PHOTO: Guy Kawasaki speaking at a technology conference, embodying enthusiasm and insight.
Reflections On Business Mindset And Personal Development
Guy Kawasaki discusses lessons from Apple and Canva, the evolving art of social media, and the importance of authenticity, grit, and graciousness in entrepreneurship and personal growth.
Guy Kawasaki is a storyteller whose voice resonates across the worlds of technology, business, and personal growth. His journey—from shaping the culture at Apple to championing creativity at Canva—reflects a rare blend of innovation and humility. Through his many books, including Think Remarkable and Wiser Guy, he invites readers to explore not only the art of entrepreneurship but the deeper principles of grit, graciousness, and growth.
In his reflections, Kawasaki reveals how authenticity and empathy remain at the heart of lasting success, whether in forging connections through social media or crafting a business that truly serves its community. His experience is a testament to the power of staying curious and adaptable amid a constantly evolving digital landscape.
More than a guide for entrepreneurs, his work is a call to live with purpose and generosity—reminding us that behind every remarkable idea is a human story, rich with lessons learned and wisdom earned. Through his voice, we are encouraged to think boldly, act kindly, and always remain open to the unexpected.
In Think Remarkable, you synthesise insights from over 200 interviews—what was the most unexpected lesson you learned during this process?
The most unexpected lesson was from Deepak Chopra. He has fully embraced AI as a personal guru which I did not expect at all. In fact, I thought he’d be among the last people in the world to embrace AI for this kind of purpose. The lesson? You just never know what people are thinking…
How did your experiences at Apple and Canva influence the themes of growth, grit, and graciousness in Think Remarkable?
Apple taught me the importance of growth through innovation—pushing boundaries and thinking differently. Canva reinforced the value of grit, especially in democratizing design for everyone, not just professionals. Both experiences highlighted graciousness: treating customers, employees, and partners with respect and empathy is what builds loyalty and community.
Wise Guy offers personal anecdotes from your life; which story do you believe most profoundly shaped your professional philosophy?
The story of my first job at a jewelry store shaped my philosophy the most. I learned the importance of hustle, attention to detail, and treating every customer like they matter. That experience taught me that success isn’t about luck—it’s about preparation and hard work.
In The Art of Social Media, you provide practical tips—how have your strategies evolved with the changing digital landscape?
When Peg Fitzpatrick and I wrote The Art of Social Media, the focus was on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Today, it’s about short-form video, authenticity, and community-building on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. The core principle remains the same: provide value, engage genuinely, and adapt to where your audience is.
APE: Author, Publisher, Entrepreneur guides self-publishing authors; what common mistake do you see new authors making despite such resources?
The biggest mistake is rushing to publish without professional editing. Self-publishing doesn’t mean skipping quality control. A poorly edited book damages your credibility, no matter how great your ideas are. Invest in editing—it’s not optional.
Reflecting on Enchantment, how do you believe the art of persuasion has changed in today’s virtual communication era?
Persuasion today is about authenticity and relatability. In the virtual world, people can smell BS from a mile away. Enchantment now requires transparency, storytelling, and showing your human side—whether through a Zoom call or a LinkedIn post .
The Art of the Start 2.0 updates your original guide—what prompted the revisions, and how do they address today’s entrepreneurial challenges?
The startup world changed dramatically since the first edition. Social media, crowdfunding, and remote work reshaped how entrepreneurs operate. The revisions reflect these shifts, offering updated tools and strategies for building a business in a hyper-connected, fast-moving world.
What essential advice would you offer aspiring authors aiming to make their work both impactful and enduring?
Write for your audience, not for yourself. Focus on solving their problems, answering their questions, and inspiring them. If you create something that truly helps people, your work will stand the test of time.
