The three things I learned from Mr. Buffett during the Q&A session, and the following lunch at Piccolo Pete's Restaurant related to his positivity, passion, and communication skills.
This article was originally published on October 20, 2015 via LinkedIn
A few days ago I was sitting across the table from one of the richest men in the world. I still cannot believe that this happened. At the age of 85, Warren Buffett still has tremendous energy as well as an aura that makes others around him smile. I would like to share the three things I learned from Mr. Buffett during the Q&A session, and the following lunch at Piccolo Pete's Restaurant related to his positivity, passion and communication skills.
A student asked Mr. Buffett how he managed to fight through all the tough times. His answer was simply positive. He said that throughout all of those bad times, he would still be where he is today. His attitude embodies the way he looks forward to the future and the brighter days to come. He also said that he looks forward to waking up every day.
As future entrepreneurs, the students were interested in his philosophy on taking risks. His advice was concise. He said, "If you follow your passion, you aren't taking a risk." He explained that all failures that result from doing what you love are not mistakes, but rather one step closer to succeeding at what you love. He advised us to find our passion and pursue it. He did, however, caution us that our passion must not be something that negatively affects our or others' lives.
You may already know that one of the certificates hanging on Warren Buffett's wall is not his diploma, but a certificate for completing the Dale Carnegie course. He emphasized to us the importance of both oral and written communication. I asked him why he offered these Q&A sessions multiple times a year. He told me that it is one of the ways he practices his public speaking skills - even at the age of 85!
I have been discouraged lately in my job search because as an international student it is difficult to find employers who are able to sponsor visa. However, I was very encouraged and re-energized when he said, "The only difference between you and me is how we fly (yes, he has a private jet)." Mr. Buffett helped me see that a bright future is waiting for us all, and he motivated me to embrace the power of positive thinking.
If you don't knock on the door, it will never open.
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