What’s the secret to truly enjoying life?
If you think it’s all about money, think again. While wealth can buy comfort and convenience, it doesn’t guarantee happiness.
In fact, some of the most content and joyful people aren’t those with overflowing bank accounts—they’re the ones who have mastered a different set of skills and traits.
These individuals have found ways to embrace life, find meaning, and cultivate happiness regardless of their financial status. Curious about what sets them apart?
Here are 7 unique traits commonly seen in these folks.
1) Gratitude
One of the most defining traits of people who enjoy life, regardless of their financial situation, is gratitude.
They have a knack for focusing on what they do have rather than dwelling on what they lack.
This isn’t just feel-good advice—it’s well-supported by science.
The experts at Harvard Health, for instance, highlight that, “In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness.”
Whether it’s appreciating a sunny day, a kind gesture, or simply the ability to enjoy a good meal, grateful individuals find joy in life’s simplest moments.
Their perspective doesn’t just make them happier—it makes life itself feel richer.
2) Living in the moment
Another distinctive trait I’ve noticed among people who genuinely enjoy life, despite not being rich, is their ability to live in the moment.
A personal example comes to mind. My friend, Mike, isn’t a wealthy man by any means. Yet he’s one of the happiest people I know.
He doesn’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. Instead, he savors the present.
I remember once we were hiking in the mountains.
While I was busy capturing pictures for Instagram, Mike was simply standing still, eyes closed, taking deep breaths, and absorbing the beauty around him.
His joy didn’t stem from showcasing his adventures online but from genuinely experiencing them.
Living in the moment means fully engaging with your present situation and finding joy right there.
It’s about acknowledging and appreciating what’s happening right now, rather than being consumed with what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow.
Take a leaf out of Mike’s book. Put down your phone, look around you, and enjoy the moment. It’s a simple yet powerful way to truly enjoy life.
3) Embracing simplicity
In a world that often equates happiness with material abundance, those who genuinely enjoy life understand the beauty of simplicity.
They find contentment not in excess but in the essentials, recognizing that joy doesn’t come from having more—it comes from needing less.
As Stoic philosopher Seneca wisely said, “That which is too little for luxury, is abundantly enough for nature.”
This mindset allows them to savor life’s uncomplicated pleasures—a good conversation, a home-cooked meal, or a quiet moment with nature.
By focusing on what truly matters, they free themselves from the constant pursuit of more, choosing instead to cultivate a life rich in meaning and connection.
It’s not about depriving yourself but about realizing how little is needed to live well.
Embracing simplicity isn’t just practical—it’s deeply fulfilling. It creates space for gratitude, mindfulness, and genuine happiness to flourish.
4) Making time for important relationships
What is the key to happiness?
It’s a big question, and the answer might surprise you. According to the longest-running study on the topic, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, it’s not money, fame, or success. It’s people.
The study, which has tracked participants for over 80 years, found that the quality of your relationships is the strongest predictor of happiness and even physical health.
Strong connections with friends, family, and community lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life, regardless of your financial situation.
But here’s the catch: relationships don’t thrive on autopilot. People who enjoy life make a conscious effort to nurture their bonds.
They show up for loved ones, prioritize time together, and invest in building deeper, more meaningful connections.
The next time you feel tempted to skip a call with a friend or cancel plans with family, remember this: it’s these relationships—not your bank account—that will bring you lasting happiness.
5) Finding joy in helping others
There’s a certain kind of happiness that comes from extending a helping hand to someone in need.
I recall a time when my car broke down in the middle of nowhere. A stranger stopped, spent hours fixing my car, and refused any compensation.
He simply smiled and said he was glad he could help. Even though he didn’t seem to have a lot himself, the joy and satisfaction on his face were priceless.
Helping others sparks a sense of fulfillment and purpose that’s hard to replicate with material possessions.
It connects us to others, makes us feel useful, and reminds us of the bigger picture beyond our own lives.
6) Pursuing passions
Those who truly love life, notwithstanding their financial status, understand the importance of pursuing their passions. They believe in doing what they love and not just what pays the bills.
These individuals make time for their hobbies, interests, and passions. They understand that these activities bring immense joy, satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment.
Whether it’s painting, hiking, cooking, or playing a musical instrument, they take out time for what they truly love.
It’s not about being the best at it; it’s about enjoying the process and breaking away from the mundane routine.
7) Cultivating a positive attitude
Perhaps, the most crucial trait among people who genuinely enjoy life, despite not being rich, is cultivating a positive attitude. They understand that life is largely about perspective.
They choose to focus on the good in every situation. They look for silver linings in the darkest clouds and see challenges as opportunities for growth.
They practice positive self-talk, express gratitude regularly, and maintain an optimistic outlook towards life.
This positive attitude helps them find joy in the simplest things and makes them resilient during tough times.
Your attitude shapes your world. Cultivating a positive one can make a world of difference to your happiness and overall enjoyment of life.
