Ever wonder why some people seem to attract wealth like a magnet while the rest of us are left chasing the ever-elusive “big break”?
After years of diving deep into psychology, self-improvement, and mindfulness—and a fair share of personal ups and downs—I’ve noticed that it’s not just about having a fat bank balance. It’s about the habits, mindset, and choices that rich people make on the daily.
Today, I’m peeling back the curtain on 10 things rich people do that most people don’t.
Let’s get started.
1. They Invest in Themselves
Rich people don’t just let opportunities come to them—they create opportunities by investing in themselves. This means continually learning new skills, improving existing ones, and expanding their knowledge base. As Carol Dweck famously put it, embracing a “growth mindset” is the key to unlocking potential. I’ve experienced firsthand that when you commit to lifelong learning, the world opens up in ways you never imagined.
Take it from me: before I launched Hack Spirit and Small Business Bonfire, I spent countless hours reading, attending seminars, and even experimenting with new tech. It wasn’t always comfortable, but the payoff was huge.
Instead of waiting for wealth to magically appear, I built the tools to generate it. And trust me, that’s one habit you can start today—read a book, take an online course, or even just have a meaningful conversation with someone who inspires you.
2. They Network Like Crazy
Networking isn’t just swapping business cards at events; it’s about building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships.
Rich people understand that their network is their net worth. Psychologist Robert Cialdini’s research on reciprocity shows that when you give value to others, they’re more likely to help you in return.
I remember early in my career, I was hesitant to reach out to people I admired. But once I overcame that fear, the results were astounding. Connecting with like-minded individuals, mentors, and even competitors taught me lessons no textbook ever could.
If you’re looking to level up, start by reaching out, asking questions, and offering your own insights. It’s a simple yet powerful way to accelerate your growth.
3. They Embrace Calculated Risks
While many people shy away from risk, rich people know that fortune favors the bold—but not the reckless. They assess situations, do their homework, and take calculated risks.
This approach aligns with the concept of “risk tolerance,” where successful individuals balance potential rewards with potential losses.
I’ve had my fair share of nerve-wracking decisions—from investing in a fledgling idea to stepping out of my comfort zone in foreign markets. The secret isn’t in avoiding risk but in learning how to manage it.
Rich people view every risk as an opportunity to learn and grow, and over time, this mindset becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
When you’re faced with a tough decision, try weighing the pros and cons like a strategic investor rather than an anxious bystander.
4. They Set Clear, Ambitious Goals
Goal setting is not just about writing down what you want to achieve; it’s about crafting a clear roadmap to success.
Edwin Locke’s goal-setting theory emphasizes that specific and challenging goals lead to higher performance. Rich people don’t settle for vague aspirations—they set clear, measurable, and time-bound targets.
Back when I was brainstorming ideas for my ventures, I realized that having concrete goals transformed my approach to work.
Instead of drifting aimlessly, I began to focus on actionable steps. This simple shift—knowing exactly what I wanted to achieve—gave me the drive to tackle challenges head-on.
A goal without a plan is just a wish. So, grab a pen, outline your dreams, and start turning them into achievable milestones.
5. They Cultivate Discipline and Consistency
It’s one thing to have lofty dreams and another to grind day in and day out to make them real. Rich people understand that consistency beats sporadic bursts of effort.
This ties into the psychology of habit formation—think Charles Duhigg’s insights in The Power of Habit. Small, repeated actions build momentum over time, eventually leading to remarkable results.
I can’t stress enough the importance of sticking to a routine, even on days when motivation is low. Whether it’s working on a passion project, exercising, or simply planning your day, discipline is the secret sauce. When I first started my business, the journey was filled with setbacks and moments of doubt.
But by committing to consistent effort, I slowly built the habits that eventually paved the way for success. It’s not glamorous, but it works.
6. They Master Their Emotions
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a game-changer in both personal and professional life. Daniel Goleman’s work on EQ reveals that the ability to understand and manage our emotions is critical to effective decision-making.
Rich people know that controlling their emotions—not letting fear, anger, or excitement dictate their choices—gives them a strategic edge.
I’ve seen plenty of brilliant ideas go to waste because someone let their emotions get the better of them. Learning to step back, assess a situation objectively, and make decisions based on logic rather than impulse has been crucial in my journey.
Take a deep breath, reflect on your feelings, and try to approach challenges with a calm, balanced mindset. It might just be the edge you need to succeed.
7. They Invest Wisely—Beyond Money
When we talk about investment, most people immediately think of the stock market or real estate. But rich people know that investment goes far beyond just money—it’s about time, energy, and relationships too.
This holistic approach to investing is backed by the psychology of opportunity cost: every choice you make has a hidden cost, and smart investors weigh these costs carefully.
I once made the mistake of investing too heavily in one project, only to find that diversifying my focus could have yielded better results.
Now, I make it a point to allocate my resources—be it time, money, or effort—across multiple ventures and interests.
The key is balance: ensure that you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket. By broadening your horizons, you open yourself up to a variety of opportunities that can enrich your life in unexpected ways.
8. They Surround Themselves With Like-Minded People
We’re often told that we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with. Rich people understand this to the core and actively seek out communities and individuals who inspire, challenge, and support them.
This isn’t just a feel-good mantra—it’s rooted in social identity theory and the importance of belonging for our psychological well-being.
Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve surrounded myself with individuals who think big and are unafraid to push boundaries.
These relationships have not only provided valuable insights and opportunities but have also kept me accountable.
Evaluate your circle: are these the people who elevate your game, or are they holding you back? Sometimes, a simple change in your inner circle can spark monumental changes in your life.
9. They Practice Mindfulness and Reflection
In our fast-paced world, rich people have learned that success isn’t solely about working harder; it’s about working smarter—and that often means taking time to reflect.
Mindfulness, a concept popularized by Jon Kabat-Zinn, is all about being present, reducing stress, and enhancing focus. For many successful individuals, this practice is a cornerstone of their daily routine.
I won’t lie—learning to be mindful has been one of the most transformative habits in my life. Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or just a few moments of quiet reflection at the start of the day, mindfulness has helped me navigate the chaos of entrepreneurship with a clearer head and a calmer heart.
If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a shot. Even five minutes a day can help you reset and refocus on what truly matters.
10. They Give Back and Practice Gratitude
Finally, while it might sound counterintuitive, rich people often find more success when they focus on giving back. Gratitude and philanthropy aren’t just moral choices—they’re strategies that enrich our lives and the lives of others.
Psychologist Robert Emmons has shown that practicing gratitude can lead to better mental health, stronger relationships, and increased overall well-being.
In my own journey, the decision to contribute to causes I care about has been incredibly rewarding. Not only does it create a positive ripple effect in the community, but it also grounds me in a sense of purpose. When you shift your focus from what you lack to what you can offer, you tap into a profound source of strength and fulfillment. So, whether it’s mentoring a budding entrepreneur, donating to a charity, or simply offering a helping hand, remember that the act of giving is a win-win for everyone involved.
Final Thoughts
There’s no magic formula for success, but the habits and mindset of rich people offer a blueprint worth following. From investing in yourself to mastering your emotions, these practices are backed by psychological principles that have stood the test of time. I’ve seen these strategies transform not only my business but also my personal life, and I’m confident that with a bit of persistence and a lot of heart, you can experience similar breakthroughs.
Remember, success isn’t reserved for a select few—it’s a series of small, deliberate choices made consistently over time. So, take a page from the rich people’s playbook and start implementing these habits today. Who knows? The next big breakthrough might just be around the corner.
Now, go out there, invest in yourself, and make it happen. After all, as the old saying goes, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” And if anyone can create it, it’s you. Cheers to a wealthier, wiser, and more mindful future!
