A short clip from the 2017 documentary Becoming Warren Buffett has recently been making the rounds on social media. Viewers were struck not by a dramatic revelation, but by something surprisingly ordinary: the famed investor’s relaxed breakfast habits. The scene flies in the face of the tidy, hyper-structured morning routines often shared as the secret to executive success.
The clip that captured attention
The footage shows a calm, unhurried start to the day. Rather than polished rituals or intensive productivity hacks, it highlights a simple, low-key approach to breakfast. The contrast between that scene and the stereotypical image of a “successful CEO” — packed schedules, cold plunges, elaborate planners — is what made the clip resonate and go viral.
Why people responded
- It challenges assumptions. Many assumed top leaders must follow extreme routines to perform at a high level. The clip suggests otherwise.
- It humanizes success. Viewers appreciated seeing a public figure in an everyday moment, which felt relatable and reassuring.
- It sparked conversation about authenticity. People debated whether rigid routines are necessary or whether consistency, values and decision-making matter more than theatrics.
What this means for leadership myths
Viral moments like this are reminders that visible rituals don’t equal real performance. Leadership and business success are typically grounded in factors that don’t make good clips: long-term thinking, discipline in work habits, sound judgment, and the ability to learn from mistakes. A quiet breakfast doesn’t negate those qualities — it simply shows that daily life can be modest.
Takeaways for professionals
- Don’t imitate blindly. If a CEO’s morning routine looks impressive, it doesn’t mean it will work for you. Tailor your routine to your needs and energy patterns.
- Prioritize the essential. Focus on consistent priorities — strategy, relationships, execution — rather than performing elaborate rituals for appearances.
- Value simplicity. Small, sustainable habits often beat flashy but hard-to-maintain practices.
- Be authentic. Authentic behaviors build trust. People tend to respect leaders who are genuine rather than staged.
Practical ideas inspired by the clip
- Start with a simple, repeatable morning: a modest breakfast, a short planning window, and one clear priority for the day.
- Use your mornings for clarity, not showmanship — a brief review of goals can be more effective than a long checklist.
- Experiment and keep what works. Track energy and focus more than how “impressive” a routine looks to others.
The viral clip isn’t a secret playbook; it’s a reminder. Success often looks ordinary up close. For professionals and leaders, the lesson is practical: build routines that sustain performance over years, not ones designed to impress for a moment online.