As Steve Wozniak, the illustrious co-founder of Apple Inc., marked his 75th birthday, he took a stroll down tech-memory lane while sharing some personal reflections on what truly brings him joy. Spoiler: it’s not a sky-high bank balance.
Zooming In
Wozniak, affectionately known as ‘Woz,’ holds a special place in the heart of tech aficionados for designing the Apple II, a marvel that pushed the personal computing envelope in the ’80s. Along with Steve Jobs, he gave birth to Apple in 1976, pioneering the way people use technology today.
After waving goodbye to Apple in the mid-80s, Woz funneled his energy into tech and philanthropic ventures, co-founding organizations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation-an advocate for digital rights. His influence reaches educational and cultural sites, such as the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, thanks to his generosity.
Recently, in a chat on Slashdot, he addressed a recurring question about his financial choices. While he could’ve hoarded millions by holding onto his Apple stock, Wozniak opted for something different. “I gave all my Apple wealth away because wealth and power are not what I live for,” Wozniak quipped. “I have a lot of fun and happiness… they named a street after me for being good.”
Wozniak’s simpatico with happiness over paychecks gives a whole new flavor to tech success stories. He stands apart from peers, a refreshing contrast to those drawn by the lure of stock market accolades.
More Than Just Tech
His influence in tech is undeniable. Yet, it’s Wozniak’s love for humanity and education that’s earned him respect far and wide. With a city street sartorially honoring him, San Jose emblemizes his contributions.
As Woz explains, “I have no idea how much I have but after speaking for 20 years it might be $10M plus a couple of homes. I am the happiest person ever.” For him, life means tallying smiles and subtracting frowns-an ethos that’s less about global domination and more about personal contentment.
While moguls like Musk and Bezos headline news for their colossal empires, Wozniak’s stories remain tethered to human essence-offering a humble lens on what it is to win at life.
The Final Note
Wozniak’s tale isn’t one of conventional riches, yet his plural alumni of achievements-both in the tech sphere and realms of goodwill-craft a legacy undeniably rich. As he muses on his deliberate step away from wealth, he showers us with an enduring narrative on happiness.
In this tech kaleidoscope, Woz’s story is an allegory on choosing what fills the soul, not just the wallet-a poignant lesson for a fast-evolving industry and its aspirants.
