“Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected.”
- 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
“Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected.”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs emphasizes the importance of setting high standards and being a “yardstick of quality” in everything you do. He suggests that excellence should be the norm, not the exception, and that individuals and organizations should strive for the highest level of quality in their work. Jobs highlights that in many cases, people may not be accustomed to an environment where excellence is expected as the baseline, which can lead to a culture of mediocrity. By holding yourself to a higher standard and consistently delivering exceptional work, you create an environment where others are inspired to do the same.
This philosophy was central to Apple’s success, where Jobs demanded the best from his team and instilled a culture of excellence. The company’s products, such as the iPhone and MacBook, were often seen as benchmarks of quality in the tech industry, setting the standard for design, functionality, and user experience. Jobs believed that quality and attention to detail were non-negotiable if Apple wanted to create products that would make a lasting impact on the world.
In today’s world, this quote continues to resonate in any field, whether in business, technology, or creative industries. Striving for excellence not only leads to better outcomes but also sets a positive example for others to follow, ultimately raising the overall standard of quality within an organization or industry. Jobs’ words serve as a reminder that high expectations drive great results.
