What Does It Mean to Live Wealthy? A Values-Driven Look at Life and Money
Wealth isn’t just a number in your bank account—it’s the life you live because of it. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to measure success in dollars, but what if real wealth lies in alignment with your values? Let’s explore how redefining wealth can unlock deeper fulfillment and long-term financial resilience.
- Wealth as Time Freedom
Real wealth gives you time—time to rest, time to connect, and time to grow. Financial security isn’t just about retirement; it’s about the ability to say “yes” to what matters and “no” to what doesn’t. - Values-Driven Budgeting
Budgets aren’t just tools for restraint—they’re blueprints for a meaningful life. When you align your spending with your core values (family, creativity, impact, etc.), your money becomes a force for intentional living. - Investing Beyond the Market
We often think of investing in terms of stocks and real estate. But what about investing in your health, relationships, or your community? These are the forms of wealth that compound in joy and resilience over time. - Redefining Wealth in a Community Context
Wealth should not exist in isolation. Consider how your financial choices affect your neighborhood, the planet, or future generations. A truly wealthy life uplifts more than just the individual. - Tools for Building Value-Aligned Wealth
Values Map: Write down your top 5 life values. Compare them to your last month of expenses—how well do they match?
Life Wealth Audit: Rate yourself in categories like time freedom, physical energy, joy, contribution, and financial buffer.
Intentional Goals: Set a savings goal that funds a values-driven experience: a sabbatical, launching a nonprofit, or taking time off to care for family.
Living wealthy is about aligning your financial strategies with your life purpose. When your money choices echo your values, wealth becomes more than accumulation—it becomes empowerment.
Brian Werner is a Managing Partner at Winthrop Partners. He has more than 25 years of experience in investments, financial planning, entrepreneurial ventures, corporate finance, and banking. Prior to joining Winthrop Partners, Brian was the First Vice President and a Senior Wealth Advisor for First Niagara, where he led the development of First Niagara’s Western Pennsylvania Private Client Services and served on its western Pennsylvania operating committee. He also held roles with PNC/National City, Greycourt Investment Advisors, and Linnco Future Group, Chicago Board of Trade. Brian is a Chartered Financial Analyst and Certified Financial Planner. He earned his MBA from Duquesne University, Magna Cum Laude.