Bill Gates on the 3 crucial things his parents did to set him up for success

In interviews over the years, Bill Gates has revealed three aspects of his childhood that helped shape him into who he is today, including the slightly unconventional way he was raised by his parents, Mary and William Gates Sr.

The Gates family made a point of being involved in community work and philanthropy, making sure that their kids participated too.

They also gave their son a significant amount of independence, but wouldn't let him give up just because he didn't excel at something.

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A lot of factors had to come together to make Bill Gates into the billionaire philanthropist he is today — including the way he was raised. His parents — Mary and William Gates, Sr. — weren't afraid to be a little unconventional when it came to raising their son. Gates has revealed three aspects of his childhood that helped shape him into who he is today.