Top Performers Decide Alone

The speaker shares insights about visiting successful investors and their approach to decision-making, particularly focusing on Monish Pabrai's lifestyle and work philosophy. The key observation is that top performers often work independently rather than in large teams.

• Independent Decision Making Philosophy:

  • Best investors make decisions independently, not by committee
  • Values being an independent thinker over group consensus
  • Maintains a deliberately small team (1-2 researchers)

• Lifestyle Choices Supporting Decision Quality:

  • Takes daily naps to stay fresh for decision-making
  • Views napping as "having a second day"
  • Main job is thinking and making great decisions

• Operational Structure:

  • Manages ~$2 billion in funds
  • Minimal staff (approximately 5 people generously)
  • Researchers don't come to the office daily

• Personal Work Environment:

  • Works from home
  • No formal reception or staff answering door
  • Maintains a library of books
  • Has a dedicated nap room
  • No clock or assistant managing his schedule

• Accessibility and Time Management:

  • Opens his own door (barefooted, casual dress)
  • Personally hosts visitors
  • Generous with his time
  • No rigid schedule or time constraints
  • Maintains flexibility for meetings and conversations

The overall philosophy emphasizes that high-level decision-making is best done independently, with minimal organizational structure, allowing for deep thinking and personal autonomy.