“Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me. Going to bed at night saying we’ve done something wonderful, that’s what matters 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
“Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me. Going to bed at night saying we’ve done something wonderful, that’s what matters to me.”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs expresses that wealth and material success were not his ultimate goals. Instead, he found fulfillment in the meaning and impact of the work he did. Jobs believed that legacy and purpose were far more important than financial gain. To him, the true value in life came from doing something meaningful and innovative—something that would have a lasting impact on the world. He emphasized that at the end of the day, it’s not about accumulating wealth, but about knowing that the work you did was extraordinary and contributed to something greater than yourself.
Jobs’ perspective highlights his passion for innovation, creativity, and making a difference. At Apple, his focus was on creating products that were not just commercially successful, but that would transform industries and change the way people lived and worked. The iPhone, Macintosh, and iPad were not only groundbreaking in their functionality but also in their ability to reshape how people interacted with technology on a daily basis.
In today’s context, this quote serves as a reminder that meaningful work and purpose are often more fulfilling than wealth alone. It encourages individuals to seek out projects and careers that allow them to make a positive impact and do something they can be proud of, rather than simply chasing financial success. Jobs’ words inspire us to focus on the legacy we leave behind and the difference we can make in the world.
