Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson, is an author, investor, and philanthropist. Aside from being an entrepreneur and business magnate, he is also the founder and chairman of Virginia Group (which controls more than 400 companies worldwide).
Although he has dyslexia and had poor academic performance, Branson already revealed his ambition and desire to become an entrepreneur at such a young age. Fortunately, his parents were also supportive of his business endeavors.
At the age of 16, Branson started a youth culture magazine called “Student,” and it proved to be a success. In 1972, he started a chain of record stores called Virgin Records. During the 1980s, Branson’s Virgin brand rapidly grew, and it went uphill from there on. Today, Virgin Group operates more than 400 companies in 30 different countries and is still continually expanding.
Branson has become a prominent global figure for his work in retail, transport, and music, for his humanitarian work, as well as his taste for adventure. He was also knighted at Buckingham Palace for “services to entrepreneurship” in March 2000.
Listed below are some of the most notable Richard Branson quotes and sayings that reveal his thoughts and views regarding life, leadership, success, and more.
Table of Contents
Famous Richard Branson Quotes
These are the most widely recognised and impactful words from Richard Branson, reflecting his fearless spirit and lifelong quest to challenge limits.
“Screw it, let’s do it!”
– Richard Branson, in Screw It, Let’s Do It (2006)
This phrase sums up Branson’s willingness to leap into the unknown and take bold action, a mindset that fueled the Virgin empire.
“If your dreams don’t scare you, they are too small.”
– Richard Branson, interview with Entrepreneur (2015)
Branson encourages us to stretch beyond our comfort zone and aim for audacious goals.
“You don’t learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over.”
– Richard Branson, in Business Stripped Bare (2008)
A reminder that experience and mistakes are essential teachers on the path to success.
Leadership & Vision Quotes
Richard Branson believes great leaders empower others, trust their teams, and lead with a strong sense of purpose. His approach is human, inclusive, and energetic.
“Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”
– Richard Branson, quoted in Forbes (2014)
Branson’s leadership style centers on investing in people, not just profits.
“Clients do not come first. Employees come first. If you take care of your employees, they will take care of the clients.”
– Richard Branson, interview with Inc. (2016)
His people-first philosophy sets Virgin apart and drives long-term loyalty.
“A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts.”
– Richard Branson, in Like a Virgin (2012)
True visionaries build cultures where curiosity and creativity thrive.
Risk, Courage & Adventure Quotes
Branson’s legendary risk-taking—whether launching airlines or crossing oceans in a balloon—shows his deep belief in courage and adventure as keys to growth.
“Do not be embarrassed by your failures, learn from them and start again.”
– Richard Branson, in Losing My Virginity (1998)
Failure is a badge of honor, not a mark of shame, in Branson’s world.
“The brave may not live forever—but the cautious do not live at all!”
– Richard Branson, interview with The Times (2010)
He reminds us that life rewards those willing to take bold chances.
“Every risk is worth taking as long as it’s for a good cause, and contributes to a good life.”
– Richard Branson, in Screw It, Let’s Do It (2006)
Purposeful risk is what gives life its meaning and excitement.
Innovation & Creativity Quotes
Virgin’s track record is built on constant innovation and creative problem-solving. Branson’s philosophy: challenge norms, embrace change, and keep reinventing.
“The best way of learning about anything is by doing.”
– Richard Branson, in Business Stripped Bare (2008)
Creativity comes alive when we experiment, explore, and build real-world solutions.
“There’s no greater thing you can do with your life and your work than follow your passions—in a way that serves the world and you.”
– Richard Branson, in Screw Business As Usual (2011)
He urges us to turn passion into positive impact.
“Innovation happens when people are given the freedom to ask questions and the resources and power to find the answers.”
– Richard Branson, in Like a Virgin (2012)
Fostering curiosity and autonomy sparks breakthrough ideas.
Success, Failure & Resilience Quotes
Branson’s path to the top was paved with setbacks—but also with optimism, humor, and grit.
“Business opportunities are like buses, there’s always another one coming.”
– Richard Branson, in Business Stripped Bare (2008)
Scarcity is an illusion—abundance is everywhere for those who look.
“You don’t have to drop out of college to be an entrepreneur, but you do have to be curious and persistent.”
– Richard Branson, interview with CNBC (2018)
There’s no one right path to success—just an unbreakable will to learn and keep going.
“One thing is certain in business: you and everyone around you will make mistakes.”
– Richard Branson, in Like a Virgin (2012)
Embracing imperfection and learning fast is Branson’s secret weapon.
Life, Happiness & Making a Difference Quotes
For Branson, business is a tool for changing lives, having fun, and leaving the world better than you found it.
“Life is a helluva lot more fun if you say yes rather than no.”
– Richard Branson, in Screw It, Let’s Do It (2006)
Embracing new experiences makes life richer and more rewarding.
“If you spot an opportunity and are really excited by it, throw yourself into it with everything you’ve got.”
– Richard Branson, in Losing My Virginity (1998)
Passion and enthusiasm are infectious, and open doors to unexpected possibilities.
“Respect is how to treat everyone, not just those you want to impress.”
– Richard Branson, in The Virgin Way (2014)
His approach to life: lead with kindness, always.
How to Use These Quotes
- Personal Inspiration:
Write your favorites on sticky notes or keep them on your phone for a daily boost. - Leadership & Team Building:
Use them in presentations, team meetings, or company newsletters to spark conversation. - Creative Projects:
Share as social media graphics (add alt text for accessibility!) or include in your vision board.
Conclusion
Richard Branson’s quotes are more than just catchy phrases—they’re life lessons on courage, creativity, leadership, and making a difference. Whether you’re navigating business challenges, dreaming up new adventures, or simply looking for a fresh spark of inspiration, let these words be your guide. Remember: success isn’t about playing it safe. It’s about saying “yes,” taking risks, and building a legacy you’re proud of.
