The little alley where our rental house sits is a well-worn path – one of many An Bang (In Vietnam) thoroughfares too narrow for cars, yet alive with mopeds zipping past at full speed. On our morning walk to what has become our favourite hangout spot, we encounter this lively group that amuses and surprises us: at least seven men gathered around a table, playing cards over drinks at 8 am in morning. It reminds me of the story about a Mexican fisherman who spends half his day fishing and the other relaxing, much to a busy American businessman’s bewilderment. “Shouldn’t he go out and catch more fish?” 

Where I come from, such “idleness” would raise eyebrows. We’re conditioned to hustle, to chase “more” with increasing speed. Yet this stark contrast brings to mind James Clear’s illuminating perspective on wealth. While many of us were raised to equate wealth solely with money, Clear reveals that true abundance flows through multiple channels: financial, social, time, and physical wealth. 

Financial Wealth: Beyond the Numbers 

When we think of wealth, our minds typically jump to bank accounts and investment portfolios. Financial resources matter – they provide security, opportunities, and choices. Used wisely, they can enhance our other forms of wealth. However, when misused, we might find ourselves socially isolated, too busy making money to live, or with deteriorating health. The constant worry about money keeps our minds perpetually in the future, creating a deficit in all forms of wealth. 

Social Wealth: The Currency of Connection 

Our social capital – the rich tapestry of relationships – might be the most overlooked form of wealth. It’s measured not in quantities but in qualities: the depth of friendships, strength of communities, and love shared with family. Without it, we lack meaning and fulfillment in our lives. 

Time Wealth: The Ultimate Luxury 

While we all get 24 hours each day, our relationship with time varies dramatically. Some consume most of it by working endlessly to barely sustain themselves, while others inherit financial wealth that affords them an abundance of free time. Even when the money isn’t abundant, some find balance, harmoniously manage their work, passions, and relationships. Time wealth isn’t about having more hours – it’s about having sovereignty over the ones we have. When we’re deeply engaged in the moment, we enter a “flow state” where time becomes irrelevant, and life feels richest. 

Physical Wealth: Our Foundation of Being 

As the ancient Roman historian Valerius Maximus once said:  “A healthy person has a thousand wishes, a sick person just one.” Our bodies are the vessels through which we experience every other form of wealth. Physical wealth enables us to do what we love and be productive. Without it, our only wish becomes regaining our health. 

These four forms of wealth support each other in a virtuous cycle: Physical health energizes our relationships, social connections create financial opportunities, financial freedom buys time control, and time wealth allows health investment. 

Understanding these interconnections has immediate and future implications. While building a holistic vision for tomorrow matters, true wealth exists in the present moment: 

– In each breath we take (physical wealth) 

– In every conversation we have (social wealth) 

– In our full presence right now (time wealth) 

– In the resources already at hand (financial wealth) 

True wealth isn’t about having it all – it’s about appreciating what we already have. Our breath, our relationships, our mindful engagement with each moment, and living simply create wealth right here and right now. In recognizing these everyday miracles, we cultivate abundance in all areas of life.