Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the transformative journey of Steve Jobs from leaving Apple to becoming a billionaire through his investment in Pixar, emphasizing the importance of passion and commitment in achieving success [2][4]. Group 1: Steve Jobs and Pixar - In 1986, Steve Jobs acquired Lucasfilm's graphics division for $10 million, which later became Pixar, significantly altering both Hollywood and his financial trajectory [2]. - Initially, Pixar faced challenges, and Jobs considered selling the company, but by 1995, he believed it was ready for success with the release of "Toy Story" and its IPO [3][4]. - The IPO was a major success, with shares initially priced at $12-14, closing at $39 on the first day, leading to Jobs' net worth exceeding $1 billion [4]. Group 2: Subsequent Success and Disney Acquisition - Following the IPO, Pixar produced several blockbuster films, including "Finding Nemo" and "The Incredibles," which contributed to Disney's acquisition of Pixar for $7.4 billion in 2006, valuing Jobs' shares at approximately $4.6 billion [4]. - Jobs' experience with Pixar reinforces the timeless principle that success lies in finding one's passion and pursuing it wholeheartedly [4]. Group 3: Other Billionaires' Wealth Accumulation - The article also mentions other billionaires like Elon Musk and Richard Branson, who accumulated wealth through ventures outside their primary businesses, highlighting a common theme of diversifying income sources [5][6]. - Musk's initial wealth came from selling Zip2 for over $300 million and later from PayPal, while Branson's wealth was significantly boosted by selling Virgin Records for $1 billion [5][6].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the leadership styles of prominent figures like Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos, highlighting their demanding work cultures and expectations for employee availability. Group 1: Leadership Styles - Steve Jobs was known for his intense work ethic, often contacting employees at all hours, including 3 AM, demonstrating a lack of respect for personal time but a strong respect for their work [1][2][6] - Jobs empowered creative personnel by allowing them autonomy over their projects, stating he would not interfere with their creative processes [2][3] - Elon Musk is noted for sending emails as late as 2:30 AM, expecting employees to keep pace with his high-intensity work culture [6][7] Group 2: Company Cultures - Pixar, co-founded by Jobs, became a major player in the film industry, producing beloved films like "Toy Story" and "Finding Nemo," which contributed to its success [3][4] - The competitive environment led Disney to acquire Pixar for $7.4 billion in 2006, indicating the studio's significant market value [4] - Amazon, under Jeff Bezos, is characterized by a demanding work culture where employees are expected to respond to communications at all hours, reflecting a focus on "harmony" between work and life rather than balance [7]