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Why I Don't Carry a Cellphone

Fox Business Interview with Liz Claman Omaha, Nebraska 15 min read

A shorter but revealing talk where Buffett explains his philosophy on technology, why he doesn't carry a smartphone, and how he maintains focus in a distracted world.

Background

In February 2017, Warren Buffett sat down with Fox Business host Liz Claman for a wide-ranging interview. One of the most memorable segments was Buffett's explanation of why, at age 86, he still did not carry a cellphone or have a computer on his desk. His reasoning revealed a deep commitment to focused, uninterrupted thinking.

Full Transcript

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Impact & Legacy

This interview went viral among productivity enthusiasts and knowledge workers. Buffett's "no cellphone" philosophy became a touchstone for the "deep work" movement. Cal Newport, author of "Deep Work", has cited this interview as a perfect example of why constant connectivity can undermine cognitive performance.

Key Quotes

"I don't carry a cellphone. I don't think it would help me make better decisions."
"The most important thing is to keep the most important thing the most important thing."
"I read and think. My life is not that complicated. I don't have a computer on my desk."