I’ve met a lot of successful folks throughout my entrepreneurial journey—from bootstrappers who quietly built empires to high-flying CEOs who preferred to stay under the radar.
What I’ve realized is that wealth often speaks in subtle ways.
Here are ten signs that someone could have a massive net-worth, even if they’re not flashing it around.
1. They Value Experiences Over Stuff
Wealthy people don’t always rush to buy the latest gadgets or designer labels. Instead, they invest in experiences—like learning new skills, traveling, or taking courses to sharpen their minds.
I remember the first time I hit a decent revenue milestone; I celebrated by enrolling in a weekend workshop that broadened my perspective, rather than splurging on a flashy watch.
2. They Ask More Questions Than They Answer
It might seem like a small thing, but individuals with substantial net-worth often have a knack for listening more than they talk. They’re curious, and they’re constantly learning.
As Socrates famously said, “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” Wealthy individuals embody this mindset, always looking for insights from others.
3. They’re Not Afraid of a ‘Boring’ Lifestyle
Many high-net-worth people live well below their means. They may drive a car that’s a few years old or skip the fancy restaurant for a simple home-cooked meal.
Warren Buffett, one of the world’s richest individuals, still lives in the same house he bought decades ago. This modest approach often indicates they’ve mastered the art of wealth preservation.
4. They Prioritize Health and Wellbeing
Money can’t buy good health, but wealthy folks understand the importance of investing in themselves. They schedule regular check-ups, eat balanced meals, and often stick to fitness regimens.
I learned this the hard way when I worked 80-hour weeks—realizing later that no amount of financial success was worth running myself ragged.
5. They Talk About Ideas, Not Just Numbers
When you chat with someone who’s truly wealthy, they might casually mention market trends or insights about a new venture.
But they’re usually more focused on the bigger picture—changing the world, creating solutions, or lifting up their teams—rather than rattling off how many figures they have in their bank account.
6. They Have a Quiet Confidence
True wealth often brings a certain calmness. These individuals don’t need to prove anything to anyone. They walk into a room with a steady posture, exuding confidence without having to brag or shout.
As Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.” Wealthy people firmly believe they can, so they quietly do.
7. They Value Time More Than Money
Time is the one resource you can’t buy back. People with a high net-worth understand this well. They delegate tasks that aren’t the best use of their hours and organize their schedules carefully.
During my startup days, I tried doing everything myself—accounting, marketing, even office repairs. It was exhausting, and my business suffered until I learned to value my time and outsource effectively.
8. They’re Generous in Unexpected Ways
Philanthropy isn’t always about making grand gestures. Sometimes it’s a quiet donation to a local cause or investing in a friend’s small business.
Genuinely wealthy folks often give back without expecting recognition. That’s the real measure of generosity.
9. Their Network is Full of Positive, Forward-Thinking People
Birds of a feather flock together. You’ll notice that affluent individuals surround themselves with mentors, go-getters, and innovators.
They know that being around driven people fosters their own growth. One of my mentors once said, “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future,” and that bit of wisdom has stayed with me.
10. They Rarely Talk About Their Money
Ironically, those with truly high net-worth usually avoid talking about money. They might discuss business strategies, community projects, or market opportunities, but rarely do they drop hints about the size of their bank accounts.
It’s often the folks trying to appear rich who go on and on about how much they earn or what they own.
Final Thoughts
Recognizing these signs can offer insight into how genuine wealth often goes hand-in-hand with humility, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose.
If there’s one thing my roller-coaster journey in entrepreneurship taught me, it’s that wealth is as much about mindset and lifestyle as it is about money.
