Money isn't everything- we have all heard that saying before. But in our modern world, we find ourselves getting bogged down in the never-ceasing quest for money. The truth is, there are numerous types of wealth and numerous shapes, and having a sense of where you are can allow you to live a more significant life.
Think about your basic needs for a moment. Having food to eat, a roof over your head, and clothes to wear - that is called basic wealth. It is the essential elements that allow us to exist and flourish. Without these basics, life is one constant struggle, not only affecting our survival but our chances at bettering our future.
Higher up the scale, we have wealth in terms of money - the property and cash we can use to make our dreams happen. There are those who barely make ends meet, getting by hand to mouth. Others have managed to leave a bit of a cushion, so they can enjoy some of life's little indulgences from time to time. And then there are those who've raised themselves to a level where earning money is no longer an everyday concern.
Life has a tendency to divide us naturally according to our economic standing. At the bottom, we find those who are suffering from poverty, barely capable of affording basic needs. The lower-middle class is lucky enough to taste it a little better but not enough to indulge in luxuries. We all dream to be on the middle class - a position that affords us some comfort, perhaps in a vacation or a good car. The upper-middle class has even more luxuries, and the wealthy can purchase nearly anything they desire.
But here's the catch. There's one other form of wealth that you won't find on your bank statement - emotional wealth. It's loving you in a true sense, having friends who've got your back, and believing you're not alone on this earth. This kind of wealth is the pillar of our happiness, and no amount of dollars can buy it.
And then there's spiritual wealth - which is above material wealth in its totality. It's living in harmony, being content with who you are and feeling connected to something bigger than yourself. You can usually tell that some of the most spiritually abundant people aren't always the ones with the biggest houses or most expensive vehicles.
There is a difficulty associated with every level of wealth. The rich may have greater influence, but they also have greater responsibility. The middle-class may have security but struggle to achieve their larger aspirations. The poor have the most difficult circumstances but tend to have the best sense of community and strength.
The actual secret is knowing that your balance at the bank does not dictate your happiness. Real happiness actually comes from simple things - laughter with loved ones, new adventures, personal achievements, and contributing to your community. These are moments of real happiness with no price tag attached.
So go on and think about what makes your face light up with a smile. Perhaps it is Sunday lunches with your family, the joy of doing for others or the serenity that accompanies an early morning stroll. These are the true sources of wealth in life and are available to every person, regardless of their level of poverty or wealth.
And, don't forget about the ability to save towards financial goals while still being able to enjoy and cultivate other forms of wealth in your life. Moreover, a life that is rich in love, meaning and joy (none of which can be bought with cash) is the most abundant life you can live.
Your journey towards a wealthy life in an emotional, financial or otherwise sense is unique to you. So, ensure that you are building a life that is as rich as possible in all areas that are important to you, because wealth means much more than what you have to spend. Ultimately, what you value most is the development of a life that feels good.