I, Warren Buffett, an investor with a profound influence on the world economy, began my story in Omaha during the Great Depression. In that era of material scarcity and public anxiety, I was born into an ordinary family, yet I harbored an infinite obsession with numbers and investing.
My childhood was not smooth; family turmoil left a deep imprint on me. My mother Lila's irritability and reproaches made me long to escape that oppressive atmosphere from a young age. However, it was this environment that shaped my sensitive yet resilient character and ignited my strong desire for self-protection and success.
During my school years, I showed a strong interest in investing. My studies at the Wharton School and Columbia University gave me the opportunity to learn from the investment master Benjamin Graham, whose value investing philosophy illuminated my path. Under Graham's careful guidance, I gradually mastered the skills of finding 'cigar butt stocks,' which means discovering companies with market values below their net assets through extensive reading and careful calculation, and daring to hold large positions even directly asking corporate management for dividends.
In 1951, I returned to Omaha and began selling securities. However, I never forgot Graham's teachings and maintained close contact with him. Finally, in 1954, I got the opportunity to work at Graham-Newman Company. This experience not only allowed me to accumulate valuable investment experience but also made me deeply appreciate the unpredictability of the market and the hardships of investing.
In 1956, I returned to Omaha and founded my own investment partnership. At first, I was just helping relatives and friends manage their funds, but unexpectedly, I embarked on my journey of building an investment empire. I adhered to the philosophy of value investing, focusing on finding high-quality companies that are undervalued by the market, and I dared to buy in during times of corporate distress. Over time, my investment performance gradually gained recognition in the market, and the scale of my partnership continued to expand.
In my investment career, I have encountered many challenges and opportunities. I have invested in many well-known companies such as Coca-Cola, Gillette, and GEICO, and have also experienced the acquisitions and integrations of companies like Solomon Brothers and Berkshire Hathaway. With each investment, I have maintained a cautious and focused attitude, striving to achieve the maximum return while keeping risk under control.
My success is not accidental but stems from a love for investing, respect for the market, and strict self-discipline. I firmly believe that focus and moderation are the keys to investment success. I concentrate on studying the market and analyzing companies, never allowing myself to be disturbed by short-term market fluctuations; I practice restraint in the use of money and distribution of wealth, investing most of my assets in stocks and adhering to the philosophy of long-term investment.
Now, I have entered the twilight of my life, but my passion for investing has never waned. I still read a large amount of market information and company annual reports every day, looking for investment opportunities that the market has overlooked. I understand that investing is a marathon, not a sprint; only by maintaining enduring stamina and focus can one remain invincible in the market.
Looking back on my life, I am grateful for those who have helped and supported me along my growth journey. I am thankful for my family, friends, partners, and all the investors who have trusted me. It is they who have given me the opportunity to realize my dreams and create my own investment legend.
In the days to come, I will continue to uphold the philosophy of value investing and create more value for my investors. I also hope that my story can inspire more people to pursue their dreams and create their own glorious lives.