It’s probably safe to assume that people reading this column don’t need a textbook on Warren Buffett. For those who do, the “Oracle of Omaha” is a 92-year-old man who is estimated to be worth $97 billion and is ranked #7thousand the richest man in the world. He has been the chairman and largest shareholder of Berkshire Hathaway since 1970 and is one of the most famous philanthropists in the world.
So what advice or wisdom does Warren Buffett have for the worshiping masses? It’s actually quite simple. A student asked Warren what he would do differently if he could go back in time. Taking no for an answer, he encouraged students to make better choices about careers, finances, health and relationships. He concluded this thought with the four words we’ve been waiting for – DO WHAT YOU LOVE.
Mr. Buffett said:[I] to start a job I love, but I’ve always worked at a job I love.” He went on and added, “I urge you to work at the jobs you like.” These days we read and see a lot about employee dissatisfaction and job turnover. How many of us can honestly say we love what we do?
Unfortunately, I see more and more employees counting down the days to retirement, many filled with regret, anger, and jealousy toward their coworkers. But is this how we should live?
I have lived by several creeds in my life. One of the driving themes is to never play the victim when life doesn’t turn out the way you dreamed it would. I have an idea, make a plan and start making it happen, and don’t stop until you reach your goal – then enjoy the eternal victory lap.
Appeal to politics.
Don’t make the common mistakes that many immature and short-sighted officers make. They become victims of attaining office and immediately focus on running for the next higher office. Never enjoy the moment or the work you put in to get to that moment. Too many suffer from being on a political “hamster wheel” that spins furiously in place. This is a disservice on many levels, but it happens all the time.
If it’s too late for some readers, hopefully the next generation reading this will learn a valuable lesson from a pretty smart and successful man, Warren Buffett. Figure out what you love and do it. Most likely, you will find this feeling of professional happiness.
Unlike EF Hutton and their sad end, these pearls of wisdom do stand the test of time.
