I love to study creative and successful people. And who better than Warren Buffet, the Omaha multi-billionaire and chairman of Berkshire, Hathaway, Inc.
He recently listed the four common-sense principles that contributed to his mega success, and here’s my take on his formula for prosperity. Unfortunately, they are not commonly practiced.
Be Picky
Number one is to choose your friends wisely. I have friends whom I’ve known since I was a little boy, friends from college, friends who started out as business contacts, golfing friends, friends who share my passion for community service, and friends I met last week. And they all have one thing in common: We like each other for what we are, not what we want each other to be.
Greek philosopher Socrates was asked, “What is the most beneficial thing a person can acquire?” He answered, “A friend who gives sincere advice.”
I am fortunate to have friends who aren’t afraid to ruffle my feathers when it comes to advice. If I need to adjust my attitude, alter my course, back off or move forward, I have friends who will tell me. And because I value their friendship, I listen. And I will return the favor, if necessary. And we will remain friends because friendship is like a bank account: You cannot continue to draw on it without making deposits.