As most of you have heard by now Steve Jobs passed away at age 56 from cancer. It may be hard to see now, but he is the Thomas Edison of our time. A true innovator of technology that will have a profound effect on history for the next 100 years. He is a true inspiration to me for many reasons. I like that he is a Buddhist but that is not why he inspires me. His beliefs on life are exactly how I strive to live and that is why I view him as an idol. Steve once gave a speech at a Stanford graduation ceremony and there were three eternal truths I think everyone can benefit from hearing.
First, follow your heart and what you do today will have a profound effect on your future. Most of us can look back in life and connect the dots to a turning point that resulted in some great accomplishment we achieved years later. The majority of the time it is something small that we thought was inconsequential at the time. For me it was quitting my job to try to start a business. The business idea failed miserably, but as a result of starting down that path I fulfilled many goals. Since I failed in business I have passed the CPA exam, lost 20lbs, ran a marathon and landed a job as the controller of a small business in less then a year. I am convinced I would not have completed the first three items I listed without theoretically jumping off a cliff. It is amazing though how I can now connect the dots to where I am today just as you can as well. As Steve puts it, "Believing that the dots will connect down the road will give you the confidence to follow your heart even when it leads you off the well worn path."
Secondly, sometimes life is going to hit you in the head with a brick, but don't lose faith. Learn from every setback in your life and make yourself stronger. Most importantly love what you do in life and don't settle.
Finally, the most important truth is about death. Steve says, "If you live each day as if it is your last someday you will most certainly be right. Everyday you should look yourself in the mirror and ask this question, "if today were the last day of my life would I be happy doing what I am about to do today?" If the answer is no then its time you changed your life until that answer is yes. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked there is no reason not to follow your heart."
I am about to attempt to follow my heart and make a real difference in my community. It is thanks to people like Steve Jobs that truly inspire me.
