The Story

Steve Wozniak, affectionately known as "Woz," is a tech legend who co-founded Apple Computer with Steve Jobs in 1976. But his path to success wasn't a straight line. In fact, it was filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Woz grew up in Silicon Valley, long before it was the tech hub it is today. As a child, he was fascinated by electronics and spent hours tinkering with gadgets and taking apart appliances. He was also a bit of a prankster and loved to build contraptions that would surprise and delight his friends.

After high school, Woz attended the University of California, Berkeley, but dropped out after just one year. He didn't see the point in studying subjects that didn't interest him, so he decided to focus on his true passion: computers.

Woz taught himself computer programming and began designing his own computers in his spare time. He teamed up with a local computer club and started showing off his creations. Soon, he caught the attention of a young Steve Jobs, who was also interested in computers and entrepreneurship.

The two Steves hit it off and started working together on a project that would become the Apple I computer. Woz designed the hardware and wrote the software, while Jobs handled the business side of things. They built the first Apple computer in Jobs' parents' garage and sold it for $666.66 (which Woz later said was just a coincidence, not a nod to the devil).

The Apple I was a hit, and Woz and Jobs went on to create the Apple II, which became one of the most successful personal computers of all time. Woz continued to innovate and create, designing new products like the Apple III and the first universal remote control.

But despite his success, Woz remained humble and grounded. He never lost his love for tinkering and always put his passion for technology first. He left Apple in the mid-1980s to start his own company, but never lost his connection to the tech community. He continued to design and build gadgets, and even taught computer classes to kids.

Today, Woz is considered a pioneer in the tech industry and a true inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators. He's also a philanthropist and advocate for education and technology, using his wealth and influence to make a positive impact on the world. His story is a reminder that success is not just about money and fame, but about staying true to your passions and values.

Lessons from Steve

1. Follow your passions: Wozniak dropped out of college to pursue his true passion - building computers. He didn't see the point in studying subjects that didn't interest him. This allowed him to focus all his energy on something he loved, and ultimately led to his success.

2. Embrace your creativity: Wozniak was a tinkerer and a prankster who loved to build contraptions that would surprise and delight his friends. This creativity and playfulness translated into his work, as he designed innovative and user-friendly products that revolutionized the tech industry.

3. Collaborate with others: Wozniak teamed up with Steve Jobs to start Apple Computer. Jobs handled the business side of things while Wozniak focused on the hardware and software. This collaboration allowed them to combine their strengths and create something greater than they could have on their own.

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