Back in 2008—while the markets were melting down and Wall Street was reaching for antacids—Warren Buffett wasn’t browsing Zillow or test-driving Lamborghinis. He was answering questions from students at the University of Western Ontario and casually dropping billionaire-level perspective like it was no big deal.
“What can I possibly do with billions and billions of dollars?” Buffett said. “I don’t see the fuss in having six houses with greenskeepers; I don’t see the fuss in having 20 cars in the garage.”
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This wasn’t the last time Buffett shrugged off the trappings of extreme wealth. In a 2012 interview with Charlie Rose, he was asked, “So no desire to have lots of, a lot of mansions around the world, a big boat—all those things that your wealth would allow you to do?” Buffett replied, “I have every possession I want. I have a lot of friends who have a lot more possessions. But in some cases, I feel the possessions possess them, rather than the other way around.”
The man’s worth over $164 billion and still lives in the same Omaha house he bought in 1958 for $31,500 and drives a 2014 Cadillac. While hedge fund managers chase private jets and penthouses, Buffett’s idea of a splurge is a Coke and a McDonald’s breakfast sandwich—preferably with exact change.
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He reminded students that it’s not about stacking assets for show, but finding a life you actually enjoy waking up to. “The problem is not getting rich, but finding a game you enjoy and living a normal life,” he said.
And if you think he’s all dollars and spreadsheets, he pivoted from billion-dollar valuations to marriage advice without missing a beat. “The most important thing is finding the right spouse… If you make that one decision right I will guarantee you a good result in life.”
Buffett’s tone was relaxed, even playful. When asked what qualities to look for in a partner, he deadpanned: “Humor, looks, character, brains—or just someone with low expectations.”
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While Wall Street churned through chaos, Buffett sat in Omaha telling a room full of business students that a satisfying life doesn’t come with a dozen garages or live-in groundskeepers. It comes from doing what you love, treating money like a tool—not a trophy—and maybe marrying someone who thinks you’re hilarious.
