“Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes … the ones who see things differently … While some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” - Steve Jobs (Commencement speech at Stanford University, 2005)

There are moments in history, when an influential person dies, that you never forget. For many, it was the death of John Lennon. Before that, the death of John F. Kennedy, and before that, Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Last night, it seemed as if the world, both online and offline, stood still. The news of Steve Jobs’ passing spread like wildfire. In an instant it seemed as though we all found out together and in that same instant it seemed as though our world was changed forever.

I never met Steve Jobs, probably never came within 2,000 feet of the man. Only recently did I make the switch to all things Apple, having been a PC person my whole life. Nevertheless, when I opened up my Macbook last night, settled in to catch up on some work, I couldn’t help but feel heartbroken when I saw the words “Visionary behind Apple dies” splashed across my screen. The news of Jobs’ passing struck a chord deep within me and I take comfort in knowing that I am not alone.

Countless others, probably more than I can possibly imagine, shared their sentiments, feelings, thoughts and words of thanks online and offline. While there are more of us in this world who have not met Steve Jobs than those who have, it is clear that his actions, his innovations and the culture he created touched and affected millions.

Steve Jobs didn’t just think outside the box. For him, there was no box. As the rest of us sat back and watched, he showed us that there is no such thing as defeat. No such thing as an unrealistic dream or idea. No such thing as success without some form of failure or bump in the road.

He taught us to push beyond our limits, challenge ourselves and be courageous even when faced with the impossible. He taught us to look past fear and see opportunity. He taught us to Think Different.

These are lessons we should embrace each and every day no matter the business we are in.

If I learned anything from Steve Jobs it is to embrace the fear of the unknown and take hold of my own future with both of my hands. For that lesson I will be forever grateful. Yesterday we lost a visionary but I think it is safe to say that his vision will truly live on for many generations to come.

How did Steve Jobs impact your life?

By Genevieve Jooste