One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned from Warren Buffett is the importance of continuous learning. While many people see investing as a skill set you acquire once, Buffett sees it as an evolving craft. His commitment to lifelong learning has not only sharpened his investment skills but also enabled him to stay ahead in an ever-changing market. For me, Buffett’s dedication to reading, learning, and adapting serves as a powerful reminder: in investing, as in life, there’s always room to grow.
From a young age, Buffett showed an insatiable curiosity, reading every financial book he could get his hands on. Today, he still spends about 80% of his day reading—annual reports, newspapers, industry publications, and books. For Buffett, this is more than a habit; it’s a way to constantly refresh his perspective. His success isn’t just about making great picks—it’s about consistently refining his thinking and adapting to new information, even after decades of success.
Early in my career, I experienced a similar lesson. This was when China’s economy was on the rise, and traditional industries like cement and coal presented compelling opportunities. But instead of diving straight in, I made it a point to study these sectors extensively. For over a year, my team and I spoke with experts, conducted site inspections, and dissected every part of the industry. We delved into the supply chain, examined upstream and downstream factors, and even took the time to understand the personalities and behaviors of key management teams. This commitment to learning gave us a comprehensive understanding and allowed us to make more informed decisions when the time came to invest. Buffett’s philosophy shows us that success doesn’t come from rushing in—it comes from building a deep knowledge base that supports each decision.
A great example of Buffett’s adaptive learning can be seen in his shift toward technology stocks—something he famously avoided for most of his career. Until the mid-2010s, Buffett held firm to his rule of investing only in industries he understood. However, as technology became a cornerstone of modern business, Buffett took a fresh look. After years of observing, researching, and understanding its nuances, he made his first major technology investment in Apple in 2016. That move transformed Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio, with Apple now comprising over 40% of its value. Buffett’s decision wasn’t sudden; it was a calculated shift, backed by years of learning. It’s a testament to the power of staying open-minded and willing to expand your expertise, even in uncharted territory.
In my own practice, I’ve come to see that no industry is too “new” or “different” if you commit to learning about it. A few years ago, I began researching artificial intelligence (AI). At first, it felt foreign—something best left to tech experts. But as I delved into the details, I started seeing its long-term potential, particularly in industries I work with regularly. By the time everyone started asking about AI, I was ready with informed advice. Learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about staying prepared and agile, ready to meet the needs with insights grounded in real research.
Buffett’s commitment to lifelong learning also keeps him aware of broader economic forces. In 2008, amid the financial crisis, Buffett wrote a now-famous op-ed in The New York Times titled “Buy American. I Am.” His confidence wasn’t blind optimism—it was backed by decades of studying economic cycles and understanding that markets recover over time. As someone who experienced the crisis from the front lines, I remember the pressure to reduce risk and sit on cash. But I took inspiration from Buffett’s conviction, reassuring myself to stay invested in quality assets. His example underscored the value of historical knowledge and the calm that comes from seeing the bigger picture.
Today, with rapid advancements and economic shifts occurring faster than ever, Buffett’s philosophy is more relevant than ever. He reminds us that success isn’t about finding shortcuts; it’s about constantly expanding our knowledge and remaining flexible. I often advise clients that investing isn’t static. Staying sharp means looking beyond our current understanding, whether by attending industry conferences, reading about new trends, or seeking mentorship. This commitment to growth keeps us prepared for change and allows us to provide sound advice rooted in continuous learning.
Buffett once said, “The best investment you can make is in yourself.” For him, that investment has been a lifelong journey of reading, analyzing, and evolving his strategies. In my work, I see that same value in continuous learning. Whether it’s adapting to new technology, understanding market cycles, or simply exploring an unfamiliar industry, the willingness to keep learning is what enables us to serve our clients best. Like Buffett, we can always refine our approach, adapt to new challenges, and, ultimately, shape a legacy of thoughtful, informed investing.