Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, is known for his relentless work ethic and dedication to his ventures. However, a lesser-known aspect of his life is the role his mother, Maye Musk, played in ensuring he didn’t neglect basic self-care during his early years of building his career.

In a recent interview, Maye Musk shared anecdotes about Elon’s intense work habits, which often bordered on obsession. “He was so focused on his work that he would forget to eat or take care of himself,” she revealed. As a young entrepreneur, Elon would spend countless hours working on his startups, sleeping under his desk, and sacrificing personal comfort to push his projects forward. This extreme commitment was both a testament to his ambition and a cause for concern for his family.

Maye explained how she would frequently intervene to ensure her son maintained some semblance of balance. “I had to remind him to eat proper meals and even to change his socks. He was so immersed in his work that he wouldn’t notice these things,” she said. Her efforts were not just maternal but practical; a healthy and functional Elon was critical for the success of his ventures.

Elon Musk’s workaholic tendencies are legendary. Known for his “hardcore” work culture, he has often emphasized the importance of working long hours to achieve extraordinary results. Musk has publicly stated that he routinely works 80 to 100 hours a week and expects similar dedication from his team members. This approach has been a key driver behind the rapid growth and success of his companies but has also sparked debates about the sustainability of such work ethics.

Despite his intense schedule, Musk acknowledges the support and influence of his mother in shaping his path. Maye Musk, a successful dietitian and model, instilled in her children the values of hard work and resilience. “She has been a constant source of strength and inspiration,” Elon once remarked about his mother.

While Musk’s dedication has brought remarkable achievements, it has also come at a personal cost. He has admitted to periods of extreme stress and exhaustion, particularly during challenging times like Tesla’s production ramp-ups or the development of SpaceX’s Falcon rockets. These moments highlight the thin line between ambition and burnout, even for someone as driven as Musk.

Maye Musk’s stories about her son provide a humanizing glimpse into the life of one of the world’s most influential figures. They remind us that even visionaries need support, whether it’s a nudge to eat a meal or a reminder to care for their basic needs. Her role in Elon’s journey underscores the importance of family and the small, often overlooked acts of care that contribute to great achievements.

As Elon Musk continues to push the boundaries of technology and innovation, Maye Musk’s anecdotes serve as a poignant reminder: behind every great mind, there’s often someone ensuring they take a moment to breathe, eat, and yes, even change their socks.