In 2003, Steve Jobs was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Imagine the impact this must have had on every aspect of his life. Everything must have changed from this point forward. His life would never be the same. If you know someone who has fought, or is fighting cancer, you probably have an idea of how significant a “cancer” diagnosis is to every aspect of their lives.
Here is what Jobs accomplished AFTER his diagnosis:
2003 – iTunes
2006 – Apple TV
2007 – iPhone & iPhone “Apps”
2008 – MacBook Air
2010 – iPad
2011 – iCloud
If Jobs was able to spearhead all of this while battling pancreatic cancer, what might we accomplish?
It’s obvious that Jobs spoke the truth in his 2005 commencement speech:
“Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important thing 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 just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. 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.”
Hopefully, you’re not fighting a life threatening illness and thinking of what Jobs accomplished while battling cancer may bring some perspective for what you might accomplish.
Additional Reading:
Infographic Highlighting Jobs Major Accomplishments
How Steve Jobs Transformed Apple (Part One)
How Steve Jobs Transformed Apple (Part Two)
Thank you for putting this in perspective. I just finished chemo for lymphoma and am eagerly awaiting my hair to come back in LOL. Gives me hope that moving forward I can make an impact. I was fortunate and was able to continue working through chemo treatments but have to admit that I’ve been a little discouraged with my real estate results lately. I see now that I have no excuse! Blessings, Cindy
Well said Steve and Rob. That is the true and very empowering. Thank you for sharing.
Bryan
Rob – Great job with this post! I don’t know if anyone who has not been dx’d with a terminal illness can appreciate this, but I can. Reading this just makes me more determined to focus on what is important and make the impact I want to have. Kudos to you – short, to the point – a powerful statement.
Someone very close to me is fighting a life threatening illness and it’s very encouraging to read what Steve Jobs accomplished after his diagnosis. It’s unfortunate that it sometimes takes tragedy to truly let go and just go for it. This is a great reminder to us all as to what is possible!