August 24, 2011.

Steve jobs resigned as CEO of Apple.  It was the right decision.  It was an unselfish decision.  It was a tough call to make.  And, to take, as well.

“I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple”s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.”

Steve has cancer.  He was in remission. But it returned.  That’s what he’s referring to when he says, “. . . if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties”

Succession . . . Reflects Leadership
Institutions that go on and on . . . the British Royalty . . . the US Government . . . Apple . . . all recognize the need for succession planning.  It’s akin to drafting your will.  It’s your acceptance of your fragile mortality that we all understand and yet, most  find difficult to acknowledge.

In your business, anticipating the inevitable — and acting accordingly — is ‘good business’.

If your business is to enjoy an uninterrupted existence, you must plan for it.  That means you must PLAN.  Not only for your annual objectives and daily tasks, but for it’s perpetuation over time.  With you and, alas . . . without you, too.

KEY POINT:
Business perpetuation is never an accident — it reflects both strong leadership and your ability to have a plan in the first place.