Even some of the best tech leaders like Tim Cook did not know some hidden features of one of his products. Well, this is surprising to many.
The Apple CEO recently opened a tiny window into his professional and personal life by speaking candidly in a recent interview. Leading one of the world's most influential technology companies might make some forget their personal lives, but for Cook, even that was funny: he said he wasn't even aware that people could give names to iMessage group chats—that is one of the basic features many enjoy.
Tim Cook's iMessage Surprise
As interviewed by journalist Ben Cohen in The Wall Street Journal Magazine, Cook was asked about the name of a particular group chat he is likely to be on.
To everyone's surprise, Cook responded, "I don't name them," and made people laugh. During that pause, it was humorously apparent that the world was poking fun at the gap between the rather deep involvement Cook had with Apple's high-level operations and how it seemed relatively simple and mundane for a regular user.
Hilariously, he quipped that this is equivalent to asking him to recommend which Android smartphone would be suitable for him—a very clear fact that even the most senior executives are not immune from missing tiny details about a product.
Cook took good humor in the situation and shortly thereafter tweeted that he named a group chat with his college roommates "Roommates."
A Glimpse at Tim Cook's Daily Life
In addition to the entertaining iMessage moment, Cook shared a lot about his day-to-day life, which is very closely tied to the technology he leads. For instance, he states he gets up at 4 a.m., opens his iPhone, and checks for any emails or sales reports that keep him updated on global market trends impacting Apple.
After completing his morning routine, he is able to squeeze in some fitness work through his Apple Watch, wherein he logs the workouts while listening to classic rock through his AirPods.
Cook's schedule exemplifies how humbly Apple's products are integrated with his personal life, focusing on the ways in which its devices support his health and productivity.
Focus and Leadership at Apple
Cook continuously depends on the digital banks of Apple products ranging from MacBook Air to iPad Pro in his daily work, especially when traveling. That commitment towards using only Apple products also describes not only his confidence in their capabilities but his approach to leadership.
For the tech leader, his focus is getting "great" ideas on the "good ideas." Cook pointed out that the key for them is "focus," which is very needed in this competitive industry.
Humanizing Tech Leadership
Cook's candid confession about the iMessage group chats reminds us that even the leaders in the technology space are equally surprised by their products. The ability to be relatable and human makes Cook relate well with everyone as technology is complex, intuitive, and within everyone's reach.
According to Mashable, his humility to laugh at himself, learn from the moment, and the fantastic journey of innovation and adaptation that seasoned executives undergo in this day and age justify the overall evolution process they keep going through.
This refreshing interview mix of humor, insight by a leader, and a glimpse into his disciplined lifestyle really highlighted how even the most successful figures can overlook the small things sometimes.
