Money is a handmaiden,
if thou knowest how to use it ; a mistress, if thou knowest not.
- Horace (Roman Poet)
People generally tend to listen a word of advice from a prominent
person of society. If that advice comes from one of the richest persons
on the planet, it would attract more eyeballs.
Warren Buffett, one of the wealthiest men in the world is undisputedly the
fountain of advice both on financial and personal arena.
In the era of glittering websites to seduce the netizens, Buffett’s company
Berkshire Hathaway Inc’s website is so simple and elegant. It not only loads
swiftly but is also clutter free, leaving no room for confusion to obtain
required information.
The website of Buffett epitomizes his philosophy of life. If we peep into his
personal life, it is apparent that he regrets of buying his first share at the
age of 11 years which he feels too late.
This American business magnate and the most successful investor of 20th century
has very humble beginning. He started earning income at a very early age by
selling newspapers.
In these days of lavish life styles, Warren still lives in a small 3 bedroom
house in the mid-town Omaha (U.S) which he bought 50 years ago. Further he
drives his own car everywhere and does not have a driver or security person
around him.
He never travels by private jet. He writes only one letter each year to the
CEOs of his companies, giving them goals for the whole year. He never holds
meetings or calls them on a regular basis. He has given his CEO’s only two
rules : Rule Number : 1 : do not lose any of your share money. Rule
Number 2 : Do not forget rule number 1
Buffett does not carry a cell phone nor has a computer on his desk. After first
meeting with Buffett, Bill Gates (Microsoft) became his instant devotee.
Buffett’s advice to young people : Stay away from credit cards (bank loans).
He says that money does not create man but it is the man who creates money. He
further says that live your life as simple as possible.
The most stunning advice of Buffett which caught my attention is : Don’t
waste your money on unnecessary things ; just spend on them who really in need
rather.
Prevailing on the wisdom of simplicity even at the height of success is really
inspiring.
Hats off to this man of ultimate simplicity !