Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple, attributed a significant part of his success to the advice his father gave him in his formative years. According to Steve Jobs’ biographer Walter Isaacson, Jobs’ father, Paul, emphasized the importance of attention to detail by teaching him to build a fence around their home in California. This early lesson instilled in Jobs a commitment to perfection, even in areas that may go unnoticed by others.
Paul’s advice to Steve Jobs was profound – ‘You’ve got to make the back of the fence, that nobody will see, just as good looking as the front of the fence.’ This philosophy of ensuring excellence in every aspect, regardless of visibility, became a guiding principle for Jobs in his endeavors, including the creation of Apple.
Walter Isaacson highlighted that Jobs maintained an unwavering dedication to quality at Apple, insisting on the highest standards for every component, down to the smallest details. Jobs’ insistence on perfection extended to the internal workings of products, with microchips designed to be visually appealing and even the screws featuring expensive plating.
Reflecting on his father’s influence, Steve Jobs once remarked, ‘When you’re a carpenter making a beautiful chest of drawers, you’re not going to use a piece of plywood on the back, even though it faces the wall.’ This commitment to craftsmanship and excellence, instilled by his father, became a hallmark of Jobs’ approach to innovation and design.
Notably, other prominent figures in the tech and business world have also acknowledged the impact of paternal guidance on their success. Mark Cuban, entrepreneur and investor, shared insights on his father’s role in shaping his career path, emphasizing the importance of recognizing opportunities and adapting to changing circumstances.
These anecdotes serve as a reminder of the invaluable lessons passed down through generations, shaping the mindsets and work ethics of individuals who go on to make significant contributions to their respective fields. The influence of parental advice and wisdom, as seen in the experiences of Steve Jobs and Mark Cuban, underscores the profound impact of familial support and mentorship on personal and professional development.
