"Here's a way to think about what the masses regard as being 'good' things. If you would first start by setting your mind upon things that are unquestionably good—wisdom, self-control, jus-tice, courage-with this preconception you'll no longer be able to listen to the popular refrain that there are too many good things to experience in a lifetime." —MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS, 5.12

Just like many of us, I come from an extremely long line of people who have lived just above, and sometimes below, the poverty line. A majority of my ancestors were people whose main goal, most of the time, was just meeting their basic needs and surviving. When we grow up in these circumstances it’s easy to covet wealth and the all of the material things it provides for us. I think, most of all, people crave the perceived security money can provide. Wealth is viewed as a cure all and many sacrifice the best years of their lives and time with their families and friends for work and chasing “success”.

It’s important not to let this pursuit of wealth become the sole focus of our lives at the expense of the quality of our life experience and human relationships. I’ve seen this happen a lot in the crypto and legacy investment communities. You only have to read the cautionary tales of the X account, Coinfessions to learn about the horror stories of those who have lived in an unbalanced way, had their perception clouded by greed, and began to value money over everything else in their lives.

I’ve been in both situations and can tell you that having some money is a hell of a lot better than having no money but both have their pros and cons. Once our basic needs are met and we achieve financial independence, adding more money to the pile doesn’t necessarily make us any happier. In fact, wealth can bring with it its own set of unique problems—like scammers, thieves, jealousy, and endless worry not to mention the fear that the privileges and luxuries that wealth gives us will somehow be snatched away. Wealth can also cause us to live in a bubble, leaving us ignorant of the struggles and challenges most people are going through.

Although it’s admirable to strive to reach financial independence for us and our families, it's important in your pursuit of your dreams not to lose sight of the things that really matter. Despite what the mainstream media will have you believe debt is an enemy of our mental and psychological freedom but excessive wants are equally as harmful to our wellbeing. They call them “the trappings of wealth” for a reason because excessive wants become endless and they can imprison you every bit as much as mountains of debt can.

Like everything in life, it’s all about balance.

There’s so much satisfaction in living a simple and meaningful life, built on healthy relationships, and making memorable experiences. Each new day should be met with deep gratitude for the positive people and things in our lives. Forget the Lambo, the G-Wagon, and mansions with rooms you’ll never use to impress people you don’t know. As the bull market begins to ramp up later this year (which I still believe will happen) take those profits but also remember to be grateful for that abundance and never forget that contentment is the ultimate flex. Sometimes it's good to just be grateful to be alive.

For the coming week, set a notification on your mobile device for once during the morning and once in the afternoon yourself….

I’m immensely grateful for my life and the wonderful people and things in it.

This will serve as a daily reminder throughout the next week to honor the abundance we all have in our lives as we continue the dogged pursuit of our dreams and freedom. Gratitude is the true catalyst of joy.

Happy Easter Everyone!

Be well, make the most of this day. Thank you for reading!

If you're interested in learning to meditate, please take a look at my book, The Perfect Pause.

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