Don’t Settle

Below is an excerpt from the commencement speech Steve Jobs gave at Stanford in 2005. Jobs is the founder and current CEO of Apple, which he started in his 20s. It is important to learn from successful people that did extraordinary things in their 20s; they offer a unique perspective and are able to share the lessons they have learned over their lives and careers. Jobs explains the importance of finding work that you love and never settling until you find it. Regardless of the economic conditions, you must stay committed to finding a career that you truly love and are passionate about.  It will not only lead to career success, but it will also make your personal life more enjoyable as well.  Enjoy Jobs’ inspiring words:

“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. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And 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.”

Steve Jobs – CEO of Apple Computer and Pixar Animation Studios

Stanford University Commencement Address

Palo Alto, CA

June 12, 2005