Apple co-founder Steve Jobs is synonymous with success and innovation, leaving behind a legacy that changed the computer, music, film and animation industries. Even after his death, he revolutionized the technology industry and inspired entrepreneurs and individuals alike.
An epitome of business and culture, Jobs was enigmatic both as a teacher and student. In 2005, a year after he was first diagnosed with cancer, Jobs made a candid speech at Stanford University for the graduating class.
During the speech, Jobs spoke of being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, death and dying.
Jobs shared stories from his life and what he learned with the students.
"You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life," Jobs said to the students.
Jobs said about love and loss, "Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers."
"The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle," Jobs advised the students.
Regarding death and mortality, Jobs read a quote to the students: "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right."
"Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure — these things fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you will 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," Jobs said.
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your inner voice," Jobs added.
Jobs closed his address to the students by saying, "Stay hungry, stay foolish," which is from the final edition of the book, "Whole Earth Catalog."
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