Ask someone today what their concept of “being rich” is, and it will most likely conjure images of material wealth—luxury cars, sprawling mansions, and vast amounts of money. Our society has conditioned us to equate richness with a specific number in the bank account, an idea reinforced by advertisements, social media influencers, and even our own personal ambitions.

However, a recent commercial by Edward Jones challenges this notion, urging us to rethink what it truly means to be rich. The ad poignantly states, “What does it mean to be rich? Maybe rich is less about reaching a magic number & more about discovering magic. The key to being rich is knowing what counts.”

This mindful approach to wealth pushes us to reconsider the narrow definition of “rich” we’ve been taught and embrace a broader, more fulfilling perspective. True wealth goes beyond material possessions. It’s about richness in our relationships, purpose, peace of mind, and personal growth. Let’s dive into how we can redefine what it means to be truly rich—and how this shift in mindset can lead to a life filled with abundance and meaning.

Wealth Isn’t Just About Money

The traditional definition of “rich” often focuses on the accumulation of money, luxury items, and the desire for more. But the concept of wealth can—and should—be much broader. Real wealth encompasses:

• Emotional wealth: Deep, meaningful connections with family, friends, and loved ones.
• Physical wealth: A healthy body and mind that enable you to live life to its fullest.
• Spiritual wealth: A sense of inner peace, fulfillment, and purpose that cannot be bought.

When we focus only on financial wealth, we risk overlooking the richness that exists in other areas of life. True wealth is holistic and all-encompassing.

SPX Tip: Reflect on the areas of your life where you already feel wealthy. What non-material aspects of your life bring you the most joy and fulfillment?

Cultivating a Rich Mindset

The first step in redefining rich is shifting your mindset. In a world that often emphasizes scarcity, we’re conditioned to believe that we need more in order to feel fulfilled. But wealth starts with what you already have. A mindset of abundance allows you to appreciate the present moment and everything it offers. Start by asking:

• What am I grateful for right now?
• How can I make more of what I already have?

By practicing gratitude and focusing on abundance rather than lack, you’ll begin to see that you’re already richer than you might have thought.

SPX Tip: Start a daily gratitude practice, focusing on non-material things that contribute to your wealth—such as your health, relationships, or personal growth.

Wealth and Purpose Are Intertwined

True wealth isn’t just about accumulating money—it’s about living a life that’s aligned with your values and purpose. When you live with purpose, you create a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond material success. This is the wealth that makes life meaningful and rewarding. Reflect on the intersection of your purpose and wealth:

• What is my purpose?
• How can I align my work and life with this purpose?

By integrating your purpose with your career, relationships, and daily actions, you naturally build wealth in ways that enrich every aspect of your life.

SPX Tip: Consider one way you can bring more purpose into your life today, whether it’s pursuing a passion, helping someone in need, or aligning your work with your deeper values.

The Danger of Comparing Your Richness to Others

In today’s world, comparison is unavoidable. Social media, advertising, and the constant exposure to others’ achievements often reinforce the idea that to be rich, you need to have what others have. But true wealth is deeply personal. What feels rich to one person may look entirely different for someone else.

Instead of comparing your wealth to others, focus on defining what “rich” means for you. When you embrace your own version of richness, you create space for true abundance, free from the pressure of societal expectations.

SPX Tip: When you catch yourself comparing, pause and reflect on your own journey. What aspects of your life make you feel rich, regardless of what others have?

Wealth is About Balance, Not Accumulation

Mindful wealth recognizes that more isn’t always better. True richness comes from balance, not excess. You can be financially successful, yet feel empty if your life is out of balance. True wealth is about balancing your career, relationships, health, and inner peace in a way that makes you feel whole.

Instead of overfilling your life with tasks, obligations, and possessions, focus on having enough—enough time, enough space, enough love, and enough joy.

SPX Tip: Evaluate areas of your life where you may be striving for “more” at the cost of balance. Consider where you can simplify and focus on what truly matters.

Final Thoughts

Redefining what it means to be rich allows you to see wealth in a more holistic, fulfilling way. True wealth isn’t confined to financial success—it encompasses emotional, physical, and spiritual abundance. By cultivating a mindset of gratitude, aligning with your purpose, and focusing on balance, you can create a life that feels truly rich. So, what does it mean to be rich to you? Start today by embracing a more mindful approach to wealth, one that values experiences, relationships, and purpose over material accumulation. You’re already richer than you realize.