The Humble Wisdom of Steve Jobs: Acknowledging Our Dependence on Others

Imagine the profound impact of founding a company that stands as a towering pillar in the business world, boasting a valuation surpassing $3 trillion. This extraordinary feat places the company’s worth ahead of the economies of numerous small nations. Picture this: the company is responsible for iconic innovations like the Mac, the iPad, and the revolutionary iPhone. At the helm of this technological empire was Steve Jobs, a visionary whose reputation for humility might not have been his defining characteristic. Known for his brashness, passion, and occasional disrespect, Steve Jobs offered a unique perspective on himself and his place in the world.

The Thought-Provoking Email

Allow us a glimpse into a moment from the past, a Thursday night about 13 years ago, approximately two years before Steve Jobs’ passing. This insight into his thoughts is shared through an email he penned to himself, a personal reflection that seems particularly fitting for this occasion and setting. The email provides insight into the overwhelming emotions Jobs felt while surrounded by a remarkable community of minds. It captures the essence of the shared motivation between the two Steves—Jobs and his namesake colleague—in their collaborative efforts.

The email reads as follows:

“I grow little of the food I eat, and a little I do grow, I did not breed up affect the seeds. I do not make my own clothing. I speak a language I did not invent or refine. I did not discover the mathematics I use. I am protected by freedoms and laws I did not conceive of or legislate. And I do not enforce or adjudicate.

I am moved by music I did not create myself. And when I needed medical attention, I was helpless to help myself survive. I love and admire my species, living and dead, and I am totally dependent upon them for my life and well-being.”

The Humble Acknowledgment

This brief yet profound excerpt reveals a side of Steve Jobs that might not have been as readily apparent in his public persona. It unveils a sense of humility, an acknowledgment that he was not a self-made man but rather a beneficiary of countless contributions from those who came before him. Jobs recognized that his abilities and accomplishments were built upon the foundation of collective knowledge, innovation, and support. He eloquently painted a picture of interconnectedness, illustrating the dependence of each individual on the broader tapestry of humanity.

Slowing Time with Truth

The impact of these words is undeniable. The truth and humility contained within this email seem to possess the extraordinary power to slow time itself. It prompts deep contemplation and introspection, compelling us to consider our own roles within the grand narrative of human progress. In a world often characterized by rapid advancements and frenetic activity, Steve Jobs’ words invite us to pause and reflect on the interconnectedness that shapes our lives.

Embracing Gratitude and Presence

For many, the act of embracing gratitude, staying present, and making the most of every fleeting moment requires a conscious effort. Jobs’ email serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of these practices. It encourages us to view each day as a precious gift and to be mindful of the contributions, both large and small, that enable us to thrive and pursue our aspirations.

Conclusion

In the legacy of Steve Jobs, we find not only a trailblazer in technology and innovation but also a thinker who contemplated his place in the world with humility and introspection. His email to himself transcends time and resonates deeply with those who encounter it. As we navigate the complexities of our own lives, we can draw inspiration from Jobs’ acknowledgment of our interconnectedness and our dependence on the countless individuals who have shaped the world we inhabit today. Let us strive to embrace gratitude, remain present, and make the most of the invaluable present moment, just as Steve Jobs encouraged us to do.

Video Transcript

Imagine starting a company that is worth over $3 trillion today. That is larger than the economies of most small countries. Imagine this company, and you created the Mac, the iPad, the iPhone. Steve Jobs wasn’t necessarily known for being humble. He could be brash. He could be disrespectful. He was quite passionate, but when he thought about himself and how he existed in the world, this is how he described it.

You know, I would like to read an email that Steve Jobs wrote to himself. It was one Thursday night. It was about 13 years ago.

About two years before he passed.

I thought it seemed perfect for this evening and for this room. It explains, I think, why I feel so overwhelmed about being in such a remarkable company, and it describes the motivation Steve and I shared in our work together from Steve Jobs to Steve Jobs.

I grow little of the food I eat, and a little I do grow, I did not breed up, affect the seeds. I do not make my clothing. I speak a language I did not invent or refine. I did not discover the mathematics I use. I am protected by freedoms and laws I did not conceive of or legislate. And I do not enforce or adjudicate.

I am moved by music I did not create myself. And when I needed medical attention, I was helpless to help myself survive. I love and admire my species, living and dead, and I am totally dependent upon them for my life and well-being.”

Steve Jobs acknowledged he wasn’t a self-made man. He stood on the shoulders of giants.

I don’t know about you, but, well, every time I read that email, its truth and its humility somehow slow time.

For some of us, it takes a constant effort to focus on gratitude, being present, and making the most of the only time we have, which is the present.

I am Aaron Hall, an attorney for business owners and entrepreneurs. If you would like to get more videos like this, feel free to follow this channel by subscribing. And I encourage everybody to subscribe to aaronhall.com/free. That is where you can get some exclusive videos, helping business owners avoid common and expensive legal problems and help grow your company so you achieve success in your company and, hopefully, as well in your life. Thanks for joining me here today.