The Daily Buffett

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Possessions as Tools

December 18th

Too often, a vast collection of possessions ends up possessing its owner.

Warren Buffett

The Oracle of Omaha, despite being one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, still resides in a modest house he purchased in 1958. He demonstrates that material possessions are tools, not trophies.

Material possessions—homes, cars, luxury items—can become burdens. We exert time and energy into their acquisition and upkeep. The more we own, the more we have to worry about. This develops a cycle of materialism that is challenging to escape.

Wealth should therefore not dictate our happiness or sense of self. It should instead be a resource for creating value and contributing meaningfully. Ultimately, the pursuit of wealth should not blind us to our values and the simple joys that enrich life. Rather than being possessed by our possessions, let's use them to design a life worth living.

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