Imagine waking up one morning and finding a magic lamp beside your bed. You rub it, hoping for a genie to pop out and tell you the secret to becoming rich overnight. Instead, the genie laughs and hands you a list of 12 things that set the rich apart from the poor. Now, you’re left standing in your pajamas, holding a list instead of a bag of gold coins. Isn’t life just full of surprises?
In all seriousness, rich people are rich because of the habits they keep and beliefs they hold. One of the best books to describe this phenomenon was “The Millionaire Next Door,” by Dr. Thomas Stanley.
Here are 12 of the most important lessons on wealth from Dr. Stanley.
Net Income Does Not Equal Net Worth
A crucial lesson from “The Millionaire Next Door” is that true wealth is determined by one’s net worth, not income. Many people mistakenly equate a high income with wealth, but Stanley emphasizes that what truly matters is the accumulation of assets minus liabilities. In other words, it’s not about how much money you make but how effectively you manage and grow what you have.
Financial Independence Is The Goal
The genuinely wealthy prioritize financial independence above all else. They understand the importance of living within their means, saving, and investing wisely. This financial discipline allows them to build a solid financial foundation and enjoy peace of mind, even during economic downturns.
Related article: Financial Independence is Your Path To Freedom
They Understand The Value of Being Frugal
Contrary to the popular image of the rich splurging on luxury items, most wealthy individuals are frugal daily. You just hear about the ones who aren’t. They recognize the value of money and avoid frivolous spending. This frugality enables them to allocate more funds towards investments and assets that generate long-term wealth.
The Invest Before They Consume
One of the key differences between the rich and the poor is their money philosophy. The rich prioritize investing in income-producing assets like stocks, real estate, and businesses. Meanwhile, the poor tend to focus on consumption, spending their earnings on items that do not appreciate. Stanley highlights that the wealthy are more likely to invest in stocks and bonds, while the non-wealthy are more likely to invest in automobiles and clothing.
Related article: Beginner’s Guide to the Stock Market
They “Get” Opportunity Cost
Wealthy individuals grasp the concept of opportunity cost – the idea that every financial decision comes with trade-offs. They make choices that maximize their long-term financial growth, while those not wealthy often fail to consider the long-term consequences of their spending decisions.
The Wealthy Don’t Live Above Their Means
While it may seem counterintuitive, many wealthy individuals intentionally live below their means. This practice ensures that they have a surplus of funds to invest and grow their wealth. It’s not about deprivation but rather about making conscious choices that align with their financial goals.
Wealthy Individuals Embrace Delayed Gratification
One trait that separates the truly wealthy from the rest is their ability to delay gratification. They are willing to make sacrifices in the short term to achieve long-term financial success. This mindset allows them to make prudent investment decisions and accumulate wealth over time.
The Rich Prioritize Education and Self-Improvement
Continuous learning and self-improvement are paramount to the wealthy. They understand that knowledge and skills are assets that can increase their earning potential and open up new opportunities—the rich invest in themselves through formal education or self-study to stay ahead.
The Wealthy Surround Themselves with Wealthy People
The people we associate with can significantly impact our financial habits and mindset. The rich build networks with individuals who share their financial values and goals. This not only provides support but also encourages accountability and shared knowledge.
Wealthy People are Goal-Oriented
Setting clear financial goals is a hallmark of the rich. They have a well-defined roadmap for their financial future, whether achieving a certain level of net worth, retiring early, or starting a successful business. These goals help them stay focused and motivated.
Wealthy Individuals Avoid Consumer Debt
Consumer debt, such as credit card debt and high-interest loans, can significantly hinder financial success. The wealthy are more likely to avoid accumulating consumer debt, opting for responsible credit management and paying off their balances in full each month.
Related article: 6 Strategies to Expedite Student Loan Repayment
The Power of Passive Income
Finally, the rich are well-acquainted with the concept of passive income. They actively seek out opportunities to generate income without constant effort or time commitment. Whether through investments in dividend stocks, rental properties, or royalties, passive income sources help them build wealth more effectively.
