What does it really mean to be wealthy?
For most of us, wealth immediately brings to mind money—a well-funded retirement account, investments, property, or a healthy bank balance. Financial wealth matters, but it is only one way to measure how rich our lives really are.
As I begin the process of signing up for Medicare this year, retirement has naturally started to cross my mind. And with that, I’ve found myself reflecting not only on the money I’ve accumulated, but on the different kinds of wealth I’ve built over my lifetime.
I began asking myself: Where am I truly wealthy? And what kinds of wealth do I want to prioritize moving forward?
After nearly four decades of studying Dr. William Glasser’s Choice Theory® psychology, I naturally began looking at wealth through the lens of our five basic needs: Safety & Security, Connection, Significance, Freedom, and Joy.
That led me to five very different types of wealth—and only one of them is primarily about money.
1. Safety & Security Wealth: Financial, Physical and Mental Well-Being
This is the type of wealth most people think of first. It includes:
- Financial stability
- Physical health
- Mental well-being
As a counselor, I believe mental health deserves equal billing here. Personally, this hasn’t been my highest need, so my wealth in this category is modest—but sufficient for the life I want to live.
2. Connectional Wealth: The Value of Strong Relationships
Connectional wealth is found in our relationships—the quality and depth of the people we surround ourselves with, our support system. This can include:
- Family support and generational bonds
- Deep, lasting friendships
- A partner who supports your growth
- Mentors, collaborators, and a strong support network
With a high need for Connection, this is one area where I feel deeply fulfilled. The wealth I’ve built in relationships is priceless.
3. Significance Wealth: Purpose, Contribution and Legacy
Significance wealth shows up in three powerful ways:
- Significance with others: Working toward a shared mission where your contribution matters.
- Internal significance: Knowing who you are and living from a place of passion and purpose.
- Influence significance: Using your voice to make a positive impact—through leadership, writing, speaking, or creating.
As an author and speaker, I know my voice has helped others. And the thought that my work may outlive me? That’s legacy-level wealth.
4. Freedom Wealth: Having Time and Choices
Freedom wealth is the gift of time and choice. It’s being able to do what you want, when you want, with minimal restriction.
As a single woman and business owner, I enjoy a great deal of Freedom Wealth. And since Freedom is one of my top needs, that feels exactly right for me.
5. Joy Wealth: Experiences, Gratitude and Meaning
Joy Wealth is measured in moments—not things. It’s the deep, fulfilling joy of:
- Breath-stealing memories
- Laughter
- Gratitude in the midst of struggle
- Finding the GLOW: Gifts, Lessons, Opportunities, and Wisdom—even in pain
To me, that’s some of the most valuable wealth a person can hold.
What Does a Wealthy Life Look Like for You?
Wealth is about far more than money. It can be found in our security and well-being, our relationships, our sense of purpose, the freedom to make our own choices, and the joy we experience along the way.
You don’t need to be “rich” in every area. But becoming aware of where you are already wealthy—and where something may be missing—can help you live more intentionally, with greater gratitude and purpose.
So, where are you already wealthy? And where would you like to build more wealth?
If you’d like help answering those questions, personal coaching can help you clarify what matters most to you and identify where you want to create greater fulfillment in your life.
