Wealthy is a State of Mind
A recent conversation between myself and the kids, yet happens usually once a month. I need to understand the trigger that sets them on this path.
Kids — we wish we were rich
Me — what do you mean? what would it be like to be rich?
Kids — a lot of money so we can buy whatever we want
Me — so what is it that you want we don’t have already?
Kids — are we rich?
Me — it’s all about perspective. What would you buy if you had more money?
Kids — I don’t know, a
Me — is that really important?
Kids — ****
Wealthy is a state of mind and even sometimes your being. It is practically a mental health issue in many cases. So obsessed with the pursuit of wealth, nothing stands in the way. Wealth is defined as having an abundance of “valuable” possessions or money — the common perception. Yet there can be different forms of wealth. Wealthy can be someone that has an abundance of time. Or it could mean that you have an abundance of success. The “common” perception of wealth is materialistic and is always aligned with possessions or money. The right mindset can define the pursuit of wealth conundrum.
I have had the unique experience in life to work with some of the ultra ultra-wealthy. The 1% of the 1%. Billionaires multiple times over. Some are spectacular people; great personalities, shockingly entertaining, very humble and definitely, without question courteous and respectful, to everyone around them.
Yet, I have also met some that are within the 1% that are complete jerks. Disrespectful and demeaning, completely disconnected from the rest of the world. Unrelatable, and simply asking to be treated just as poorly as they treat others. They were also pursuing more wealth. Looking for the next opportunity. Obsessed with more, their moral compass turned backward.
If the latter is what wealth is all about I want nothing of it.
Money and possessions do not define us. Why should we pursue wealth? Can wealth buy happiness? Money certainly helps make “living” easier, certainly in a capitalistic world, yet is money what has created the second version of the ultra-rich — bitter, angry, and willing to stomp on the backs of others? We are brainwashed to think that more money means greater happiness. That more things make us feel better. That more things make us whole. But in pursuit of more money, what efforts are needed? What sacrifices do you make to obtain that wealth? Working longer hours? Being away from home and family? Sacrificing health? Eschewing relationships in the pursuit of wealth? Are these trades worth it? Are you able to take these materialistic items with you to the grave?
Conversely, what defines happiness? Is it aligning with nature? Pursuing non-materialistic forms of spiritual alignment and attainment? What about the development of wholesome and loving relationships? If you had an abundance of love and happiness, would you be wealthy?
Happiness is enduring. Once we have learned happiness, we know we can never unlearn it. The pursuit of happiness is a lifelong quest, but you can find happiness in many different ways. Finding happiness is not always easy. Surround yourself with those you can learn from and grow together. These are usually the same people that make you smile and laugh. They are also the same ones that make you level up. Do not sell your soul. Stand up for what you think is right. Remember that “good enough” is really good enough and try to do stuff you love to do — assuming, of course, it is not buying more stuff and pursuing more money! Mix things up, explore places or have experiences outside your circle of influence. Smile a lot, laugh a lot more. Take the time to enjoy those close to you and the world around you.
Be healthy.
Be calm.
Be happy.
Be wealthy.
Go forth, be brilliant.
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