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You ought to be able to explain why you’re taking the job…

“You ought to be able to explain why you’re taking the job you’re taking, why you’re making the investment you’re making, or whatever it may be. And if it can’t stand applying pencil to paper, you’d better think it through some more. And if you can’t write an intelligent answer to those questions…” quote by Warren Buffett
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“You ought to be able to explain why you’re taking the job you’re taking, why you’re making the investment you’re making, or whatever it may be. And if it can’t stand applying pencil to paper, you’d better think it through some more. And if you can’t write an intelligent answer to those questions, don’t do it.”

Warren Buffett

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Before committing to a job or investment, you must articulate a clear, logical rationale; if you cannot, reconsider.

In simple terms: Explain your decisions clearly.

Key Takeaway

Validate choices with written reasoning.

Themes

decision‑making investment career logic clarity

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

professional motivational

When to use this quote

  • job interviews
  • investment pitches
  • business proposals
  • career changes

Key Concepts

risk assessment strategic planning

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you articulate your core motivation?
  • When is gut feeling sufficient?
A Different Perspective

Over‑analysis can stall action; sometimes intuition matters.

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