Elon Musk’s Biographer Reveals His Powerful ‘Demon Mode’ for Unparalleled Productivity and Achievement

**Leaders Tapping into “Beast Mode” and Dark Streak**
Many successful leaders, including Elon Musk, have the ability to tap into their “beast mode” or dark streak. This allows them to be highly focused and productive, especially during times of crisis or when difficult decisions need to be made. However, this intense mindset can also lead to a lack of empathy and unpleasant behavior towards others.

**Introducing “Demon Mode”**
Elon Musk’s former girlfriend, Grimes, coined the term “demon mode” to describe Musk’s alter ego. She described him as being “unpleasant” to be around when he shifts into this headspace, but acknowledged that it is his way of getting things done. Walter Isaacson, Musk’s biographer, confirmed this description, adding that when Musk enters demon mode, he often acts with a lack of empathy and can be dark in his behavior.

**The Balance Between Dark Streak and Business**
Leaders like Steve Jobs have also tapped into their dark streak to focus on bigger-picture issues and make tough decisions. However, in Musk’s case, Isaacson suggests that his dark streak can hinder the business and frighten workers. Isaacson observed instances where Musk would verbally attack employees who didn’t match his sense of urgency, especially during times of mass layoffs. These outbursts were uncomfortable to witness and revealed Musk’s brutal nature. However, Musk himself views this approach as necessary to prioritize the bigger picture over individual empathy. Isaacson notes that while this approach is effective 80% of the time, it can also be problematic, with employees being afraid to give Musk bad news due to fear of his reaction.

**Highlighting the Previously Known Aspect of Musk’s Personality**
This revelation about Musk’s dark streak and lack of empathy is not entirely new. Tim Higgins, in his book “Power Play: Tesla, Elon Musk, and the Bet of the Century,” also highlighted Musk’s short fuse and his tendency to unleash anger on various individuals, from hourly workers to top executives. Musk’s tough approach to work is widely known, with his encouragement of staff to work long hours and his preference for sleeping at the office.

**Conclusion**
While Musk’s demon mode and dark streak can be effective in driving productivity and decision-making, it also highlights a lack of empathy and unpleasant behavior towards others. As a leader, striking a balance between intensity and compassion is crucial to maintaining a healthy work environment and employee morale.