Milestones have a way of triggering us into reflection. For me, 2022 marks 30 years in which I have invested my life into a career in wealth management. Looking back over three decades, I recognize that I have collected a treasure trove of lessons learned. My career has been a gift, a teacher, and in so many ways, a path in which I have found purpose. In recent times, I have been asked what my ultimate lesson learned has been. While this question is tough in the sense that each lesson has been vital in helping me curate a life well lived, if I have to narrow 30 years of experience down into a singular top lesson, it would be the lesson of what “true wealth” really is.
I’ve been blessed to work with many individuals at all ages and stages of life. In doing so, I have identified 8 elements that ultimately add or take away from someone’s “true wealth.” Beyond monetary means, these are the factors that allow someone to feel wealthy – versus merely appearing wealthy on a balance sheet. These elements separately may mean more or less to a person at different stages of life, yet the collective sum when in harmony is when I have seen clients step into a state of undeniable fulfillment, which I define as a “true wealth” state of being.
The 8 Pillars of True Wealth include:
- Health. The saying is true, health is the ultimate wealth. Making decisions that allow you to elevate your health comprehensively is imperative to ensuring you are in a physical state where you can enjoy an elevated quality of life.
- Relationships. Our connection with others is priceless. Curating a life that allows you the time you crave investing in others is essential for creating enhanced unity within community.
- Spiritual. Regardless of what your individual belief system may be, you can always embrace gratitude. Honoring your sense of connection to something greater than the self is a powerful path to being selfless and leading with a servant heart.
- Service to Others. Giving back is a vital part of reinvesting in community and in philanthropic causes that create real, tangible impact. Choosing to serve always comes back full circle.
- Legacy. Each step we take defines the legacy we will leave behind as inspiration for future generations. With each chapter of our life, it is vital to consider the legacy we want to write, one page at a time.
- Peace. Life’s only constants are its ebbs and flows. Learning to stay in peace and have faith in your decisions allows you to remain rooted with grace – no matter what curve balls the universe throws at you.
- The Invisibles. For example, a hug from your child at the end of a long day is an invisible that goes unnoticed if you are not present. Time is fleeting, so learning to be present is the key to enjoying more of the moments you will never get back.
- Finances. Money can be viewed as a something to be obtained, or as a tool to allow you to live your life by design. When I consider the people I know who truly are fulfilled, their pursuit was never money. Rather, they were focused on making a difference, providing for others, developing a legacy, and truly living. Having the proper outlook on what money is and how it can be applied to add value to your life and the lives of others is paramount to being financially fulfilled.
While all of us are experiencing different milestones, for me, my 30 year anniversary is all about magnifying what I have learned in order to help others. My sense of fulfillment comes from knowing that I am present for the invisibles, wise enough to remain a student of life, and healthy enough to spend invaluable moments with the people, places and things I hold close to heart that are ever-priceless.
Written by Bart Zandbergen CFP
Founder, CEO of The Zandbergen Group
