Perfectionist. Visionary. Innovate.  A legacy not soon to be forgotten.

Steve Jobs’ Wednesday resignation as Apple’s CEO is one that has quickly spread across the news waves.  His innovative personality and meticulous attention to detail will be missed by many, but Jobs’ influence will not be lost as he will remain on as Chairman of the Board. 

In fact, for those that have stayed abreast to the news of his health, this isn’t much of a surprising move.  Jobs’ health has been precarious as of late and Tom Cook has been the de facto leader since January 2011.  In his resignation letter, Jobs said that “I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s C.E.O., I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.”

Job’s enthusiasm and demand for excellence and quality has earned his company a ferociously committed following.  Mac, iPod and iPhone users are all vehemently loyal, with 59% of iPhone users stating that they plan to stay with the brand for future phone usage.  The trend continues with Apple’s other products, also.  People camp outside of the stores the night before big releases, even, to snag the first of a new release.  Comparisons have been drawn to it as a religion or even one which as cult-like fans.

This loyal following will ensure that Apple will not falter anytime soon.  Jobs will maintain a close relationship with the current team as Chairman of the Board and the projects which began under his supervision will be in the pipeline for the next few years.

Steve Jobs’ visionary influence has altered the markets of technology, mobiles and media for ages to come.  However, he is still able to keep in check the big picture.  Technological developments are important and can affect the way we live, but at the end of the day other things- life, family- matter so much more.  His ability to keep things in perspective is key. 

Perhaps one of him most profound statements came during a WSJ interview in May of 1993.  In it he said that “Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me … Going to bed at night saying we’ve done something wonderful… that’s what matters to me.”  Sounds like we could all use a bit more of Steve Jobs’ philosophy in our lives.