s Why Nations Fail explores how supportive, inclusive environments determine whether individuals and societies prosper or stagnate, reminding us that culture and institutional values are crucial to unlocking potential.

In the end, Thrive Zones enable people to harness resources, maximize growth, and find fulfillment. When organizations fail to offer conditions like autonomy, mentorship, and a long-term vision, it’s a sign it may be time to seek a new environment.

Warren Buffett: Finding What Moves You

Move Testing is one form of discovery; it’s about taking bold actions to create change and then analyzing the outcomes. If you’re searching for a career that aligns with your values, start by “stripping away” elements that don’t resonate — by removing features that make it feel less authentic.

Buffett performed two move tests early in his life. He dropped out of Wharton and enrolled in the University of Nebraska, a place more in line with his pragmatic, no-nonsense style. Then, after graduating from Columbia Business School, he resisted the Wall Street pull and returned to Omaha to open his investment fund, which brought a fresh, outsider perspective to finance and allowed him to work closely with clients on a basis of trust and personal integrity. No wonder they call him “Uncle Warren.”

Buffett’s approach was simple: strip away what didn’t feel right and lean into what did. Going home meant returning to an environment that let him stay grounded, think clearly, and work on his own terms. For those considering similar moves, try “move testing” by volunteering in a new area, shadowing someone in a different field, or launching a side project. Each experience gives feedback on how well a path aligns with your values. Often, you’ll uncover unanticipated strengths or insights that further clarify your Thrive Zone. As Buffett shows, Move Testing isn’t just about trying new things; it’s about building a life that truly reflects who you are.

Soledad O’Brien: Exploring the Unknown Thrive Zone

When goals feel distant or ambitions shift, Exploratory Experimentation lets you dive into new possibilities without the pressure of a single outcome. Take Soledad O’Brien, who initially followed her family’s path by studying pre-med at Harvard. But as her interests evolved, she felt a tug toward a different path. She dropped out, moved to San Francisco, and took a job as a newscaster. Covering the city’s heroin crisis, she witnessed the tragic effects of addiction up close, sparking a powerful connection between her interest in medicine and her newfound love for journalism.

Exploratory moves like these aren’t about chasing a specific end goal; they’re about experiencing different paths to find what brings you alive. For O’Brien, it meant blending science with storytelling in a career that felt authentic and impactful. Exploring the unknown by stepping out of your comfort zone — whether it’s a new city, field, or hobby — can reveal the Thrive Zone best suited to you. Like O’Brien, who found a meaningful convergence of her passions, exploratory experiments can show you where your interests truly come alive.

Michael Milken: Testing Your Hypothesis

When you’re weighing multiple paths, Hypothesis Testing can help pinpoint which best aligns with your Thrive Zone. Michael Milken’s career offers a compelling, if complex, example. Once a Wall Street titan, Milken’s career took a turn when he faced criminal charges, receiving a ten-year sentence, a hefty fine, and a permanent ban from the securities industry. While associated with Drexel’s high-stakes leveraged buyouts and junk bonds, his charges stemmed from technical violations unrelated to insider trading. Ultimately, he pled guilty to avoid trial under significant pressure from federal prosecutors, though his actions lacked criminal intent and resulted from a failure to give detailed attention to laws governing client transactions.

Upon his return to society, barred from his previous career paths, Milken pivoted. He tested a new hypothesis by shifting his focus to philanthropy, realigning his analytical approach to address social issues. Through initiatives like the Milken Institute and Prostate Cancer Foundation, he channeled resources and strategies to advance healthcare and education, reinventing his Thrive Zone from financial markets to the philanthropic sphere. Like Milken, Hypothesis Testing in your own life might mean exploring different paths, such as corporate roles or entrepreneurship, then noting how each impacts your satisfaction and growth. Just as Milken reinvented himself, testing life paths can reveal a Thrive Zone that allows for unexpected and fulfilling contributions.

Five Things You Should Know About The Thrive Journey

The Unexpected Thrive Zones

Thrive Zones aren’t just serene villages or predictable locations. In our interviews, we discovered people thriving everywhere from Berkshire Hathaway’s Omaha headquarters to Michael Milken’s Santa Monica office, and even within the South Carolina governor’s mansion. Thrive Zones can be found in the most unexpected places when values and environment align.

Global Reach, Unique Perspectives

Our journey to meet these Thrivers took us to settings as varied as Davos, Malta, and tucked-away spots accessible only through secretive backstairs. Just like Margaret Mead’s Coming of Age in Samoa, each interview was an exploration, digging into diverse perspectives on success, resilience, and transformation.

Five Years of Insights

We spent five years interviewing fifteen of the world’s top minds. From Warren Buffett’s candid thoughts on maximizing potential to General David Petraeus’s insights on leadership, each conversation uncovered wisdom that illuminated the Thrive Zone concept. These sessions were captured as a Telly Award-winning YouTube series and now serve as a masterclass within this book.

Learning from Legends

The Thrivers we spoke with span fields, philosophies, and histories. F.W. de Klerk, who ended apartheid in South Africa, shared perspectives on unity; Soledad O’Brien explained the power of storytelling in breaking barriers. Each figure offered a unique angle on what it means to thrive.

Finding Thrive Zones by Surprise

Sometimes, Thrive Zones emerge unintentionally. As the old Yiddish saying goes, “When we plan, God laughs.” You will find them, as we did, in the Olympics locker room or the Nobel Prize committe; in the U.S. Army infantry in Iraq or a North Vietnamese POW camp; in a financial tycoon’s retreat in The Los Angeles hills and in the small corner office of one of the richest if modestest men in America. Each Thriver we interviewed often stumbled into their ideal environment after pursuing an unexpected opportunity or challenging obstacle.

The Thrivers

In our desire to better understand how people find their Thrive Zones, we met with some of the world’s most remarkable individuals to discuss what changed the trajectory of their lives.

Thrive Zones aren’t limited to idyllic coastal towns — they can emerge in unexpected places, from Davos to a South Carolina governor’s mansion, Berkshire Hathaway’s Omaha headquarters, and even a hidden stairway with a Russian dissident.

Over five years, we spoke with fifteen diverse, accomplished people, gaining insights into how geography, encouragement, and resilience intersect to shape success. Thanks to our backgrounds — mine as Publisher of Forbes and CEO of Elon Musk’s first startup, and my wife Kristin’s as a Ritz Carlton executive — we had rare access to these extraordinary individuals.

Here’s a glimpse of the people we interviewed:

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Thrivers:

Warren Buffett — The Oracle of Omaha grew Berkshire Hathaway from a struggling textile business into a multi-trillion-dollar conglomerate. Buffett’s Thrive Zone emphasizes patience, integrity, and the magic of compound growth, reminding us that success doesn’t demand Wall Street glamour.

Michael Milken — Known for revolutionizing Wall Street through high-yield bonds, Milken’s career path shifted to philanthropy, particularly in medical research. His Thrive Zone is built on resilience, repurposing adversity into meaningful impact.

Michael Phelps — The most decorated Olympian in history, Phelps’s journey includes not only triumphs in the pool but also battles with mental health. His Thrive Zone goes beyond medals, encompassing personal reinvention and advocacy for wellness.

Soledad O’Brien — The journalist broke barriers and stories alike, becoming a trusted voice in broadcast journalism. Her Thrive Zone champions diversity and fearless storytelling, proving the power of voice and representation.

Mikhail Khodorkovsky — Once Russia’s richest man, Khodorkovsky took on Putin’s regime at great personal cost. His Thrive Zone became a quiet but steadfast resistance, even from exile, embodying the power of courage and commitment to democracy.

Nikki Haley — From U.N. ambassador to South Carolina’s governor, Haley carved a path through complex political landscapes with resilience and boldness. Her Thrive Zone bridges diplomacy and leadership, inspiring others to take principled stands.

Senator John McCain — The American maverick survived as a POW in Vietnam and a divisive career in U.S. politics, prioritizing principle over popularity. His Thrive Zone was one of duty, sacrifice, and persistence, setting a high bar for integrity.

Dr. Reatha Clark King — From the segregated South to executive heights in science, education, and business, King defied barriers with intelligence and grace. Her Thrive Zone celebrated learning, diversity, and leadership, proving that boundaries can be rewritten.

F.W. de Klerk — The last apartheid president of South Africa, de Klerk shared the Nobel Prize with Nelson Mandela for dismantling apartheid. His Thrive Zone became one of historical significance and reconciliation, forging a path to transformation.

Lloyd Blankfein — Rising from modest beginnings to lead Goldman Sachs, Blankfein navigated the 2008 financial crisis with grit and savvy, fortifying Goldman’s Thrive Zone in the face of global turbulence.

Malcolm Forbes — Forbes transformed his namesake magazine into a hallmark of wealth and success, using his larger-than-life persona to amplify his brand. His Thrive Zone blended business with personal passion, leveraging lifestyle as a strategy.

Jeff Immelt — As Jack Welch’s successor, Immelt led General Electric through 9/11, the financial crisis, and digital transformation. His Thrive Zone was forged in resilience and reinvention, navigating the unprecedented challenges of a new era.

Together, these Thrivers illustrate that Thrive Zones are as diverse as the individuals within them. They emerge when purpose, people, and place align. Thrive Zones provide not only the setting but also the strength for individuals to rise, adapt, and inspire — a reminder that, sometimes, the most profound environments for growth are crafted, not found.

Conclusion: Unlocking Potential in Thrive Zones

Thrive Zones are for anyone seeking transformation — whether through nurturing innovation within organizations or fostering personal growth. These environments strike a balance between creative freedom and disciplined accountability, structuring space for purpose and progress to flourish.

From the vineyards of Baron Pierre Le Roy to Warren Buffett’s companies, the Five Affirmations of Thrive Zones — Mentors, Mates, Methods, Mantras, and Metrics — prove timeless. In the following chapters, we’ll explore the lives of fifteen extraordinary individuals who discovered their Thrive Zones and transformed their lives, providing a roadmap to help you create your own.

Just as Le Roy’s terroir yielded some of the world’s finest wines, this book seeks to inspire readers to cultivate spaces where hidden potential can flourish.

In vino veritas — in our environments, we find truth and the chance to unlock greatness.