Today’s Solutions: August 20, 2026

Ricardo Semler broke through thanks to a radical reorganization of Semco, the company he took over from his father when he was barely twenty years old. Ricardo Semler was unhappy and made a radical change. Employees were no longer obligated to come to the office. They could set their own salary. The Brazilian created the most unusual workplace in the world. It turned out to be a success. Semco’s profits shot up. Everyone wanted to work there and nobody wanted to leave.

The Optimist spoke with Semler. Why is his message so popular? Why are so few companies adopting his work method? What can you do as a first step toward a Semco-style?

 

Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

Australia’s biggest gun reform in 30 years kicks off this November

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Eight months after a shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi Beach killed 15 people, Australia is following ...

Read More

Are algae oil supplements worth taking? Here’s the evidence

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM There's a pattern in the supplement industry that tends to repeat itself. Researchers find that people who eat ...

Read More

Meet Jenny, the horse who takes a daily stroll alone through Frankfurt

The following story may not necessarily be a solution, but we hope it puts a smile on your face. In the city of Frankfurt, ...

Read More

The grass-eating mystery: why cats and dogs snack on greens

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM You’re out walking your dog or watching your cat in the backyard when, out of nowhere, they start ...

Read More