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Business Quote by Walter Isaacson

“There is something indefinable in an entrepreneur, and I saw that in Steve," he said. " He was interested not just in engineering, but also the business aspects. I taught him that if you act like you can do something, then it will work. I told him, " Pretend to be completely in control and people…” quote by Walter Isaacson
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““There is something indefinable in an entrepreneur, and I saw that in Steve," he said. " He was interested not just in engineering, but also the business aspects. I taught him that if you act like you can do something, then it will work. I told him, " Pretend to be completely in control and people will assume that you are.””

Walter Isaacson

About This Quote

Source Interview: Steve Jobs Biography by Walter Isaacson, 2011

Confidence and perceived control can influence outcomes; acting as if you are in charge encourages others to trust you.

In simple terms: Acting confident can make success more likely.

Key Takeaway

Project confidence to inspire trust.

Themes

leadership psychology entrepreneurship

Mood

motivational cautious pragmatic

Type

advice inspirational

When to use this quote

  • business meetings
  • team leadership
  • public speaking
  • startup pitches

Key Concepts

self‑efficacy impression management mindset

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does confidence become hubris?
  • How can you balance humility with assertiveness?
A Different Perspective

Overconfidence may lead to reckless decisions.

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