Don’t Get So Consumed Building Wealth That You Forget To Build A Life
A quick reminder to look up from the grind.
Eight years ago, I wrote a guest post for another personal finance blog, Physician on Fire, when I got punched with a truth I’d let slip at the time:
Don’t get so consumed building wealth that you forget to build a life.
It’s easy to obsess over a better tomorrow and miss the only thing any of us actually have - today. None of us are guaranteed another 24 hours. That’s sobering.
I’m not saying live like there’s no tomorrow. I’m saying enjoy the journey you’re already on. Every so often, lift your head and take in the view. Pause and smell the roses. Put your feet up and accept a little “unproductive” time to recharge.
I’ve lost count of the times I’ve been with my wife, family, or friends and wasn’t truly present. My mind was already chasing the next milestone. The chase is fun for me - it’s a game I love. But it shouldn’t cost everything else.
The antidote is self-awareness. When you notice the pendulum swinging too far in one direction, course-correct. Remember why you started building wealth in the first place.
Run parallel paths. Build your wealth and your life at the same time. It’s not only okay to enjoy the fruits of your labor - it’s mandatory. Treat your wife to that fancy dinner. Rent the beach house and test-drive your dream life. Book the massage. Go to the concert or the game. We save so we can spend, so go spend a little on living.
It’s okay - imperative - to live a little and be present while you do it.
A simple practice for this week
Pick one small indulgence you’ve been putting off and schedule it.
Pick one moment you’ll protect daily (a walk, workout, dinner without your phone, story time with the kids).
Pick one goal you’ll pursue without letting it steal your attention from the people in front of you.
Tune into the present and start building your life.
— Gen Y Finance Guy
P.S. What’s one small way you’re choosing life over “one more milestone” this week? Hit reply or leave a comment and tell me.
Now here’s what I’ve been reading:
The Secret of Secrets: A Novel - Dan Brown (a rare fiction book in the mix)
Clear Thinking: Turning Ordinary Moments into Extraordinary Results - Shane Parrish