“Your time is limited, so don’t spend it living someone else’s life” – Steve Jobs
The recent resignation of Steve Jobs has led to much media and industry speculation about the future of the globally successful Apple brand. But for me Steve Jobs is one of those unique individuals that has the leadership mindset, the visionary thinking, the uniqueness of a transformational leader. He is an unwavering practitioner in his area of expertise constantly challenging the norm, changing the goal posts, taking knock backs and bouncing right back again to fulfil his dream.
So how do you live your life and the life you are entitled to live? For me…..
Passion & purpose – Find something you are passionate about. You have to love what you do to have a sense of being and a mission. If you are passionate about something, you will have endless energy, which in itself becomes contagious for you and those around you. In today’s fast moving world of constant communication, endless needs and things to do, maintaining a high level of energy is critical to success and when you love what you do, you have high energy. Passion and high energy are completely intertwined and connected.
Persistance – If you are passionate about something, have a personal goal or dream then be persistent in achieving it. Have an inner determination to succeed, be unwavering in your journey. Do not accept “nos’, “can’t do” “impossible”. Remove the word “cant” from your vocabulary. Make sure you zig when others zag. When obstacles get in the way or things don’t necessarily go to plan approach them head on, trust in the process, find another way and constantly learn.
Self belief – if you do not believe in yourself and your own abilities how can anyone else? Seek out good networks, mentors and invest in a good business/personal coach to develop your thinking, your skill set and your self belief. It is critical to continually invest in yourself to become a better version of yourself. As Jim Rohn said “Formal education will make you a living; self education will make you a fortune’.
Ultimately, as Oscar Wilde said “Be yourself because everyone else is taken”.