The renowned investor Warren Buffett possesses a distinctive outlook regarding the definition of success. In a 2019 interview with Yahoo Finance, he expressed his conviction that authentic success transcends monetary wealth and centers around earning the affection of those dear to you. “If you reach the age of 65, 70, or beyond, and the individuals you wish to love you genuinely do, then you are successful,” remarked Buffett.
He pointed out that he has encountered numerous affluent individuals who experience unhappiness despite their financial status because “nobody cares for them.”
Buffett, celebrated for his unpretentious way of living, frequently asserts that financial resources do not guarantee happiness. Currently, he ranks sixth on the Forbes billionaires list with an estimated net worth of $143.7 billion, yet he has committed to donating 99% of his fortune to charitable causes either during his lifetime or upon his passing. When offered the opportunity to provide guidance on attaining success, Buffett advised that the most valuable investment one can undertake is in oneself.
He suggested enhancing one’s oral and written communication abilities as a means to elevate one’s value by at least 50%.
Defining success through affection
Buffett recounted his personal journey of enrolling in a Dale Carnegie course to sharpen these capabilities.
Additionally, a vital piece of counsel from Buffett emphasizes the necessity of caring for one’s mental and physical well-being. “You receive exactly one mind and one body in this world. And you shouldn’t begin taking care of it when you hit 50,” he remarked.
Buffett also recommended that individuals surround themselves with those who are more accomplished. “You will gravitate toward the people you associate with, so it’s important to choose your role models wisely,” he advised. He further stressed the significance of selecting the right partner, suggesting, “You should aim to choose a spouse who is just a bit better than you.”
These guidelines encapsulate Buffett’s belief that genuine success is assessed not by monetary wealth but by the love and esteem one cultivates, as well as through continuous personal growth and wise companionship.
