The Value of Life According to Steve Jobs

Introduction

Steve Jobs was an American who became a very successful businessman and a cancer survivor. He was a visionary entrepreneur who invented groundbreaking technology. He is the creator of the famous Apple brand; he developed computers and pioneered the new technology we have today. Steve Jobs was given up for adoption but was later adopted by Paul and Clara Jobs. Both of his adoptive parents encouraged Steve to explore any ideas he had and experiment with the electronics they had around the house and in the garage. This nurturing environment led Steve Jobs to develop a lifelong interest in electronics and design, resulting in the innovative and helpful designs we have today. Despite dropping out of college—a decision that many at the time viewed negatively—Steve Jobs proved his critics wrong by becoming a highly successful man. His journey illustrates the actual value of life and how adversity can be transformed into opportunity. I say this because Steve Jobs was in the public eye when he was diagnosed with cancer, which led to much judgment from others. However, it never stopped him from doing what he loved.

Steve Jobs’ Take on the Value of Life

When Steve Jobs learned he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he was profoundly shocked. His doctors told him that the type of cancer he had would likely limit his life to three to six months. According to Jobs, "My doctors advised me to go home and get my affairs in order, which is doctors’ code for prepare to die." This statement illustrates the grim prognosis he faced and the lack of hope his doctors had at that moment. Nevertheless, Steve did not let this tragic news deter him. He accepted his situation and learned to have faith. In a subsequent appointment, after further studies, doctors discovered that his cancer was a rare form of pancreatic cancer that was curable with surgery. When the doctors viewed the cells under a microscope, one of them started crying because of this unexpected good news. This experience profoundly changed Steve Jobs' perspective on life, leading him to believe that if you have faith in yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

The Meaning of Life and Self-Worth

Steve Jobs' journey shows us that the value of life has a deeper meaning. The life you have is yours to own, and you must love, value, and appreciate everything along the way. Self-love is crucial because no one else can love you the way you do; only you understand your own experiences. Valuing yourself is essential because, without self-value, you cannot truly value others. Jobs had to appreciate his life before he could discuss his cancer with his family. Achieving success is often measured by income, but true success involves self-worth and appreciation. Society often equates success with career achievement, but the value of life must be understood to avoid future regrets. Jobs dropped out of college but persevered with his innovative electronics. Appreciating oneself is a fundamental step in life, as it helps you recognize the value of what you have and what you may accomplish in the future. Even in his darkest times, Jobs managed to overcome adversity and focus on what he loved, proving his doubters wrong through positive thinking and letting go of negativity. According to the article, "Just focus all your energy and dedication on the positive things in your life. If something is negative, it will always drain your energy, and you will not be able to live your life to the fullest."

Conclusion

This essay demonstrates the power of positive thinking and how it can help individuals focus on the positive aspects of life, much like Steve Jobs did. His story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and belief in oneself.

References

1. Jobs, S. (2005). Commencement address at Stanford University. Stanford University.
2. Isaacson, W. (2011). Steve Jobs. Simon & Schuster.
3. Apple Inc. (2023). Remembering Steve Jobs.
4. Smith, J. (2012). "The Legacy of Steve Jobs: Innovation and Inspiration." Journal of Business History, 45(3), 456-478.
5. Brown, L. (2013). "Steve Jobs and the Power of Positive Thinking." Psychology Today.