“You know, my main reaction to this money thing is that it’s humorous, all the attention to it, because it’s hardly the most insightful or valuable thing that’s happened to me.”
- February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011
- American
- Entrepreneur, businessman, industrial designer
- He brought to the world revolutionary products that combined technology and design at a high level, such as the personal computer Macintosh, iPhone, and iPad, and also revolutionized the music industry with the iPod, iTunes, and iTunes Store.
Quote
“You know, my main reaction to this money thing is that it’s humorous, all the attention to it, because it’s hardly the most insightful or valuable thing that’s happened to me.”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs expresses his perspective on money, highlighting that, despite the vast wealth he accumulated from Apple’s success, he viewed financial gain as secondary to the more meaningful aspects of his life and career. Jobs found it humorous that so much attention was given to money, as he believed the real value lay in the insights, experiences, and accomplishments that came with building Apple and innovating in the tech industry. For Jobs, creativity, innovation, and impact were far more significant than financial success.
This mindset aligns with Jobs’ broader philosophy that success is not measured by material wealth, but by the difference one makes in the world. His work at Apple was driven by a desire to change the world and make products that people would love to use, rather than solely focusing on profit. This focus on purpose and meaning over money is a lesson that many entrepreneurs and business leaders continue to embrace today, understanding that the true rewards of innovation often come in forms far more valuable than financial gain.
In the modern entrepreneurial world, Jobs’ words remind us that passion, purpose, and impact should be the driving forces behind any venture. While financial success is a natural outcome of great work, it should not be the sole focus. Jobs’ own career is a testament to the power of pursuing what you believe in, rather than what you can simply profit from, and his legacy continues to inspire countless individuals to prioritize value creation over monetary rewards.