The story of his life will be told, and retold, in every media outlet, each aiming for a unique way to honor his life and accomplishments. For they are wide-ranging. Under his leadership, the world developed a relationship with digital music players, phones that acted more like science fiction, and slabs of glass that expanded on this idea exponentially. But that’s not doing his contributions justice any more than saying that Einstein came up with an equation. For entirely different reasons, the world is notably better following their presence.
He saw the world differently, in some ways, how it should be, others, how it could be. He changed not only how people interact with technology, but developed it in such a way that those intimidated could approach it with confidence. Art and engineering, together. Complexity encircled by simplicity.
He’s been called the greatest CEO of all time, and it’s surely a valid statement, considering Apple is the most valuable company on the planet. It’s certainly one of the most influential. So what can we learn from his legacy?
That one idea can make a difference. That boundless passion can shape an industry. That putting your heart and soul into what you believe can change the world. "Stay hungry. Stay foolish."
Many years ago, Apple released a new marketing campaign entitled “Here’s to the Crazy Ones”. It struck such a chord with people everywhere that it can still be found on every Mac. Take a close look at that letter being written on the icon for TextEdit and you’ll see. Art and form, together.
Here’s to the crazy ones.
The misfits.
The rebels.
The troublemakers.
The round pegs in the square holes.
The ones who see things differently.
They’re not fond of rules.
And they have no respect for the status quo.
You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them.
About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them.
Because they change things.
They push the human race forward.
And while some see them as the crazy ones,
We see genius.
Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world,
Are the ones who do.
So, how will you change the world?