It Takes a Partnership

Steve Jobs provided the creative element to Apple. He was forward-thinking—he imagined what could be—not what was. But he knew nothing of computer programing or the naked  bones of technology. And so he smartly teamed up with Steve Wozniack during Apple’s inception, who was literate in computer language and boards and hard wires. Because Wozniack, while skilled in nuts and bolts, could not think beyond the tangible unless prompted. And so Jobs and Wozniack became a powerful team who worked synergistically.

I completely enjoy home design. And in particular I think my skill lies in small space renovation. It is there that my creativity is best unleashed. I excite in the tension of form and function—especially with the added pressure of limited funding. And so whipping up a vision and a plan for my daughters’ apartments has pushed my limits.

Yet I am pitiful at the work end of paintbrushes, drills, and screwdrivers. I require a partner to allow my ideas to actualize. I need a Steve Wozniack of the decorative arts.   And that is where my husband comes in. He enjoys hammers and nails and all things Home Depot. He enjoys the task of making my ideas real. And even when he thinks I am crazy—he trusts the potential.

And we have become so adept as a team that my older daughter has joked that we could go into business as rent-a-parents. For a fee the Facebook generation could pay my husband and I to whip their first apartments into much more than several clicks above shabby chic. And we work so seamlessly it would not interfere with their active social life.

And while Jobs and Wozniack built a financial empire, my husband and I not so much. We have built only a good marriage and a good reputation among my daughters’ friends and roommates. But it’s a kingdom I am happy to co-preside over—it’s one built on love and teamwork---and most of all: trust.