Mental Mentor Decisions

A framework for using mental mentors to guide decision-making and personal development, based on Guy Spier's experience studying Warren Buffett.

Core Concept

• You don't need direct access to mentors - can learn from studying their documented decisions and philosophy
• Ask yourself "What would [mentor] do in my shoes?" when facing decisions
• Study their past choices and thinking process extensively to internalize their decision-making

Implementation Steps

• Choose role models whose values and approach resonate with you
• Study their documented history extensively:
  • Read annual reports/letters
  • Study their past decisions and reasoning
  • Analyze the specific choices they made
• Physically immerse yourself in their world:
  • Attend events they attend (e.g. Berkshire annual meetings)
  • Read what they read
  • Study how they operate

Key Principles

• Don't worry about copying everything:

  • Focus on core principles and thinking process
  • Okay to disagree with or diverge from certain aspects
  • Goal is to absorb their wisdom, not become them exactly

• Create regular touchpoints:

  • Annual pilgrimages to events
  • Regular review of their materials
  • Consistent exposure helps internalize their approach

Benefits

• Provides decision-making framework when facing uncertainty
• Creates positive "gravitational pull" toward better choices
• Helps develop better judgment over time
• Gives structure to personal development

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't get hung up on superficial details
• Don't feel you need to copy everything about them
• Don't abandon your own identity/interests
• Remember you can disagree with aspects while still learning from them

The key is using mental mentors as guides while maintaining your own identity and decision-making framework.