Wealth and happiness

 We’re not among the super wealthy but certainly comfortable.

1. Worry. I went through a business bankruptcy when young that left me scarred and scared. In some ways, I’ve never gotten over it completely and still occasionally worry. We have enough wealth to live our life style for the rest of our lives. But when our investments are crashing I still sometimes get uneasy. I’m just glad we have plenty of margin.

2. Impressing. When I was young, occasionally, I’d try to impress a wealthy older friend with how much we had. And in comparison we had little. I remember they were never impressed or even noticed. Now I’m them and have no desire to impress others. And probably don’t notice the ones trying to impress me.

3. Work. I worked hard to build businesses and investments. Long hours which created stress and exhaustion. I dreamed of building our wealth until I could retire and relax. Now I could retire. But I enjoy running my business, helping others and still building wealth. So I still work but at a more comfortable pace and enjoy it.

4. Happiness. When I was young I dreamed I’d be happy if I had more wealth. So I sort of put off happiness. Then, along the way, I realized that was foolish. I was wasting my whole life waiting to find happiness. So I learned to be happy in the journey not just the destination. And I’m glad because, honestly, I’m happy now but not happier.

5. Contentment. When I was young I dreamed of being able to buy whatever I wanted. And occasionally bought more than we needed or really could afford. Now I can afford all that we need and most of what we want. Yet, I learned to be content along the way which helped us build wealth. And now I’m content not spending all of it.

Wealth is surprising. You dream it will solve all your problems. And then, hopefully while young, realize you had that power all along.

You can be happy and wealthy but only as you learn to be happy before being wealthy.