Steve Jobs’ Biggest Mistake
Summary
- When Apple went public, Steve Jobs owned 15% of the company.
- Jobs later left Apple, started Pixar, and returned about 10 years later, with a smaller stake in Apple.
- If Jobs had kept his original 15% stake, it would be worth $465 billion today, making him potentially the richest man in the world.
- Selling his shares reduced his risk, but it also gave up a significant amount of potential upside.
- The lesson here is that keeping a stake in something you believe in can have massive upside in the long term.
- Sometimes reducing risk can also mean giving up significant potential gains.
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How To Take Action
I would suggest implementing the lesson from Steve Jobs' experience by holding onto a stake in something you genuinely believe in. If you've started a business or invested in a personal project, resist the temptation to sell too soon for short-term gains. Instead, focus on the long-term potential and the possible massive upside.
A good way of doing this is by regularly reviewing and reflecting on your beliefs about the potential of your projects or investments. Ask yourself, "Do I still believe in the future of this endeavor?" If the answer is yes, consider retaining your stake or even increasing it. This doesn't require large amounts of money or time but does require commitment and faith in your vision.
Additionally, balance is key. While holding onto your stake can bring massive growth, it's also crucial to assess your risk tolerance. Understand that reducing risk might also mean sacrificing significant potential gains. To manage this, set clear personal financial goals and align your investment or stake decisions with them. Determine what percentage of your resources can be safely allocated without discomfort.
For entrepreneurs, these strategies require ongoing education and adaptation. Stay informed about industry trends, competitor actions, and technological advancements to reinforce your confidence and understanding of your stake’s potential value. By combining belief in your vision with calculated risk management, you can navigate your business or personal growth path for long-term success.