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What’s the difference between those who dream and those who achieve? According to Steve Jobs, the legendary co-founder of Apple, it’s as simple as asking for help. Jobs’ life is a testament to the power of curiosity, boldness, and the willingness to reach out—even when the odds seem stacked against you.
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In this article, we’ll dive into Jobs’ unforgettable story of calling Bill Hewlett at age 12, explore why most people never ask for what they want, and share inspiring examples of individuals who turned bold asks into life-changing opportunities.
The Day Steve Jobs Called Bill Hewlett
At just 12 years old, Steve Jobs had a problem: he wanted to build a frequency counter but didn’t have the parts. So, he did something most people would never dare to do—he picked up the phone and called Bill Hewlett, the co-founder of Hewlett-Packard (HP).
“His number was still in the phone book, and he answered the phone himself,” Jobs recalled.
Jobs introduced himself: “Hi, I'm Steve Jobs. I'm 12 years old. I'm a student in high school, and I want to build a frequency counter, and I was wondering if you had any spare parts I could have.”
Hewlett laughed—and then he did something extraordinary. He not only gave Jobs the spare parts but also offered him a summer job at HP, working on the assembly line.
“I was in heaven,” Jobs said.
Why Most People Never Ask
Jobs’ story highlights a simple truth: most people never ask for what they want.
“Most people never pick up the phone and call. Most people never ask,” Jobs said. “And that's what separates sometimes the people that do things from the people that just dream about them.”
The fear of rejection, the worry of bothering someone, or the belief that they’re not “worthy” often holds people back. But as Jobs proved, the act of asking can open doors you never imagined.
The Mindset of Asking: Boldness and Resilience
Jobs’ philosophy on asking is rooted in two key traits:
Boldness: The willingness to take the first step, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Resilience: The readiness to face rejection and keep going.
“You've got to act, and you've got to be willing to fail. You've got to be willing to crash and burn,” Jobs said.
This mindset isn’t just about asking for help—it’s about taking initiative, embracing risk, and persisting in the face of setbacks.
How to Embrace the Bold Ask in Your Life
Inspired by Jobs’ story? Here’s how you can start asking for what you want:
1. Overcome the Fear of Rejection
Remember, rejection isn’t personal—it’s just part of the process. Every “no” brings you closer to a “yes.”
2. Be Clear and Specific
When you ask for help, be clear about what you need and why. People are more likely to help if they understand your request.
3. Start Small
Practice asking for small things—like advice or feedback—to build your confidence.
4. Follow Up
If someone helps you, show gratitude and keep them updated on your progress. This builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Your Turn: Seize the Opportunity
The story of Steve Jobs remind us that every great achievement starts with a simple act—asking for help. So, what’s stopping you? Whether you’re pursuing a dream, tackling a challenging project, or just curious about the world around you, remember that the first step is often the hardest, yet the most rewarding.
Take Action Today: Pick up that phone, draft that email, or strike up that conversation. Ask boldly, act fearlessly, and watch as new opportunities unfold before your very eyes. Because in a world where too many remain silent, your voice—and your courage to ask—can be the catalyst for something truly extraordinary.
As Jobs put it, “I've never found anyone who said no or hung up the phone when I called. I just asked.”
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Source: Steve Jobs on Failure
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