Meaning: This quote by Steve Case, an American entrepreneur and co-founder of America Online (AOL), sheds light on his early experiences and the influence of his family background on his career path. In this quote, Case reflects on the expectations placed upon him due to his family's profession and his own divergent interests.

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1958, Steve Case was raised in a family of lawyers. His father and his brothers all practiced law, creating an environment where the legal profession was a prominent and influential part of his upbringing. The societal and familial expectation for Case to follow in the footsteps of his father and uncles and pursue a career in law was likely significant. However, Case's personal inclinations and passions differed from those of his family members.

In the quote, Case expresses that the anticipated career trajectory for him was to become a lawyer, given his family's legal background. This reflects the common phenomenon of individuals feeling pressure to conform to familial expectations or traditions regarding profession and career choices. It's evident that the legal profession was a familiar and established path within his family, and it was natural for others to assume that he would continue this tradition.

Despite this expectation, Case acknowledges that law did not captivate his interest to the same extent as it did for his father and uncles. Instead, he reveals that his true passion lay in "building things." This statement alludes to his inclination toward entrepreneurship and innovation, indicating a desire to create and develop tangible products or solutions. This early inclination towards building and creating would later become a defining aspect of Case's career as a technology entrepreneur.

The contrast between the family's legal background and Case's affinity for building things underscores the individuality and autonomy in career decision-making. It demonstrates the importance of recognizing and pursuing one's own passions and talents, even if they differ from familial expectations or societal norms.

Ultimately, Case's divergence from the expected path led him to carve out a unique career in the technology and business world. His entrepreneurial spirit and interest in building things culminated in his pivotal role in the rise of the internet and the success of AOL. By co-founding and leading AOL, Case played a significant role in popularizing the internet and shaping the digital landscape as we know it today.

In conclusion, Steve Case's quote provides insight into the interplay between familial expectations and individual aspirations. It underscores the significance of following one's passions and forging a unique path, even if it diverges from traditional or familial norms. Case's journey from diverging from the anticipated legal career to becoming a pioneering entrepreneur serves as an inspiring example of pursuing one's true calling and making a lasting impact in a chosen field.