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Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, was known for his innovative spirit and profound wisdom. One of the most compelling insights he shared was about the importance of living each day as if it were your last. This mindset, inspired by a quote Jobs read at 17, became a guiding principle in his life and a tool for making big decisions.
Photo: L.A. Cicero/ Stanford
The Life-Changing Question
Jobs shared that for 33 years, he started every day by asking himself a simple yet powerful question:
“If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?”
This daily reflection was more than just a routine; it was a way for Jobs to ensure that he was living a life true to his passions and values. If the answer to that question was “no” too many days in a row, it was a clear signal to Jobs that something needed to change.
Imagine starting your day with this question. It’s a powerful way to check in with yourself and make sure that you’re on the right path. It forces you to confront whether the things you’re spending your time on are truly meaningful to you or if you’re just going through the motions.
The Clarity of Mortality
One of the most profound aspects of Jobs’ philosophy was his understanding of mortality. He believed that remembering he would soon be dead was the most important tool he had for making significant life choices. In his words,
“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.”
When you think about it, this perspective makes a lot of sense. So often, we’re held back by fear—fear of failure, fear of what others might think, fear of taking risks. But Jobs reminds us that in the grand scheme of things, these fears are insignificant. When you remember that your time is limited, it becomes much easier to focus on what truly matters and to let go of the things that don’t.
Living Without Regrets
Jobs’ message is a powerful reminder that we have nothing to lose by following our hearts. He famously said, “You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” This idea of being “naked” is about stripping away the layers of doubt, fear, and external pressures that often cloud our judgment. When we do this, we can see clearly what we truly want in life and have the courage to pursue it.
Consider how this approach could change the way you make decisions. Whether it’s in your career, your relationships, or your personal goals, asking yourself whether you’re doing what truly matters can help you avoid the trap of living someone else’s life. It can inspire you to take risks, make bold choices, and ultimately live a life with no regrets.
Real-World Examples
Jobs wasn’t alone in this mindset. Many successful people have adopted a similar approach to life and decision-making. For instance, Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, has always been known for his willingness to take risks and follow his passions. He’s started numerous businesses based on his interests, often venturing into industries where he had no prior experience. Branson’s success is a testament to the power of following your heart and living each day with purpose.
Another example is Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, who, after the sudden death of her husband, wrote about the importance of living fully in her book Option B. Sandberg’s experience taught her to cherish each day and to focus on what truly matters, much like Jobs’ philosophy.
A Legacy of Purpose
Steve Jobs left behind more than just groundbreaking products; he left a legacy of living with purpose. His daily reflection on mortality wasn’t just about making better decisions—it was about ensuring that his life was aligned with his true self. This is a lesson that resonates with anyone striving to live authentically.
By asking ourselves the same question Jobs did—whether we’re spending our days doing what we truly want—we can begin to make more intentional choices. We can start to live each day as if it were our last, not out of fear, but with a deep sense of purpose and clarity. In the end, Jobs’ greatest gift to us may be the reminder that life is too short to be lived any other way.
Listen to Steve Jobs:
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