Define your own "rich" · Income Without Burnout

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Define your own "rich"

The word "rich" has been coopted over the years.

Images of people in Bentleys and flying in private jets have been sold to us as the definition of rich. But being rich was never meant to be a one size fits all.

"The definition of "rich" depends on the context. Primarily, it describes having a great deal of money, assets, or valuable possessions. However, the term can also refer to an abundant supply of something, or something of high quality and depth." — Merriam-Webster

That thought came to me yesterday, as my wife and I finished watching an awesome movie (Project Hail Mary) whilst surrounded by our dogs. A few hours before, we had just finished swimming in the lagoon as the sun was setting and had baked chocolate muffins for our Sunday treat. A perfect ending to a regular Sunday. At that moment I felt a richness to my life that no money can ever buy.

Money is fantastic at giving us freedom. The freedom to dream, experiment and try new things without the fear of becoming destitute. But being "Rich" is defined by us.

I have worked with people who, on paper, have everything. The money, fancy cars and big houses. They would come to me worn down, disconnected from their bodies, running on caffeine and obligation. Rich by every measure of how society measure it. And yet.

The richness of yesterday was deliberate for us. It was built, over time, through deliberate choices about what we chose to pursue and what we chose to let go of. Being healthy. Having a strong marriage. A happy and fulfilled child. And Dogs who do not care what our net worth is.

None of that is free, by the way. It costs attention, consistency, and the willingness to redefine the finish line.

The real question is NOT whether you have enough money.

It is whether, on a regular Sunday evening, you feel like a rich person.

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