"لا أسعى للقفز فوق عوارض يبلغ ارتفاعها 7 أقدام"

Warren Buffett is a genius when it comes to simplifying complex ideas, and this quote is a perfect example of that. What he means here is that he doesn’t aim for the impossible or improbable. Instead, he focuses on achievable goals—things within his reach, like those metaphorical one-foot bars. It’s about finding the easy wins, the low-hanging fruit, and making the most of those opportunities.

Historically, Buffett’s strategy has always been about making investments that don’t require extraordinary efforts or luck to succeed. He’s known for his long-term, sensible approach to investing and business, steering clear of high-risk ventures with uncertain outcomes. It’s a philosophy that’s served him incredibly well over the decades.

Think of this in a personal context. Imagine you’re trying to get fit. Instead of setting yourself the gargantuan task of running a marathon within a month, why not start with something simpler like a daily 20-minute walk? That’s your one-foot bar—achievable and still beneficial. Once you’re comfortable with that, you can gradually increase the distance or intensity. The same applies to Buffett’s investment strategy. He looks for companies with strong fundamentals—solid management, understandable business models, and good long-term prospects. These aren’t flashy or high-risk, but they offer steady returns, kind of like your daily walks improving your health over time.

Now, let’s dive into a real-life example. Think about the success story of Coca-Cola, one of Buffett’s most famous investments. Instead of trying to invest in the next big tech startup (7-foot bars), Buffett chose to put his money into something he understood well—a company with a global brand, consistent demand, and a simple business model. The outcome? Coca-Cola has been a staple in his portfolio, providing steady returns year after year.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by identifying your one-foot bars. If you’re working on a project, break it down into manageable tasks rather than overwhelming yourself with the whole thing at once. If you’re learning a new skill, focus on mastering the basics before moving on to advanced techniques. It’s all about making consistent, incremental progress rather than taking on too much and risking burnout or failure.

Consider a relatable scenario: Imagine you’ve got a big presentation at work. Instead of trying to create the most revolutionary pitch your office has ever seen, focus on nailing the basics. Know your content inside out, practice your delivery, and make sure your slides are clear and concise. These are your one-foot bars. They’re not going to make you the next Steve Jobs, but they will get you through the presentation successfully and with confidence.

In essence, by focusing on what’s achievable and within your control, you set yourself up for success. You build confidence and competence, one small win at a time. This isn’t just good advice for investing—it’s a solid approach to life in general. So next time you’re faced with a daunting challenge, remember Buffett’s wisdom. Don’t look to jump over those 7-foot bars. Find your one-foot bar and step over it with ease.