A couple of weeks ago three young entrepreneurs visited me and asked: “What was your biggest challenge?” In replying, I realised that after 30 years in business the greatest risk was not that I would fail. Instead, my most frequent worry has always been that I would become mired in complacency, boredom and cynicism. So how does one ward off these creeping evils?

One of the best solutions was epitomised by my meeting: engaging with younger people, who have a natural enthusiasm, inquisitiveness and optimism. They are a wonderful antidote to the constant threat of ending up a jaded old man who’s seen it all before, thinks everything is getting worse and spends his time breeding pessimism – I know a few of that type. So, I speak at lots of events for enterprising students and start-ups partly because I find thweir energy and zest both infectious and exhilarating.

Life is a learning project and it is important to constantly acquire fresh knowledge. New hobbies, second careers, wide travels – all these open one’s eyes to the limitless possibilities of the world. What is more, those who exercise their brains with intellectual pursuits are likely to live longer, more fulfilled lives.