When Warren Buffett, the 94‑year‑old Oracle of Omaha, spoke at Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting on May 3, 2025, you might have expected another deep dive into his favorite stocks or a fresh forecast on the market. Instead, he offered something far more personal—and perhaps more valuable over a lifetime: choose your company wisely, pursue work you love, and never stop learning.
Surround Yourself with the Best
Buffett has spent six decades building Berkshire into an investment powerhouse. Yet he says his real edge wasn’t timing the market—it was carefully choosing the people around him.
“Who you associate with is just enormously important,” Buffett told the crowd of shareholders. “Your life tends to move in the direction of the people you admire, work with, and call friends.”
In practical terms, that means finding mentors and colleagues who challenge you to grow—and steering clear of anyone who drags you down.
“You want to hang out with people who make you want to be better than you are,” Buffett said, advising young investors to seek out friends whose example they can learn from, rather than simply imitating someone else’s playbook.
A Profession You’d Do for Free
Buffett didn’t stop at friendship. He also encouraged everyone—especially those just starting their careers—to pick a line of work they’d happily do even if money weren’t the goal.
“Find something you’d stick around for, whether you need the money or not,” he said.
That may sound idealistic, but Buffett’s own journey—from selling gum and soda as a boy to steering Berkshire’s $900 billion empire—was fueled by genuine passion. He warned that a hefty paycheck means little if your daily grind makes you miserable.
Beware the Crowd’s Bad Habits
Just as positive influences can lift you up, negative ones can pull you under. Buffett urged caution when it comes to office culture and everyday colleagues.
“Be careful where you work—habits are contagious,” he explained. “Even a higher starting salary isn’t worth joining a team that makes you complacent or encourages shortcuts.”
He’s seen it firsthand: bright young people lose their spark when they settle into a toxic environment or start cutting corners to please the wrong people.
Buffett says “Never Stop Reading”
Finally, Buffett reminded everyone of the power of curiosity. His own voracious reading habit—books, annual reports, newspapers—has kept him sharp far beyond the typical retirement age.
“Keep that sense of wonder alive,” he urged. “Read widely, ask questions, and never assume you’ve learned it all.”
Passing the Baton—But Keeping the Lessons
This year also marked another milestone: Buffett confirmed that Berkshire’s board will name Greg Abel his successor as CEO by the end of 2025. After 60 years at the helm, he’s ready to pass the torch—but his core message remains the same: investment returns matter, but the people you choose and the work you love will define your success in life.
Whether you’re buying your first stock or picking your first job, Buffett’s advice cuts straight to what really counts: your circle, your passion, and your relentless thirst for knowledge.
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