“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
- 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
“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs highlights the crucial role of innovation in defining whether a company or individual is a leader or a follower in their industry. He suggests that true leadership comes from the ability to innovate—to create new solutions, ideas, or products that disrupt the status quo and pave the way for future advancements. A follower, on the other hand, is someone who simply imitates what others have done without contributing something new or unique. For Jobs, innovation was the defining factor that set Apple apart from its competitors, allowing it to lead in the tech industry rather than simply follow trends.
This mindset is what drove Apple to develop groundbreaking products like the Macintosh, iPhone, and iPad. Jobs and Apple didn’t just improve on existing technologies—they completely reimagined what was possible, pushing the boundaries of what a computer, phone, or tablet could do. By focusing on innovation, Apple became a leader, defining the direction of the tech industry for years to come.
In the modern world, this quote remains highly relevant. Whether in business, technology, or creative industries, those who embrace innovation are the ones who shape the future, while those who follow are often left behind. Jobs’ words encourage us to lead through creativity and forward-thinking, using innovation to create a lasting impact rather than simply replicating what already exists.
