At Berkshire Hathaway's annual shareholder meeting in May 2023, Warren Buffett, age 92, and the late Charlie Munger, then age 99, imparted invaluable insights that offer a roadmap for success in both business and life.
Cultivate Good Financial Habits: Munger emphasized the importance of sound financial practices. According to him, individuals are "almost certain to succeed" if they spend less than they earn, invest wisely, commit to continuous learning, and maintain discipline. These habits, he argued, lay the foundation for long-term success.
Learn All the Time. Buffett said, “We’re interested in owning a wonderful business forever...We’re learning all the time how consumers behave. We’re learning all the time, from all of our businesses…We don’t get smarter over time, we...get a little wiser, though, following it over time.”
Integrity Matters: Buffett also suggested that most major mistakes in life can be sidestepped by acting with integrity. In a world where shortcuts might seem tempting, being a person of integrity not only safeguards your reputation but also contributes to a happier and more fulfilling life.
Avoid Toxic People and Activities: Munger advised steering clear of toxic individuals and activities. Identifying those who may deceive or prove unreliable is crucial, and Munger urged swift action in distancing oneself from such influences. Surrounding yourself with reliable and trustworthy people contributes significantly to a positive and successful life.
Embrace a Positive Attitude: Munger shared the secret to a happy life, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cheerfulness despite life's challenges. Avoiding negative traits like envy and resentment and dealing with reliable people while fulfilling your responsibilities are simple yet powerful ways to enhance the quality of your life.
Think Twice Before Speaking: Buffett added another nugget of wisdom, recalling advice from his friend Tom Murphy: "You can always tell someone to go to h#@% tomorrow." This serves as a reminder to think twice before reacting impulsively, especially in the age of instant communication. How you treat others not only shapes your reputation but is also a reflection of your values.
Write Your Own Obituary. Warren Buffett said to “write your obituary and then try to figure out how to live up to it. That’s something you get wiser on as you go along...You just want to make sure you don’t make any mistakes that take you out of the game or come close to taking you out of your game.”
In essence, the collective wisdom from Munger and Buffett underscores the significance of personal responsibility, integrity, and cultivating positive habits. These principles, though simple, form the bedrock of a successful and fulfilling life. As Munger aptly noted, "All these simple rules work so well to make your life better. Even though they're so trite." Sometimes, the most straightforward advice carries the profoundest truths.