Wealth is the ability to do what you want, when you want, bringing ultimate independence and joy.
Being wealthy means having control over your life and time, offering freedom and autonomy.
Deep dives
The Highest Form of Wealth: Control Over Time and Autonomy
Wealth is not solely about the amount of money one possesses, but rather the ability to do what one wants, when one wants, for as long as one desires. This ultimate form of wealth provides independence and autonomy. An example shared in the podcast is George Vanderbilt, who despite immense riches, found that his opulent lifestyle brought him little joy, with his massive mansion becoming a burden rather than a source of happiness.
Difference Between Being Rich and Being Wealthy
The distinction between being rich and being wealthy lies in the control over one's life and time. While being rich implies having the means to buy material possessions, being wealthy involves having unspent savings and investments that afford intangible pleasures like independence and autonomy. The podcast emphasizes that true wealth is derived from the ability to live life on one's own terms, free from financial constraints.
Independence as the True Measure of Wealth
Independence is portrayed as the essence of wealth, characterized by the freedom to make choices and control over one's time. Having savings and investments that provide financial security is highlighted as a gradual progression towards greater independence, offering the flexibility to dictate one's lifestyle. The podcast stresses that accumulating wealth for the purpose of securing autonomy and control over time yields lasting happiness and fulfillment.
The highest form of wealth is the ability to wake up every morning and say, “I can do whatever I want today.”
People want to become wealthier to make them happier. Happiness is a complicated subject because everyone’s different. But if there’s a common denominator in happiness -- a universal fuel of joy -- it’s that people want to control their lives.
The ability to do what you want, when you want, with who you want, for as long as you want, is priceless. It is the highest dividend money pays.
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