You know, it’s funny how the phrase “The rich get richer, and the poor get poorer” has become almost like a catchy tune—everyone hums along, but few really analyze the lyrics. Is it just luck? A twist of fate? Or maybe—just maybe—it boils down to habits? As I peel back the layers, I can’t help but marvel at how wealth isn’t merely about the dollar signs—it’s a mindset. While wealthy individuals tend to cultivate behaviors that not only build but sustain their fortunes, many people caught in financial struggles often find themselves shackled by detrimental habits that keep them in a cycle of uncertainty.
Now, before we point fingers, it’s essential to acknowledge that life’s circumstances widely differ. Everyone starts from a unique point on their financial journey. But if we take a broader view, we can see how certain choices carve paths that lead either toward prosperity or towards an endless loop of catch-up. And hold on tight, because here’s the cherry on top: these lucrative habits aren’t reserved for the elite—they can be learned! So, if you’re tired of that paycheck-to-paycheck grind or simply curious about what keeps the high-flyers soaring, look no further! I’ve compiled a list of 16 distinct behaviors that keep the rich rich and could very well help untangle some of those habits holding others back. LEARN MORE.
We’ve all heard people say, “The rich get richer, and the poor get poorer,” but what’s the thought process behind that? Is it luck, opportunity, or just good habits? Honestly, it’s probably a bit of everything. If you look closely, you’ll notice that wealthy individuals often share certain behaviors that help them build and protect their wealth. On the flip side, people who struggle financially tend to fall into patterns that keep them stuck (and with no financial security to get ahead).
Now, this isn’t a blame game. Life circumstances matter, and not everyone has the same starting point. But if you take a step back, you’ll see that some choices play a big role in keeping people on either side of the financial divide. And the good news is many of these habits can be learned and adopted. Although it’s not easy, you don’t need a million bucks in the bank to start thinking like a millionaire; you just need to shift your mindset.
So, if you’re looking to break out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle or simply curious about what keeps the wealthy ahead, here are 16 behaviors that show how the rich stay rich and how some habits might be holding others back.
Rich people don’t just rely on their paycheck, they build assets like investments, businesses, and real estate that generate ongoing income. These assets grow over time and often appreciate in value, creating even more wealth.
On the other hand, many people focus solely on earning more income. But without investing it or building assets, that extra income can disappear just as quickly as it comes in. The wealthy understand that growing assets is the key to long-term wealth.
Some wealthy individuals are great at delaying gratification (at least the ones that start from scratch). They don’t rush out to buy every new gadget or splurge on every whim. Instead, they think long-term, saving and investing for future rewards that are much bigger than any short-term pleasure.
On the flip side, constantly giving in to the temptation of “buy now, pay later” can lead to credit card debt and financial stress. The ability to wait pays off in the long run.
Wealthy people invest heavily in self-improvement through formal education, online courses, or simply reading a lot of books. They know that the more skills and knowledge they acquire, the more opportunities they create for themselves.
Skipping out on self-development can leave you stuck in the same place, both personally and financially. Investing in yourself doesn’t always require money, it can be as simple as dedicating time to learn something new.
You’d be surprised to find that many wealthy people live below their means, even if they could afford to spend more. Instead of upgrading their lifestyle every time they make more money, they choose to save or invest the difference.
For others, every raise or bonus is a chance to spend more. But when your spending increases with your income, it’s easy to stay stuck in the same financial situation. Keeping lifestyle inflation in check can free up money for savings and investments.
Wealthy people rarely rely on just one source of income. They have investments, side businesses, or other passive income streams that continue to make money, even when they’re not working.
Depending on a single paycheck leaves little room for growth and makes it hard to feel secure financially (one lost job can lead to total disaster). Having multiple streams of income provides financial security and helps build wealth faster.
Successful people surround themselves with other driven, goal-oriented individuals. They know that the company you keep can influence your habits and mindset. They’re intentional about spending time with people who uplift and inspire them.
If you’re constantly around people who don’t share your financial goals, it can be hard to break bad habits. Surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded individuals can motivate you to adopt better financial behaviors.
The wealthy don’t just hope for success, they plan for it. They set clear, measurable financial goals and track their progress. These goals help them stay focused and guide their decisions.
Without specific goals, it’s easy to drift without a plan. Setting goals, even small ones, can make a big difference in how you manage your money and the steps you take toward financial stability.
One thing the rich tend to avoid? High-interest consumer debt, like credit card balances. They understand how quickly interest can compound, turning a manageable debt into a financial burden. If they do take on debt, it’s usually for investments like property or business ventures.
Living debt-free, or at least minimizing consumer debt, makes it easier to save and invest. High-interest debt, on the other hand, keeps many people stuck in a cycle of payments, making it hard to build any real wealth.
Rich people play the long game. When they invest, they’re not looking for quick returns; they’re thinking about the future. They understand that building wealth takes time, and they’re willing to wait for investments to grow.
For those struggling financially, focusing on immediate needs and quick fixes is easy. But thinking long-term with investments, savings, or career moves can lead to more sustainable financial growth.
Wealthy people know that some level of risk is necessary to build wealth. But here’s the thing: they don’t just throw money at any opportunity. They take calculated risks, weighing the pros and cons before making decisions.
On the flip side, a fear of risk can hold people back. Avoiding any type of financial risk, like investments, might feel safe, but it often means missing out on opportunities for growth. Learning to manage risk wisely can be a game-changer.
It’s a common misconception that rich people spend lavishly all the time. In reality, many wealthy individuals live below their means. They might drive a modest car or live in a home that’s less expensive than they can afford. This allows them to invest their extra income and keep growing their wealth.
Meanwhile, overspending or “keeping up with the Joneses” can leave people stuck in a financial rut. Living below your means is a simple but powerful habit that frees up more money for savings and investments.
Wealthy individuals aren’t afraid to fail; in fact, they expect it. But here’s the key: When they make mistakes, they learn from them. They don’t harp on their failures; instead, they use those experiences to improve and make better decisions in the future.
Dwelling on financial missteps or avoiding risks altogether because of past mistakes can keep you stuck. By viewing failures as learning opportunities, you can bounce back smarter and stronger.
Good health is the foundation of everything, and the wealthy understand this well. They invest in their physical and mental well-being because they know it allows them to be more productive, think more clearly, and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Regular exercise, balanced diets, and stress management are all part of the equation.
Neglecting health can lead to burnout, medical bills, and lower productivity. Prioritizing your health isn’t just about feeling good; it’s a long-term investment that pays off in every aspect of life, including your finances.
Wealthy people aren’t afraid to ask for help. They hire financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals to guide them through complex financial decisions. They know that expert advice can save time, avoid mistakes, and even make them more money in the long run.
For those who think professional help is only for the rich, think again. Even on a smaller scale, consulting a financial expert can provide insights and strategies you might not have considered. It’s an investment in your financial future.
Rich people understand that there’s no such thing as easy money. They avoid get-rich-quick schemes, no matter how tempting they sound. Instead, they focus on building wealth through steady, proven methods like investing, starting businesses, or buying property.
On the other hand, chasing quick profits or falling for scams can lead to financial disaster. Building wealth takes time, patience, and smart decision-making. Slow and steady often wins the race.
It might seem counterintuitive, but many wealthy individuals prioritize giving back. Whether through charitable donations, mentorship, or community involvement, they understand that generosity can create a ripple effect of positive change. Plus, giving back helps create a sense of purpose beyond accumulating wealth.
For anyone, giving, even in small ways, creates a sense of fulfillment and connection. It’s a reminder that wealth isn’t just about what you gain but also about what you contribute to the world.
If you’ve ever watched her show, you know Suze Orman pulls no punches. She’s all about calling out bad money choices, urging people to take control of their financial destinies and ditch those pesky spending habits that derail progress. While her advice can be blunt, she aims to empower folks to build wealth and protect their financial futures.
It’s important to note, Suze Orman gets flak sometimes for being too harsh. She’s not shaming people, but highlighting how certain expenses can sabotage big goals like homeownership or a comfortable retirement.
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With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.