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TOM@RICHHABITS.NET
Wealth creation is not a mystery reserved for the lucky few. Based on my Rich Habits research, which studied 233 wealthy individuals and 128 people living in poverty over five years, I’ve distilled ten laws that self-made millionaires follow to build lasting wealth. These laws, drawn from my findings and insights shared in articles for CNBC, Business Insider, and my Rich Habits website (richhabits.net), offer a roadmap for anyone seeking financial success.
1. Define a Clear Vision
Wealth begins with a crystal clear vision of who or what you want to be. My research found that 80% of self-made millionaires set specific, measurable goals tied to a long-term vision. On my website, I emphasize crafting a vision board to visualize dreams, whether it’s owning a business, living in a house at the beach or achieving financial independence. Clarity makes all obstacles irrelevant and drives you to action in the pursuit of your dreams and goals.
2. Choose the Right Path to Building Your Wealth
My Rich Habits research identifies four distinct paths to wealth, each suited to different strengths and personalities: Entrepreneur, Big Company Climber, Virtuoso, and Dreamer. Entrepreneurs (28% of millionaires) build businesses, leveraging risk and innovation. Big Company Climbers (20%) rise within large organizations, excelling in leadership and corporate strategy. Virtuosos (15%) master specialized skills, like doctors or lawyers, commanding high incomes. Dreamers (37%) pursue passion-driven ventures, such as creative or tech startups, often scaling to millions. My Business Insider articles highlight that aligning your path with your skills and personality is critical for success, as each path demands unique habits and mindsets.
3. Live Below Your Means
Frugality was a cornerstone for the Saver-Investor millionaires in my Rich Habits Study. My data shows 66% of the Saver-Investor millionaires lived on 80% or less of their income, saving or investing the rest. A Business Insider piece I wrote highlights how millionaires avoid lifestyle creep, supersizing your life and peer pressure consumption, prioritizing savings over flashy spending.
4. Invest Consistently
Wealth grows through disciplined investing. My research indicates 79% of millionaires invest regularly, often in low-cost index funds or real estate. On richhabits.net, I advocate starting small but staying consistent, letting compound interest work its magic over time.
5. Pursue Lifelong Learning
Millionaires never stop learning. My study found 94% read for self-improvement 30 minutes daily, covering topics like finance or industry trends. A CNBC article I wrote underscores how this habit keeps millionaires adaptable in a changing economy.
6. Take Calculated Risks
Wealth requires bold yet strategic moves. My data shows 65% of millionaires took calculated risks, like starting a business or investing in new ventures. My website advises weighing risks against potential rewards and preparing for setbacks.
7. Build Strong “Power Relationships”
Networking is wealth-building fuel. My research reveals 68% of millionaires spend five hours or more monthly networking with other success-minded individuals. A SUCCESS Magazine piece I wrote explains how these “Power Relationships” open doors to opportunities, partnerships, mentorships and funding.
8. Forge Habits Around Your Dreams and Goals
Consistency trumps talent. My study found 88% of millionaires practice daily habits like goal-setting and time management. On richhabits.net, I stress creating routines that align with your dreams, goals and vision.
9. Exercise Every Day
Health is wealth’s foundation. My data shows 76% of millionaires exercise regularly, boosting energy and focus. A Business Insider article I wrote notes that physical and mental health enhance productivity, a critical wealth-building driver.
10. Persist Through Failure
Failure is inevitable, but millionaires persevere. My research found 91% of Dreamer-Entrepreneur millionaires faced setbacks and 34% failed at least once. But the very reason they were part of my study is because they did not let failure stop them from pursuing their dreams and goals. My website emphasizes resilience, learning from mistakes, and staying focused on the long game.
By following these ten laws—rooted in my Rich Habits research and shared across platforms like CNBC, SUCCESS Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine and richhabits.net—you can transform your financial future. Wealth isn’t about luck; it’s about habits, choices, and persistence.
Tom Corley is an accountant, financial planner and author of “Rich Kids: How to Raise Our Children to Be Happy and Successful in Life”, Effort-Less Wealth, Change Your Habits Change Your Life, Rich Habits Poor Habits and “Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals.”
