We’ve all heard the story: Bill Gates, one of the richest men in the world, makes so much money that if he dropped $100 on the ground, it wouldn’t be worth his time to pick it up. According to some economists, he makes over $100 a second, so the idea is that the time spent stooping to retrieve that cash would cost him more than the $100 is worth. It sounds like clever math, but when you really think about it, the logic falls apart.

Bill Gates didn’t build Microsoft by ignoring opportunities, no matter how small they seemed. Early in his career, Gates was scrappy, operating on a shoestring budget like most entrepreneurs. He didn’t overlook any chance to save time or money, and that mindset played a huge part in his success.

So, what’s the real lesson here? It’s not just about the money—it’s about how you use your time.

Sure, Bill Gates doesn’t need to bend down for $100 now. But back in the day, that $100 was the difference between staying afloat and sinking. When you’re just starting, every bit of cash counts, and every minute you spend wisely is another step forward. Now that Gates has built a colossal business that generates revenue while he’s sleeping, the decision-making matrix changes.

But here’s the kicker: even now, if Gates picks up that $100 off the ground, it’s still $100 extra in his pocket. There’s no trade-off—Microsoft doesn’t stop generating money because he bent over for a bill on the sidewalk. The same goes for any entrepreneur or professional: finding ways to maximize your time and income is always a win. It’s not about ignoring “small” opportunities, but rather understanding when it’s worth your time to take them.

For most of us, $100 is a sure thing. But the lesson Gates exemplifies isn’t just about ignoring low-value tasks; it’s about leveraging time for high-value results. The real efficiency comes in knowing how to focus your energy on what will push you forward.

So, the next time you see a crisp $100 on the ground, think about how Bill Gates might consider his options. It’s not that the money isn’t valuable—it’s whether the opportunity cost makes sense for your time.