We often equate wealth with money. But is that really all there is to it?
According to Stoicism, a philosophy born in Ancient Greece, wealth isn’t about your bank balance at all. Rather, it’s about how you perceive yourself and the world around you.
So, you might be richer than you think, even if your wallet disagrees. And I’m here to share some signs that you’re actually quite wealthy, from a Stoic perspective.
Let’s dive into the 7 signs you’re actually a very wealthy person (even if you don’t have much money). Buckle up, because this might change your perspective on wealth entirely.
1) You’re content with what you have
The Stoics believe that true wealth comes from being satisfied with what you have, rather than craving more.
Think about it.
If you’re constantly chasing after more – more money, more possessions, more status – are you ever truly wealthy? Or are you just stuck in a never-ending cycle of wanting?
According to Stoicism, the wealthiest people are those who appreciate what they already have. They find value and happiness in the simple things and don’t need extravagant luxuries to feel fulfilled.
So if you’re someone who can find contentment in what you have, even if it’s not much by societal standards, then you might be wealthier than you think.
2) You have a rich inner life
Stoicism teaches us that true wealth comes from within.
I remember a time when I was working a high-paying job, surrounded by all the material possessions one could ask for.
But there was a hollow emptiness inside me. I felt poor in spirit, even though my bank account told a different story.
Then, I stumbled upon Stoicism and began nurturing my inner life, my passions, and personal growth. I started meditating, reading more, and exploring my creativity.
And guess what happened?
Slowly but surely, I felt richer. Not because my financial status changed, but because I was cultivating an internal wealth that money could never buy.
If you have a rich inner life, filled with introspection, growth, and personal fulfillment – know this: you are wealthy in a way that transcends monetary value. It’s an invaluable form of wealth that not everyone possesses.
3) You value experiences over possessions
In our consumer-driven society, it’s easy to get caught up in the acquisition of things. We often associate wealth with the latest gadgets, fancy cars, and designer clothes.
But Stoicism encourages a different perspective.
The Stoics believed that experiences, not possessions, are what truly enrich our lives. They understood that material goods are temporary and fleeting, while experiences can shape our character and provide lasting memories.
Did you know that research supports this view?
Studies have shown that people derive more long-term happiness from experiences than material possessions. It seems that the Stoics were onto something.
If you’re someone who cherishes experiences over material goods, then in the eyes of Stoicism, you’re a very wealthy person indeed.
4) You’re at peace with imperfection
In a world obsessed with perfection, being at peace with imperfection is a true sign of wealth, according to Stoic philosophy.
Stoics understand that life is full of ups and downs, success and failure, joy and sorrow. They know that striving for perfection is a futile endeavor because imperfection is the nature of existence.
If you can embrace your flaws and accept life’s imperfections, you’re wealthy in a way many struggle to achieve. This acceptance brings a sense of peace and contentment that is far more valuable than any material possession.
5) You have strong relationships
We all know that money can’t buy love or friendship. But did you know that according to Stoicism, the state of your relationships is a far better indicator of true wealth than your financial status?
Having strong, meaningful relationships is a sign of a rich life.
The love, support, and companionship we receive from those we care about are priceless. These bonds enrich our lives in ways money simply can’t.
So if you’re surrounded by people who love and appreciate you for who you are, then you’re truly wealthy. Each connection we make adds to our wealth, reminding us of what’s truly important in life.
6) You’re not controlled by your emotions
One of the core teachings of Stoicism is that our emotions shouldn’t control our actions.
I used to be someone who would react impulsively to situations, letting my emotions dictate my actions. I would get angry easily, and that anger would often lead to decisions I would later regret.
When I discovered Stoicism, I learned the importance of emotional resilience. I started practicing mindfulness and learned to observe my emotions without allowing them to control me.
It was a game-changer. Suddenly, I was no longer a slave to my emotions. I had control over my reactions, and it brought a sense of peace and stability to my life.
If you’re someone who can manage your emotions and not let them dictate your actions, you have a wealth that goes beyond monetary value. This emotional resilience is a sign of inner strength and personal growth, making you rich in character and spirit.
7) You’re resilient in the face of adversity
Life is unpredictable and full of challenges. But according to Stoicism, it’s not about what happens to us, but how we respond that truly matters.
Wealth isn’t just about having a comfortable life free of hardships. In fact, it’s our ability to bounce back from adversity that reveals our true wealth.
If you’re someone who can face difficulties head-on, learn from them, and emerge stronger, then you’re genuinely wealthy. This resilience shows a strength of character that is invaluable and cannot be bought.
8) You live in accordance with your values
In the Stoic view, true wealth comes from living in accordance with your values. It’s about making choices that align with what you believe in, even when it’s challenging.
Your values are your compass, guiding you through life. When you live in harmony with them, you experience a sense of fulfillment and inner peace that money can’t buy.
If you’re living a life true to your values, not swayed by societal pressures or fleeting desires, then you’re truly wealthy. This alignment between your actions and beliefs is a form of wealth that brings deep satisfaction and meaning to life.
Final reflection: True wealth is an inside job
As we journey through the tenets of Stoicism, we discover a profound truth – wealth is not about the abundance of possessions, but the richness of the spirit.
The Stoics believed that the key to wealth lies not in the size of your bank account, but in your perspective towards life. It’s about:
- Finding contentment in what you have
- Cherishing experiences over possessions
- Living a life aligned with your values
Consider the words of Seneca, a renowned Stoic philosopher, “It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.”
These words ring true even today. The relentless pursuit of more often leaves us feeling empty while appreciating what we already have fills us with a sense of abundance.
So as you reflect on this, ask yourself: Are you truly wealthy according to Stoicism?
Do you value experiences over possessions? Are you at peace with imperfection? Are your relationships enriching? Do you live in accordance with your values?
True wealth is an inside job. It’s about cultivating a rich inner life and finding happiness within yourself. And if you’re doing that, then you’re truly wealthy in ways money can’t measure.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
